With the highly anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, gamers are buzzing with excitement about what titles might grace the launch day lineup. While Nintendo has yet to unveil the official launch titles, let's dive into some educated guesses and hopeful predictions.
Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025
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Nintendo's catalog is filled with beloved franchises, so some of our predictions—such as the arrival of a certain iconic plumber—seem almost guaranteed. We're also keeping our fingers crossed for the launch of some eagerly awaited projects from indie studios. While it might be a stretch to expect all of these games to be available on day one, even half of them would make for an incredible start to the Switch 2 experience. Here's what we're hoping (and guessing) Nintendo has in store for us at the Switch 2 launch.
Mario Kart 9
It's been over a decade since Mario Kart 8 debuted on the Wii U, evolving into the definitive kart racing experience thanks to the Switch's deluxe edition and numerous DLCs, pushing the track count to an impressive 96 circuits. Mario Kart 8's monumental success, making it the best-selling title on both the Wii U and the Switch, suggests that a new installment would be immensely popular.
Reports from 2022 hinted at Mario Kart 9 being in development with a "new twist," though Nintendo has yet to confirm its existence officially. We're eager to discover what this twist could be, hoping it will bring fresh, innovative gameplay to propel the series forward for another decade. A launch-day release alongside the Switch 2 would undoubtedly be a system seller, given Mario Kart's track record.New 3D Super Mario
Given the legacy of games like Super Mario 64 and Mario Galaxy, it's surprising that the original Switch only received Super Mario Odyssey as a new 3D Mario title, aside from the re-released Super Mario 3D World. Launched in 2017 alongside the Switch, Odyssey didn't even receive substantial DLC, despite the potential for additional content.
The Switch 2's launch presents the perfect opportunity for a new 3D Mario adventure, filled with inventive level designs, wacky abilities, and endless collectibles. While it might be ambitious to expect both this and Mario Kart 9 on day one, it would signal Nintendo's commitment to its flagship series. If not simultaneously, we'd eagerly await one following shortly after the other—just please, don't keep us waiting much longer for that iconic cap and mustache.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Metroid fans have been eagerly awaiting Metroid Prime 4 since its announcement at E3 2017. After years of silence and a shift in development from Bandai Namco to Retro Studios, the original creators, the game re-emerged in 2024 with a new title, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.
The gameplay reveal trailer showcased smooth action, sparking speculation that it might be running on the Switch's successor. With the Switch 2's launch, we're hopeful that the long wait for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will finally come to an end.The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Enhanced
The original Switch's crown jewels, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, are poised to make a triumphant return on the Switch 2. We're hoping for backward compatibility that automatically enhances these classics, but we'd be thrilled to see specially enhanced versions that leverage the Switch 2's rumored superior power. Imagine exploring Hyrule in stunning 4K with seamless performance.
Ring Fit Adventure 2
Nintendo often surprises us with quirky games at console launches, as seen with 1-2 Switch, Snipperclips, and Arms on the original Switch. Ring Fit Adventure, a later release that combined motion-controlled fitness with an RPG, became a massive hit, selling over 15 million copies.
With no sequel announced, the Switch 2's launch could be the perfect moment to introduce new, innovative features using the console's advanced capabilities.Resident Evil 4 Remake
While the original Switch couldn't handle Capcom's Resident Evil 4 remake, the Switch 2 might just be up to the task. Launching this critically acclaimed 2023 title would not only showcase the console's power but also bring a poetic full circle to a game that began its legacy on the GameCube.
Doom: The Dark Ages
Though a bit of a long shot, Doom: The Dark Ages could potentially make its way to the Switch 2, given the franchise's previous appearances on the original Switch and Microsoft's openness to multi-platform releases. We've seen little of id Software's new shooter beyond a gameplay trailer, but with more details expected at the Xbox Developer Direct, a launch date aligning with the Switch 2's debut could be possible.
The Haunted Chocolatier ------------------------------Stardew Valley left an indelible mark on the Switch generation, and its developer, ConcernedApe, is crafting The Haunted Chocolatier. With its unique blend of chocolate shop simulation and action-RPG elements, complete with ghostly encounters, this game seems tailor-made for handheld gaming on the Switch 2.
While a launch day release might be optimistic, especially after developer Eric Barone's recent comments about not working on it for some time, a launch year debut could still be feasible. A Switch 2 launch would be the perfect sweet treat.
Earthblade
Finally, Earthblade, the anticipated follow-up to the beloved indie hit Celeste, could be a perfect fit for the Switch 2 launch. With its 2D explor-action gameplay and beautiful pixel art, Earthblade's planned release in 2025 "at the earliest" aligns with the potential timing of the new console.
