Top Nintendo Sports Games That Travel Well
Mario Tennis Aces is the top pick for travel because it offers quick matches, a robust single-player adventure, and local multiplayer that shines in handheld mode. Its main limitation is the need for precise timing, which can be tricky on a small screen, but the depth keeps it engaging.
Traveling with a Nintendo console opens up a world of gaming possibilities, and sports titles are perfect for quick sessions or long hauls. These games are designed to be played in short bursts, making them ideal for planes, trains, and hotel rooms.
When choosing a sports game for travel, consider how well it plays in handheld mode, whether it supports local multiplayer, and if it offers a satisfying single-player experience. Motion controls can be a plus, but they may not work well in confined spaces.
Our top picks
Mario Tennis Aces
Mario Tennis Aces brings fast-paced tennis to the Switch with a story mode, various courts, and intuitive controls. Owners report that the adventure mode is surprisingly engaging, and the quick matches are perfect for passing time. The game supports both button and motion controls, but the latter is best played in tabletop mode.
Pros
- Deep mechanics with special shots.
- Story mode adds variety.
- Quick matches suit travel.
Cons
- Motion controls can be imprecise.
- Requires reading opponent patterns.
Mario Golf: Super Rush
Mario Golf: Super Rush offers standard golf, speed golf, and a story mode with RPG elements. It supports motion controls and button controls, and the courses are visually appealing. For travel, the speed golf mode is a unique twist that keeps matches short, though some players find the motion controls finicky.
Pros
- Variety of golf modes.
- Story mode has progression.
- Simple controls to pick up.
Cons
- Motion controls may not work well on the go.
- Loading times between holes.
Mario Strikers: Battle League
Mario Strikers: Battle League is a fast-paced soccer game with a focus on tackling and special shots. It lacks a single-player story, but its quick matches and local multiplayer make it a party favorite. Owners say the online mode is active, and the game is simple to learn but hard to master.
Pros
- Intense multiplayer action.
- Quick matches for short sessions.
- Strategic depth with gear.
Cons
- Lacks single-player content.
- Limited character customization without gear.
Nintendo Switch Sports
Nintendo Switch Sports brings bowling, tennis, and other activities to the Switch with full motion controls. It is highly accessible and great for families, but it requires space to swing, which may be a challenge on a plane. Owners report that bowling works well in handheld mode if you remove the Joy-Cons.
Pros
- Very accessible for all ages.
- Motion controls are intuitive.
- Regular online events.
Cons
- Needs space for full swings.
- Limited single-player depth.
NBA 2K24 (Nintendo Switch)
NBA 2K24 offers a realistic basketball experience with in-depth career and franchise modes. The Switch version runs at a lower resolution but still provides solid gameplay. For travel, the game’s length may be a drawback, but quick play matches are available for short sessions.
Pros
- Authentic NBA experience.
- Deep career mode.
- Regular roster updates.
Cons
- Large file size and updates.
- Performance is less polished than other consoles.
FIFA 23 (Nintendo Switch)
FIFA 23 Legacy Edition on Switch offers a solid soccer simulation with updated kits and rosters. It lacks the HyperMotion technology of next-gen versions, but it still delivers classic gameplay. Owners find it a good choice for quick exhibition matches while traveling.
Pros
- Official licenses and teams.
- Simple controls.
- Good for quick matches.
Cons
- No major gameplay improvements.
- Limited career mode features.
Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020
This title includes over 30 Olympic events, from track and field to karate. It offers retro 2D events and a story mode. The controls vary, and some events are motion-based, while others rely on buttons. Owners enjoy the breadth, but the depth of each event is limited.
Pros
- Huge variety of events.
- Retro mode adds nostalgia.
- Great for parties.
Cons
- Each event lacks depth.
- Some events feel repetitive.
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Platform | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mario Tennis Aces | Nintendo Switch | Best overall for travel with deep gameplay | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Mario Golf: Super Rush | Nintendo Switch | Best for golf fans who like varied modes | 8.9 | Check price |
| 3 | Mario Strikers: Battle League | Nintendo Switch | Best for competitive local multiplayer | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Nintendo Switch Sports | Nintendo Switch | Best for motion-controlled fun | 8.7 | Check price |
| 5 | NBA 2K24 (Nintendo Switch) | Nintendo Switch | Best for basketball simulation on the go | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | FIFA 23 (Nintendo Switch) | Nintendo Switch | Best for soccer simulation with portability | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 | Nintendo Switch | Best for variety of sports in one package | 8.0 | Check price |
What matters most
Common questions
Can motion-controlled sports games be played in handheld mode?
Yes, but you may need to detach the Joy-Cons and use tabletop mode to have enough space. For example, in Nintendo Switch Sports, bowling works well if you swing naturally. However, on a plane, it can be awkward and may disturb others.
Which Nintendo sports game is best for quick sessions?
Mario Tennis Aces and Mario Golf: Super Rush offer quick match options, with matches lasting about 10 to 15 minutes. Mario Strikers: Battle League also has short matches, making it ideal for quick gaming bursts.
Are there any sports games for the 3DS that are good for travel?
While the focus is on Switch, the 3DS has titles like Mario Tennis Open and Mario Golf: World Tour. They are portable and offer solid gameplay, but the 3DS is being phased out. This roundup focuses on current Switch games.
Do these games require an internet connection?
Most have offline single-player and local multiplayer modes. Online features require internet, which may not be available everywhere. Games like NBA 2K24 and FIFA 23 need updates, so download them before you travel.
What is the best sports game for playing with kids while traveling?
Nintendo Switch Sports is very accessible and includes simple rules, making it great for kids. It requires motion controls, so it is better for hotel rooms or open spaces rather than cramped seats.
Can I play these games on the Nintendo Switch Lite?
Yes, all these games are compatible with Switch Lite, but motion controls require separate Joy-Cons. For games like Nintendo Switch Sports, you will need to connect Joy-Cons, which the Lite does not include in the box.
Which game has the best single-player campaign?
Mario Tennis Aces has a story mode that is surprisingly deep. Mario Golf: Super Rush also features a story mode with RPG elements. NBA 2K24’s MyCareer is extensive if you prefer realistic sports simulations.
Are there any sports games that support cross-play?
None of these titles support cross-play with other consoles. They do support online play with other Switch users, which is useful if you have friends on the same platform.
How much storage space do these games require?
Most Switch games require a few GB. NBA 2K24 is the largest at around 50 GB with updates, so it may require a microSD card. Others like Mario Tennis Aces are about 2 GB.
What is the best game for two players on one console?
Mario Strikers: Battle League and Nintendo Switch Sports are excellent for local multiplayer. They allow two players to use separate Joy-Cons for competitive or cooperative play.
Our pick
For most travelers, Mario Tennis Aces is the best choice because it balances depth, single-player content, and quick multiplayer. If you prefer motion controls and have space, Nintendo Switch Sports is a great alternative. For simulation fans, NBA 2K24 offers the most realism, but be prepared for its size and performance trade-offs.
Marcus Chen
Marcus covered consumer electronics for enthusiast tech publications for six years before joining ChoiceCrest. He specializes in translating manufacturer spec sheets into plain-language buying advice, with a focus on audio, computing accessories and smart-home gear.
