With the Nintendo Switch 2's imminent arrival, speculation runs rampant regarding its launch-day titles. While an official lineup remains elusive, let's indulge in some educated guesses, blending likely Nintendo staples with anticipated indie gems.
Several predictions, such as a new Mario title, feel almost certain given Nintendo's history. However, we also hope to see some previously announced projects from beloved indie developers finally materialize.
Genki Nintendo Switch 2 Mockup Images from CES 2025
3 Images
While expecting all these games on day one is optimistic, even half would make for a stellar launch. Here's our hopeful (and somewhat realistic) Switch 2 launch lineup:
Mario Kart 9
Over a decade since Mario Kart 8's release, its enduring popularity (as the best-selling title on both Wii U and Switch) strongly suggests a sequel. While a "new twist" was rumored in 2022, official confirmation remains pending. We anticipate fresh innovations building upon the series' legacy, ideally coinciding with the Switch 2 launch.
A New 3D Super Mario Adventure
The Switch's relative lack of 3D Mario titles (beyond Super Mario Odyssey and a Super Mario 3D World port) cries out for a new installment. A new game, brimming with innovative gameplay mechanics and level design, would be a powerful statement, ideally alongside Mario Kart 9, or shortly thereafter. Seven years is long enough to wait!
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
The long-awaited Metroid Prime 4, now titled Beyond, has undergone a development shift, moving from Bandai Namco Studios to Retro Studios. Its gameplay reveal hinted at impressive visuals, potentially exceeding the original Switch's capabilities, making a Switch 2 launch highly plausible.
Enhanced Versions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom
Given their immense success, enhanced ports of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom are highly likely, either through backward compatibility or dedicated upgrades leveraging the Switch 2's rumored power. Imagine Hyrule in stunning 4K!
Ring Fit Adventure 2
Nintendo often includes a unique title at launch. The success of Ring Fit Adventure makes a sequel a strong contender, showcasing the Switch 2's motion control capabilities.
Resident Evil 4 Remake
While the original Switch lacked the power for Capcom's Resident Evil 4 Remake, the Switch 2 might offer a suitable platform, showcasing its graphical capabilities and providing a fitting return for this classic horror title to Nintendo.
Doom: The Dark Ages
A long shot, but given the success of previous Doom ports on Switch and Microsoft's expanding cross-platform strategy, Doom: The Dark Ages on Switch 2 isn't entirely improbable.
The Haunted Chocolatier
Following the phenomenal success of Stardew Valley, ConcernedApe's The Haunted Chocolatier is a strong candidate, offering a captivating blend of simulation and RPG elements perfect for handheld play. A launch year release seems more realistic than a day-one launch.
Earthblade
Finally, Earthblade, the successor to the acclaimed Celeste, could grace the Switch 2 launch. While updates have been infrequent, a 2025 release window is possible.
