Is this a good first Switch game for a young child?

Yes. The controls are simple, the platforming is forgiving, and the ESRB E rating fits young players. Older or experienced players will find it easy.

How does it compare with other holiday platformers?

It is smaller and simpler than big-budget platformers, with more emphasis on minigames than on long levels. Its main draw is the Elf on the Shelf story and characters.

Does it follow the book's story?

It uses the Scout Elf and Nice List premise: Santa's sleigh won't fly and you help restore Christmas Spirit. The plot is a game original, not a direct adaptation of one book.

A physical Nintendo Switch game card for the North America region. No accessories or download codes are included.

Can you play it outside the holidays?

Yes, but the Christmas theme is the whole point. Most buyers treat it as a seasonal game for December.

It is built as a single-player story with minigames. There is no co-op or competitive multiplayer mode.

Where is the Nintendo The Elf on the Shelf cheapest?

At Game On! Video Games and More, for $9.99, 50% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the Nintendo The Elf on the Shelf?

Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 53 ratings.

Where can I buy the Nintendo The Elf on the Shelf?

10 stores we checked sell it, including Nintendo, POPnGAMES, gamezonenj.com, mercari.com, eBay.

Nintendo The Elf on the Shelf Price History: $9.99

What reviewers say

4.7 / 553 ratings

Ratings are strong, and buyers describe it as a gentle holiday game that children enjoy. The common complaint is that it is short and easy, with minigames that lose their novelty.

What people mention

DifficultyMixedReviewers say it is easy enough for young children but too simple for experienced players.
LengthCriticisedBuyers note the game is short and can be finished quickly.
MinigamesMixedThe puzzles, card matching and mazes entertain children but repeat and wear thin.
Christmas themePraisedOwners say the holiday setting and Nice List story appeal to fans of the books.
CustomizationPraisedPlayers like dressing the elf hero in seasonal accessories.

From Bitjump Games

Follow the story or enjoy fun minigames for holiday cheer
Complete Scout Elf training and help Santa figure out who's on his Nice List
Play minigames: solve puzzles, match cards, sort ornaments and navigate mazes
Run, jump and swing through levels to build your Christmas Spirit Counter
Design your elf hero with sparkling seasonal accessories
Physical Nintendo Switch game, North America region, ESRB E (Everyone)

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About the Nintendo The Elf on the Shelf

The Elf on the Shelf is an action game for Nintendo Switch. Christmas Spirit is running low at the North Pole. Santa's sleigh won't fly, gifts aren't ready, and some children may not make Santa's Nice List. Players help Santa save Christmas.

Players complete Scout Elf training and help Santa figure out who is on his Nice List. They run, jump and swing through levels to build the Christmas Spirit Counter. Minigames include solving puzzles, matching cards, sorting ornaments and navigating mazes. Players can follow the story or just play the minigames.

Players can design their own elf hero with sparkling seasonal accessories.