Just Dance 2018 remains a significant milestone in the rhythm game genre, especially for those holding onto their physical cartridges or digital libraries on the Nintendo Switch. As we look at the game today, it serves as a vibrant time capsule of late 2010s pop culture, blending chart-topping hits with quirky internet sensations. While the landscape of gaming has shifted since its release, the core local multiplayer experience on the Switch platform continues to offer specific advantages that other versions lacked, primarily due to the unique hardware capabilities of the Joy-Con controllers.

The Core Tracklist Breakdown

The standard song list in Just Dance 2018 for the Nintendo Switch features a diverse array of over 40 tracks. This selection was curated to balance modern pop, nostalgic classics, and international flavors. Even without the defunct online subscription services, the base game provides a robust library for fitness and social gatherings.

Modern Pop and Chart Toppers

The selection from the contemporary era of the game's release includes some of the most recognizable radio hits of the time. These tracks often feature high-energy choreography designed for players who want a genuine workout.

  • "24K Magic" by Bruno Mars: A gold-standard funk track that serves as one of the game's primary showpieces. The choreography is rhythmic and requires a good sense of timing, making it a favorite for those aiming for the "Megastar" rank.
  • "Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran: This solo routine captures the tropical house vibe of the song. It is relatively accessible for beginners but has subtle arm movements that reward precision.
  • "Side to Side" by Ariana Grande ft. Nicki Minaj: A high-energy routine that mirrors the cycling theme of the music video. It is excellent for leg endurance, even though tracking is handled via the right Joy-Con.
  • "Swish Swish" by Katy Perry ft. Nicki Minaj: Notable for including the infamous "floss" dance, this track is a quintessential example of how the game incorporated viral trends of the era.
  • "Despacito" by Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee: As one of the biggest global hits in history, its inclusion provided a slow-burn reggaeton rhythm that challenged players with hip movements and fluid transitions.
  • "Bad Liar" by Selena Gomez: Offers a more laid-back, quirky choreography that matches the song's distinct bassline and alternative pop feel.
  • "Blow Your Mind (Mwah)" by Dua Lipa: A confident, fast-paced solo routine that focuses on sharp movements and attitude.

International and Niche Hits

One of the strengths of the 2018 edition was its embrace of global music, including K-Pop, J-Pop, and Latin tracks that expanded the rhythmic variety.

  • "Bubble Pop!" by HyunA: A landmark K-Pop inclusion for the series. The trio routine is demanding and highly energetic, requiring players to keep up with fast-paced transitions.
  • "New Face" by PSY: Following the success of his previous hits in the series, this track offers a humorous yet physically taxing choreography that is perfect for group play.
  • "Love Ward" by Hatsune Miku: A J-Pop favorite featuring the virtual idol. The routine is technical and captures the precise, robotic-yet-fluid aesthetic of Vocaloid performances.
  • "Chantaje" by Shakira ft. Maluma: A duet that focuses on chemistry between two players, utilizing Latin dance steps that are both fun and effective for cardio.
  • "Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)" by Shakira: A returning vibe that celebrates world music with a high-participation, stadium-style choreography.
  • "Tumbum" by Yemi Alade: Bringing Afrobeats to the forefront, this quartet routine is rhythmically complex and offers a unique movement palette compared to standard Western pop.

Classic Hits and Nostalgia

To ensure the game appealed to older audiences or those fond of music history, several legendary tracks were included with updated choreographies.

  • "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen: A quartet routine that uses the iconic bassline to create a rhythmic, almost martial style of dance.
  • "Daddy Cool" by Boney M.: A disco classic that provides a fun, retro experience. It also appears in the Kids Mode with simplified movements.
  • "Footloose" by Kenny Loggins: A high-speed track that tests stamina. It is often used as a final "challenge" song in casual sessions due to its unrelenting pace.
  • "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini" by Brian Hyland: A duet that leans into the campy, theatrical side of Just Dance, featuring props and storytelling in the choreography.

Nintendo Switch Exclusive Content

The Switch version of Just Dance 2018 is often considered the definitive edition by collectors because of content that simply cannot be found on the PlayStation or Xbox versions. This is largely due to the partnership between Ubisoft and Nintendo.

The Mario Routine

Exclusive to the Nintendo Switch is a special routine featuring the world’s most famous plumber. Players can dance along to a medley of Super Mario themes. This track isn't just a novelty; it utilizes the Joy-Con's tracking to mimic classic Mario movements like jumping and power-up poses. It remains a highlight for younger players and Nintendo enthusiasts.

Double Rumble Mode

This mode was a technical showcase for the "HD Rumble" feature. Unlike standard routines where you hold one Joy-Con, Double Rumble requires a controller in each hand. The game sends sophisticated haptic feedback through the controllers that syncs with the music and the on-screen actions.

There are 5 exclusive Double Rumble choreographies, including:

  1. A Mariachi Band: Feel the vibration of the strings and trumpets.
  2. A 5-Star Kitchen: Mimicking the rhythmic chopping and sizzling of a professional chef.
  3. Construction Work: Heavy vibrations simulating machinery.

These routines offer a tactile dimension to the rhythm game experience that was revolutionary at the time and remains a unique way to interact with the Switch hardware.

The Dedicated Kids Mode

Just Dance 2018 introduced a revamped Kids Mode, which was a significant departure from previous "Just Dance Kids" spin-offs. On the Switch, this mode features a tailored interface and a different scoring system. Instead of the standard "Good" or "Perfect" ratings, children receive positive, rainbow-themed feedback to encourage movement without the pressure of high-score competition.

The mode includes 8 specific routines developed with the help of child development experts:

  • "Amazing Girl" by The Girly Team
  • "Fearless Pirate" by Marine Band
  • "Happy Farm" by Groove Century
  • "Magic Halloween" by Halloween Thrills
  • "Pixie Land" by The Sunlight Shakers
  • "Funky Robot" by Dancing Bros.
  • "Beep Beep I'm a Sheep" by Lil Deuce Deuce ft. Black Gryph0n & TomSka: A viral sensation that became the breakout hit of the Kids Mode.
  • "Waka Waka" (Kids Version): A simplified take on the Shakira hit.

Technical Innovations and Scoring

For those returning to the 2018 version, the scoring system represented a shift toward rewarding higher precision. This was the first main entry to introduce the "Super" judgment, sitting between "Good" and "Perfect."

Additionally, the introduction of the "Megastar" rank (achieved at 12,000 points) gave veteran players a new goal beyond the traditional "Superstar" rank (11,000 points). On the Switch, achieving these ranks requires a firm grasp of how the Joy-Con accelerometers interpret snap and follow-through. Players often find that sharp, decisive movements are tracked more accurately than broad, flowing ones.

Dance Lab Mode

Another unique feature is the Dance Lab. This mode consists of several "episodes" where players perform a medley of short choreographies representing different themes, such as animals or professions. It uses a different progression system and is excellent for quick bursts of play when you don't want to commit to a full three-minute song.

Playing in 2026: What You Need to Know

As of April 2026, the digital landscape for Just Dance 2018 has changed significantly. It is important to manage expectations regarding connectivity and additional content.

Online Services and Just Dance Unlimited

The most critical update for current players is that all online services for Just Dance 2018 have been discontinued. This means:

  • Just Dance Unlimited is no longer accessible: The streaming service that once offered over 300 additional songs is offline. You are limited to the songs included on the cartridge or the initial digital download.
  • World Dance Floor: The global cross-platform multiplayer mode is no longer functional. Local multiplayer remains the only way to play with others.
  • Ubisoft Connect: Challenges and rewards linked to the Ubisoft ecosystem are generally unavailable.

Hardware Compatibility

The game remains fully playable on the original Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch OLED. For Switch Lite users, a separate pair of Joy-Cons is required to play, as the game relies on motion tracking. On newer iterations of Nintendo hardware that maintain backward compatibility, the game typically runs with its original performance profile, providing a stable 60 FPS experience that is crucial for rhythm games.

Full On-Disc Tracklist Summary

For quick reference, here is the primary list of songs you will find ready to play the moment you boot up the game on your Switch:

Song Title Artist
24K Magic Bruno Mars
All You Gotta Do The Just Dance Band
Another One Bites the Dust Queen
Automaton Jamiroquai
Bad Liar Selena Gomez
Beep Beep I'm a Sheep Lil Deuce Deuce
Blow Your Mind (Mwah) Dua Lipa
Blue (Da Ba Dee) Hit The Electro Beat
Boom Boom Iggy Azalea ft. Zedd
Bubble Pop! HyunA
Carmen (Ouverture) Just Dance Orchestra
Chantaje Shakira ft. Maluma
Daddy Cool Groove Century
Despacito Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee
Dharma Headhunterz & KSHMR
Diggy Spencer Ludwig
Fight Club Lights
Footloose Top Culture
Got That Gigi Rowe
How Far I'll Go Disney's Moana
In the Hall of the Pixel King Dancing Bros.
Instruction Jax Jones ft. Demi Lovato
Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie... The Sunlight Shakers
John Wayne Lady Gaga
Keep On Moving Michelle Del Amor
Kissing Strangers DNCE ft. Nicki Minaj
Love Ward Hatsune Miku
Make It Jingle Big Freedia
Naughty Girl Beyoncé
New Face PSY
Risky Business Jorge Blanco
Rockabye Clean Bandit ft. Sean Paul
Sayonara Wanko Ni Mero Mero
Shape of You Ed Sheeran
Side to Side Ariana Grande ft. Nicki Minaj
Slumber Party Britney Spears ft. Tinashe
Swish Swish Katy Perry ft. Nicki Minaj
The Way I Are (Dance with Somebody) Bebe Rexha ft. Lil Wayne
Tumbum Yemi Alade
Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) Shakira

Final Thoughts for Local Play

Despite the lack of online features in 2026, the Just Dance 2018 Nintendo Switch song list remains one of the most balanced in the franchise's history. It successfully bridged the gap between the older style of the series and the modern, high-definition aesthetic. For those looking to host a nostalgic 2010s party or seeking a fun way to incorporate movement into their daily routine without a subscription fee, this specific entry stands as a resilient choice. The physical copy, in particular, is a valuable asset for game preservation, ensuring that these specific routines and the exclusive Mario content remain playable long after the servers have gone dark.