While the free-to-play label often comes with negative connotations, more and more developers have shifted to the model over the years. Nowadays, many of these games are actually quite good, and Nintendo Switch owners have plenty to choose from. Though there are still plenty of free games of subpar quality that feel they exist only to tempt players with microtransactions, others are full-fledged games that are easily accessible thanks to their lack of an entry fee.

These five games are more than just decently playable; they will provide gamers with hours and hours of fun. And while they do offer premium or paid content, jumping in is as easy as downloading the title from Nintendo's eShop.

Related: Does the Free-to-Play Model Work for Fighting Games?

Pokémon Unite

Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas, or MOBAs, have dominated the free-to-play genre by providing quality content and consistent updates. The announcement of a free-to-play Pokémon MOBA was initially eyed with skepticism, as some feared it would be a blatant cash grab rather than a full experience. However, the brawler proved the skeptics wrong.

Pokémon Unite is well-balanced, nicely designed and supported by a strong initial roster with more to come in future updates. Like any MOBA, the game is highly competitive, meaning your enjoyment may depend on your skill level. While it has received some criticism for its microtransactions, Pokémon Unite can definitely be played without spending a dime.

Related: Pokémon Hideaways Could Be the Sinnoh Remake's Best Quality-of-Life Change

Super Bomberman R Online

Super Bomberman R Online Promotional Artwork Cropped

The battle royale genre is another staple of free-to-play gaming, as these titles require dozens of players to participate and duke it out at once until an ultimate champion emerges. While shooters like Fortnite are dominant forces, other developers have put their own unique twists on the concept. Super Bomberman R Online is one game that takes the format and combines it with a beloved franchise known for its explosive fast pace.

Super Bomberman R Online is a must-play for any Bomberman fan, though newcomers to the franchise will also have a blast . Bombers can be customized with cosmetic items, creating unique characters set them apart from the rest -- which could come in handy as the game gets more and more chaotic.

Ninjala

Another foray into the world of battle royales, GungHo's colorful and cartoony game may seem reminiscent of the paint-splattered chaos of Splatoon, but Ninjala sets itself apart from the ink-splashed shooter with its own unique fighting charm. Players customize their own ninja fighter and outfit them with their own unique weapons, like foam swords, yo-yos and skateboards, while charging up their special "ninja gum" gauges to let loose specials and other abilities.

Related: Hatsune Miku Dashes Her Way into Ninjala in Special Crossover Event

Ninjala has various PvP modes, with quick eight-person free-for-alls and four-on-four teams. While eight-person games may sound tame compared to other battle royales, the combination of unique weapons and abilities, well-designed maps that encourage head-on fights, and the game's timer creates some of the most fast-paced PvP experiences available. Constant updates and events also keep the game fresh.

Rogue Company

The squad-based multiplayer shooter Rogue Company released in 2020. Though fast-paced online games can be tricky to execute on Switch, Rogue Company makes it work. Matches starts with a framerate of 30fps as you skydive in, but once the map renders and you hit the ground, the game increases to a consistent 60fps.

While Rogue Company can easily be chalked off as a derivative tactical team-based shooter, it's one of the best available on a handheld console -- at least without sacrificing gameplay quality. While its content is pretty basic right now, the game is still relatively new, and Hi-Rez promises consistent updates and support.

Related: Why The Wii Wheel Was The Best Wii Accessory

Rocket League

Rocket League is one of the most celebrated indie games that found major success with minimal marketing hype. Much of its audience found the game when it was offered for free to PlayStation Plus subscribers at launch, and while it originally required gamers to purchase the game, Rocket League transitioned to a free-to-play model in September 2020.

Though plenty of Nintendo Switch ports are criticized for feeling worse on the less-powerful hardware, many players would argue that Rocket League feels like it belongs on Switch. In addition to having a great community, the game about rocket-powered cars playing soccer runs smoothly on the Switch, making it an essential addition to any gamer's library.

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