Nintendo Switch Games under £20 Pounds: Top Affordable Picks and Where to Buy

Nintendo Switch games offer huge variety, from cosy indies to big-budget hits, and you don't need to spend a lot to find hours of fun. Physical cartridges and digital downloads both drop in price often, so bargains under £20 can include brand new indie releases, classic remasters, and occasional sales on bigger titles. We focus on games that give [great play value](https://respawnready.blogspot.com/2025/12/Best Nintendo Switch Deals for December 2025 Top Discounts and Offers.html) for low cost and that fit different moods and group sizes.

When choosing a cheap Switch game, look at playtime, replayability, and whether it supports local or online multiplayer. Check review scores and recent update history so you avoid titles that feel unfinished or lack support. We test and compare games based on how much fun they deliver per pound, how polished they feel, and whether they offer lasting entertainment. This guide will help you find the best picks under £20 and explain what matters when buying.

Best Nintendo Switch Games Under £20

Below is our full list of the [best Nintendo Switch games](https://respawnready.blogspot.com/2025/12/Top Nintendo Switch Games for Kids to Enjoy Safely and Creatively.html) you can buy for under £20. We picked fun, well-reviewed titles that give great value and hours of play without costing much.

Carnival Games (Switch)

We recommend this if you want a cheap, [family-friendly party game](https://respawnready.blogspot.com/2025/12/Is the Nintendo Switch Still Worth Buying in 2025 A Clear Guide to Its Current Value and Game Library.html) with lots of mini-games and local multiplayer.

Pros

• Easy to pick up and play with kids.
• Good variety of short, replayable mini-games.
• Portable on the Switch for play anywhere.

Cons

• Only contains a download code in the box, not a physical cartridge.
• Single-player depth is limited compared with party collections.
• Some players report occasional issues with controls or unlock pacing.

Carnival Games brings classic fair-style mini-games to the Switch. We like that it packs 20 short games you can unlock and play with family or friends around the TV or in handheld mode.

The game targets younger players and casual groups more than hardcore gamers. We found the bite-sized events suit quick sessions and party nights, but they don’t offer long-term challenge or deep progression.

Buying a digital-code-in-box can be handy if you prefer downloads, yet some buyers expect a cartridge and may be disappointed. Overall, this works as an affordable, light-hearted party title for families and social play.

Minecraft (Switch)

We recommend this if you want a creative, [portable game](https://respawnready.blogspot.com/2025/12/Must-Have Nintendo Switch Accessories for New Owners Essential Gear to Enhance Your Gaming Experience.html) with lots of replay value for a low price.

Pros

• Huge creative freedom for building and exploring
• Local and online multiplayer keeps play social
• Includes Super Mario Mash-Up pack for extra fun

Cons

• Graphics are simple compared with newer games
• Can feel repetitive without goals or guidance
• Online play needs subscriptions and good connection

We like how Minecraft lets players build anything they imagine. The Switch version moves with you, so you can play at home or on the go.

The game supports up to eight players online and four in local multiplayer, which works well for groups and family time. Creative and Survival modes offer very different play styles for builders and adventurers.

Some players may find the visuals plain and the open world a bit aimless at first. Still, the included Mario mash-up and endless possibilities usually keep players coming back.

Little Friends: Dogs & Cats

We recommend this if you want a [simple, calming pet game](https://respawnready.blogspot.com/2025/12/Best Nintendo Switch Games to Master in 2025.html) that focuses on cute interactions rather than deep gameplay.

Pros

• Cute pets and plenty of customisation.
• Easy for younger players to pick up.
• Low-cost way to get a cosy pet-sim on Switch.

Cons

• Limited long-term goals and variety.
• Gameplay can feel repetitive over time.
• Less depth than classic pet sims like Nintendogs.

We found the game gives you an easy, relaxed way to care for virtual pets. The animals have clear personalities and react to feeding, grooming and play.

You can own many pets and dress them up with lots of accessories. Mini-games like flying disc add short bursts of fun, but they don’t change much as you progress.

Parents and casual players will like the gentle pace and simple controls. If you want a rich simulation with lots of goals, this may feel too light after a while.

Sports Party (Switch) (code in box)

We recommend this if you want a simple, family-friendly party game that gets people moving without needing a cartridge.

Pros

• Easy for all ages to pick up and play.
• Variety of six outdoor sports keeps sessions fresh.
• Includes avatar customisation for light progression.

Cons

• Code-only format may cause region or activation problems.
• Some sports feel shallow for older players.
• Reported issues with customer support and non-working codes.

We like that the game aims squarely at families and casual groups. The controls are made to be simple, so younger children and grandparents can join in quickly.

The six sports — like frisbee, jet ski and skateboarding — give different mini-games to try. That variety helps it stay fun for several sessions, though competitive players may find it lacks depth.

Buyers should check the code region before purchase and keep proof of purchase in case of activation issues. If you need deep single-player content or advanced sports sim mechanics, this is not the best choice.

Rayman Legends: Definitive Edition (Switch)

We recommend this if you want a colourful, music-driven platformer with local co-op at a low price.

Pros

• Charming art and music that make levels fun to replay.
• Local multiplayer works well for family play sessions.
• Uses Switch touch and controllers for varied gameplay.

Cons

• Code-only format means no physical cartridge in the box.
• Some levels can be very twitchy and demand quick reflexes.
• Occasional reports of download code or region issues.

Rayman Legends brings vibrant worlds and tight platforming to the Switch. The levels mix standard running and jumping with rhythm-based sections and clever mechanics. We like how the art and soundtrack give each stage a distinct feel.

The Definitive Edition adds Switch-specific controls and extra content, which suits short sessions or longer playthroughs. Playing with others is simple and lively, though a few stages can frustrate less accurate players. Be aware you receive a download code, not a cartridge, and check region compatibility before buying.

Grab it on Amazon: Rayman Legends: Definitive Edition (Switch).

Buying Guide

We focus on value and fun when choosing Switch games under £20. Check the game genre first to match who will play it. Shorter playtime can still be satisfying if the quality is high.

We look at reviews and ratings to spot common issues like glitches or poor controls. Read a few user reviews and one or two expert summaries to get a balanced view. Watch a short gameplay clip to judge pace and visuals quickly.

We compare features such as local multiplayer, online play, and save options. Games with cross-save or cloud support give more flexibility. Consider downloadable content (DLC) and whether the base price covers enough content.

We check platform compatibility and required storage. Some games need extra free space or specific Switch firmware. Confirm controller support if you prefer handheld or docked modes.

We weigh replayability and length against price. Games with unlockables, challenges, or varying difficulty offer more hours for less money. If we plan to share games, look for strong local multiplayer or easy account transfers.

We look for sales and regional pricing differences before buying. Set a price alert or wait for a short sale if a game isn’t urgent. Always buy from authorised stores to avoid region locks or missing updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

We list specific games, stores and tips so you can buy solid Nintendo Switch titles for under £20. The answers point to shops, sale tactics and a few named games you can expect to find cheaply.

What are some top-rated Nintendo Switch games available for under £20?

We often find rated favourites like Hollow Knight, Celeste, Stardew Valley and Dead Cells under £20 during sales. These titles get strong reviews for gameplay, replay value and support on Switch.

Where can I find a list of the best budget Switch games priced below £20?

We check the Nintendo eShop, Amazon UK, GAME, Argos and CDKeys to compile lists. Gaming sites like Eurogamer, IGN UK and The Loadout also publish updated budget lists.

How can I discover discounted Nintendo Switch games for less than £20?

We watch the Nintendo eShop sale pages, seasonal sales (Summer, Black Friday, Boxing Day) and store-specific promos. We use wishlists, price-tracking sites (IsThereAnyDeal) and browser alerts to catch drops.

Can you recommend any good deals for Nintendo Switch digital games under £20?

We often see digital deals for Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle, Darkest Dungeon and Hotline Miami during major sales. The Nintendo eShop and Humble Store run timed discounts that frequently push these titles below £20.

What are the best action-adventure Nintendo Switch games you can buy for under £20?

We recommend Hollow Knight, Hyper Light Drifter and A Short Hike for strong action-adventure experiences at low prices. Each offers exploration and combat that hold up well on the Switch.

Are there any hidden gems or indie titles for the Switch that cost less than £20?

We suggest titles like Into the Breach, Katana ZERO and Night in the Woods as indie finds that often fall under £20. These games offer unique mechanics and strong storytelling without a big price tag.