The Nintendo Switch Lite makes for a great, cheaper alternative to its beefier brother. But while the Switch Lite has plenty of positives, you should be aware that some games are better enjoyed on the standard Switch or Switch OLED model.

The reason for this is that you can't detach the Joy-Cons from the Switch Lite, meaning the console only truly supports handheld mode. For some games which require TV or tabletop mode to shine, you're not going to have much fun.

Here's all you need to know about which games you should avoid on the Switch Lite.

Which Games Don't Work on the Switch Lite?

Technically speaking, the Switch Lite can play every single Switch game; the hardware is the same as the standard Switch. This means you can get a Switch cartridge, put it in your Switch Lite, and it'll run.

However, a handful of games don't play practically on the Switch Lite. As mentioned, this is because they require you to detach the Joy-Cons from the console, which you can't do with the Switch Lite.

At the time of writing, these games are:

  • 1-2 Switch
  • Fitness Boxing
  • Fitness Boxing 2: Rhythm & Exercise
  • Just Dance
  • Nintendo Labo
  • Ring Fit Adventure
  • Super Mario Party

While you can play these games on the Switch Lite if you're desperate, you should avoid it.

For example, Just Dance requires you to hold the Joy-Cons, stand up, and watch the screen as you dance.

Similarly, 1-2 Switch asks players to face off against each other and each hold a Joy-Con.

One way around this is to buy separate Joy-Cons. You'll also want to invest in a charging stand for the controllers, along with a stand to prop up the Switch Lite. All of this essentially defeats the point of the Switch Lite; you're better off buying the standard Switch if you're planning to do this.

The one game you should skip entirely on the Switch Lite is Nintendo Labo. That's because the cardboard kit is designed to house the original Nintendo Switch, which is larger than the Switch Lite.

Related: Should You Buy Physical or Digital Nintendo Switch Games?

There are other games that prove awkward on the Switch Lite, though not to the same extent as those listed above.

Some games have small, non-essential uses of motion control, like Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, where you will have to shake the entire Switch Lite.

Other games are entirely playable through button controls on the Switch Lite, but also have optional motion control modes for the Switch. This includes Mario Golf: Super Rush and The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD.

Finally, in Dr Kawashima's Brain Training, you will need to skip a few of the exercises because they rely on separate Joy-Cons, but you can otherwise enjoy the game without issue.

How to Know When a Game Isn't Designed for the Switch Lite

Ordinarily, you won't need to worry about this issue. The vast majority of Switch games work perfectly on the Switch Lite.

Nevertheless, it is something you should check before spending your money on a new game. Thankfully, it's easy to do.

nintendo store product details

Just look to see whether the game supports "Handheld mode". If it does, you're good to play on the Switch Lite. You can find this on the product description online or on the back of the game box within the Play mode section.

Should You Buy a Switch Lite?

Although the Switch Lite doesn't properly support all games, it's still a great console. It's lighter and smaller than the standard Switch, which is perfect if you're always on the go, and it's cheaper too. But if you really want the full, unadulterated Switch experience, you should opt for the OLED model.