Predicting the Switch 2 Launch Games

With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, speculation is rife about its launch day lineup. While no official titles have been announced, we can make some educated guesses based on Nintendo's history and recent announcements. Some predictions are almost certain, while others represent hopeful wishes for exciting new releases.

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 release would be impressive. Here's our hopeful wish list for the Switch 2 launch:

Mario Kart 9

A new Mario Kart is highly anticipated, given the phenomenal success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Rumors of development, featuring a "new twist," have circulated, fueling excitement for a launch title that could define the Switch 2's success.

A New 3D Super Mario Adventure

The Switch has surprisingly lacked 3D Mario titles beyond Super Mario Odyssey (2017). A new installment, brimming with innovative gameplay, level design, and collectibles, would be a significant launch day highlight. The possibility of both this and Mario Kart 9 on launch day is enticing, although a staggered release would also be welcome.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

After years of anticipation and a development handover to Retro Studios, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is generating considerable buzz. The game's smooth gameplay showcased in trailers hints at a potential Switch 2 release, making it a strong contender for a launch title.

Enhanced Versions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom

Backward compatibility is expected, but enhanced versions of these critically acclaimed Zelda titles, leveraging the Switch 2's power for improved visuals and performance, would be a major draw.

Ring Fit Adventure 2

Nintendo often includes a unique title at launch, and a sequel to the surprisingly successful Ring Fit Adventure would fit the bill. A new installment could showcase the Switch 2's motion control capabilities.

Resident Evil 4 Remake

The Switch 2's enhanced power could finally allow for a port of Capcom's acclaimed Resident Evil 4 Remake, showcasing the console's graphical capabilities.

Doom: The Dark Ages

Given the success of previous Doom titles on Switch and Microsoft's expanding cross-platform strategy, a Switch 2 release of Doom: The Dark Ages is plausible.

The Haunted Chocolatier

Following the success of Stardew Valley, ConcernedApe's The Haunted Chocolatier is a strong candidate for a Switch 2 launch, offering a compelling, time-consuming experience. A launch year release is more likely than a day-one launch.

Earthblade

As a successor to the popular Celeste, Earthblade from Extremely OK Games could also grace the Switch 2 launch lineup, given its anticipated 2025 release window.

This list represents a blend of likely and hoped-for titles. The actual launch lineup remains a mystery, but the possibilities are exciting.