Anyone familiar with the Nintendo Switch knows that the games for sports can be a little lackluster as far as simulations are concerned. Manufacturers tend to produce games that are more accessible to casual gamers who want to have some fun. Playstation, Xbox and PC have the most intense games.

What are the four best soccer games on the Nintendo Switch? Just about any player can be satisfied by picking up one of these options and exploring a bit.


1. FIFA

As is the case with any video game platform, FIFA reigns supreme as far as a simulation is concerned on the Nintendo Switch. Although the game looks great on the system, some feel it would be better on Xbox or PlayStation. It seems to not only play a little bit better, but there are more opponents online to compete against.

Nonetheless, FIFA is one way to get a simulation-style soccer game on a console that lacks a lot of simulation sports games in general. 

While there are some missing features, players still have the option to enjoy the game in their own way. Being able to take the game with you while on the road is also something that is enjoyable for a lot of players.

FIFA 12 has received some small changes, but they are not significant enough to change the game. While playing against the computer can be challenging, it can become tedious for more skilled players. The only way to get solid competition is to play against a real person, either online or locally.

No one will say that FIFA is perfect, but it makes for a very fun option. Switch owners should at minimum invest in an older FIFA title so they can give the game another chance.

Pros

  • Best overall simulation game on the Nintendo Switch for soccer
  • Graphics stand out from the rest of the field when compared to their competition
  • Even older versions still work well

Cons

  • It lacks certain features that are found on other consoles
  • Computers could have a better chance of competing

2. Rocket League

Rocket League has always had a very strong following on the Nintendo Switch. It is not a real soccer game. However, it just replaces the players with vehicles. They all have their power-ups that make this an arcade type of game, but there is plenty of strategies that still goes into making a team capable of scoring the most goals.

Online is where people can really get into Rocket League and discovering everything that is out there. A lot of people have fallen in love with online gameplay as a challenge, since it allows people to really get a glimpse of how things go.

Rocket League can be a difficult game to get into for those who consider themselves true soccer enthusiasts. However, it is often one of the most addictive games related to sports. You can play the game on any platform, and you can access it from anywhere with the Nintendo Switch.

Pros

  • Simple to learn
  • Action that moves quickly
  • It’s affordable

Cons

  • It is not a real soccer game for purists
  • Upgrades are expensive

3. Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games: Tokyo 2020

What list for any Nintendo console would be complete without some of the iconic characters of the brand? Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games: Tokyo 2020 is a fine sports game that is meant to be for more casual players. It can still be a challenge and bring out the competitive side of people, but it is hardly a simulation. The soccer part of the game is worth a look.

The game allows players to choose from a variety of characters, each with their own unique characteristics. It is a bit over the top in some scenarios, but it is meant to be a fun game for people of all ages to play.

The game performs well once a person gets used to it, and it is very easy not to get bored since a person can participate in many other sports as well.

As a game built for all ages, the controls are very easy to pick up and start utilizing right away. Those who want to get really good at the game can put in the time to get to where they want to be. This game is never boring, with the Olympics offering a variety of sports that are fun to compete in.

Pros

  • Simple soccer game
  • Additional sports options available with the game
  • Reminiscent of familiar faces from Nintendo games in past

Cons

  • Repetitive playing against the computer
  • Graphics are not up to par

4. Football Manager Touch

Football Manager is available on many different platforms, and while the game is a little bit different on Nintendo Switch, some like it for the better. It is a bit more simplified, which means that a person won’t be able to micromanage their team as much as they would on the computer.

However, it is good for those who might not want to be extra tedious with every little decision, instead opting for more casual play that flies by faster.

Those unfamiliar with Football Manager need to know that this is a game that focuses solely on management and simulation of a soccer club. There is not any actual play, but managers are in charge of making all the major decisions to form their team.

It can be addictive, and it is easy to pick up and start playing with very little time. New players might be a little skeptical at first that they could have so much fun with a video game like this, but it becomes very addicting for those who enjoy soccer.

It’s also one of the easier games to play while on the go, since it doesn’t need as much constant focus on the screen. Some gamers are not particularly fond of paying attention to the screen all the time when they are traveling, but this is more of a casual game looking down like someone would use a tablet.

Pros

  • Most detailed simulator on Nintendo Switch for soccer fans
  • Simplified version is a welcome change for some
  • You have plenty of tools to use

Cons

  • Lacks the detail of the PC version
  • Some people want more action with their video games

Our top pick

FIFA’s combination’s of providing an option for simulation lovers and those wanting a fast-paced, arcade-like game is very difficult to beat. 

EA Sports pours in so much money every single year to make subtle improvements to keep people as engaged as possible. It might not be a perfect game, and it’s lacking some options on the Nintendo Switch, but it’s still the best of the best right now.

Many Nintendo fans are hoping that more soccer games are released to help people satisfy their itch. If the basic gameplay is perfected, casual games can climb quickly in the rankings.


Top soccer games on other platforms