Top 15 Switch games for 12-year-olds

If you're looking for the best Switch game for a 12-year-old, you've come to the right place. The sure bets for 2026 are still Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and It Takes Two.

Here are our top 15 best games to give as gifts, ranging from adventure and RPG to action. All of these titles nintendo-switch run just as well on the original console as they do on the Switch 2.

⚠️ This selection is based on ratings Metacritic. The PEGI rating is listed for each game, as most of these titles are intended for players aged 12 and older. Check the rating before purchasing, depending on your child's sensitivity.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

• Metacritic rating : 97/100
• Release date on Switch March 3, 2017
• PEGI Rating : 12

• Number of players : solo
• Switch 2 compatibility : yes

Why this game?

It's a true masterpiece from the catalog nintendo-switch. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Immerse your child in a vast, open world. It embodies Link and freely explore the vast lands of’Hyrule.

This a great solo adventure develops their independence and curiosity. They climb, glide, cook, and solve puzzles at their own pace. The challenges in the sanctuaries remain logical—never arbitrary or violent. The PEGI 12 rating is therefore perfectly suited for a child of this age.

The rest of it, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, features the same world with new building mechanics. Both games run just as well on Switch first generation as well as on Switch 2.

For whom?

✅ For children who love to explore and enjoy complete freedom, without being guided step by step.

❌ Best to choose this if he prefers to take his time rather than string together quick fights.

2. Metroid Prime Remastered

• Metacritic rating : 94/100
• Release date on Switch February 8, 2023
• PEGI Rating : 12 years

• Number of players : solo
• Switch 2 compatibility : yes

Why this game?

Metroid Prime Remastered mix action, exploration, and a science-fiction atmosphere. Your child plays the role of the bounty hunter Samus Aran. You have to solve puzzles to unlock new areas and move forward.

At age 12, this game teaches patience and strategy more than just reflexes. The pace remains unhurried and the adventure is sometimes dark, but there is no graphic violence. The PEGI 12 rating is primarily due to the battles against alien creatures.

For whom?

✅ For children who like to take their time, explore an immersive world, and tackle thinking challenges.

❌ Avoid this if you're primarily looking for fast-paced action or multiplayer, because Metroid Prime Remastered is a solo experience.

3. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

• Metacritic rating : 93/100
• Release date on Switch December 7, 2018
• PEGI Rating : 12

• Number of players Up to 8 players locally and 2 to 4 online.
• Switch 2 compatibility : Yes

Why this game?

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is one of best Switch games for families. You'll find more than 80 heroes there Nintendo brought together in one festive brawl. There, you’ll run into Mario, Donkey Kong and Link, the hero of The Legend of Zelda. Pikachu and Samus of Metroid are also joining the cast. It's the most user-friendly fighting game on the Nintendo Switch.

The battles remain clear and dynamic, without gore or realistic violence. The goal is to knock the opponent off the board, not to hurt them. By age 12, your child will quickly master the basics. They’ll then develop more finesse as they play more games.

Smash Mode at 8 players in local mode turns every evening into a mini-tournament. Online multiplayer also lets you compete against other players remotely. The PEGI 12 rating is primarily due to the stylized combat and online gameplay.

For whom?

✅ For your child who loves group activities and wants to explore the entire universe Nintendo in a single cartridge.

❌ Avoid this if he prefers a quiet, solo adventure rather than competition.

4. Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition

• Metacritic rating : 87/100
• Release date on Switch : March 20, 2025
• PEGI Rating : 12 years

• Number of players : up to 32 players in online squads
• Switch 2 compatibility : yes

Why this game?

Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Send your child to the planet Mira. It's a vast open world, which you’ll explore on foot at first. Later, you’ll pilot a giant robot called Skell. You’ll then be able to explore every nook and cranny—even the sky. The adventure combines free-roaming exploration, strategic combat, and resource management.

The PEGI 12 rating is appropriate for a 12-year-old player. No offensive content : Just some light action and plenty of dialogue. This Nintendo Switch version improves the interface's readability.

It also makes gameplay smoother and includes new content not found in the original 2015 Wii U version. It’s one of the biggest RPG from the Switch catalog, perfect for losing yourself for dozens of hours in a single, epic quest.

For whom?

✅ For patient RPG fans who enjoy reading, exploring, and planning their battles.

❌ Avoid this if your child is looking for a quick game. The game takes several hours to reach its best moments.

5. Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles

• Metacritic rating : 87/100
• Release date on Switch September 30, 2025
• PEGI Rating : 12 years

• Number of players : solo
• Switch 2 compatibility : yes

Why this game?

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is a RPG Turn-based strategy. Each battle takes place on a grid. Your child moves their units and chooses their class. They then anticipate their opponent's moves.

This remastered edition updates the cult classic game released in 1997. It adds voice acting and a revised French translation. On Nintendo Switch, the story remains faithful to the original. Above all, it offers a more comfortable reading experience and greater clarity.

The PEGI 12 rating is due to stylized combat and a plot involving political betrayals. There is No gore on screen. Your child follows Ramza's journey through a medieval world full of characters. It's a great introduction to strategy RPGs on the console.

For whom?

✅ This game is best suited for patient players who like to think things through before acting. Every decision affects the next battle. The difficulty level truly rewards strategy and preparation.

❌ Avoid this if your child is looking for immediate action. The pace is slow, and there’s a lot of dialogue to read. A 12-year-old who’s comfortable with reading will find this a real challenge.

6. Octopath Traveler II

• Metacritic rating : 85/100
• Release date on Switch February 24, 2023
• PEGI Rating : 12 years

• Number of players : solo
• Switch 2 compatibility : yes

Why this game?

Octopath Traveler II combines a visual style HD-2D Stunning graphics and very accessible turn-based combat. Your child plays as eight different heroes. Each follows their own story in a vast world to explore.

Combat is based on the enemies' weak points. The concept is easy to understand. Yet it’s deep enough to keep you hooked over the long term. This RPG offers an adventure lasting several dozen hours on the Nintendo Switch.

The combo energy system rewards strategic play without ever penalizing beginners. A 12-year-old can progress at their own pace. They can take a breather between battles and enjoy exploring.

Some stories deal with serious themes such as revenge or loss. Nothing shocking on screen, but some scenes are still intended for mature audiences.

For whom?

✅ Perfect if your child enjoys reading the dialogue and following a rich story at their own pace.

❌ Avoid this if he prefers immediate action. This book requires a little patience and some reading.

7. SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance

• Metacritic rating : 85/100
• Release date on Switch August 29, 2025
• PEGI Rating : 12

• Number of players : solo
• Switch 2 compatibility : yes

Why this game?

In SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance, your child plays the role of an agile ninja. It's a 2D action-platformer. The hand-drawn art style is superb. The gameplay relies on reflexes, precision, and a sense of timing.

The combat remains stylized and never realistic. That explains the PEGI 12 rating. Each level combines platforming sections, battles, and challenging boss sequences. The adventure unfolds through solo, from start to finish.

This platform game rewards patience and mastery of sequences. On the Nintendo Switch, it runs perfectly in both handheld and TV modes. It challenges you to push your limits without ever becoming unfair.

For whom?

✅ A great choice for a 12-year-old who loves fast-paced action and skill-based challenges. Best suited for a player who doesn't give up after the first failure.

❌ Avoid this if he prefers calm games or more contemplative settings.

8. Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake

• Metacritic rating : 85/100
• Release date on Switch October 30, 2025
• PEGI Rating : 12 years

• Number of players 1 to 2 local players.
• Switch 2 compatibility : Yes

Why this game?

Your child sets off on an adventure in a colorful world full of creatures, quests, and turn-based battles. The pace remains relaxed. He has time to think before each action, without the pressure of having to react on the spot.

The style HD-2D a blend of retro pixel art and modern 3D backgrounds. The result is a real treat for the eyes on Nintendo Switch. At age 12, it's the perfect time to discover a great, accessible Japanese RPG.

For whom?

✅ This Dragon Quest It's aimed at kids who want a straightforward story and easy-to-follow battles. The pace is gentle. The menus and dialog are easy to follow. This remake is an excellent introduction to role-playing games.

❌ Avoid this only if the turn-by-turn navigation doesn't work for you at all.

9. Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster

• Metacritic rating : 85/100
• Release date on Switch April 16, 2019
• PEGI : 12

• Number of players : solo
• Switch 2 compatibility : Yes

Why this game?

This bundle brings together two cult-classic RPGs from the series Final Fantasy. This HD version is optimized for the Nintendo Switch. Your child sets out to explore a vast world on a long adventure. The story is compelling, and the characters are endearing.

The Battles take place in a turn-based format. You don't need quick reflexes to win a game. This leisurely pace helps a 12-year-old player think through their strategy. They choose each move at their own pace. The remaster also includes updated menus and a handy fast-forward mode.

For whom?

✅ This is a good choice if your child enjoys reading dialogue and following a complex storyline. The PEGI 12 rating is due to more serious themes such as loss and sacrifice.

❌ However, it’s best to avoid this game if he’s mainly looking for fast-paced action. The long cutscenes might also bore him if he prefers to play with a controller in hand without any downtime.

10. Octopath Traveler 0

• Metacritic rating : 82/100
• Release date on Switch December 4, 2025
• Classification : PEGI 12

• Number of players : solo
• Switch 2 compatibility : yes

Why this game?

Octopath Traveler 0 is a great introduction to the series. Your child sets out to explore a world depicted in HD-2D. This style blends retro pixel art with modern lighting effects. The visuals look stunning on both the Nintendo Switch and the Switch 2.

The turn-based combat is easy to understand. Your child will quickly get the hang of the strengths and weaknesses system. There aren't any endless menus to get lost in. It's a great first RPG for a 12-year-old.

The progression is clear, and players can enjoy the adventure at their own pace. The text has been translated into French, which is a real plus for this age group. The PEGI 12 rating is justified by a Mild violence, with no shocking scenes.

For whom?

✅ Perfect if your child likes to read the dialogue and take their time.

❌ Avoid this if he prefers immediate action over turn-based thinking.

11. Hogwarts Legacy

• Metacritic rating : 82/100
• Release date on Switch : November 14, 2023
• PEGI Rating : 12

• Number of players : solo
• Switch 2 compatibility : yes

Why this game?

Hogwarts Legacy Immerse your child in the magical world of Poudlard. He embarks on his own wizard adventure in the 19th century. He learns spells and explores a vast castle full of secrets. The open world is immense, but the action is still suitable for 12-year-olds.

The wand battles are dynamic and easy to follow. There is no graphic violence, which justifies the rating. PEGI 12. Your child brews potions, tames creatures, and customizes their common room. This freedom to explore makes the game highly replayable. The Nintendo Switch version runs smoothly and features improvements in Switch 2.

For whom?

✅ This game is designed for kids who love the universe Harry Potter and big solo adventure games.

❌ Avoid this if he's looking for a multiplayer mode, since the entire game is played solo. Also avoid it if he doesn't like reading a lot of dialogue.

12. It Takes Two

• Metacritic rating : 82/100
• Release date on Switch : November 4, 2022
• PEGI Rating : 12

• Number of players : 2 players
• Switch 2 compatibility : Yes

Why this game?

It Takes Two is the’one of the best cooperative games Available on Nintendo Switch. You play as Cody and May, a couple who have been turned into figurines. The two must help each other to get back home.

Each level introduces a new game mechanic. You go from using a nail and a hammer to controlling time. Some sections combine platforming, puzzles, and short action sequences. This variety keeps the adventure fresh from start to finish and prevents any sense of boredom.

The game is played just the two of us, in person or online.

For whom?

✅ This is the perfect choice if your 12-year-old enjoys playing in a duo with a parent or a friend. The puzzles are still accessible for this age group, without ever stalling the game for too long. The PEGI 12 rating confirms that the content is appropriate, with no explicit violence.

❌ However, avoid this if you're looking for a solo adventure: without a partner, It Takes Two does not start.

13. Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition

• Metacritic rating : 77/100
• Release date on Switch April 7, 2022
• PEGI Rating : 12

• Number of players : solo
• Switch 2 compatibility : yes

Why this game?

Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition is the remastered version of the RPG A cult classic released in 1999. You play the role of Serge across two parallel worlds. Throughout the adventure, you'll recruit many playable characters.

Your choices shape the story and change the flow of the game. The turn-based battles are still easy to pick up. The elemental system adds just the right amount of strategy. It’s a good first major RPG for a 12-year-old who loves to read and think.

For whom?

✅ This game is aimed at curious young players who are ready to commit to a long quest. The rankings PEGI 12 Above all, it depicts battles without graphic violence.

❌ Avoid this if your child doesn't like following complex dialogues. The story really requires your full attention to enjoy it.

14. Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero

• Metacritic rating : 76/100 (PS5, Xbox, and PC versions)
• PEGI Rating : 12
• Release on Nintendo Switch : Not yet confirmed by Bandai Namco

• Number of players : for two players, whether in person or online.
• Switch 2 compatibility : To be confirmed with a possible release on a Nintendo console.

Why this game?

Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero is a 3D fighting game rated PEGI 12. In it, your child will find Goku, Vegeta and many characters from the series. He reprises the roles of Major Battles in the Anime. The action remains spectacular, without any realistic violence, which is well suited to this age group.

The It's easy to get started. You can quickly string together combos and transformations. There’s no need to master the most technical fighting games. It’s this blend of fast-paced action and faithfulness to the source material that appeals to 12-year-olds.

Important thing to know: This title was released in October 2024 exclusively for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. No other versions nintendo-switch has not been officially announced by the publisher. Be sure to check its actual availability on the eShop before making any purchases for your console.

For whom?

✅ For fans of the series who love fast-paced action and one-on-one battles. If your child would rather play on the Switch right now, point them toward the other games best Dragon Ball games already available on the console.

15. Worms: Armageddon - Anniversary Edition

• Metacritic rating : 75/100
• Release date on Switch : September 26, 2024
• Classification : PEGI 12

• Number of players Up to 6 players online and locally.
• Switch 2 compatibility : Yes

Why this game?

Worms: Armageddon relies on offbeat humor and Short Matches, Round by Round. Your child leads a team of worms armed with absurd gadgets. They must aim carefully, account for the wind, and anticipate their opponents' moves.

This unhurried pace makes the An easy-to-learn game for ages 12 and up. The PEGI 12 rating is based on cartoon-style violence—which is never realistic—and this reassures parents. On Nintendo Switch, the turn-based combat retains all its charm, even after hours of play.

For whom?

✅ For those who prefer to think things through rather than rely on reflexes. The local multiplayer mode, which supports up to 6 players, makes this a great game to enjoy with family or friends on a single console.

❌ However, you should avoid this if your child is looking for fast-paced action rather than strategy.

What Switch game should I choose for a 12-year-old?

It all depends on your tastes. Here are three simple tips to help you choose from this selection of Nintendo Switch games.

• To get started gently: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Where Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. These two games introduce players to the world nintendo and a vast world of adventure to explore.
• For an RPG fan: Octopath Traveler II Where Dragon Quest. They offer exploration and turn-based combat that’s easy to pick up.
• To play with a partner or the whole family: It Takes Two and Worms: Armageddon. These games are designed for local multiplayer.

⚠️ All of these titles are rated PEGI 12, but some games, such as Final Fantasy X Where Metroid Prime Remastered, deal with darker themes: keep an eye on them depending on your child's sensitivity.

All of these games run just as well on nintendo-switch than on Switch 2. The console remains an ideal choice for providing hours of age-appropriate gameplay.

To learn more, check out our other selections of Switch games:

• The Best Mario Games on Switch, with Super Mario Odyssey and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
• The best games for 10 years on Switch
• The best horse games on Switch