Predicting the Switch 2 Launch Games

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, combining likely Nintendo titles with anticipated releases from beloved indie studios.

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 exciting. Here's our hopeful prediction for the Switch 2 launch:

Mario Kart 9

Over a decade since Mario Kart 8's Wii U release, its continued success on Switch (boasting 96 tracks via DLC) makes a sequel highly probable. Rumored to be in development with a "new twist," its official confirmation is eagerly awaited. A launch-day release would be a significant system seller, building on the series' legacy and introducing innovative features for the next decade.

New 3D Super Mario

The Switch's relative lack of 3D Super Mario titles since 2017's Odyssey (excluding Super Mario 3D World's re-release) creates significant anticipation. A new entry, brimming with inventive level design and collectibles, would be a powerful statement, potentially alongside Mario Kart 9 or shortly thereafter. Seven years is a long wait for a new 3D plumbing adventure.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Metroid Prime 4, initially announced in 2017, experienced a development shift to Retro Studios. Now titled Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, its gameplay trailer showcased impressive visuals, fueling speculation about a Switch 2 launch. Ending the long wait on launch day would be a triumphant moment for fans.

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

Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, Switch juggernauts, are likely to be backward compatible. However, enhanced versions leveraging the Switch 2's rumored power, potentially with 4K resolution and improved frame rates, would be a welcome addition.

Ring Fit Adventure 2

Nintendo often includes quirky titles at launch. Ring Fit Adventure's unexpected success (over 15 million copies sold) makes a sequel plausible. The Switch 2 could showcase new motion control possibilities, expanding on the original's fitness-gaming hybrid.

Resident Evil 4 Remake

While 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. A launch-day release wouldn't be essential, but it would demonstrate the console's capabilities and offer a fitting return to Nintendo for this horror classic.

Doom: The Dark Ages

Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal's Switch releases, coupled with Microsoft's platform openness, make Doom: The Dark Ages on Switch 2 a possibility. A reveal at an upcoming Xbox event, potentially including a launch-day release date, would be exciting news for on-the-go demon slaying.

The Haunted Chocolatier

Following Stardew Valley's success, ConcernedApe's The Haunted Chocolatier is highly anticipated. A Switch 2 launch, while perhaps unlikely on day one, would be a significant boon for the game's accessibility. A launch year release seems more realistic given the developer's recent comments.

Earthblade

Earthblade, the successor to Celeste, is another strong indie contender. While updates have been infrequent, a 2025 release, potentially aligning with the Switch 2 launch, remains plausible.