The Best Disney Games on the Nintendo Switch in 2023

Disney, a multimedia juggernaut, reigns supreme in various entertainment realms such as movies, TV shows, theme parks, and video games. Over the past three decades, Disney has ventured into creating video game adaptations of classic movies and original games, exemplified by titles like Kingdom Hearts and Epic Mickey.

In the current gaming landscape, there is a diverse array of Disney games available for the Nintendo Switch, providing solo and multiplayer experiences for players of all ages. Whether you’re unwinding at home or embarking on a Disney Park adventure, this article explores seven of the finest Disney games that you can currently enjoy on the Switch.

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory

Disney collaborates with Square Enix in Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory, a unique spin on Square Enix’s Final Fantasy Theatrhythm. Players take control of iconic characters like Sora, Donald, and Goofy across the Kingdom Hearts universe, engaging in rhythmic battles against the Heartless. The game’s distinctive feature is its synchronization with the series’ renowned soundtrack. Whether playing solo or with friends in local co-op or online multiplayer, the musical journey is both captivating and immersive.

Beyond its gameplay, Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory provides a comprehensive recap of the series up to Kingdom Hearts 3, narrated by Kairi. This inclusive approach caters to both seasoned Kingdom Hearts fans and newcomers, setting the stage for the upcoming Kingdom Hearts 4.

Disney Dreamlight Valley

Disney Dreamlight Valley, developed by Gameloft, introduces a life simulation reminiscent of Disney meeting Animal Crossing. Players enter the Dreamlight Valley, plagued by Night Thorns and The Forgetting, causing Disney characters to lose their memories. As a player, you embark on a quest to rebuild the valley using Dreamlight magic, collaborating with characters like Scrooge McDuck and Remy.

Although initially planned as a free-to-play Switch game, recent announcements indicate a change in direction. Despite this, Disney Dreamlight Valley offers a unique blend of simulation and Disney charm, allowing players to customize their characters with Disney outfits reminiscent of a visit to Disney World or Disneyland.

Disney Illusion Island

Mickey Mouse takes center stage in Disney Illusion Island, a gaming adventure developed by Disney Interactive and Dlala Studios. Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy as they venture to Monoth Island on a seemingly innocent picnic turned high-stakes mission. The game, playable in single-player or co-op mode, unfolds in Metroidvania style as players aim to recover the stolen Tomes of Knowledge.

Disney Illusion Island maintains the comedic charm of recent Mickey Mouse cartoons while offering an engaging narrative and unlockable Mickey Mouse memorabilia. Suitable for players of all ages, it combines whimsy with exploration, making it a delightful addition to the Disney gaming lineup.

Read our review of Disney Illusion Island.

Disney Classic Games Collection

The Disney Classic Games Collection revisits the magic of 2019’s Disney Classic Games: Aladdin and The Lion King, now expanded to include The Jungle Book. This compilation, a nostalgic nod to the ’90s, offers the Final Cut of Aladdin and various versions of The Lion King. The interactive museum, rewind function, expanded soundtrack, and retro-style manual enhance the gaming experience, allowing players to relive cherished moments from their favorite Disney movies.

The inclusion of The Jungle Book adds value, as this title had been unseen since 1994. Disney Classic Games Collection provides a timeless gaming experience, bridging the gap between nostalgia and contemporary gaming preferences.

Disney Tsum Tsum Festival

Disney Tsum Tsum Festival is a delightful party game inspired by the Disney Tsum Tsum collectible toys and the popular Japanese mobile game. Featuring Disney and Pixar characters in adorable Tsum Tsum form, the game offers ten mini-games for solo or multiplayer enjoyment. From bubble hockey to curling, the variety ensures hours of entertainment for Disney enthusiasts of all ages.

Perfect for Disney adults and children alike, Disney Tsum Tsum Festival captures the essence of kawaii culture, offering a relaxing gaming experience that aligns with the charm of Tsum Tsum collectibles.

LEGO The Incredibles

LEGO The Incredibles merges the plotlines of both Incredibles films into one engaging LEGO game. Players navigate through events in The Incredibles 2 to unlock content from the first movie. With a gameplay style reminiscent of LEGO Star Wars, this title introduces deviations from the original source material, adding original villains to the mix.

Despite the 14-year gap between the Incredibles films, LEGO The Incredibles provides an enjoyable gaming experience, blending humor, adventure, and the creative possibilities of LEGO gameplay.

Tron: Identity

Tron: Identity stands out as a visual novel that explores a different facet of the Tron universe. Set thousands of years after Tron: Legacy, the game follows Query, a program tasked with investigating an explosion in the Repository vault. Players engage with characters, making choices that impact alliances and investigations.

Incorporating detective elements and puzzles, Tron: Identity offers a unique narrative experience within the Tron franchise. The game’s focus on exploration and decision-making provides a fresh perspective, making it a compelling addition to the Disney game catalog.

In conclusion, the Nintendo Switch boasts a vibrant selection of Disney games, catering to a diverse audience of players. From rhythm games and life simulations to classic collections and visual novels, Disney continues to captivate gamers with its rich storytelling and beloved characters. Whether you’re a long-time Disney fan or a newcomer to the magical world of Disney gaming, there’s something enchanting for everyone on the Nintendo Switch in 2023.