Nintendo Switch 2 has a huge number of free downloads you can grab now

If you want to download and play some free Nintendo Switch games before splashing the cash, then we’ve got you covered.

The long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 arrived on 5 June 2025, and it quickly became the fastest-selling console from the Japanese console manufacturer, outselling the likes of the N64 and the Wii, as well as the original Nintendo Switch.

However, as great as it’s been for those fortunate enough to get hold of the Nintendo Switch 2, not only is it an expensive console but to be honest, it’s not exactly flooded with first-party launch games either.

When it comes to brand-new, major first-party launch titles, at the time of writing, the Nintendo Switch 2 only has Mario Kart World, as fun as that game is.

In our review of Mario Kart World, we said: “Might not be quite as easy to recommend as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe yet, but it’s still an absolutely fantastic kart racer that’s just as chaotic, imaginative, and vibrant as its predecessors.”

There is the 3D platformer, Donkey Kong Bananza, on the way, but that’s still over two weeks from launch when it arrives as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive on 17 July.

Thankfully, the Nintendo eShop has plenty of free backwards compatible demos that can help pass the time until Donkey Kong Bananza graces us with its presence, and here are just a few that you can download today:

• Donkey Kong Country Returns HD: “Help Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong recover their precious banana hoard from the villainous Tiki Tak Tribe in Donkey Kong Country Returns HD! Stomp enemies, blast through barrels, and ride rockets and mine carts (and even Rambi the rhino) in 80 levels across nine worlds.”
• Princess Peach: Showtime: “A mysterious, masked villain has taken over Sparkle Theatre, and it’s up to Princess Peach to save the play – and the day! Take centre stage with a wardrobe of showstopping transformations in Princess Peach: Showtime!”
• Mario vs. Donkey Kong: “The toys are back in town in Mario vs. Donkey Kong on Nintendo Switch! Solve puzzles and test your platforming smarts as you try to recover the stolen Mini-Marios. This remake of the Game Boy Advance game features all-new graphics, levels, and other new ways to play.”
• Pikmin 4: “On a peculiar faraway planet, a group of space travellers are stranded and awaiting rescue. Are you the right rescuer for the job? Pick up their SOS signals and explore an uncharted world inhabited by a curious crop of creatures.”
• Metroid Dread: “On a remote alien planet, a mechanical menace awaits that will push even the galaxy’s greatest bounty hunter to her limit. Join Samus Aran on her deadliest 2D adventure yet in Metroid Dread on Nintendo Switch.”

There are plenty of demos to browse, so do have a look. I can almost guarantee you'll stumble across something that tempts you to buy the full release.

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