Nintendo has announced the Nintendo Switch 2: Choose Your Game Bundle, which includes a choice between Monkey Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, or Pokémon Pokopia, for $499.
This is a similar deal to the Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle from last year, except now consumers can choose one of the other two games instead.
The bundle includes a code that be redeemed for the digital version of one of the three Switch 2 exclusive games.
The game-less version of the Switch 2 currently retails* for $449, while first-party Switch 2 games retail for around $70-$80.
Since most Switch 2 consumers want the big Nintendo exclusives, this is a solid bundle.
That being said, which game should you choose? We’ve reviewed all three!
Mario Kart World
Mario Kart World is the latest in the decades-long kart racing series, and the first to feature a fully open world with dozens of tracks and racers. A single player can explore the world of interconnected tracks in Free Roam, while up to 24 players can race together in multiple online modes, as well as local co-op split-screen with up to four players.
Our review: “Mario Kart remains one of the most family friendly and couch co-op-friendly game series, and it’s particularly well-suited for younger gamers thanks to the accessibility controls and the popular Mario IP. Despite the shine quickly wearing off the highly anticipated Free Roam mode, Mario Kart World is a must-have title for any Switch 2 owner and family gamer.”
We should also mention that Mario Kart World retails for $80, while the other two are listed at $70, making Mario Kart the better choice for pure value.
Donkey Kong Bananza
Donkey Kong Bananza is a terrain-destroying platformer starring Donkey Kong. As players venture deeper into the world, DK can smash through walls and floors to uncover new paths and secrets, and tear off chunks to throw or ride on. By teeming up with a young Pauline, DK transforms into unique animal forms with their own special powers. Bananza also supports a unique co-op mode by splitting the Joy-Con 2, and one player acting as the immobile turret, Pauline!
Our review: “This innovative platformer is easily a system-seller, and every bit as clever and engaging as Super Mario Odyssey was for the original Switch — with the added benefit of a unique cooperative mode perfect for families with younger gamers.”
Pokémon Pokopia
Pokémon Pokopia is a life sim spinoff of the Pokémon series, and the newest game in this bundle. Playing as a transforming Ditto, players transform their blocky world into a better habitat for their fellow Pokémon. By creating specific habitats, players attract new Pokémon, and can utilize their skills to help gather resources, build homes, or just throw a party. Pokopia also supports multiplayer, though it’s limited to a specific multiplayer area.
Our review: “Pokémon Pokopia is a shockingly fantastic new-yet-familiar experience that expertly combines all the best elements of Minecraft and Animal Crossing, with the incredibly charming and colorful world of Pokémon.”
The Verdict: All three games are fantastic, and you really can’t go wrong. However, if you want a game that supports multiple players in co-op, or competitive online play, Mario Kart World is your best bet. If you want to play a game with a younger sibling or child, Donkey Kong Bananza’s co-op mode is really quite clever and satisfying. Finally, if you have an obsessive Minecraft fan or builder in your home, Pokopia will become their new obsession.
Note that online multiplayer requires a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online.
*Starting September 1, Nintendo will increase the base price of the Switch 2 from $449 to $499. Nintendo has not yet made a specific announcement about a price increase to the Choose Your Game Bundle (but we expect it to increase as well).
