Nintendo may not have a history of jumping on the latest tech trends early, but they do have a knack for putting their own spin on things, making them stand out in the crowd. As virtual reality (VR) gains traction globally, Nintendo has stepped up and created a slew of VR games for the Switch, ensuring their users have a unique gaming experience.
It probably caught many gamers by surprise when Nintendo introduced a bunch of VR games for the Switch. What’s even more surprising is how these games bring a new level of realism to the table. Of course, with so many VR options, it can get a bit overwhelming when you’re trying to pick the best ones. But fear not! This article will delve into the top 11 Nintendo Switch VR games to give you a solid starting point.
So, let’s jump right in and explore these exciting VR experiences!
Can You Play VR Games With Nintendo Switch?
Yes, you’ve got the opportunity to enjoy VR gaming on your trusty Nintendo Switch. However, there’s a little catch – the VR mode is accessible on all Nintendo Switch consoles, but it can only be activated when you’re playing a game specifically designed for VR. You’ve got a compatible VR headset ready to roll.
Thankfully, there’s a range of VR headsets that can get the job done with your Nintendo Switch. You’ve got options like the Labo VR starter kit, the OIVO VR headset, and even the HTC Vive Cosmos VR headset. Let’s take a closer look.
The Labo VR starter kit is an affordable and user-friendly choice. It not only lets you enjoy select VR games that come with the Labo kit but also introduces you to the basics of creating your own VR experiences.
Now, the OIVO VR headset is a versatile beast, perfect for gamers with smaller heads or those prone to motion sickness. Its ergonomic design ensures top-notch comfort during those extended gaming sessions.
And then there’s the high-powered Vive Cosmos VR headset. This one’s a real powerhouse, but it’s worth noting that it requires some technical know-how and the right tech setup to get it up and running with your Nintendo Switch.
So, whether you’re going for affordability, comfort, or top-tier performance, there’s a VR headset for your Nintendo Switch to suit your preferences.
What Games Have VR for the Nintendo Switch?
You’ve got a bunch of exciting gaming choices when it comes to Nintendo Switch VR games. Take a look at this lineup of the very best Nintendo Switch VR games that are bound to thrill you and keep you hooked to your console.
11. *Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker*
Pricing: $39.99
Age Range: Everyone 6+
Among all the games that have ventured into the world of Labo VR since its launch, Captain Toad’s efforts are probably the least bothersome. In this charming adventure game, you’ll navigate through miniature courses, avoiding hazards and solving puzzles. The tiny diorama-style levels look absolutely adorable when viewed through the headset, and the smooth, simple art style helps soften the impact of the 720p display. Most of the time, it’s a comfortable experience to play, though rotating the stages can be a tad disorienting. However, the content is quite limited (just four levels, each lasting around four minutes at most), and it could greatly benefit from positional tracking. Nevertheless, it represents one of the more enjoyable experiences in Switch VR, and it gives us hope that Nintendo might someday make a more substantial foray into this technology.
10. *Super Smash Bros: Ultimate*
Pricing: $59.99
Age Range: Everyone 10+
Get ready for the ultimate clash as players duke it out and send their rivals flying off the stage.
New faces like King K. Rool and Simon Belmont are excitingly teaming up with Super Smash Bros. veterans like Ridley and Inkling. Together, they’re taking the fight to new stages inspired by the Castlevania series, amping up the speed and intensity.
But that’s not all; there’s a new twist in town – the Stage Morph option, a first for the series, lets you transform the battlefield as you battle it out.
And here’s the icing on the cake: Nintendo has upped the ante with a virtual reality mode for Super Smash Bros. However, there’s a catch – the VR experience is designed for solo players or for watching CPU battles. In VR mode, you can peer around the levels and catch glimpses of normally off-limits areas, adding a fresh perspective to the action.
9. *Island Saver*
Pricing: Free
Age Range: Everyone 10+
Island Saver, crafted by Stormcloud Games, is an action-packed adventure game. It debuted on PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, and Xbox One on the 13th of May in 2020.
In this game, your mission is to aid a cluster of extraordinary islands by cleaning up the dreadful plastic waste strewn across their shores. Armed with your trusty Trash Bluster, you must diligently separate this trash while watching for the pesky Litterbugs.
Your duties also include washing away the gloop, gathering litter, and rescuing the charming “bankimals” – unique creatures residing in piggy banks. By doing so, you’ll earn valuable coins and contribute to restoring the Savvy Islands to their former glory.
The “bankimals” are a remarkable bunch, and you can partner with them to bring harmony back to the islands. They grant you the power to explore tropical jungles and even ride atop them.
Island Saver offers many fantastic features, from the lush tropical jungles to the incredible Bankimals, whose abilities you can harness for a thrilling adventure.
8. *Five Nights at Freddy’s*
Pricing: $29.99
Age Range: Mature 17+
The next game on our list for Nintendo Switch VR is “Five Nights at Freddy’s.” This game is a compilation of both timeless classics and brand-new mini-games set in the Five Nights Universe. Players must navigate through spine-tingling encounters with menacing animatronics in this assortment of classic gaming adventures.
It’s important to note that gamers can enjoy this game without needing a VR headset.
Your tasks include fixing cramped ventilation systems, troubleshooting malfunctioning animatronics that may spring to life at any moment, or spending the night in the security guard’s office.
Prepare to face off against your favorite killer animatronics like Bonnie, Freddy, Foxy, and Chica. Additionally, you can earn rewards such as sweets, plush toys, playthings, and bobbleheads.
7. *The Knight of Queens*
Pricing: $4.99
Age Range: Everyone 10+
Once imprisoned in the annals of time by the fabled Hero, the Devil King has managed to break free, plunging the world into imminent chaos once more.
As the valiant Knight entrusted with the protection of Her Majesty the Queen, your mission unfolds. Your noble quest is to confront and battle the Devil King. The question looms: Can you emerge victorious in this epic struggle, restoring harmony to the world and rescuing it from the brink of destruction?
The game employs a straightforward one-on-one turn-based command system, offering a sense of familiarity for players without the need for a steep learning curve. Dive right into this captivating virtual realm without delay, as it retains the charm of classic gaming.
With the aid of virtual reality, players can traverse vast landscapes and treacherous dungeons, benefiting from a 360-degree view that immerses them fully in the imaginative world that awaits them.
6. *Spice and Wolf VR
Pricing: $24.99
Age Range: Everyone
“Spice & Wolf VR” graces the Nintendo Switch as a visual novel, drawing inspiration from the beloved anime of the same name. Although I haven’t delved into the anime world of “Spice & Wolf,” curiosity led me to explore this offering.
The narrative places you in the shoes of Kraft Lawrence, a character who crosses paths with Holo, a woman with the extraordinary ability to transform into a wolf. Your journey together unfolds with a chance encounter in an abandoned building prompted by a sudden downpour. Interestingly, the entirety of the game unfolds within this very building; there are no other locations to explore. Given its visual novel nature, the story is conveyed through on-screen text. The voice acting is performed in Japanese, necessitating subtitles for comprehension. While the subtitles generally serve their purpose, there were moments when Holo’s presence obstructed the text, making it somewhat challenging to read.
The game comprises a total of three chapters, each spanning a brief 5 to 10 minutes. Consequently, the entire game can be completed in under 30 minutes, a notable drawback. However, post-story, an interactive mode becomes accessible, allowing you to guide Holo’s interactions. While you can pet her tail, the interactive elements are rather limited.
Remarkably, the game boasts a polished experience devoid of glitches, featuring visually pleasing graphics and fluid character animations that breathe life into the story.
5. *Among Us*
Pricing: $3.50
Age Range: Everyone 10+
Let’s take a closer look at the Nintendo Switch VR game called Among Us VR. This game is all about teamwork and deception. As crew members, your job is to cooperate and finish tasks before the impostors eliminate everyone on the spaceship.
In this virtual reality experience, you’ll join a team of 4 to 15 players. As a crewmate, your mission is to get the spaceship ready for liftoff. But watch out! Some of your fellow crewmates may secretly be impostors determined to sabotage the mission and take out everyone onboard.
4. *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild*
Pricing: $59.99
Age Range: Everyone 10+
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild stands out as one of the most enchanting Nintendo Switch VR games. By adopting an open-world format, Nintendo has granted players a greater sense of freedom to roam the magical realm of Hyrule.
This newfound freedom makes it incredibly easy for players to become immersed in the game for hours, even two years after its release. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild represents a groundbreaking entry in the beloved series. As players embark on their adventure, they can traverse vast fields, lush forests, and towering mountain peaks, discovering the wonders of the Kingdom of Hyrule in this breathtaking open-air experience.
Thankfully, the journey feels even more liberating and expansive on the Nintendo Switch.
3. *Deemo Reborn*
Pricing: $25.00
Age Range: Everyone
In 2013, Demo Reborn made its debut as a mobile game that transformed images into musical pianos. It followed a straightforward format akin to other mobile rhythm games and was brought to life by Rayark, with Sony Music Entertainment handling its publication.
Over time, this game has undergone a series of updates, adding a plethora of new features and enhancements. Deemo Reborn stands out as a unique gaming experience, seamlessly blending a captivating storyline with rhythm-based musical mechanics within the immersive world of virtual reality.
While rhythm games in virtual reality are not unheard of, many come bundled with intricate narratives that entice players to continue playing to uncover their hidden secrets during extended gaming sessions. Deemo Reborn distinguishes itself from other VR rhythm titles, often offering faster-paced and more contemporary song choices. Instead, it provides players with a more versatile musical selection that perfectly complements the essence of Deemo Reborn.
2. *Super Mario Odyssey*
Pricing: $59.99
Age Range: Everyone 10+
Super Mario Odyssey adds a thrilling new chapter to Nintendo Switch gaming, seamlessly incorporating the innovative Labo VR Kit for an interactive virtual reality experience inspired by three levels from Super Mario Odyssey itself.
This immersive experience places players right at the center of one of these captivating levels, enabling them to actively guide Mario through it as they follow his every move. When first meeting Nintendo’s beloved plumber Mario for the first time, his iconic smile instantly transports you into his world and makes you forget your control over him briefly.
Each level’s aim is to collect musical instruments for three talented musicians – an achievable task if you pay close attention. Just collect all musical notes scattered across the map before time expires!
The beauty of this game lies in its rapid pace. Each level can be completed quickly, with the game coming to a close once all three instruments have been collected successfully. At its best, objectives close together allow for full enjoyment of the 3D effect; when distance widens, Mario becomes less clearly discernible, thus emphasizing how close they should remain for optimal gameplay experience.
1. *Neonwall*
Pricing: $9.99
Age Range: Everyone
Neonwall stands at the forefront of Nintendo Switch VR games, marking a revolutionary fusion of action and puzzle elements. Players embark on a radiant journey, navigating puzzles and surmounting obstacles within a neon-drenched world. Focusing and precision are key to success, ensuring the ball races against time.
Victory hinges not solely on ball-handling skills but on active interaction. The objective: guide the ball to its goal while thwarting relentless obstacles. Gamers manipulate the game using dual-colored lasers under joystick command.
These lasers can swap hues with the neon ball, shattering and shifting blocks in their path. Color assumes paramount importance within Neonwall. Balls gain swiftness and unveil portals matching their color scheme. To progress, lasers must harmonize their hues with those of the elements, executed with precision to secure triumph.
Nintendo Labo VR Kit
The Labo VR bundle comes with its own software, and it’s a mixed experience with some standout moments. Firstly, it offers a flawless guide to assembling Labo kits, making building a breeze. Plus, it includes a collection of mini-games to enjoy with your creations.
Among these games, there’s one where you control a bird in a rather quirky way (by holding its rear end to your face) that’s oddly amusing. However, not all the mini-games shine; some are pretty boring or frustrating. For example, certain platform levels don’t showcase VR’s joys, and games using the Joy-Con’s motion controls can be quite tricky to handle. In one game, trying to throw a boomerang can be so exasperating that you might feel like throwing your Joy-Con – even though you know it won’t come back.
Nonetheless, the kit boasts some decent games worth trying, and it encourages a do-it-yourself mindset that sets it apart in the world of VR. If you have kids you want to introduce to VR, this could be a decent starting point despite its flaws.
How Old Should You Be to Enjoy Nintendo Switch VR Mode?
The recommended age for enjoying VR Mode starts at seven years old and up. It’s worth noting that most VR headsets have an age restriction of 13 and older. This restriction is in place because VR headsets are initially designed for adult users and can often be too large for kids.
Experts in ophthalmology have determined this age recommendation by considering how 3D images affect children’s eyes. As a result, kids under six should avoid using VR Mode to prevent potential eye issues that might arise from using VR headsets at too young an age.
How to Put Switch in VR Mode?
Here’s a simple guide to get your Switch into VR mode:
- Step 1: Start by opening a game that supports VR.
- Step 2: Look for the “VR Playing” mode in the game. Depending on the game, you might find it in a menu labeled “Playing in VR” or within the “Options” menu under “Toy-Con VR Goggles.” Make sure to enable it.
- Step 3: Attach the VR Goggles to your Switch.
- Step 4: Put on your goggles, and you’re ready to start playing!
There you go! You’ve successfully set your Switch to VR mode, following your preferred settings.
If you have any doubts, you can refer to Nintendo’s guide on activating VR Mode for your Switch.
Is Minecraft Available on Switch VR?
Unfortunately, Minecraft isn’t available on VR Switch games. If you’re eager to experience Minecraft in virtual reality, you’ll require a robust PC along with a VR headset like the Meta Quest 2 to make it happen. It’s worth mentioning that native VR support is only available in the Bedrock Edition of Minecraft.
Regrettably, the Java Edition of Minecraft doesn’t offer built-in VR support. However, there’s a workaround if you’re playing on a PC – you can install a user mod called Vivecraft to enable VR play. Remember that this option is exclusive to PCs and unavailable for Nintendo Switch VR users.
Final Thoughts on Nintendo Switch VR Games: An Amazing Small Collection
In this piece, we’ve compiled a lineup of top-notch Nintendo Switch VR games. While VR gaming often gravitates towards platforms like Oculus Quest, PSVR, and the Valve Index, the VR games for Nintendo Switch we’ve highlighted here offer a compelling taste of immersive gameplay.
VR has undeniably reshaped the gaming landscape, injecting a dose of innovation and excitement. Take a look at our list and discover the game that suits your preferences perfectly. Enjoy your journey into virtual realms!
