Best Free Nintendo Switch 2 Games You Can Play at Launch

Nintendo Switch 2 playing Sky: Children of the Light
Credit: ThatGameCompany/Nintendo

Nintendo Switch 2 playing Sky: Children of the Light
Credit: ThatGameCompany/Nintendo

The Nintendo Switch 2’s June 5 release can’t come soon enough, and the list of launch-day titles, featuring a wide range of fantastic games, will be enough to keep players entertained for months until the next big release.

However, for those who can’t afford the newest games just yet, the usual collection of free titles on the Nintendo Switch eShop remains a solid alternative. While many of these are admittedly filler, there’s always a handful of standout free games that have steadily grown in popularity.

What Are The Best Nintendo Switch 2 Free Games?

Here are the best Nintendo Switch 2 free games you should check out at launch. Our list includes things like Fortnite, Apex Legends, Overwatch 2, and more:

Fortnite

Fortnite has become a pop culture phenomenon over the years, and the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Epic Games’ shooter might just be the best way to experience it, especially given the console’s portability.

Fortnite Screenshot
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Credit: Epic Games
Darth Vader in Fortnite.

This isn’t the same Fortnite from the original Switch. The upgraded version runs on Unreal Engine 5, the same engine powering the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S versions. That means significantly better performance and a visual overhaul, thanks to the Switch 2’s enhanced hardware.

Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2 PC Screenshot
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Credit: Blizzard
Soldier 76 in Stadium.

Once hailed as the king of hero-shooters, Overwatch helped define the genre. But over time, its popularity waned amid controversy and inconsistent updates.

With Overwatch 2, the game has reemerged stronger than ever. It’s what fans always hoped it would be, now featuring a new Stadium mode for chaotic third-person battles, a ranked 5v5 mode, the return of loot boxes and 6v6 gameplay, plus in-game perks and hero bans that refresh the meta. And yes, it’s all free on the Nintendo Switch 2.

Although Blizzard hasn’t confirmed any specific Switch 2 enhancements yet, we can expect improved performance over the notoriously rough base Switch version.

Warframe

Warframe PC Screenshot
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Credit: Digital Extremes
Warframe.

Digital Extremes’ long-running live-service game has been around for nearly a decade. Originally just a looter shooter, Warframe has grown far beyond its roots.

Now, it’s a sci-fi sandbox teeming with content: a cinematic single-player campaign, PvE raids, PvP, spaceship combat, and more. Its transformation is largely thanks to a passionate community and years of evolution, and it's available to the Nintendo Switch 2.

There’s no official word yet on a Switch 2-optimized version, but an upgrade seems inevitable.

Fall Guys

Fall Guys PC Screenshot
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Credit: Mediatonic
Fall Guys!

One of the few games that helped lighten the mood during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fall Guys became a global sensation, and still draws casual gamers with its charming slapstick gameplay.

Rumors suggest Mediatonic is working on a Switch 2 port, which would make sense given the console’s portability and the game’s short-burst play style.

Sky: Children of the Light

Sky PC Screenshot
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Credit: ThatGameCompany
Soaring and flying.

Possibly the coziest game on the market, Sky: Children of the Light offers players a peaceful haven. No bosses. No PvP. No stress. Just flying, exploring, and making friends.

Developed by the creators of Journey, Sky has become a live-service gem, with cosmetics and skins that let you personalize your avatar. It’s a perfect match for the Nintendo Switch 2’s chill-gaming moments, though there’s no confirmation of a port just yet.

Apex Legends

Apex Legends PC Screenshot
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Credit: EA
Firefight.

EA and Respawn’s battle royale shooter has weathered its share of ups and downs, but Apex Legends continues to attract a dedicated player base.

While the original Switch version is playable, it’s far from ideal for a fast-paced competitive shooter like Apex Legends. With the Switch 2’s rumored support for mouse-style Joy-Con controls, a much-needed performance boost could be on the horizon, assuming EA and Respawn are working on an optimized port.

Pokemon Unite

Despite controversy over its pay-to-win mechanics, Pokemon Unite has managed to build a strong following. As Nintendo’s take on the MOBA genre, it lets players battle in real time using their favorite Pokemon, no turn-based mechanics here.

There’s no Switch 2 version available yet, but it’s likely in the pipeline.

Pokemon Unite
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Credit: Nintendo
Pokemon Unite

While the Nintendo Switch 2’s eShop is packed with even more free-to-play options, these seven titles stand out. Thanks to their loyal communities and consistent live-service support, they’ve earned their place as top-tier free experiences on Nintendo’s next-gen handheld.

For more Nintendo Switch 2 games, stick with us here at Gfinityesports.com: the best site for all things Nintendo.