Nintendo Kirby Air Riders cover art/Nintendo Switch 2 Games That Would Make Great Christmas Presents

5 Nintendo Switch 2 Games That Would Make Great Christmas Gifts

ByLiesel Booker

The Nintendo Switch 2, released earlier this year, was a massive hit. As such, many gaming giftees might want a Switch 2 game for the holidays. If your gaming giftee has a Switch 2 and you’re not sure what to get them, look no further. Here are five Nintendo Switch 2 games that would make great Christmas gifts.

5 Nintendo Switch 2 Games that Make Great Christmas Gifts

1. Donkey Kong Bananza

Donkey Kong Bananza
Image of Donkey Kong Bananza, Courtesy of Nintendo

So far, this is the greatest Switch 2 exclusive game. Donkey Kong Bananza lets you go exploring through an open world while smashing everything in sight. The environments are beautiful and full of collectibles and secrets, making you want to explore every corner. In addition, Donkey Kong can transform into different animals, giving him new abilities. 

2. Mario Kart World

Check and see whether or not your giftee owns Mario Kart World, since many gamers bought the Mario Kart World bundle when they first got the Switch 2. If your giftee somehow doesn’t have Mario Kart World, then get it for them. The family can have an awesome time playing the new Knockout Tour around the Christmas tree. In addition, your giftee can spend hours exploring the gorgeous world. 

3. Kirby Air Riders

Nintendo Kirby Air Riders cover art
Image of Kirby Air Riders, courtesy of Nintendo.

Mario Kart World now has some competition for the greatest racing game on the Switch 2. The long-awaited sequel to the GameCube’s Kirby Air Ride was well worth the wait. Kirby Air Riders is insanely charming, with simple-yet-additive races and, of course, the unique City Trial mode, where racers go speeding around a city to collect power-ups for whatever challenge rounds might be coming afterwards.

4. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment

If your giftee enjoys The Legend of Zelda or just likes hack-and-slash goodness, this is a great pick for them. The third chapter in the Hyrule Warriors spin-off series utilizes the beautiful cell-shaded art style used in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. You can combine two allies’ skills together in powerful, unique combined attacks. Your giftee should get an action rush from the fast-paced combat.

5. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

December 2025 release schedule
Image of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Courtesy of Nintendo

One of the most anticipated games for the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here! Metroid Prime 4 can be played on both the Switch 2 and the original Switch, though the Switch 2 edition includes mouse controls and enhanced graphics. Samus now has psychic abilities and a sweet space motorbike to explore the mysterious planet of Viewros. If your giftee is a Metroid fan, this is a must-give.

Don’t Forget Switch 1 Games As Well

Since the Nintendo Switch 2 also plays Switch 1 games, your giftee might appreciate some Switch 1 games that they are still missing from their collections. Switch 1 games also tend to cost less than Switch 2 games, so if you’re a little tight on money, you might want to pick up something for the original Switch. In any case, your giftee should love something for their Nintendo Switch 2, whether it plays on the Switch 1 or not.

Liesel Booker holds a master's degree in English Literature from Salisbury University, and she has loved reading and writing her whole life. She is an avid gamer with a special love for Nintendo and indie games. Her two adorable cats love to sit with her while she writes for Total Apex. She also really, really loves Star Wars, to the point where she is proud to call herself a geek.

More Great Content