With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, excitement is building about what games we might see at launch. While Nintendo hasn't revealed an official lineup, let's dive into some educated guesses and hopeful predictions for what could be in store for us on day one.
Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025
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Nintendo boasts a rich catalog of iconic franchises, so it's no surprise that some predictions lean towards the return of familiar faces. While it's a dream to expect all these games at launch, even half of them would make for an exciting start. Here’s what we’re hoping to see when the Switch 2 hits the shelves.
Mario Kart 9
It's been over a decade since Mario Kart 8 graced the Wii U, evolving into the definitive karting experience with the Switch's deluxe edition and numerous DLCs, boasting an impressive 96 circuits. As the best-selling game on both the Wii U and Switch, the anticipation for Mario Kart 9 is palpable. Though Nintendo hasn't officially confirmed its development, rumors from 2022 hint at a "new twist." We're eager to see how this next installment will innovate and set the stage for another decade of racing excitement. A launch alongside the Switch 2 would be a perfect match, reinforcing Mario Kart's status as a system seller.
New 3D Super Mario
Given the legacy of Super Mario 64 and Mario Galaxy, the Switch's lone 3D Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, feels somewhat lacking. Released in 2017, Odyssey didn't receive any significant DLC, leaving fans hungry for more. The Switch 2 launch seems like the ideal moment for a new 3D Mario adventure, packed with inventive gameplay, unique abilities, and collectibles. While hoping for both this and Mario Kart 9 on the same day might be ambitious, even a staggered release would be welcome after such a long wait.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Metroid fans have endured a lengthy wait for Metroid Prime 4, announced back in 2017. After a development shift from Bandai Namco to Retro Studios, the game reemerged in 2024 with a new title, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. Its gameplay trailer hinted at a possible Switch 2 release, and we're hopeful it will finally land on launch day, rewarding fans for their patience with a smooth, next-gen experience.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Enhanced
The original Switch's standout titles, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, are likely candidates for the Switch 2. We're optimistic about backward compatibility and a potential "boost" mode for older games. However, enhanced versions leveraging the Switch 2's rumored power, offering 4K visuals and stable performance, would be a dream come true for exploring Hyrule in even more stunning detail.
Ring Fit Adventure 2
Nintendo often surprises us with unique games at console launches, as seen with the Switch's 1-2 Switch, Snipperclips, and Arms. Ring Fit Adventure, a later addition to the Switch library, transformed fitness into a fun RPG experience, selling over 15 million copies. With no sequel announced, the Switch 2 could be the perfect platform to showcase new motion control features and innovative gameplay, blending exercise and entertainment.
Resident Evil 4 Remake
While the original Switch couldn't handle the Resident Evil 4 remake, the Switch 2 might just have the power to bring Leon Kennedy's Spanish nightmare to life. A launch title like this would not only demonstrate the console's capabilities but also pay homage to the game's roots on the GameCube, adding a poetic touch to its return to Nintendo.
Doom: The Dark Ages
Though a long shot, Doom: The Dark Ages on the Switch 2 isn't out of the question. With Doom and Doom Eternal successfully ported to the original Switch, and Microsoft's openness to multi-platform releases, we might see id Software's latest shooter on the go. More details are expected at the Xbox Developer Direct, and a Switch 2 launch could be a thrilling prospect for fans eager to "rip and tear" anywhere.
The Haunted Chocolatier
Stardew Valley's impact on the Switch generation was monumental, and its developer, ConcernedApe, is crafting The Haunted Chocolatier. This chocolate shop sim with action-RPG elements and ghostly twists could be a perfect fit for the Switch 2. Though solo developer Eric Barone mentioned a break from the project, a launch year release seems more realistic than day one. Still, the idea of playing a spooky confectionary game on the Switch 2 is tantalizing.
Earthblade
Following the success of Celeste, Extremely OK Games is working on Earthblade, a "2D explor-action" game with stunning pixel art. With a planned release in 2025 "at the earliest," it's conceivable that Earthblade could debut alongside the Switch 2, offering fans another indie gem to explore on Nintendo's new hardware.
