With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, speculation abounds regarding its launch day lineup. While no official titles have been announced, we can make some educated guesses based on Nintendo's history and recent developments.
Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025
3 Images
While expecting all these games on launch day is optimistic, even a partial release would be exciting. Here are some highly anticipated titles that could grace the Switch 2's debut:
Mario Kart 9
A new Mario Kart is highly probable, given the phenomenal success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Rumors of a game with a "new twist" circulated in 2022, fueling anticipation for innovative gameplay. A launch-day release would be a significant system seller.
A New 3D Super Mario Adventure
The Switch has surprisingly lacked 3D Mario titles beyond Super Mario Odyssey (2017). A new entry, brimming with inventive level design and collectibles, would be a welcome addition, potentially alongside or shortly after Mario Kart 9.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
After years of anticipation and a developer change, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is finally nearing release. Its smooth gameplay showcased in recent trailers hints at a potential Switch 2 launch title.
Enhanced Versions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom
Backward compatibility is expected, but enhanced versions of these acclaimed Zelda titles, leveraging the Switch 2's power for improved visuals and performance, would be a significant draw.
Ring Fit Adventure 2
Following the success of Ring Fit Adventure, a sequel utilizing the Switch 2's capabilities is plausible. This would showcase the console's motion controls and provide a unique launch title.
Resident Evil 4 Remake
While the original Switch lacked the power for this graphically demanding title, the Switch 2 could easily handle it, offering a compelling launch title and a nostalgic return to Nintendo for a classic horror game.
Doom: The Dark Ages
Given the success of previous Doom titles on Switch and Microsoft's cross-platform strategy, Doom: The Dark Ages is a possibility. A Switch 2 release alongside the Xbox Developer Direct reveal would be a significant event.
The Haunted Chocolatier
Following the massive success of Stardew Valley, ConcernedApe's Haunted Chocolatier is a strong contender. While a launch-day release may be ambitious, a launch-year window is quite possible.
Earthblade
As a successor to the critically acclaimed Celeste, Earthblade could be a launch title. Developer statements suggest a 2025 release, aligning with the Switch 2's potential launch window.
