Highlights

  • The Nintendo Switch lacks a strong lineup of sports games, despite its motion controls and online capabilities.
  • There are several games on the Switch that provide a similar experience to Wii Sports, with intuitive controls and party elements.
  • While some games, like Arms and Mario Strikers: Battle League, are worth checking out, others, like NBA 2K23 and FIFA 23, are criticized for their lack of innovation.

While the Nintendo Switch is home to a slew of great titles spanning many genres and styles, it's not exactly lighting it up in the sports department. This is somewhat ironic, considering the Wii's most successful game is a compilation of sporting romps. It's especially baffling, as the Switch's improved motion controls and online capabilities would seemingly make it a great platform for sports games. Yet, aside from a few outliers, Switch's library remains curiously thin when it comes to games that resemble the iconic Wii Sports.

RELATED: Best Party Video Games of All Time, Ranked

Thankfully, there are more than enough games similar to Wii Sports on the Switch. All of these games provide a great sporting experience on the console, while also keeping in mind the intuitive controls and party elements that made Wii Sports so appealing in the first place. After all, the allure of playing fun sports-based party games on the Switch is highly alluring and something that most fans wouldn't want to miss out on in the slightest.

Updated on November 28, 2023, by Ritwik Mitra: Wii Sports is one of the most popular video games of all time. Sure, it may have been sold along with the console itself to inflate those numbers, but no one can deny that the title didn't deserve these high numbers for showing exactly what the motion controls of this console could achieve. Players can check out more titles in the same vein if they want to experience the same joy that Wii Sports gave them. *A video version of this article has also been added, highlighting ten games from the List.

24 Arms

A Boxing Game Featuring Fighters With Stretchy Arms

arms fighters arena
Arms

Platform(s)
Switch
Released
June 16, 2017
Developer(s)
Nintendo EPD
Genre(s)
Fighting

Arms is a game that can be deceptively tiring if players try out multiple matches in a row. Each fighter in arms has its own unique eccentricities, with players having to curve and bend their punches to let their stretchy hands hit the opponent.

Arms is a great game, and it's a shame that the title didn't take off like other Nintendo properties. The game is perfect for Switch owners, especially those who love Wii Sports and its vast array of competitive games.

23 Mario Strikers: Battle League

A Stylized Soccer Game With Arcade Elements

Mario Strikers Battle League Update Fixes Issue With Rainbow Colored Question Blocks
Mario Strikers: Battle League

Platform(s)
Switch
Released
June 10, 2022
Developer(s)
Next Level Games
Genre(s)
Sports

Mario Strikers is a franchise that has been graced with several fun games that are worth checking out for fans of quirky soccer games. While many people would argue that Battle League doesn't justify the price point at which it's released, players who want to play an arcade-y sports title with their friends will be more than happy with what this game has to offer.

The game is simple to pick up, with players having to pass around the ball and use a bevy of tricks and techniques to get as many goals as possible. The action is frenetic and each and every match is a thrilling encounter that will leave most players on the edge of their seats after attaining victory!

Get It On Amazon Here!

22 NBA 2K23

A Fun, If Somewhat Safe, Basketball Game

Kobe Bryant performing a jump shot in NBA 2K23
NBA 2K23

Franchise
NBA 2K
Platform(s)
PC , PS4 , PS5 , Switch , Xbox One , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
Released
September 9, 2022
Developer(s)
Visual Concepts
Publisher(s)
2K Sports
Genre(s)
Sports
ESRB
E For Everyone due to In-Game Purchases (Includes Random Items), Users Interact

The NBA games may have a rather divisive fanbase that hates the phoned-in nature of most yearly releases, but even its most outspoken critics can't deny that the core gameplay is a blast that leaves players wanting for more at every step of the way. While this is no excuse for full-price releases for each NBA game that doesn't really bring anything new to the table, superfans won't mind shelling out the big bucks to play the most recent title in online matches.

Players can control their favorite basketball team and run rings around their opponents as they get basket after basket. The game can be a bit challenging for newcomers, but it's not that hard to wrap one's head around the gameplay and how to make the best of any scoring opportunity. Even non-basketball fans can have a ton of fun with this amazing title!

Get It On Amazon Here!

21 FIFA 23

The Final EA Soccer Game To Use The FIFA Moniker

Marcelo In FIFA
FIFA 23

Platform(s)
PS5 , PS4 , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S , Switch , PC , Stadia
Released
September 27, 2022
Developer(s)
EA Vancouver , EA Romania
Genre(s)
Sports

The FIFA games are known by many as the best soccer gaming series out there that fans can check out, even if this game also has its fair share of critics who hate the fact that these titles are released annually with little to no improvements. Since EA failed to renew the FIFA license with the parent organization, most players can only hope that they are finally compelled to do something new and interesting so that EA Sports FC kicks off the ground running instead of signaling the end of this long-running football series.

RELATED: The Best Co-Op Third-Person Shooters On Nintendo Switch

FIFA 23 is a great send-off to the series' legendary run under this license, with the game featuring a wealth of improvements that fans had wanted for quite some time. While some people may argue that waiting so long for such basic improvements isn't acceptable, there's no denying that this was still a step in the right direction. With the wealth of game mods available in this title, it's easy to see why FIFA 23 has captured the hearts of fans all over the world!

Get It On Amazon Here!

20 Nintendo Switch Sports

The Much-Awaited Successor To Wii Sports

Several Sportsmates spectating a Chambara match in Nintendo Switch Sports
Nintendo Switch Sports

Platform(s)
Switch
Released
April 29, 2022
Developer(s)
Nintendo
Genre(s)
Sports

Wii Sports players have been waiting a long time for this one. On April 29th, 2022, the next evolution in the Wii Sports saga will finally kick off with the introduction of Nintendo Switch Sports. The spiritual successor looks and feels like the original in both style and substance, with many critics loving its spread of competitive mini-games. Although there are sure to be some flaws, like the glaring feedback from some fans about the "new and improved" NPC and character style, it's safe to say that those who live and breathe Wii Sports should find comfort in the latest release.

It remains to be seen if Nintendo will implement additional updates to the software and could possibly bring it into the new age by giving players even more games to download and enjoy as time goes on. Whether Nintendo Switch Sports will achieve the same cult following that Wii Sports did long ago is something that can't really be answered right now, although a lot of fans feel like Nintendo dropped the ball with this title in many ways.

Get It On Amazon Here!

19 Nintendo Labo

A Combination Of A Cardboard Kit And The Joycon's Motion Controls

Promo image of the Nintendo Labo VR kit
Nintendo Labo

Platform(s)
Switch
Released
April 20, 2018
Developer(s)
Nintendo
Genre(s)
toys to life

Those looking for a more complicated version of Wii Sports might want to check out Nintendo Labo, which sets itself apart thanks to its array of cardboard buildable controllers and housings. Many who fell in love with Wii Sports will remember the unique array of peripherals that could be purchased to turn the standard Wii Remote into a steering wheel, baseball bat, tennis racket, boxing gloves, and more. Nintendo Labo takes a similar approach but cranks it up to eleven by allowing players to customize their own controller housings.

The title comes with a cardboard kit that is used to create an array of things that will turn the Nintendo Labo games into something that feels truly interactive. There are additional kits that players can purchase that offer more games and unique housings, including a working VR headset and a "Robot Suit" made out of cardboard that should be worn when playing robot-style games found within the collection.

Get It On Amazon Here!

18 Instant Sports: Summer Games

A Simple Collection Of 11 Fun Multiplayer Sports Games

Instant Sports Summer Games multiplayer tennis gameplay

As will be the case with many on this list, Break First's Instant Sports Summer Games isn't exactly gaming perfection. Yet, those seeking a delightful multiplayer game resembling Wii Sports are likely to get a kick out of it.

RELATED: The Best JRPGs You Can Play On The Switch (According To Metacritic)

The game certainly stands out when it comes to quantity, featuring a variety of single and multiplayer modes - supporting up to 8 players - and a whopping 11 sporting events. These include Olympic-style activities like relay races, javelin throws, high jumps, and archery, along with more typical sports like baseball and bowling. While these tend to be hit-and-miss, there are plenty of enjoyable options to choose from.

Get It On Amazon Here!

17 American Ninja Warrior Challenge

A Video Game Version Of The Hit TV Show Where Contestants Power Through A Physically-Taxing Course

American Ninja Warrior Game swinging gameplay

If nothing else - this sports medley, based on the NBC TV show, is almost sure to provide some amusement and perhaps some yuks. Though the game is rather crude and basic, it's easy to forgive in this case, given its slew of unique events and multiplayer action.

For the most part, the game translates the tough physical challenges on-screen to button prompts, making for a fun, accessible little diversion. With its emphasis on timed button pecks, this one should satiate fans of Nintendo's underrated Rhythm Heaven franchise as well.

Get It On Amazon Here!

16 Fitness Boxing

Motion-Controlled Boxing Where Maintaining A Proper Rhythm Is Important

Fitness Boxing gameplay
Fitness Boxing

Platform(s)
Switch
Developer(s)
Imagineer
Genre(s)
Rhythm

Those looking to get off that couch and burn a few calories while gaming... may want to look at Ring Fit Adventure first. Still, Fitness Boxing does prove an enjoyable alternative for those looking for another effort in the spirit of Wii Sports and Wii Fit.

The experience feels akin to a fusion of Wii Boxing and Just Dance - with its scrolling prompts, vibrant visuals, and lively tunes that keep players (literally) on their toes. The gameplay is fairly minimal, but it gets the job done when it comes to both fun and fitness.

Get It On Amazon Here!

15 Just Dance 2021

just dance 2021 neon robot figures dancing against city skyline

Just Dance comes full circle after its breakout debut on Wii, with one of the strongest, most robust renditions ever on Switch. Just Dance 2021 goes out of its way to ensure there will be something for almost everyone, with its particularly diverse tracklist of over 40 hit songs.

This diverse mix ranges from Eminem's "Without Me" to "Blinding Lights" by the Weekend and "Rare" by Selena Gomez. And of course, the game supports Just Dance Unlimited, which opens up hundreds of more tracks to boogie to. Features like Kids Mode, quick play, and dynamic World Dance Floor competitions round out this colorful party game.

Get It On Amazon Here!

14 R.B.I. Baseball 20

A Faithful Baseball Game That's A Bit Rough Around The Edges

RBI Baseball 20 Switch gameplay

With the absence of a Mario or Wii Sports rendition of baseball, there's a notable lack of quality games featuring America's pastime on Switch. But despite its mixed reviews and lack of popularity, R.B.I. Baseball 20 stands as a pretty suitable replacement.

RELATED: Best Nintendo Wii Add-Ons (& Ones To Avoid)

While it's a bit rough around the edges, this game largely hits that sweet spot in terms of its balance of depth and arcade-style gameplay. The game offers enough complexity and surprisingly sleek visuals for more serious players to appreciate. At the same time, its undiluted, easy-going nature makes for an appealing, accessible experience for less-practiced ballplayers.

Get It On Amazon Here!

13 1-2-Switch!

A Launch Game For The Switch That Made The Most Of Its Motion Controls

1-2 Switch
1-2-Switch

Platform(s)
Switch
Released
March 3, 2017
Developer(s)
Nintendo
Genre(s)
Party Game

Some may cry "foul" on account of this game's simple nature and minigames more akin to bite-sized demos rather than sports. Still, much like Wii Sports was a demonstration of the innovative Wiimote, 1-2-Switch! is a fun and amusing showcase of the Joy-Cons.

With its slew of wacky multiplayer romps, one can get a sense of the surprisingly nuanced tech crammed into these devices – from the precise motion to the realistic HD Rumble. It even features a minigame that one literally controls with their mouth via an IR tracking sensor.

Get It On Amazon Here!

12 Go Vacation

A Highly Underrated Party Game

Go Vacation Switch

Being yet another party game release that was churned out late in the console's lifespan, Go Vacation never got much recognition. It's a shame, really, as this Namco Bandai title does make for a fun multiplayer experience.

While it's far from perfect, the mechanics manage to be more than sufficient, and the lineup of enjoyable events is impressive, to say the least. Motion controls are subtle and intuitive without feeling forced or overbearing. The game features everything from Wave Race-esque jetski scrambles to golfing and even water gun skirmishes.

Get It On Amazon Here!

11 Golf With Your Friends

A Simple And Fun Golfing Game

golf with your friends review
Golf With Your Friends

Platform(s)
PS4 , Switch , Xbox One , Stadia , PC
Released
May 19, 2020
Developer(s)
Blacklight Interactive
Genre(s)
sport

As it happens, one of the better sports titles on Switch comes from an indie studio, which goes by the name Blacklight Interactive. Enter Golf With Your Friends.

Though minigolf is its sole focus – unlike the sporting medley of Wii Sports – it holds a similar appeal with its simplicity and unique twists on traditional sports. The game takes the fundamental concept of miniature golf and adds its own unique flair, featuring a range of crazy courses and mechanics. There's even an infusion of other light sporting elements – such as "Dunk Mode," which inserts a basketball net. The game even offers online support for up to 12 players.

Get It On Amazon Here!

10 Carnival Games

A Port Of The Beloved Wii Party Game

Carnival Games Switch

As is the case with Go Vacation, the colorful Carnival Games is a port of the hit Wii title that's refined in terms of its visuals and controls. The game became a quiet success, though was overshadowed by Wii Sports on account of its similar style.

RELATED: Best eSports Moments Of The Decade, Ranked

But with the absence of that franchise on Switch, Carnival Games shines as one of the best party game collections on the console. The level of polish may not reach the lofty heights of Wii Sports, though it makes up for it in sheer quantity. It hosts 20 unique minigames that each provide enjoyment in their own way. Up to four players can clown around in carnivalesque romps and sports minigames, ranging from horse racing to home run derbies and cosmic bowling.

Get It On Amazon Here!

9 Super Mega Baseball 3

A Solid, Well-Rounded Baseball Game

smb3 stadium daylight
Super Mega Baseball 3

Platform(s)
Xbox One , Switch , PC , PS4
Developer(s)
Metalhead Software
Publisher(s)
Metalhead Software
Genre(s)
Sports

As mentioned, the baseball efforts on Switch are still rather slim. Yet, Metalhead's Super Mega Baseball serves as another fine gap-filler. This third installment particularly knocks it out of the park with more elaborate gameplay, including an all-new Franchise mode.

The game nicely balances accessibility and complexity, featuring customizable teams, new mechanics like pickoffs and steals, and 14 detailed ballparks. Online competitions are particularly thrilling, and cross-platform play ensures players will find an opponent.

Get It On Amazon Here!

8 Rocket League Ultimate Edition

The Indie Phenomenon Where Players Use Rocket-Powered Cars To Play Football

Rocket League Fennec
Rocket League

Platform(s)
PC , PS4 , Xbox One , macOS , Linux , Switch
Developer(s)
Psyonix
Genre(s)
Sports
Released
July 7, 2015

Despite its age, Psyonix's frenzied hybrid of driving and soccer remains one of the most enjoyable local and online multiplayer gems on Switch. Whether burning through the offline challenges and season mode or clashing with players online, this intense yet accessible romp is just as thrilling as ever.

Between the handheld functionality—which fits Rocket League's quick, bite-sized games like a glove—and the wealth of added cars, skins, and other goodies, Switch's Ultimate Edition proves an enticing rendition of this classic. It fulfills that endlessly fun, appealing competitive multiplayer itch that Wii Sports excelled at scratching.

Get It On Amazon Here!

7 Ring Fit Adventure

An Innovative Title That Combines RPG Mechanics With A Good Workout

ring-fit-adventure
Ring Fit Adventure

Platform(s)
Switch
Developer(s)
Nintendo EPD
Genre(s)
Sports
Released
October 18, 2019

In fairness, this unique sweat-inducing fitness game has more in common with Wii Fit than Wii Sports. Yet, the physical nature and accessible gameplay – which requires players to get off that couch – definitely "rings" similar to that classic.

At its core, Ring Fit Adventure is a distinct hodgepodge of RPG and fitness gameplay. Yet, Nintendo also provides an array of fun minigames, as well as the recently added rhythm dance mode. These segmented events range from a tightrope-walking balancing act to a robot-bashing showdown.

Get It On Amazon Here!

6 Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Games Tokyo 2020

A Great Sports Party Game Featuring Two Of Gaming's Most Recognizable Characters In A Lighthearted Crossover

Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 Mario leading sprint head on
Mario & Sonic at The Olympic Games Tokyo 2020

Platform(s)
Switch
Developer(s)
Sega , Sega Sports R&D
Genre(s)
Sports
Released
November 1, 2019

The Mario & Sonic games initially received some buzz when launched on the Wii over a decade ago. This was largely thanks to the novelty of hosting two classic gaming icons and rivals in the same game.

Years later though, and after many lukewarm installments, the series somewhat faded into obscurity and dropped off the radar of many. Still, the 2020 rendition of this Olympic party game for the Switch certainly deserves a second look.

RELATED: Mario Sports Games Nintendo Should Make (& Ones They Shouldn't)

Not only is it one of the most fun and robust versions of Mario & Sonic yet, but it even introduces the nostalgic "2D Events," which play 1964 Olympic games in 8 and 16-bit styles. The game is also the first to include a Story Mode, which oscillates between 2D and 3D. This is an enjoyable sports game as much as it's a celebration of gaming history.

Get It On Amazon Here!

5 Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz HD

A Game With Both Single-Player Gameplay And Party Modes For A Group Of Gamers To Check Out

Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz HD

Platform(s)
PS4 , Xbox One , Switch , PC
Developer(s)
Sega , RGG Studio
Publisher(s)
Sega
Genre(s)
3D Platformer

The hit party game for Wii made a return on the Switch and, outside the lack of motion control, it's a more-than-worthy remaster. Along with the fun single-player platforming, there are also 10 delightful party games that range from whack-a-mole to snowboarding and targets.

Not only have the visuals been spruced up, but the added online Decathlon competitions expand the replay value quite a bit. This makes for a fun alternative to both Wii Sports and Super Mario Party, with 100 exciting platforming states to boot.

Get It On Amazon Here!