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- Best overall: Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set
- Best budget: Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition
- Best premium: Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set
- Best for solo adventure: Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch
- Super Mario Odyssey suits players who want a focused, energetic solo adventure with optional two-player support.
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the better fit for relaxed routines, island creativity and shared local play.
- Nintendo Switch OLED Model White Set combines a 7-inch screen with TV and handheld play.
- Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition is a compact handheld choice, but it does not connect to a TV.
- Check each game’s player count, console compatibility and storage needs before choosing a Black Friday 2026 pick.
Super Mario Odyssey and Animal Crossing: New Horizons deliver two very different Nintendo Switch experiences. Super Mario Odyssey puts Mario in a lively 3D platform adventure built around exploration, jumps and creative challenges. Animal Crossing: New Horizons trades that pace for an open-ended island life sim with decorating, collecting and friendly routines. The right Black Friday 2026 pick depends on the kind of play you want.
I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback across both games, Nintendo Switch systems and useful accessories. Here's the bottom line: choose Super Mario Odyssey for a focused adventure, or Animal Crossing: New Horizons for a relaxing game you can revisit in short sessions. The picks below cover solo play, shared play, handheld gaming and storage, so you can match a game and setup to your plans.
How We Picked
- Compared each game’s core activities, pacing and replay appeal for different players.
- Checked official player counts, screen sizes and storage capacities where those specifications apply.
- Included Nintendo Switch options for both TV play and handheld-only gaming.
- Considered owner feedback and common buying priorities, including multiplayer, portability and storage expansion.
- Selected complementary games and accessories that make sense alongside the main comparison.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Players | Storage or capacity | Play style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch | Solo platforming | 1–2 | Game card or download | 3D platform adventure |
| Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch | Relaxed creativity | 1–4 local; up to 8 residents | Game card or download | Island life simulation |
| Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set | Handheld and TV play | Depends on game | 64 GB internal | Console |
| Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition | Portable play | Depends on game | 32 GB internal | Handheld console |
| Nintendo Switch Pro Controller | TV gaming | 1 controller | Not applicable | Wireless gamepad |
| SanDisk 256GB microSDXC UHS-I Card for Nintendo Switch | Download storage | Not applicable | 256 GB | microSDXC card |
| Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch | Group racing | 1–4 local; up to 12 online | Game card or download | Kart racing |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch is the best pick for players who want a lively 3D platform adventure, with 2-player cooperative play as a bonus.
Best for: Solo platforming and exploration
- Players
- 1–2
- Platform
- Nintendo Switch
- Genre
- 3D platform adventure
- Cappy adds fresh movement and puzzle options.
- Large kingdoms reward exploration.
- Co-op gives a second player a simple role.
- The main adventure is best suited to solo play.
Is the Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch is a strong choice for players who want a polished 3D platform adventure, varied kingdoms and optional 2-player co-op. Pick it over Animal Crossing: New Horizons when active exploration and a clear adventure take priority.
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#2
Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch is the best pick for relaxed island building and everyday play, with up to 8 residents sharing one island.
Best for: Creative, low-pressure play
- Players
- 1–4 on one system; up to 8 residents per island
- Platform
- Nintendo Switch
- Island limit
- 1 island per console
- Decorating and collecting support personal play styles.
- Local play lets friends visit and play together.
- Short daily sessions fit casual gaming.
- One island is shared by users on the same console.
Is the Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch is a great fit for creative players who enjoy decorating, collecting and a relaxed daily routine. The shared-island setup supports up to 8 residents, making it a natural household game when everyone understands the single-island limit.
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#3 · Top pick
Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set
The Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set is the best all-around console for players who want handheld and TV play, with a 7-inch OLED screen.
Best for: A flexible home and handheld setup
- Screen
- 7.0-inch OLED
- Internal storage
- 64 GB
- Play modes
- 3
- Handheld resolution
- 1280 × 720
- TV, tabletop and handheld modes cover different situations.
- The OLED display gives handheld games vivid contrast.
- A wide adjustable stand supports tabletop play.
- The system is larger than a handheld-only Switch Lite.
Is the Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set is a versatile system for players who want the same game on a television or a 7-inch handheld OLED screen. The 64 GB internal storage is useful to start, and a compatible microSD card adds room for downloads.
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#4
Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition
The Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition is the best compact console for handheld-first players, with a 5.5-inch screen and dedicated controls.
Best for: Portable, solo gaming
- Screen
- 5.5-inch LCD
- Internal storage
- 32 GB
- Play modes
- Handheld
- Weight
- Approximately 277 g
- Compact design is easy to carry.
- Dedicated controls are built into the system.
- Hyrule-themed finish stands out from standard colors.
- Does not connect to a television.
Is the Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition is a strong handheld-first option for players who value portability and a distinctive Zelda-inspired design. The 5.5-inch screen suits gaming on the go, while the handheld-only format makes the system a poor match for TV play.
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#5
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is the best full-size controller for TV gaming, with up to 40 hours of battery life per charge.
Best for: Comfortable TV and tabletop play
- Battery life
- Up to 40 hours
- Connection
- Wireless and USB-C
- Players
- 1 controller
- Full-size shape suits longer play sessions.
- Motion controls and HD rumble are built in.
- Rechargeable design avoids disposable batteries.
- A separate controller is not necessary for every handheld player.
Is the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is a worthwhile upgrade for players who use a Nintendo Switch dock or tabletop stand and prefer a full-size gamepad. Up to 40 hours of battery life helps limit charging interruptions during long sessions.
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#6
SanDisk 256GB microSDXC UHS-I Card for Nintendo Switch
The SanDisk 256GB microSDXC UHS-I Card for Nintendo Switch is the best simple storage upgrade for download-heavy players, with 256 GB of extra capacity.
Best for: Expanding game storage
- Capacity
- 256 GB
- Card type
- microSDXC
- Interface
- UHS-I
- Adds space for downloaded games and screenshots.
- Designed for Nintendo Switch compatibility.
- Small card installs inside the system.
- Does not increase the capacity of physical game cartridges.
Is the SanDisk 256GB microSDXC UHS-I Card for Nintendo Switch worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. SanDisk 256GB microSDXC UHS-I Card for Nintendo Switch is a practical choice for players who download games or keep a large library installed. The 256 GB capacity supplements system storage, while cartridge owners gain extra room for updates and screenshots.
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#7
Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch is the best pick for lively group races, with local racing for up to 4 players on one system.
Best for: Family and friend multiplayer
- Local players
- 1–4
- Online players
- Up to 12
- Base-game courses
- 48
- Platform
- Nintendo Switch
- Easy-to-learn racing suits mixed skill levels.
- Local multiplayer works well for a group.
- A broad course selection supports repeat races.
- Competitive racing has a faster pace than Animal Crossing.
Is the Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
Yes. Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch is a great group game for households that want quick races and easy-to-understand controls. Up to 4 players race locally on one system, so the game works particularly well with extra controllers.
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Which game is better: Super Mario Odyssey or Animal Crossing?
Super Mario Odyssey is the better Black Friday 2026 pick for active platforming, while Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the better pick for calm creative play. Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch gives players a clear adventure across imaginative kingdoms, with Cappy’s capture ability adding movement and puzzle variety.
Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch has no single finish line. Players shape an island, collect items, decorate homes and spend time with animal neighbors. Up to 8 residents share one island on a console, while up to 4 players can play locally together. Choose the Mario game for momentum and challenge; choose Animal Crossing for a personal, ongoing island.
Which game is better for multiplayer?
Animal Crossing: New Horizons supports up to 4 local players on one system, while Super Mario Odyssey supports 2-player cooperative play. Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch is the stronger shared activity when players want to visit an island, explore together and contribute to a household save.
Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch gives the second player control of Cappy while Mario handles most movement. That setup is simple and fun for a short co-op session, but the game’s platforming is mainly designed around one lead player. For a more traditional group game, Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch offers local races for up to 4 players.
Which Nintendo Switch console suits these games?
Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set is the most flexible choice for both games, with a 7-inch OLED screen and three play modes. The system supports handheld, tabletop and TV play, so players can enjoy Super Mario Odyssey on a television and take Animal Crossing into handheld mode.
Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition has a 5.5-inch screen and is designed for handheld play only. The compact console makes sense when portability comes first and TV output is not important. Both games run on Nintendo Switch systems, so the deciding factors are screen size, play location and whether a TV connection matters.
Is Animal Crossing a good gift for a casual player?
Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch is a strong gift for casual players who enjoy customizing spaces, collecting items and playing at a relaxed pace. The island grows through the player’s choices, and a short visit can still feel rewarding without demanding a long session.
A shared island needs a little planning: one island is created per console, with up to 8 residents sharing it. Gift buyers choosing between the two headline games should consider the recipient’s habits. Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch suits someone who wants a guided adventure, while Animal Crossing suits someone who enjoys setting their own goals.
What should you buy first for a Black Friday 2026 setup?
Buy the game that matches the player first, then choose a console or accessory to address a real need. Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch both work on Nintendo Switch systems, so the game choice does not require a specific console model.
Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set is the all-around system pick. Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition is the portable alternative. Add Nintendo Switch Pro Controller for comfortable TV sessions or the SanDisk 256GB microSDXC UHS-I Card for Nintendo Switch when digital downloads need extra space. Avoid adding accessories that do not suit how the player games.
Buying Guide
Match the game to the player
Pick Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch for active exploration, platforming and a defined adventure. Choose Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch for relaxed routines, decorating and creative freedom. The best choice follows the player’s preferred pace.
Choose a screen and play mode
Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set offers handheld, tabletop and TV play with a 7-inch OLED screen. Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition is a 5.5-inch handheld-only system. Decide whether television play is part of the setup.
Plan for multiplayer
Check player counts before buying extra controllers. Animal Crossing supports up to 4 local players on one system, Mario Odyssey supports 2-player co-op, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe handles up to 4 local racers.
Check storage needs
The Nintendo Switch OLED system has 64 GB of internal storage, while Nintendo Switch Lite has 32 GB. A SanDisk 256GB microSDXC UHS-I Card for Nintendo Switch adds capacity for digital games, updates and screenshots.
Keep the setup focused
Start with the game and console. Add Nintendo Switch Pro Controller for TV play or a microSD card for downloads only when the setup calls for it. A focused list makes Black Friday 2026 shopping simpler.
FAQ
Which is better on Black Friday 2026, Super Mario Odyssey or Animal Crossing?
Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch is better for platforming, exploration and a focused solo adventure. Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch is better for creative, relaxed play and shared island life. Choose based on pace, not the Black Friday label.
Can you play Super Mario Odyssey with two players?
Yes. Nintendo Super Mario Odyssey – Nintendo Switch supports 2-player cooperative play. One player controls Mario, while the second controls Cappy. The main adventure remains centered on Mario, so the co-op mode is best for a supporting role rather than two equal characters.
How many players can play Animal Crossing: New Horizons locally?
Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch supports up to 4 players playing locally on one system. Up to 8 resident profiles share one island on that console. Each player should know that residents use the same island rather than receiving a separate island save.
Does Nintendo Switch Lite connect to a TV?
No. Nintendo Switch Lite – Hyrule Edition is a handheld-only console and does not output gameplay to a television. Players who want TV, tabletop and handheld modes should choose Nintendo Switch – OLED Model White Set instead.
Do Super Mario Odyssey and Animal Crossing need a microSD card?
Neither game requires a microSD card when the available console storage meets the player’s needs. Nintendo Switch systems support expandable storage, and SanDisk 256GB microSDXC UHS-I Card for Nintendo Switch adds 256 GB for digital games, updates and screenshots.
Which Nintendo Switch game is best for a family?
Nintendo Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch is a good family choice for shared island play and creative activities. Nintendo Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – Nintendo Switch is better for quick competitive sessions, with up to 4 local players racing on one system.