14 Top 8-Player Switch Games that Make Parties Come Alive
I couldn’t remember the last time my friends had a get-together without 8-player Switch games making an appearance. These titles bring everyone together for unforgettable party moments. I admit that finding 8-player games on Switch can be pretty tricky; most top titles only handle 2 to 4 players at a time. But you’re lucky since I’m going to share 14 amazing games here.
These Nintendo Switch 8-player games are perfect for family events, game nights with friends, office parties with coworkers, competitive group sessions, and much more. If you’re looking for nonstop fun with your best pals, check out my top picks and 9 equally exciting multiplayers.
Jump to:
Our Top Picks for 8-Player Switch Games
If your Switch games don’t handle 8 players, your game night’s missing half the fun. I narrowed down the best multiplayer options available on Nintendo Switch that accommodate a larger group of people. These options include racing games, fighting games, TPS & FPS options, sandbox ones, survival games, and farming sims. Just to make sure that nobody in your family/friend circle feels left out. The best ones include:
-
Buy nowMario Kart 8 Deluxe 2017This thrilling racing game is packed with colorful tracks & iconic characters, making Mario Kart 8 Deluxe an easy winner in the 8-player category.
-
Buy nowSuper Smash Bros. Ultimate 2018This one’s the ultimate fighting game with a big roster of all your favorite characters, letting 8 players duke it out in explosive battles, a more family-friendly alternative to Dragon Ball FighterZ.
-
Buy nowSplatoon 3 2022You can play this team-based shooter with your friends to enjoy ink-splatting fun with strategic play, making Splatoon 3 ideal for groups obsessed with cooperative & competitive gaming.
These five games represent a mere taste of what’s out there for a group of 8 people interested in Switch gaming. You should keep scrolling to explore my complete list of 14 Nintendo co-ops designed for an eightsome. Get ready to boost your team-building skills and add these amazing titles to your set of multiplayer all-time favorites. Your octet will never get tired of playing these.
14 Best 8-Player Switch Games to Enjoy with Your Pals
These best games I’ll list below are perfect for eight players; most games can be played on your own or with more than eight people (what else do we have AI for?). These are the best 8-player Switch games I recommend to everyone in my family & friend circle.
1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe [The Ultimate Kart Racing Experience]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch
- Release Date
- 2017
- Genre
- Multiplayer racing game
- Best For
- Competitive racers and party crowds who love fast laps
- Length
- 6 hours
- Developer
- Nintendo
- Publisher
- Nintendo
- Player count
- Local wireless (multiple consoles) up to 8; online up to 12; single-console max 4 split-screen
- Features
- 200cc speed class, revamped Battle Mode, anti-gravity tracks, smart steering assist
TIP: Use code
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is one of those rare racing games for Switch that instantly brings a smile to my face whenever I play it. The controls are smooth and responsive, making it easy to jump right in but also offering skill depth for competitive players. I love the sheer variety of 48 tracks and 42 characters, including crowd favorites and some fun newcomers from Splatoon’s Inklings.
It’s perfect for 8-player local multiplayer, making family game nights and parties lively and full of laughter. The game runs at a crisp 60 FPS with stunning 1080p visuals in docked mode. The sound design is fantastic, from the jazzy soundtrack to the satisfying hits and item noises.
You can start drifting by holding the “R” button before corners to maintain and build speed. Watch the spark colors to gauge your boost level, aiming for purple for maximum acceleration. Use stunts off ramps to get brief speed boosts and gain an edge in races.
Plus, the new 200cc speed class adds a fresh, adrenaline-pumping challenge for veteran racers. The revamped Battle Mode finally gives me a fun alternative to traditional racing with chaotic multiplayer battles. I admit that online play can sometimes be a little shaky, but it doesn’t stop the game from being addictive and highly replayable for kids & adults.
My Verdict: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the ultimate party and multiplayer racing game that delivers endless fun for players of all skill levels, ideal for an 8-player setting in family gatherings.
GAMES LIKE MARIO KART
2. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate [Crossover Fighting with Legendary Heroes]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch
- Release Date
- 2018
- Genre
- Multiplayer fighting game
- Best For
- Groups who want both serious brawls and casual chaos
- Length
- 15 to 45 minutes per match
- Developer
- Bandai Namco Studios, Sora Ltd.
- Publisher
- Nintendo
- Player count
- Local wireless (multiple consoles) up to 8; online multiplayer up to 8; single-console split-screen up to 4.
- Features
- Every past fighter plus DLC, Spirits adventure mode, 100+ stages, 8-player Smash
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is one of those games that instantly feels like a party magnet the moment you turn it on. I was blown away not just by the sheer volume of content, but also by how seamless the gameplay feels, whether you’re playing casually with friends or competitively.
The controls strike a perfect balance between accessibility for newcomers and deep mechanics for seasoned players, which makes it the best fighting game on Switch for family gatherings and intense multiplayer battles.
I love that you can get up to 8 players battling at once, which turns any party into a chaotic, fun-filled event that everyone can enjoy regardless of their age or skill level.
Pressing the “‘A” button performs basic attacks like punches, providing steady damage. For a more dynamic move, pressing the A button along with the jump button lets you leap slightly and execute an aerial attack against your opponent.
The game’s aesthetic (its music, character animations, attention to detail, etc.) is just charming and honors its rich legacy while pushing the series forward. New additions include big names like Sephiroth, Kazuya, and Sora, as well as an unexpected fighter (a Piranha Plant, and none of my friends were excited about it). Waluigi remains missing, much to my chagrin. If Luigi’s evil version was made available, I would’ve rated Smash Bros at the top of my list. But anyways…
My Verdict: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the definitive multiplayer fighting game that delivers endless fun for both casual players and competitive fans alike.
Nintendo eShop Gift Cards
3. Splatoon 3 [Ink-Shooting Action with Strategic Gameplay]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch
- Release Date
- 2022
- Genre
- Team-based shooter game
- Best For
- Friends who like colorful shooters with a strategic edge
- Length
- 20 to 50 minutes per match
- Developer
- Nintendo
- Publisher
- Nintendo
- Player count
- Local wireless (multiple consoles) up to 8; online multiplayer up to 8
- Features
- Turf War, Salmon Run Next Wave, three-team Splatfests, Squid Roll and Squid Surge
Paintball is a really fun game to play with your family and friends… and a similar experience is now available for you virtually on Nintendo Switch. Splatoon 3 has quickly become one of my favorite multiplayer shooters on the Switch. It’s incredibly fun whether I’m diving into Turf Wars or teaming up in Salmon Run. Arguably one of the best TPS games available on Switch!
The game shines brightest during parties or family gatherings where up to eight players can join in for chaotic, colorful battles that keep everyone laughing and on their toes. I love how the devs refined the core gameplay with smooth controls and smart balancing while adding elements like new weapons, maps, and the compelling 3-team Splatfest that spices up competition.
When you’re in a shootout, it’s best to hide the left side of your body behind an obstacle to reduce ink hits, as most Inklings and Octolings hold their weapons in their right hand. On the other hand, covering your right side instead leaves you more exposed.
Some of the pros I enjoy include the innovative new mechanics like Squid Roll and Squid Surge that add dynamic movement and strategy to combat. The soundtrack remains fantastic, and features like skipping the news updates and more player customization options, including stylish lockers, enhance the overall experience. The improved lobby with target practice and a food stand, along with easier online party setups, make multiplayer more accessible.
My Verdict: Splatoon 3 is an exhilarating shooter that balances fresh mechanics and easy accessibility with deeper strategic layers, perfect for both casual fun and competitive play.
Nintendo eShop Gift Cards
4. Mario Strikers: Battle League [Arcade-Style Soccer with Wild Power-Ups]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch
- Release Date
- 2022
- Genre
- Action sports game
- Best For
- Families who want soccer with a side of chaotic brawling
- Length
- 15 to 30 minutes per match
- Developer
- Next Level Games
- Publisher
- Nintendo
- Player count
- Local wireless (multiple consoles) up to 8; online multiplayer up to 8; single-console split-screen up to 8 with enough controllers
- Features
- Hyper Strikes, gear stat customization, item power-ups, Strikers Club online
I recommend this one to anyone who needs a family-friendly action sports game for Switch. Mario Strikers: Battle League is an absolute blast to play, an 8-player local multiplayer action.
The game mixes your typical skillful soccer mechanics with over-the-top, chaotic brawling that keeps every match unpredictable and exciting. I love the diverse roster of characters, each with unique stats and special moves, making it fun to experiment and find the perfect team.
If you’re running out of time to fully charge your Hyper Strike, mash the “A” button rapidly to speed up the charge, though this will make your Hyper Strike weaker. It’s better to release a weaker Hyper Strike quickly than not to use it at all. You should also be ready to strike fast again immediately after your initial Hyper Strike for the best effect.
One of the standout features is the golden orb that appears a few times each match. When my father grabbed this orb, our entire team started glowing; the orb gave us a limited window to get into the opponent’s half and launch a special attack. This Hyper Strike shot scored double points when we did it perfectly, making the fight over the orb a thrilling highlight of the next game.
My Verdict: Mario Strikers: Battle League perfectly blends accessible soccer gameplay with wild, competitive brawling, making it a must-have for parties and multiplayer gaming.
Nintendo eShop Gift Cards
5. The Jackbox Party Pack [Hilarious Party Games]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows (Steam), & Apple TV
- Release Date
- 2014
- Genre
- Party, trivia, and drawing
- Best For
- Big party groups of any skill level, gamers or not
- Length
- 30 to 60 minutes per session
- Developer
- Jackbox Games
- Publisher
- Jackbox Games
- Player count
- Multiplayer for up to 100 players (use phones or tablets as controllers)
- Features
- Phones as controllers, Fibbage XL bluffing, Drawful sketching, You Don't Know Jack trivia
Most of my readers are already familiar with Miniclip, a website where you can play hundreds of mini-games. The Jackbox Party Pack made me feel like I was back in my childhood. It is the ultimate game for large groups, perfect for parties and family gatherings and memories.
What I love most is how easy it is to get everyone involved; up to 8 players (and even more as audience members) can join using their phones or tablets as controllers. You only need a single copy of the game on one Switch, making it super accessible and hassle-free for group play.
For the best chance to win, you can hide your secret letter in your drawing by blending it with other elements or using it as a red herring. Pay close attention to your opponents’ moves and guess during the murder phase to catch them off guard. Giving your guests unique or funny names can also distract others and earn you points behind the scenes.
Each pack includes a variety of creative and hilarious party games that range from trivia and wordplay to drawing and bluffing, so there’s something for every kind of gamer. That’s why I regard The Jackbox Party Pack as a quintessential Nintendo Switch party game.
The option for audience participation adds a unique layer, allowing those not actively playing to influence the outcome. Even non-participants feel like they’re playing.
My Verdict: The Jackbox Party Pack is an accessible, wildly entertaining collection that turns any gathering into a memorable and laughter-filled party for players of all ages and skill levels.
6. Super Bomberman R 2 [Not Your Typical Bomb-Laying Chaos]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch
- Release Date
- 2023
- Genre
- Action strategy game
- Best For
- Fans of classic bomb-laying showdowns with a crowd
- Length
- 15 to 30 minutes per round
- Developer
- Konami
- Publisher
- Konami
- Player count
- Local wireless (multiple consoles) up to 8; online multiplayer up to 64 (in Battle 64 mode); single-console split-screen up to 8 players
- Features
- Castle attack-and-defend mode, Battle 64 online, stage editor, story mode
TIP: Use code
Super Bomberman R 2 brings classic explosive fun to the Switch with its chaotic multiplayer battles that shine at parties and family get-togethers. I find the core gameplay addictive; you will strategically place bombs while dodging opponents, leading to tense, thrilling moments every match. That’s why Super Bomberman is like the go-to Nintendo Switch game in my family.
The new Castle mode adds a fresh twist, where players either defend or attack bases, offering a strategic change of pace from the traditional bomb battles. Customization options are amazing, letting me personalize my Bomberman and gear, which adds charm and replay value.
I’m not a fan of cutscenes, to be honest. I skip cutscenes by pressing the “+” button on the right Joy-Con. This lets you quickly move past story segments and get back to gameplay.
The story mode is just fine; it provides enough plot to keep things moving without stealing focus from the core gameplay. The voice acting is deliciously cheesy, and I actually enjoyed the very colorful comic-book art style in the cutscenes, which matched the game’s playful tone. That said, the story itself is simple and doesn’t demand much attention, which is a good thing since the real fun lies in multiplayer.
My Verdict: Super Bomberman R 2 delivers classic bomb-blasting mayhem with fun new modes and customization, making it a must-have for multiplayer gaming sessions.
7. Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit Remastered [Go Fast, Drive Furious]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows (PC), & Steam
- Release Date
- 2020
- Genre
- Racing action game
- Best For
- Racing fans who want high-speed cops-and-robbers chases
- Length
- 30 to 45 minutes per race
- Developer
- Stellar Entertainment
- Publisher
- Electronic Arts
- Player count
- Online multiplayer only
- Features
- Racer and cop careers, Autolog rivalries, EMPs and spike strips, cross-play
TIP: Use code
I remember growing up, my brother and his friends were kinda obsessed with a game called Midtown Madness. You can drive around virtual Chicago while occasionally being chased by cops. That was the most fun & exciting part of the gameplay in the Midtown Madness franchise.
But if you want to feel like the entire lawforce hates you with a passion, then Hot Pursuit is the game for that. Forget about racing for fun and start thinking about running for your life; I felt like the AI has become my personal bully in the Remastered version. AI patrol cars with rubberband powers & everlasting EMPs will chase you to the very end of the virtual Need for Speed world.
Cop Cars are built to be faster and tougher than Racers, with higher resistance to damage, so you must aim hits at the rear and sides of enemy vehicles, but don’t get hit on your sides by their front bumpers to avoid hurting yourself.
That said, Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit Remastered delivers adrenaline-pumping, high-speed chases that kept me on the edge of my seat. The remaster cleans up the visuals nicely, with beautiful coastal highways and snowy mountain roads that look great on the Switch, even if it shows its age compared to newer releases. It’s the go-to title for competitive gamers.
My Verdict: Hot Pursuit Remastered remains a thrilling racer with intense cops-and-robbers gameplay, perfect for high-octane multiplayer sessions.
GAMES LIKE NEED FOR SPEED
8. Minecraft [Creative Freedom in a Pixelated World]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch, PC, Xbox, PlayStation, Mobile
- Release Date
- 2011 (available on Nintendo Switch since 2017)
- Genre
- Sandbox action adventure
- Best For
- Builders and explorers who like to create together
- Length
- 50+ hours (varies significantly from player to player)
- Developer
- Mojang Studios
- Publisher
- Mojang Studios
- Player count
- Local wireless multiplayer up to 8 players (each with their own console and copy of the game); online multiplayer with cross-platform play
- Features
- Survival and Creative modes, procedurally generated worlds, Marketplace add-ons, cross-play
TIP: Use code
Minecraft has completely transformed how we experience virtual worlds. On Nintendo Switch, it brings that same boundless creativity with impressive portability. You find yourself able to jump into multiplayer matches with up to 8 players either via split-screen or online is a game-changer for me.
Doesn’t matter if you’re building elaborate structures or exploring vast landscapes with your friends, the experience is seamless and engaging. The Switch version runs smoothly, keeping a solid performance at 720p in both handheld and docked modes. Controls are quite responsive, especially with the Pro Controller, although it’s a bit inconvenient that single Joy-Con play isn’t supported for split-screen co-op. But that’s something we have to learn to live without.
When exploring caves, a handy trick is to always place your torches on the left side as you go deeper; this way, when you turn around, the torches on your right guide you back out.
The absence of native voice chat makes coordinating with friends online slightly challenging, but the fun and freedom to create more than makes up for it. A 2GB world size limit means that the huge worlds you create eventually hit a cap; this cap restricts how far you can expand.
One of my favorite extras is the Super Mario Mash-Up Pack, which adds nostalgic charm with familiar characters and music, enriching your exploration experience. The world size on Switch is a big step up from older portable editions; it allows for far larger and more detailed creations.
My Verdict: As one of the most beloved survival games on Switch, Minecraft perfectly combines portability with expansive creativity and the multiplayer fun fans expect.
GAMES LIKE MINECRAFT
9. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 [Skateboarding Action with Amazing Soundtrack]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, & Xbox Series X/S
- Release Date
- 2020
- Genre
- Skateboarding game
- Best For
- Skateboarding fans and combo-chasing trick lovers
- Length
- 20 to 40 minutes per session
- Developer
- Vicarious Visions
- Publisher
- Activision
- Player count
- Local split-screen up to 2 players; online multiplayer up to 8 players
- Features
- Remade levels from both games, Create-a-Park, Create-a-Skater, original and modern movesets
This one’s a brilliant remaster that brought back all the nostalgia of the classic games but with a fresh, modern polish. The trick system was smooth and responsive; It let me chain combos like manuals and reverts effortlessly. I could switch between the updated and original movesets. The levels were beautifully recreated; playing on the Switch let me enjoy fast sessions on the go.
A manual is a trick you do as you land from a flip or grab by pressing a combination like up then down on the D-pad just before touchdown. This makes you land on your front or back wheels, letting you keep moving forward with momentum. While in a manual, you need to constantly balance using your controller to maintain control and extend your combo.
I have to say that customization options are decent, letting you personalize your skater, while multiplayer is great fun for local competitions or online play. The controls can be tricky with the Joy-Cons, so I recommend a solid Switch controller for the best experience (especially with 8 players).
My Verdict: Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 delivers the perfect blend of nostalgia, a killer soundtrack, and smooth gameplay, a must-play skateboarding experience on the Switch.
10. Luigi’s Mansion 3 [Charming Ghost-Hunting Adventure]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch
- Release Date
- 2019
- Genre
- Adventures with puzzles
- Best For
- Puzzle and exploration fans who enjoy teaming up
- Length
- 40 to 60 minutes per session
- Developer
- Next Level Games
- Publisher
- Nintendo
- Player count
- Local wireless or online co-op up to 8 players in ScareScraper mode (1-2 players per console, max 4 consoles); local multiplayer up to 8 players in ScreamPark mini-game mode (same console)
- Features
- Gooigi co-op partner, Poltergust G-00, ScareScraper co-op, ScreamPark minigames
TIP: Use code
If you ask me for the best co-op multiplayer Switch game (for two people), I will mention Luigi’s Mansion 3 without stammering. This one is a fantastic multiplayer experience on the Switch (up to eight players allowed in ScareScraper and ScreamPark modes with 4 consoles).
The main story mode is enjoyable solo or in 2-player co-op, where Luigi and Gooigi’s unique abilities complement each other, offering lots of room for teamwork and creativity. Each floor has a distinct theme, keeping the game fresh with challenging puzzles and hidden collectibles.
Golden Bones in Luigi’s Mansion 3 are like 1-up mushrooms; they revive Luigi if he loses all his hearts. You can get them from Dr. E. Gadd for 1000G, along with Boo and Gem trackers, and since money is plentiful, it’s wise to stock up on them.
ScareScraper is intense and requires coordination, making it a great pick for those who love cooperative gameplay. If you are partial to more casual fun, ScreamPark supports eight players locally, featuring mini-games that are light and entertaining, but don’t hold up to the story mode’s depth.
The vibrant comic-book art style and charmingly cheesy voice acting add an extra layer of fun to the whole experience. So, Luigi’s Mansion 3 is perfect for parties and game nights.
My Verdict: Luigi’s Mansion 3 offers a unique mix of spooky adventure and multiplayer fun, making it a must-play for family and friends on the Switch.
GAMES LIKE LUIGI’S MANSION
11. Farm Together [Farming Sim Multiplayer with Peaceful Vibes]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch, Steam, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, & Xbox Series X/S
- Release Date
- 2018
- Genre
- Simulation and management
- Best For
- Families and friends who want a relaxing shared farm
- Length
- No set playtime
- Developer
- Milkstone Studios
- Publisher
- Milkstone Studios
- Player count
- Online multiplayer up to 16 players
- Features
- Shared online farms, crops, orchards and livestock, decoration tools, tractors
If you have ever had this sudden urge to say adios to city life and then start a quiet little farm somewhere with your family, I have the perfect game for you. Farm Together is a wonderfully relaxing farming simulation that I’ve found perfect for enjoying solo or with friends and family on the Switch. The peaceful vibes it gives make it an ideal game for the whole family.
You should plant the same types of trees & fish together and label each area with a signpost. Focus on planting only the crops and trees you need for your current missions to complete them more quickly. You can unlock water sprinklers as early as possible to automate watering and efficiently manage your growing farm while planting new trees as you make progress.
I started with a modest vegetable farm, planting classic seeds like tomatoes, corn, and carrots, and gradually expanded into orchards filled with apple and orange trees. Over time, I diversified into raising animals like chickens and cows, which added new layers of farming fun. Growing herbs and flowers for decoration brought a personal touch to my farm’s design. Even my uncle with an actual farming background appreciated how well I did in this virtual world.
My Verdict: Farm Together offers an inviting and charming farming experience that’s ideal for relaxing solo or sharing the joy with friends and family online.
Nintendo eShop Gift Cards
12. Animal Crossing: New Horizons [Social Life Sim for Casual Play]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch
- Release Date
- 2020
- Genre
- Social simulation
- Best For
- Casual groups who love a cozy, no-pressure island life
- Length
- No set playtime
- Developer
- Nintendo
- Publisher
- Nintendo
- Player count
- Local wireless multiplayer up to 8 players on the same island; online multiplayer up to 8 players on the same island;
- Features
- Island terraforming, DIY crafting, animal villagers, seasonal events
TIP: Use code
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is one of those rare sandbox games that feels like a warm and welcoming escape no matter how many hours I’ve logged. I love starting on my deserted island, slowly shaping it into a vibrant community, collecting materials, and customizing every inch with furniture, paths, and decorations.
The world feels alive; villagers wander around, engage in daily activities, and surprise me with gifts and conversations that genuinely feel personal. One of my favorite features is how the game supports up to eight players locally or online, making it perfect for family gatherings or chill gaming sessions with friends.
Eating fruit gives you special powers that let you interact with the environment in new ways, like breaking rocks and moving trees without chopping them down. Once you’re powered up, you can use your shovel to dig up and carry trees easily for replanting. Basically, fruits turn you into a sort of Farmer Hulk or Agriculture Superman.
The ability to visit each other’s islands and share resources encourages a strong social vibe without feeling competitive or pressured. The evolving island and ongoing events mean there’s always a reason to come back, whether it’s fishing, bug catching, or hosting outdoor parties.
My Verdict: Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a heartfelt, endlessly charming life sim that’s perfect for relaxing solo or sharing joyful moments with friends and family.
GAMES LIKE ANIMAL CROSSING
13. Knight Squad [Arcade-Style Battles with Medieval Weapon]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch
- Release Date
- 2015
- Genre
- Action-packed arcade game
- Best For
- Couch crowds who love fast, chaotic arena battles
- Length
- 10 to 30 minutes per match
- Developer
- Chainsawesome Games
- Publisher
- Chainsawesome Games
- Player count
- Local split-screen up to 8 players; online multiplayer up to 8 players
- Features
- Ripper and crossbow pickups, Gladiator and capture-the-flag modes, horse mounts, fast respawns
If you thought I was referring to that Nickelodeon series from 2018, sorry to disappoint. Knight Squad is an absolute blast, especially when played with a group of friends or family.
This top-down arena brawler supports up to eight players, delivering frantic combat that’s equal parts chaotic and fun. I love how easy it is to pick up and play; you move around, swing swords, shoot crossbows, or wield one of the many crazy weapons that spawn throughout the match.
Each game mode has unique goals, ranging from classic deathmatches to capture-the-flag and king-of-the-hill style Gladiator battles, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.
You should expect to die often in Knight Squad’s challenge mode since there are no shields, health bars, or checkpoints; one hit means restarting from the beginning. You must be patient and careful because surviving the challenges matters more than speed. Most challenges last around 5 minutes or less, so focus on staying alive rather than rushing through.
The variety of weapons and power-ups, like speed boosts, shields, and even mounting horses, add layers of strategy and silliness. My personal favorite is the Ripper, a rotating spiky disc that’s satisfying to throw around. Matches are fast, and respawns happen quickly, which keeps the action nonstop.
The cartoonish graphics and playful sound effects make the game feel quite lighthearted but also very competitive.
My Verdict: Knight Squad is a chaotic and accessible multiplayer brawler that’s perfect for lively local parties and competitive gaming sessions on the Switch.
Nintendo eShop Gift Cards
14. Nerf Legends [Exciting Sci-Fi Nerf Blaster Shooting]

- Platforms
- Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, & PC
- Release Date
- 2021
- Genre
- Action shooter
- Best For
- Nerf fans who want light sci-fi shootouts
- Length
- 20 to 40 minutes per session
- Developer
- Fun Labs
- Publisher
- GameMill Entertainment
- Player count
- Online multiplayer only; modes include 4v4 team play and 8-player free-for-all
- Features
- 15 licensed Nerf blasters, special dart types, single-player campaign, 4v4 and 8-player modes
It would be unfair if I forgot to put a classic FPS game here. Nerf Legends puts you in a vibrant, sci-fi world filled with robot enemies and epic Nerf battles. I enjoyed customizing my avatar and an impressive lineup of 15 iconic Nerf blasters, each with upgradeable perks and colorful skins.
The game has different dart types like magnetic push, seek, and slow darts, which add some strategic variety to the action. I found the single-player campaign decent, with challenging boss fights and obstacle courses sprinkled between battles.
Online multiplayer supports 4v4 team deathmatches and 8-player free-for-alls, making it a lively option for competitive gaming or casual fun with friends and family.
Don’t overlook your melee weapon in Nerf Legends; it’s a powerful tool that’s great to use between shots or during reloads. You start with a basic melee blade, but can unlock spears and swords as you progress, offering fast and strong attacks. Using this weapon helps you deal solid damage without wasting ammo.
Technical glitches, like uncontrollable crosshairs and weapon lock-ups, kept me a bit distracted from the experience. While I appreciate the nostalgic appeal of the Nerf brand, the execution left a lot to be desired.
My Verdict: Nerf Legends offers nostalgic Nerf-themed fun but is held back by clunky mechanics and technical issues that diminish its multiplayer and single-player appeal.
Nintendo eShop Gift Cards
The Final Verdict on The Best 8 Player Switch Games
I hope that you like my take on the best octet-friendly multiplayers on Switch. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe delivers thrilling, colorful racing that never gets old, where I’ve had countless fun and competitive sessions with friends. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers explosive battles with one of the biggest rosters of characters, while Splatoon 3 stands out with its fast-paced team shooter gameplay; it’s great for those who love strategizing with friends in intense matches.
My advice: grab a Pro Controller for the best experience in these titles, and don’t hesitate to jump into online and local multiplayer modes. Each game brings something unique for every group to enjoy. Don’t focus on winning and losing too much; just have a good time.
FAQs
What is the best 8 player Switch game?
The best 8-player Switch game is Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. But some people also consider Mario Strikers: Battle League to be the king of 8-player titles. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a worthy contender as well.
Can you play 8 players on two switches?
Yes, you can play with up to 8 players on two Switch consoles via local wireless play. However, some games also support 8 players on a single Switch using multiple controllers. If you’re looking for more screens or online play, you may need more consoles.
How many switches do you need for 8 players?
You usually need at least two Nintendo Switch consoles for 8 players. You may connect them locally or online (depends on the game itself). Some titles allow 8-player split-screen on a single console, but most multiplayer options require multiple consoles.
Which Mario game is 8 player on Switch?
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate are 8-player Mario games available on Switch. They provide a chaotic and fun multiplayer racing/fighting experience to Nintendo fans.
What is the best 8 player Switch game for families?
The best 8-player Switch game for families is Mario Strikers: Battle League, as it’s accessible, easy to learn, and also fun for all ages. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is another excellent family-friendly choice for multiplayer gaming.