With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, speculation is rife about its launch day lineup. While an official list remains elusive, we can make some educated guesses, blending likely Nintendo staples with anticipated indie titles.
Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025
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While expecting all these games on day one is optimistic, even a partial appearance would make for a stellar launch. Here's our hopeful wish list:
Mario Kart 9
Over a decade since Mario Kart 8's Wii U release, its enduring success on Switch (boasting 96 tracks thanks to DLC) makes a sequel a near-certainty. While a "new twist" was rumored in 2022, official confirmation is pending. We anticipate innovative features building on its legacy, ideally launching alongside the Switch 2. A new Mario Kart is practically a guaranteed system-seller.
New 3D Super Mario
The Switch surprisingly only features one new 3D Super Mario title (Super Mario Odyssey, 2017) besides a Super Mario 3D World re-release. A new 3D platformer, brimming with inventive level design and collectibles, would be a welcome addition, potentially alongside Mario Kart 9 or shortly after. Seven years is a long wait for a new 3D Mario adventure.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Metroid Prime 4, initially announced in 2017, faced development delays and a studio change (from Bandai Namco to Retro Studios). Now titled Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, its gameplay reveal showcased impressive visuals, leading to speculation about a Switch 2 release. We hope the long wait concludes with a launch day arrival.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Enhanced
Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom are Switch titans. Backward compatibility is hoped for, ideally with enhanced versions leveraging the Switch 2's rumored power for improved visuals and performance. Crisp 4K Hyrule with no frame rate drops would be a dream come true.
Ring Fit Adventure 2
Nintendo often includes quirky titles at launch. Ring Fit Adventure, a fitness-focused RPG, was a surprise hit, selling over 15 million copies. A sequel could showcase the Switch 2's capabilities and controller features.
Resident Evil 4 Remake
The original Switch lacked the power for Capcom's Resident Evil 4 Remake. The Switch 2 might offer a home for Leon Kennedy's adventure, showcasing the console's capabilities and offering a poetic return to Nintendo after its GameCube debut.
Doom: The Dark Ages
This is a bolder prediction. With Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal on Switch and Microsoft's cross-platform strategy, Doom: The Dark Ages on Switch 2 is plausible. A reveal at an upcoming Xbox event could confirm this, potentially with a Switch 2 launch date.
The Haunted Chocolatier
Following the success of Stardew Valley, ConcernedApe's The Haunted Chocolatier is highly anticipated. A launch alongside the Switch 2 would be ideal, though a launch year release might be more realistic given the solo development.
Earthblade
Earthblade, the successor to Celeste, is a promising 2D action-exploration game. A 2025 release window has been suggested, making a Switch 2 launch possible.
