Guide: Best Festive Season Gaming: Make Your Holidays Unforgettable
The snow is falling, the lights are twinkling, and the sweet scent of gingerbread wafts through the air. Yes, it’s that most wonderful time of the year again! With cozy evenings stretching out ahead, a break from work or school, and perhaps even a shiny new console or game waiting under the tree, the festive season is, without a doubt, prime time for serious gaming.
Whether you're yearning for a heartwarming couch co-op session with loved ones, a solitary adventure through a breathtaking snow-smothered landscape, or simply hunting for those elusive season-exclusive items in your favorite title, there's a treasure trove of wintery delights just waiting to be unwrapped. From nostalgic N64 classics to modern Pokémon epics, we’ve scoured the digital shelves to bring you the absolute best Christmas and holiday games to sink your teeth into this festive period.
Here are our top picks for the perfect holiday gaming experience:
- Super Mario 64 (via Super Mario 3D All-Stars)
- Undertale
- Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze
- Final Fantasy VII (Original)
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons
- Pokémon Scarlet and Violet
- Pikmin 3: Deluxe
- Banjo-Kazooie (via Nintendo Switch Online)
Unwrap the Fun: Our Favorite Festive Games
Super Mario 64: Cool, Cool Mountain Memories
Ah, Super Mario 64. Even decades later, its charm remains undeniable. Nestled within the Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection on Nintendo Switch, this classic delivers one of gaming's most iconic winter locales: Cool, Cool Mountain. This level isn't just chilly; it's packed with memorable quests! You’ll find yourself racing a speedy penguin, piecing together a delightful snowman, and—most famously—reuniting a baby penguin with its worried mother.
In recent years, Cool, Cool Mountain has even achieved meme status, thanks to players (we're looking at you!) who admit to, shall we say, accidentally dropping that baby penguin off a cliff rather than returning it safely. While we don't officially endorse such 'naughty list' behavior, it certainly adds a layer of mischievous fun to an already fantastic level. And don't forget, Mario's winter adventures don't stop here; you can also brave the Shiver Region in Paper Mario, drift through DK Pass in Mario Kart 7, or serve up some icy aces in Mario Tennis Aces.
Available on: Nintendo Switch (via Super Mario 3D All-Stars)
Undertale: A Snowdin Christmas Tale
Few games offer the emotional depth and replayability of Undertale. And honestly, I’m a firm believer that Santa's nice-or-naughty list is directly influenced by the choices you make in this game! The charming, festive village of Snowdin, adorned with permanent wreaths and fairy lights on Papyrus and Sans's house, exudes Christmas vibes no matter what path you tread. Seriously, just walking by their place will fill you with cheer.
While Snowdin’s atmosphere adapts to your pacifist, neutral, or genocide route, its festive spirit is always present. Befriending the lovable Papyrus during your playthrough unlocks the opportunity to venture inside his decorated abode, allowing for some truly quality, Christmassy time with the skeleton brothers. If Undertale's unique charm has you hooked, you might also enjoy our curated lists of games like Undertale and the best visual novel games, many of which offer their own enchanting winter adventures.
Available on: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck
Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze: Kong-sized Winter Brawl
Get ready for some truly frosty fun in Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze! When the villainous Snowmads decide to freeze Donkey Kong Island solid, it’s up to DK and his pals to unthaw their home. This is the perfect game for some good, wholesome couch co-op. Gather the whole family, because teaming up with Diddy, Dixie, and Cranky Kong for some platforming mayhem is a pure joy. The game is absolutely brimming with penguin enemies – so if you're one of those Mario 64 players harboring a grudge against flightless birds, this is your chance for some cathartic payback!
And for those eagerly anticipating the Nintendo Switch 2, remember Donkey Kong Bananza also features the Freezer Layer, a chilly realm home to classic wintry animals… like zebras? (Just kidding, mostly!). It’s a riot from start to finish, and a brilliant way to spend some quality time with friends and family over the holidays.
Available on: Nintendo Switch
Final Fantasy VII (Original): Snowboarding into Legend
When you think "festive fun," the original Final Fantasy VII might not be your immediate go-to. But let me tell you, it holds a surprisingly fantastic winter secret! Deep within its epic narrative lies an incredible snowy region, complete with a surprisingly addictive snowboarding mini-game. Picture Cloud, carving up the slopes, dodging pesky snow-Chocobos and ice-crusted trees, all while collecting balloons. Sure, there’s no style bonus for nailing that perfect trick, but you’ll be compelled to play it again and again.
Once you’ve had your fill of the slopes, you’ll find yourself in the vast and often disorienting Great Glacier. Getting lost here at least once is practically a rite of passage! But a thorough exploration will reward you handsomely with a powerful summon, after you triumph over an ancient, evil snow witch. If this taste of classic RPG greatness has you craving more, check out our comprehensive list of the best Final Fantasy games to keep your holiday season filled with adventure.
Available on: Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS, Steam Deck
Animal Crossing: New Horizons: Winter Wonderland Island Life
Your island paradise in Animal Crossing: New Horizons undergoes a magical transformation during winter, which runs from November 26 to February 24. This is your chance to deck out your character in adorable cold-weather attire, participate in delightful Christmas events with your quirky villagers, and perhaps even spot a charming snow folk or two wandering your island. Building snowmen is an absolute must, and don't forget to shake those cedar trees for festive ornaments!
With a fresh ACNH update slated for January 5, 2026, now is the perfect moment to either rekindle your friendships with your beloved villagers or even embark on a brand-new island adventure. What fruit will your new island have this time? To truly immerse yourself in the season and maybe spend some of that Christmas cash, explore the full range of Animal Crossing amiibo cards, consult our definitive guide to every ACNH villager, and dive into our Animal Crossing history lesson for all the essential lore tidbits.
Available on: Nintendo Switch
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: Glaseado Mountain's Icy Charm
Why do Pokémon Scarlet and Violet make our Christmas games list? Two words: Glaseado Mountain. This sprawling winter wonderland might not be as vast as Sword and Shield's Crown Tundra, but it's every bit as enchanting. You'll delight in bumping into adorable Ice-types like Snorunt and Cubchoo as you traverse its snowy peaks. And here's a festive bonus: with the Indigo Disk DLC, you might even encounter the legendary Articuno gracefully soaring through the snow-laden skies!
But the winter magic doesn't stop there. The Hidden Treasures of Area Zero DLC introduces yet another freezing retreat: the Polar Biome, consuming a whole quarter of the Blueberry Terrarium. Despite its frosty exterior, this biome is surprisingly home to fiery starter Pokémon like Chimchar and Scorbunny, adding an unexpected twist. While it may not be Lapland, if you're seeking a truly grand adventure fit for the holidays, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have you more than covered.
Available on: Nintendo Switch
Pikmin 3: Deluxe: Fortress of Festivity Fun
Prepare for some adorable, strategic, and surprisingly festive chaos in Pikmin 3: Deluxe! The standout for holiday cheer has to be the Fortress of Festivity level. Here, you'll skillfully maneuver your tiny Pikmin army around giant Christmas presents, slide down a beautifully decorated festive tree, and strategically send your colorful companions to pilfer fruit from a delicious-looking holiday cake. It’s pure, concentrated joy!
Beyond this specific holiday-themed level, Pikmin 3: Deluxe also features a couple of other delightful snow levels, ensuring you’ll have plenty of frosty challenges to tackle on Christmas Day. Even without the direct holiday goodness, this game shines as a phenomenal choice for playing with family and friends over the break. The couch co-op is supremely fun – just make sure your partner is paying attention and not letting your precious little Pikmin get into too much trouble!
Available on: Nintendo Switch
Banjo-Kazooie: The Ultimate Freezeezy Peak Christmas
Let me tell you, my personal all-time favorite Christmas level in gaming history is none other than Freezeezy Peak from Banjo-Kazooie. This N64 masterpiece, now available through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, is an absolute festive wonderland. Here, our feathered and furball heroes, Banjo and Kazooie, engage in an epic sled race against Boggy the Polar Bear, bravely protect adorable Twinklies from the menacing Twinkly Munchers, and even transform into a wonderfully pudgy walrus to snag some precious musical notes.
Yes, you’ll need a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership to dive into this gem, but trust me, it’s a membership well worth investing in for the sheer wealth of classic titles it unlocks. If you're still on the fence about NSO, there are countless other fantastic games on the service perfect for a holiday binge. I highly recommend classics like The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, Pokémon Stadium, and the charming Yoshi's Story to round out your festive gaming.
Available on: Nintendo Switch (via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack)
Verdict: Your Holiday Gaming Awaits!
And there you have it – our curated list of the very best Christmas and holiday games across Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and mobile! From heartwarming journeys to hilarious co-op adventures, these titles offer the perfect blend of winter magic, nostalgic charm, and pure gaming joy to make your festive season truly unforgettable. So grab a mug of hot cocoa, cozy up, and let these incredible games transport you to their own unique winter worlds. Happy holidays, and happy gaming!
Frequently Asked Questions About Holiday Gaming
What makes a game a "Christmas game" if it's not explicitly about Christmas?
A "Christmas game" doesn't necessarily need Santa or elves! Often, it's about atmosphere. Games featuring snow-covered levels, festive decorations, winter-themed quests, or even just a cozy, heartwarming feeling can capture the holiday spirit perfectly. Think frosty landscapes, charming characters, or gameplay that encourages sharing and togetherness – those are key ingredients.
Are these games mostly for single players or can I enjoy them with family?
Our list offers a fantastic mix for all types of holiday gamers! While titles like Undertale and Final Fantasy VII are primarily single-player experiences, they offer rich narratives perfect for solo immersion. Many others, like Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze, Pikmin 3: Deluxe, and even building snowmen in Animal Crossing: New Horizons, are fantastic for couch co-op or shared family fun. There's something for everyone to enjoy together or on their own.
Do I need specific consoles or subscriptions to play these games?
Most games on this list are available on the Nintendo Switch, making it a great console for holiday gaming. Some, like Undertale and Final Fantasy VII, also extend to Steam Deck and mobile devices. For classics like Super Mario 64 and Banjo-Kazooie, you'll need a Nintendo Switch Online membership (specifically the Expansion Pack for Banjo-Kazooie) to access them through their retro game libraries. Always check the specific platforms listed for each game to ensure compatibility!