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With the much-anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, we're all eager to find out what games will be available on launch day. While Nintendo hasn't officially revealed the lineup, let's dive into some educated guesses and hopeful predictions about what might be in store for us.
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While it might be a stretch to expect all of these titles on day one, even a few of them would make the Switch 2's launch incredibly exciting. Here’s what we think (and hope) Nintendo has planned for the Switch 2's debut.
It's been over a decade since Mario Kart 8 debuted on the Wii U, and with its evolution into the ultimate karting experience on the Switch, it's clear a new installment would be a massive hit. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, enhanced with numerous DLCs, boasts an impressive 96 circuits, making it the best-selling game on both the Wii U and Switch. Reports from 2022 hinted at Mario Kart 9 being in development with a "new twist," though Nintendo has yet to confirm it. We're eager to see what innovative features this sequel might bring, and a launch alongside the Switch 2 would undoubtedly be a system seller.
Given the legacy of games like Super Mario 64 and Mario Galaxy, it's surprising that the Switch has only seen one new 3D Mario game, Super Mario Odyssey, released in 2017. Despite no substantial DLC, the demand for another 3D Mario adventure is palpable. The Switch 2's launch presents the perfect opportunity for a new game brimming with creative level design, unique abilities, and countless collectibles. A simultaneous release with a new Mario Kart would be a bold move by Nintendo, signaling the future direction of these iconic series. If not both, we'd settle for one shortly after the other, but the wait has been long enough.
Metroid fans have endured a long wait since Metroid Prime 4 was announced in 2017. After a development shift from Bandai Namco to Retro Studios, the game resurfaced in 2024 with a new title, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. The gameplay reveal trailer hinted at a possible launch on the Switch's successor, and we're hoping the wait ends on the Switch 2's launch day. The smooth action showcased in the trailer has us excited for what's to come.
The original Switch's blockbuster titles, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, are likely to make their way to the Switch 2. We're hoping for backward compatibility with a "boost" mode for older games, but enhanced versions that leverage the Switch 2's rumored power would be even better. Imagine exploring Hyrule in crisp 4K without any framerate drops—it's a dream we're eager to see realized.
Nintendo often includes a quirky game at console launches, as seen with the Switch's 1-2 Switch, Snipperclips, and Arms. Ring Fit Adventure, a later addition to the Switch's lineup, turned out to be a surprise hit, selling over 15 million copies. A sequel at the Switch 2's launch could showcase new, unconventional features, further blending fitness with gaming in an engaging way.
While the original Switch couldn't handle the graphical demands of Capcom's Resident Evil 4 remake, the Switch 2 might be up to the task. A launch-day release would not only showcase the console's capabilities but also bring one of the greatest horror games back to Nintendo, where it all began on the GameCube.
Although a bit of a long shot, Doom: The Dark Ages on the Switch 2 isn't entirely out of the question. Given the success of Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal on the original Switch, and Microsoft's openness to multi-platform releases, it's possible. With more details expected at the upcoming Xbox Developer Direct, a launch date aligning with the Switch 2 could be thrilling.
Stardew Valley's massive success on the Switch makes the Switch 2 an ideal platform for ConcernedApe's next project, The Haunted Chocolatier. Although solo developer Eric Barone mentioned a break from development, a launch year release seems feasible. A launch day debut would be a sweet surprise, offering a unique blend of action-RPG and confectionery simulation.
Lastly, Earthblade, the anticipated follow-up to Celeste by Extremely OK Games, could grace the Switch 2 at launch. With its planned 2025 release and stunning pixel art, it could be the perfect complement to the new hardware. Developer Maddy Thorson's updates keep us hopeful for its timely arrival.
These predictions and hopes for the Nintendo Switch 2's launch day lineup paint an exciting picture. Whether all or just a few of these games make it, the future of gaming on the Switch 2 looks incredibly promising.