Best Video Games For Learning Japanese On Nintendo Switch

Learning a new language is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, and the methods to achieve fluency are as diverse as the learners themselves. Traditional classroom settings and textbooks have their merits, but what if you could combine your passion for video games with language learning?

The idea isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds. Video games offer a unique, immersive experience that can significantly aid in language acquisition. Video games engage your mind in a whole new way, allowing you to pick up vocabulary, grammar patterns, and even cultural nuances as you navigate through different in-game scenarios.

Why Learn Japanese on the Nintendo Switch?

Japanese is a language rich in history and cultural significance. Whether you’re an anime fan, a sushi aficionado, or someone intrigued by the intricacies of Japanese etiquette, learning the language can open up a new world of experiences. But why choose the Nintendo Switch as your learning platform? The Switch offers a plethora of games that support Japanese text and audio, making it an ideal tool for language learners. Moreover, its portable nature means you can learn on the go, turning your commute or lunch break into a productive study session.

Active Learning vs. Passive Learning

One of the pitfalls to avoid while using video games for language learning is passive learning. The article emphasizes the importance of keeping your brain “switched on” while playing. This means actively engaging with the text and audio, looking up words you don’t know, and even keeping a notebook handy for new vocabulary. This active involvement ensures that you’re not just mindlessly playing but actually absorbing the language.

The Role of Subtitles and Audio

Subtitles can be a powerful tool in your language-learning arsenal. They offer a dual sensory input—visual and auditory—that can enhance comprehension and retention. Japanese subtitles often make the dialogue easier to understand than English subtitles, providing a more cohesive learning experience.

In the following series, we’ll delve into a curated list of Nintendo Switch games that are not only entertaining but also excellent resources for learning Japanese. So grab your controllers and let’s get started!

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [1-5]

1. Famicom Detective Club

• Japanese Support: No (Only JP voice)
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Search for ファミコン (famikon in kana). Look for titles with “ファミコン探偵倶楽部” and dark-blue or dark-red thumbnails.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Furigana Support: The game offers furigana, which is incredibly helpful for beginners who are still learning kanji.
  • Voice Acting: The voice acting allows for listening practice, helping you understand spoken Japanese.
  • Log and Replayable Audio: Missed something? The game has a log and replayable audio, so you can go back and listen again, aiding in comprehension and retention.
  • Two Separate Releases: The game comes in two separate releases, each offering a different storyline and thus more language exposure.

2. Persona 5 Royal

• Japanese Support: No (But JP text is supported on Steam)
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Type “Persona” in the roman/latin alphabet. Look for ペルソナ5 ザ・ロイヤル.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Immersive Story: The game offers an intricate storyline that will keep you engaged, making learning feel less like a chore.
  • Steam Support: While the Switch version doesn’t support Japanese text outside Japan, the Steam version does, making it versatile for learners.
  • Dialogue Rich: The game is filled with dialogues, offering a real-world application of the language.
  • Cultural Elements: The game is set in Tokyo, providing you with cultural insights that can enhance your language learning.

3. Persona 4 Golden

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Full Japanese Support: Unlike its successor, Persona 4 Golden offers full Japanese support, making it a one-stop-shop for learning.
  • Dialogue Intensity: The game is dialogue-heavy, providing ample opportunities to practice reading and comprehension.
  • Cultural Context: The game offers a deep dive into Japanese culture, giving you context to the language you’re learning.
  • Multiple Endings: The game has multiple endings, encouraging replay and thus more language practice.

4. Persona 3 Portable

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Full Japanese Support: The game offers full Japanese support, making it accessible for learners at all levels.
  • Dialogue Rich: Like its successors, Persona 3 Portable is dialogue-heavy, providing a natural setting for language practice.
  • Cultural Elements: The game introduces you to various aspects of Japanese culture, enhancing your language learning journey.
  • Social Links: The game features a “Social Links” system that allows for interactive dialogues, offering more opportunities for language practice.

5. NieR:Automata The End of YoRHa Edition

Japanese Support: Yes
Demo Available: No
Search in JP eShop: N/A

Why It’s Good for Learning:

• <iframe sandbox=”allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin” style=”width:120px;height:240px;” marginwidth=”0″ marginheight=”0″ scrolling=”no” frameborder=”0″ src=”//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=talesfromt085-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0C5J6ZXPD&asins=B0C5J6ZXPD&linkId=6c8855c11a1f12ff70c0a986684606d5&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true”></iframe>Full Japanese Support: The game offers full Japanese support, including text and voice, making it accessible for learners at all levels.
• Rich Storytelling: The game features a captivating story that goes beyond simple entertainment, offering a wide array of emotions and dialogues. This provides an excellent setting for language practice.
• Action-Packed Gameplay: The game blends action and RPG elements, introducing players to a variety of terms related to combat, strategy, and character development.
• Additional Content: The game includes the “3C3C1D119440927” DLC, which adds new arenas and costumes, providing more content for language exposure.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [6-10]

6. Buddy Mission Bond

• Japanese Support: Unreleased Overseas
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: Type in “Bond” with the roman/latin alphabet.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Exclusive to Japan: Since the game is unreleased overseas, it offers an authentic Japanese gaming experience.
  • Demo Available: A demo is available on the Japanese eShop, allowing you to try before you buy.
  • Interactive Gameplay: The game features interactive dialogues and scenarios, providing a rich context for language learning.

7. 13 Sentinels

• Japanese Support: No
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: Use the kana options and write 13 in Japanese as じゅうさん (juusan). Then, select the suggested kanjis 十三 and confirm. The very first title on the list should say 十三機兵防衛圏.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: The game offers a demo, allowing you to get a taste of the language content before purchasing.
  • Complex Storyline: The game features a complex storyline that will keep you engaged, offering more opportunities for language exposure.
  • Multiple Perspectives: The game allows you to experience the story from multiple perspectives, providing varied language contexts.

8. ANONYMOUS;CODE

• Japanese Support: No (Voice only, JP text is supported on Steam)
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: Search “ANONYMOUS;CODE” with the Roman/Latin alphabet letters.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Voice Acting: The game features Japanese voice acting, allowing for listening practice.
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, offering a risk-free way to explore the game’s language content.
  • Steam Support: The game supports Japanese text on Steam, making it versatile for learners who prefer PC gaming.

9. Persona 5 Strikers/Scramble

• Japanese Support: No (but JP text is supported on Steam)
• Demo Available: Yes (JP eShop only)
• Search in JP eShop: Type “Perusona 5 Sukuranburu” with either kana option (e.g., ぺるそな５すくらんぶる). The most expensive result is the game.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: The game offers a demo on the Japanese eShop, allowing you to try it out before making a purchase.
  • Steam Support: Like its predecessor, this game also supports Japanese text on Steam.
  • Action-Packed Gameplay: The game offers a different gameplay style compared to the mainline Persona games, providing a fresh context for language learning.

10. Fire Emblem Three Houses

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Full Japanese Support: The game offers full Japanese support, making it accessible for learners at all levels.
  • Strategic Gameplay: The game’s strategic elements require you to read and understand instructions in Japanese, enhancing your comprehension skills.
  • Character Interactions: The game features a lot of dialogues and character interactions, providing a natural setting for language practice.
  • Multiple Storylines: With three different houses to choose from, the game offers multiple storylines, giving you more opportunities for language exposure.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [11-15]

11. Fire Emblem Three Hopes

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, allowing you to try the game before making a purchase.
  • Character Development: The game focuses on character development, offering dialogues that are rich in vocabulary and expressions.
  • Cultural Elements: The game incorporates elements of Japanese folklore and history, providing a cultural context to the language.

12. Triangle Strategy

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: The game offers a demo, allowing you to get a taste of the language content before purchasing.
  • Strategic Gameplay: Like Fire Emblem, this game also requires strategic thinking, which involves reading and understanding Japanese text.
  • Voice Acting: The game features Japanese voice acting, allowing for listening practice.

13. NEO: The World Ends with You

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, offering a risk-free way to explore the game’s language content.
  • Urban Setting: The game is set in modern-day Tokyo, providing a contemporary context for language learning.
  • Interactive Gameplay: The game features interactive dialogues and scenarios, providing a rich context for language learning.

14. AI Somnium 1, also known as “AI: The Somnium Files”

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: The game offers a demo, allowing you to try it out before making a purchase.
  • Mystery Genre: The game is a mystery thriller, which means you’ll encounter a variety of vocabulary related to crime, investigation, and psychology.
  • Voice Acting: The game features Japanese voice acting, which is excellent for improving your listening skills.

15. Dragon Quest XI S

• Japanese Support: No
• Demo Available: Yes (see store guide on the right to see how to access it)
• Search in JP eShop: Search for “どらごん XI” (doragon in kana and XI with Roman/Latin alphabet characters and it should be the first listed thing in the search results.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: The game offers a unique way to access its demo. You need to go to this link, log in with your Japanese account, and select 体験版ダウンロード (trial version download). This will direct your Switch to download the Japanese demo.
  • Classic JRPG: Dragon Quest XI S is a classic JRPG that offers a rich storyline and dialogues, providing ample opportunities for language learning.
  • Cultural Elements: The game incorporates elements of Japanese folklore and history, adding a cultural layer to your language learning.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [16-20]

16. Digimon Survive

• Japanese Support: No
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Type in Digimon Survive with the Roman/Latin alphabet letters, and デジモンサヴァイブ will show up in the search results.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Nostalgia Factor: If you grew up watching Digimon, this game will not only entertain you but also provide a familiar context for language learning.
  • Interactive Gameplay: The game features interactive dialogues and scenarios, providing a rich context for language learning.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s rich content makes it worth the investment for language learners.

17. All Danganronpa Games

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No (but a demo of V3 exists on Steam)
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Mystery Genre: The Danganronpa series is known for its mystery and thriller elements, providing a wide range of vocabulary and expressions.
  • Character Interactions: The game features a lot of dialogues and character interactions, offering a natural setting for language practice.
  • Steam Demo: While there’s no demo available on the Switch, a demo of Danganronpa V3 exists on Steam, allowing you to try before you buy.

18. Octopath Traveler

Japanese Support: Yes
Demo Available: Yes
Search in JP eShop: Type “Octopath” or “オクトパストラベラー” (Okutopasu Toraberā).

Why It’s Good for Learning:

• Unique Narrative Structure: Octopath Traveler offers eight different storylines, each with its own set of characters and dialogues, providing a rich variety of language learning opportunities.
• Diverse Dialects and Speaking Styles: The game features characters from different regions, each with their own way of speaking, offering a comprehensive language learning experience.
• Demo Availability: The availability of a demo on the JP eShop allows you to assess the game’s language level before making a purchase, making it a risk-free option for learners.

19. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wil

Japanese Support: Yes
Demo Available: No
Search in JP eShop: Type “Zelda” or “ゼルダの伝説” (Zeruda no Densetsu).

Why It’s Good for Learning:

• Open-World Exploration: The game offers a vast, open world filled with quests, dialogues, and written materials like books and signs, providing a wide range of vocabulary and expressions.
• Complex Sentences: The game’s quests and dialogues often feature complex sentences, making it more suitable for intermediate to advanced learners.
• Dual Audio Support: The game allows you to switch between English and Japanese audio, providing an additional layer of immersion and language practice.

20. Luigi’s Mansion 3

Japanese Support: Yes
Demo Available: No
Search in JP eShop: Type “Luigi” or “ルイージ” (Ruiji).

Why It’s Good for Learning:

• Puzzle-Solving Gameplay: The game offers a mix of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving elements, providing a diverse range of vocabulary and expressions.
• Simple and Humorous Dialogue: The dialogue is relatively simple and often humorous, making it a good choice for beginners who are just starting their language learning journey.
• Interactive Environment: The game features various puzzles and interactions with in-game characters, offering a natural setting for language practice.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [21-25]

21. Grisaia Phantom Trigger

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Visual Novel: Grisaia Phantom Trigger is a visual novel, which means it’s text-heavy and offers a lot of reading practice.
  • Character Interactions: The game features a lot of dialogues and character interactions, providing a natural setting for language practice.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s rich content makes it worth the investment for language learners.

22. Nekopara

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No (but a demo of Vol. 1 exists on Steam)
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Visual Novel: Like Grisaia, Nekopara is also a visual novel, offering ample opportunities for reading practice.
  • Steam Demo: While there’s no demo available on the Switch, a demo of Nekopara Vol. 1 exists on Steam, allowing you to try before you buy.
  • Cute Characters: The game features cute catgirl characters, making it a fun and engaging way to practice Japanese.

23. Blue Reflection Second Light

• Japanese Support: No (but JP text is supported on Steam)
• Demo Available: Yes (but not on Steam)
• Search in JP eShop: Type in “Blue Reflection Tie” with Roman/Latin characters
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: The game offers a demo, allowing you to try it out before making a purchase.
  • Steam Support: While the Switch version doesn’t support Japanese text, the Steam version does, offering flexibility for learners.
  • Fantasy Setting: The game is set in a fantasy world, providing a different context for language learning.

24. Yo-kai Gakuen Y

• Japanese Support: Unreleased Overseas
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: Search for youkai in either kana option (ようかい or ヨウカイ)
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, offering a risk-free way to explore the game’s language content.
  • Cultural Elements: The game incorporates elements of Japanese folklore and mythology, adding a cultural layer to your language learning.
  • Unreleased Overseas: The game is not available outside of Japan, making it a unique pick for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese content.

25. Yo-kai Watch 1 and 4

• Japanese Support: Unreleased Overseas
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: For Yo-kai Watch 1, simply type in “Yokai” with Roman/Latin letters. For Yo-kai Watch 4, follow the detailed instructions in the spreadsheet.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Cultural Elements: Like Yo-kai Gakuen Y, these games also incorporate elements of Japanese folklore and mythology.
  • Multiple Versions: The availability of multiple versions (1 and 4) provides more opportunities for language exposure.
  • Unreleased Overseas: These games are not available outside of Japan, offering a unique and authentic language learning experience.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [26-30]

26. Crayon Shinchan no Natsuyasumi

• Japanese Support: No (but JP text is supported on Steam)
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Search for “しんちゃん” and then look for “クレヨンしんちゃん「オラと…”.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Cultural Icon: Crayon Shinchan is a well-known character in Japan, and the game provides a culturally rich context for language learning.
  • Steam Support: While the Switch version doesn’t support Japanese text, the Steam version does, offering flexibility for learners.
  • Narrative-Driven: The game is narrative-driven, providing ample opportunities for reading and listening practice.

27. Ni No Kuni

• Japanese Support: No (but JP text is supported on Steam)
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Search “にのくに” and the title that ends with “for Nintendo Switch” (二ノ国 白き聖灰の女王 for Nintendo Switch) is the right one.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Fantasy World: The game is set in a rich fantasy world, providing a different context for language learning.
  • Steam Support: The Steam version supports Japanese text, offering another platform for language practice.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s rich content makes it worth the investment for language learners.

28. Megaton Musashi

• Japanese Support: Unreleased Overseas
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: Search for “Megaton” in either hiragana (めがとん) or katakana (メガトン) and select “メガトン級ムサシ”.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, offering a risk-free way to explore the game’s language content.
  • Unreleased Overseas: The game is not available outside of Japan, making it a unique pick for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese content.
  • Action-Packed: The game is action-packed, providing a fast-paced environment for language practice.

29. Pokemon Violet/Scarlet/Arceus

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Popular Franchise: Pokemon is a globally popular franchise, and the game offers a familiar context for language learning.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s popularity and rich content make it worth the investment.
  • Multiple Versions: The availability of multiple versions (Violet, Scarlet, Arceus) provides more opportunities for language exposure.

30. Final Fantasy VII

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Classic JRPG: Final Fantasy VII is a classic JRPG that offers a rich storyline and dialogues, providing ample opportunities for language learning.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s iconic status makes it a must-have for any language learner.
  • Culturally Significant: The game is culturally significant in Japan, adding an extra layer to your language learning experience.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [31-35]

31. Final Fantasy VIII

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Classic JRPG: Final Fantasy VIII is another classic JRPG that offers a rich storyline and dialogues, providing ample opportunities for language learning.
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s iconic status makes it a must-have for any language learner.

32. Final Fantasy IX

• Japanese Support: No
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Just search for ファイナルファンタジー IX (final fantasy IX) in English with the Roman/Latin alphabet letters and it’ll show up.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Classic JRPG: Like its predecessor, Final Fantasy IX is a classic JRPG with a rich storyline and dialogues.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s rich content makes it worth the investment for language learners.
  • Search Tips: The game can be easily found on the JP eShop by searching for it in English, making it convenient for learners.

33. Caligula2, also known as “The Caligula Effect 2”

• Japanese Support: No (but JP text is supported on Steam)
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Type in Caligula2 with no spacing with the Roman/Latin alphabet, and the one simply titled “Caligula2” is the one.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Steam Support: The game supports Japanese text on Steam, offering another platform for language practice.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s rich content makes it worth the investment for language learners.
  • Unique Title: The game is not as mainstream as some other titles, offering a unique setting for language practice.

34. Monark

• Japanese Support: No (but JP text is supported on Steam)
• Demo Available: Yes (both on the EN eShop and JP eShop)
• Search in JP eShop: Type in “Monark” with Roman/Latin alphabet letters.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, offering a risk-free way to explore the game’s language content.
  • Steam Support: The game supports Japanese text on Steam, offering another platform for language practice.
  • Multiple Platforms: The game is available on both the EN and JP eShops, providing flexibility for learners.

35. Splatoon 2

Japanese Support: Yes
Demo Available: Yes
Search in JP eShop: Type “Splatoon” or “スプラトゥーン” (Supuratūn).

Why It’s Good for Learning:

• Fast-Paced Gameplay: Splatoon 2 is a team-based third-person shooter that is both fun and fast-paced. The game’s quick tempo can help you practice quick reading and comprehension.
• Simple Interface: The game’s interface and dialogue are relatively simple, making it accessible even for beginners. This allows you to focus on gameplay while still picking up new vocabulary and phrases.
• Team-Based Interaction: The team-based gameplay offers a chance to practice conversational phrases if you team up with Japanese players. This provides a real-world application of the language in a cooperative setting.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [36-40]

36. Gal*Gun Double Peace

Japanese Support: Yes
Demo Available: No
Search in JP eShop: Type “Gal*Gun” or “ぎゃる☆がん” (Gyaru Gan).

Why It’s Good for Learning:

• Visual Novel Elements: Gal*Gun Double Peace incorporates visual novel elements, providing ample opportunities for reading and language comprehension. The game’s dialogue is rich in everyday vocabulary and expressions.
• Cultural Context: The game is set in a Japanese high school, offering insights into Japanese culture and social norms. This can be particularly useful for learners interested in understanding the cultural context of the language.
• Voice Acting: The game features Japanese voice acting, allowing you to practice listening comprehension. The spoken dialogue is accompanied by text, providing a dual sensory input for better language retention.

37. Paper Mario: The Origami King

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Interactive Story: The game offers an interactive story with dialogues, providing ample opportunities for language learning.
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s popularity and rich content make it worth the investment.

38. Layton’s Mystery Journey

• Japanese Support: No
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Search “レイトン” (reiton in katakana) or “れいとん” (reiton in hiragana)
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Puzzle Solving: The game involves solving puzzles, which can be a fun way to practice Japanese.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s rich content makes it worth the investment for language learners.
  • Search Tips: The game can be easily found on the JP eShop by searching for it in katakana or hiragana, making it convenient for learners.

39. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Social Interaction: The game involves interacting with various animal characters, providing a natural setting for language practice.
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s immense popularity makes it a must-have for language learners.

40. Monster Hunter Stories 2

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, offering a risk-free way to explore the game’s language content.
  • Action-Packed: The game is action-packed, providing a fast-paced environment for language practice.
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [41-45]

41. Pokemon Let’s Go

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, offering a risk-free way to explore the game’s language content.
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • Interactive Gameplay: The game involves capturing and training Pokemon, providing a fun and interactive setting for language practice.

42. Pokemon Sword/Shield

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s immense popularity makes it a must-have for language learners.
  • Strategic Gameplay: The game involves strategic battles, providing a challenging environment for language practice.

43. Pokemon Brilliant Diamond/Shining Pearl

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s popularity and rich content make it worth the investment.
  • Nostalgic Experience: The game is a remake of older Pokemon titles, offering a nostalgic setting for language practice.

44. Kirby Discovery, also known overseas as “Kirby and the Forgotten Land”

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, offering a risk-free way to explore the game’s language content.
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • Adventurous Gameplay: The game involves exploring various lands, providing a fun and adventurous setting for language practice.

45. Super Mario Odyssey

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s iconic status makes it a must-have for any language learner.
  • Platforming Fun: The game involves platforming challenges, providing a fun and interactive environment for language practice.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [46-50]

46. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s iconic status makes it a must-have for any language learner.
  • Classic Adventure: The game offers a classic Zelda adventure, providing a rich and immersive environment for language practice.

47. Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: Yes
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Demo Available: A demo is available, offering a risk-free way to explore the game’s language content.
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • Unique Gameplay: Unlike the mainline Pokemon games, this one involves dungeon exploration, providing a different setting for language practice.

48. Sumire

• Japanese Support: Yes
• Demo Available: No (but a demo exists on Steam)
• Search in JP eShop: N/A
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Steam Demo: A demo is available on Steam, offering another platform for language practice.
  • Global Availability: The game supports Japanese text worldwide, making it accessible for learners everywhere.
  • Narrative-Driven: The game is narrative-driven, providing a rich story for language practice.

49. Valkyria Chronicles 1

• Japanese Support: No (only JP Voice)
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Type “varu” with either kana option (ヴぁる or ヴァル) and the option that ends with “for Nintendo Switch” is the first game.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • JP Voice: The game supports Japanese voices, offering an auditory experience for language learning.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s rich content makes it worth the investment for language learners.
  • Strategic Gameplay: The game involves tactical battles, providing a challenging environment for language practice.

50. Valkyria Chronicles 4

• Japanese Support: No (but JP text is supported on Steam)
• Demo Available: No
• Search in JP eShop: Type “varu” with either kana option (ヴぁる or ヴァル) and the game that ends with “4” in the title is the fourth game.
• Why It’s Good for Learning:
  • Steam Support: The game supports Japanese text on Steam, offering another platform for language practice.
  • No Demo: Unfortunately, there’s no demo available, but the game’s rich content makes it worth the investment for language learners.
  • Strategic Gameplay: Like its predecessor, the game involves tactical battles, providing a challenging environment for language practice.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [51-55]

51. Grimgrimoire OnceMore

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: No (only JP Voice)
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: Yes
• What do I need to type to make it appear in the JP eShop search?: Search “oncemore” with no spacing with the Roman/Latin alphabet.
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Grimgrimoire OnceMore offers a unique blend of fantasy and strategy, making it a compelling choice for learners. The game features Japanese voice acting, which is great for practicing listening comprehension. The availability of a demo allows you to try before you buy, giving you a taste of the language level required.

52. Star Ocean First Departure

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: No
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: No
• What do I need to type to make it appear in the JP eShop search?: Search for “Star Ocean” with the Roman/Latin alphabet and you should be able to find “STAR OCEAN -First Departure R-” pretty quickly.
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Star Ocean First Departure is a classic RPG that immerses you in a sci-fi universe. While it doesn’t support Japanese outside of Japan, the game’s intricate story and dialogue provide a challenging yet rewarding language experience. The absence of a demo means you’ll need to commit, but it’s well worth it for the linguistic depth it offers.

53. Catherine Full Body

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: No
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: Yes
• What do I need to type to make it appear in the JP eShop search?: Type Catherine with the Roman/Latin alphabet. You did it.
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Catherine Full Body is a puzzle-platformer with a mature storyline. The game’s dialogue is rich in colloquial expressions and slang, making it a great resource for learning conversational Japanese. The availability of a demo lets you gauge the language level before making a purchase.

54. Dragon Ball Z Kakarot

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: No
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: Yes
• What do I need to type to make it appear in the JP eShop search?: Type Kakarot with the Roman/Latin alphabet and choose the “ソフト” filter to make it less cluttery. Now you just need to choose either the main game or the ultimate edition. The page for just the main game (the less expensive option) has the demo.
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Dragon Ball Z Kakarot allows you to relive the iconic moments from the Dragon Ball Z series. The game features original Japanese voice acting, providing an authentic experience. The availability of a demo is a plus, as it lets you test your comprehension skills before diving into the full game.

55. Tokyo Mirage Sessions ♯FE Encore

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: Yes
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: No
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Tokyo Mirage Sessions ♯FE Encore is a crossover between the Fire Emblem and Shin Megami Tensei series. The game supports Japanese text and voice outside of Japan, making it accessible for learners worldwide. The dialogue is rich in everyday vocabulary and cultural references, offering a deep dive into modern Japanese life.

Best Switch Games For Learning Japanese [56-60]

56. Voice of Cards

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: Yes
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: Yes
  What do I need to type to make it appear in the JP eShop search?: No specific search needed.
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Voice of Cards offers a unique card-based gameplay experience. The game supports Japanese text and voice, making it accessible for learners worldwide. The availability of a demo allows you to try the game and assess its language level before making a purchase.

57. Bravely Default II

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: Yes
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: Yes
• What do I need to type to make it appear in the JP eShop search?: No specific search needed.
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Bravely Default II is a turn-based RPG that offers a rich narrative and complex gameplay mechanics. The game supports Japanese text and voice, making it a comprehensive resource for language learning. The availability of a demo allows you to get a taste of the game’s language content.

58. Skyrim

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: No (but JP text is supported on Steam)
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: No
• What do I need to type to make it appear in the JP eShop search?: Type in Skyrim with the Roman/Latin alphabet. It just works.
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Skyrim is an open-world RPG that offers endless opportunities for exploration and interaction. While the Switch version doesn’t support Japanese text, the Steam version does, providing an alternative platform for language practice. The game’s rich lore and dialogue offer a challenging yet rewarding language experience.

59. Azure Striker GUNVOLT 3

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: Yes
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: Yes
• What do I need to type to make it appear in the JP eShop search?: No specific search needed.
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Azure Striker GUNVOLT 3 is a fast-paced action game that offers a blend of shooting and platforming elements. The game supports Japanese text and voice, making it a versatile resource for language learning. The availability of a demo allows you to try the game and assess its language level before making a purchase.

60. Brigadine

• Does this game support Japanese outside of Japan?: Yes
• Does it have a Japanese demo?: Yes
• What do I need to type to make it appear in the JP eShop search?: No specific search needed.
• Why it’s good for learning Japanese:
  Brigadine is a strategy RPG that offers a complex gameplay experience. The game supports Japanese text and voice, providing a comprehensive resource for language learning. The availability of a demo allows you to get a taste of the game’s language content.