Here are the best Nintendo Switch games for sports fans

FIFA 18 helped pioneer major, realistic sports gaming in its return to Nintendo consoles, proving the Switch could handle the detailed graphics and complex matches. The latest version of FIFA for 2021 includes the latest kits, clubs, and squads from some of the world’s top leagues. There is also an enormous roster of popular players making appearances across numerous teams, and of course, Ultimate Team mode.

Golf Story swung seemingly out of nowhere to find a home among the other indie successes on Switch. Especially given that the system so far lacks a strong Mario Golf title, Golf Story fills that gap and more with its decent-sized story and meaty replayability. Just be warned: this one has a classic 2D 8-bit art style, which might not be for you. This little gem offers sports and a dramatic story for those wanting a little more than just hitting a ball.

NBA 2K21 is the best basketball game you’re going to find. You can play MyGM mode, MyLeague, and MyCareer, where you create your own player and follow them as they build their skills, sign with teams, and (hopefully) win a lot of basketball games. The Neighborhoods mode offers a somewhat open world where players can meet others playing simultaneously and play pick-up games.

This boxing game isn’t competitive in nature, but it does use the Nintendo Switch’s motion controls for one massive benefit. That benefit is to get you moving, as Fitness Boxing 2 is all about giving you a fun cardio workout. The best thing about Fitness Boxing 2 is that you don’t need other controller peripherals, just the Joy-Cons that came with your Switch. And if you played Fitness Boxing before, your profile will transfer to Fitness Boxing 2! Easy peasy! Now get movin’!

Less keen on playing sports and more interested in management? Football Manager made its way to Switch with Football Manager Touch 2018, and despite worries that it would be far too scaled down to be enjoyable, it’s actually a solid entry in the series. The 2021 iteration is similar to the versions before it. This club simulator includes over 117 leagues from 52 nations, or you can create one of your own for any league in the game, then play either against AI or online with friends and strangers.

Mario and Sonic characters come together in this crossover Olympic game extravaganza! Beloved fan favorites from both franchises find themselves caught up in a scheme by Bowser and Dr. Robotnik, and end up in a retro Olympic-themed video game from 1984, where the Olympics were held in Japan. Go through a story mode or play Olympic sports mini-games with friends. The game switches between 2D pixel art to modern 3D graphics. Each character has its own strengths and weaknesses, so choose wisely!

Ring Fit Adventure is this generation’s Wii Fit. With the Ring-Con and Leg Strap accessories, you can get a full-on workout with your Nintendo Switch! Ring Fit Adventure has a campaign mode with a story to go through, and you must battle enemies by doing various exercises, along with running in place to move around. If the Adventure mode isn’t your thing, the game has custom workouts and sets of exercises that you can do too. Either way, you’ll definitely work up a sweat with this game. No gym membership is required!

Customize your car and then hit the field in this fast-paced game that combines racing and soccer. Compete in competitive matches online and take advantage of special modes and in-game events available for a limited time that give you the chance to unlock special items. Progression is made across platforms, whether through tournaments and completing challenges to show off your skills.

The Mushroom Kingdom has made it to the course! Choose your favorite character and either enjoy a nice, calm, traditional game of golf or add chaos with battle golf. Keep track of your stats and become a golf pro.

These classic skateboarding titles have been totally rebuilt and improved for play on the Switch. Players get all the same original game modes, create features, tricks, and soundtracks with upgrades. Get back to the pipe, and let’s roll.

Customize your own player, customize your own team, play a quick game, or play online. With R.B.I. Baseball 21, there are many ways to play and customize your experience. Will you make it to the World Series?