Predicting the Switch 2 Launch Games

As the Nintendo Switch 2 looms on the horizon, gamers are buzzing with anticipation about what titles might grace its launch day. Though an official lineup remains under wraps, let's indulge in some speculation about what could be in store for us on the Switch 2's debut.

Nintendo's catalog is brimming with iconic franchises, making some predictions quite plausible—like the arrival of everyone's favorite mustachioed plumber. Yet, we're also keeping our fingers crossed for some eagerly awaited indie titles to make their reappearance.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

3 ImagesWhile it's a dream to think all these games would be available on day one, even half of them would make the Switch 2's launch incredibly exciting. Let's explore what we might (or more accurately, hope) to see when the Switch 2 hits the shelves.

Mario Kart 9

It's been over a decade since Mario Kart 8 raced onto the Wii U, evolving into the definitive karting experience with the Switch's Deluxe edition and extensive DLC, offering an impressive 96 circuits. Given its status as the best-selling game on both the Wii U and Switch, a new installment, Mario Kart 9, is eagerly anticipated.

Reported to be in development since 2022 with a "new twist," Nintendo has yet to officially confirm Mario Kart 9. We're eagerly awaiting details on this twist, hoping it will introduce fresh, innovative ideas to propel the franchise forward for another decade. A launch day release for Mario Kart 9 on the Switch 2 would undoubtedly be a system seller.

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 one new 3D Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, in 2017. The lack of substantial DLC for Odyssey left fans wanting more.

The Switch 2's launch seems like the perfect opportunity for a new 3D Mario adventure, filled with inventive level design, wacky abilities, and endless collectibles. While hoping for both a new Mario Kart and a new 3D Mario on launch day might be ambitious, it would signal Nintendo's commitment to its flagship franchises. If not simultaneous releases, we'd gladly accept one shortly following the other. It's been over seven years since we last saw Mario in three beautiful dimensions—please, Nintendo, don't keep us waiting.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Metroid fans have been on a long journey waiting for Metroid Prime 4. Initially announced in 2017, the project saw a shift from Bandai Namco Studios to Retro Studios, the original creators of the series, and finally reemerged in 2024.

Now titled Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, its gameplay reveal trailer hinted at a smooth experience possibly running on the Switch's successor. With the Switch 2 on the horizon, we're hopeful that this long-awaited title will finally see the light of day on its launch.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Enhanced

The original Switch's masterpieces, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, are likely candidates for the Switch 2. We're hoping for backward compatibility with an automatic "boost" mode for these titles, but we wouldn't mind enhanced versions that leverage the Switch 2's rumored power. Imagine exploring Hyrule in crisp 4K without a single framerate drop.

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, combined a turn-based RPG with a home workout, selling over 15 million copies.

The Switch 2's launch could be the perfect stage for a sequel, showcasing new and innovative ways to integrate motion controls and gameplay, continuing the legacy of Wii Fit.

Resident Evil 4 Remake

The original Switch lacked the power to run Capcom's stunning Resident Evil 4 remake. However, the Switch 2 might just have what it takes to bring Leon Kennedy's Spanish nightmare to life. While not a new title, its launch on the Switch 2 would demonstrate the console's capabilities and pay homage to the game's origins on the GameCube.

Doom: The Dark Ages

Though a bit of a stretch, with Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal already on the Switch, and Microsoft's increasing openness to multi-platform releases, Doom: The Dark Ages might find its way to the Switch 2. We've seen little of this new shooter, but with more details expected at the Xbox Developer Direct, a Switch 2 launch date could align perfectly for some on-the-go demon-slaying.

The Haunted Chocolatier ------------------------------

Stardew Valley's success on the Switch highlighted the power of indie games. The Haunted Chocolatier, the upcoming chocolate shop sim from Stardew's developer ConcernedApe, could be a perfect fit for the Switch 2. Despite the solo developer's recent hiatus from the project, a launch year release would be delightful, even if a launch day might be ambitious.

Earthblade

Finally, Earthblade, the successor to the beloved indie hit Celeste, is another title we're hoping to see on the Switch 2 at launch. With its "2D explor-action" gameplay and stunning pixel art, and a tentative 2025 release window, Earthblade could be the perfect companion for the new console.