With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, speculation is rife about its launch day lineup. While no official announcements exist, we can make educated guesses based on Nintendo's history and recent indie game announcements. Some predictions, like a new Mario game, feel almost certain. However, we also hope to see some exciting new projects from beloved indie developers.
Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025
3 Images
While expecting all these games on day one is optimistic, even half would make for a stellar launch. Here are our hopeful predictions for the Switch 2 launch titles:
Mario Kart 9
Over a decade since Mario Kart 8's Wii U release, its continued success on the Switch (with DLC expanding it to 96 tracks) makes a sequel highly probable. A "new twist" was reportedly in development in 2022, though unconfirmed. We hope this new entry builds upon the series' history while introducing innovative gameplay for another decade of success, ideally launching alongside the Switch 2.
New 3D Super Mario
The Switch's relative lack of 3D Mario titles since Super Mario Odyssey (2017) is surprising, especially considering the legacy of Super Mario 64 and Mario Galaxy. A new 3D platformer with innovative abilities and level design would be a welcome addition, and pairing it with a new Mario Kart at launch would be a powerful statement.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Metroid Prime 4, initially announced in 2017, faced development delays and a studio change before re-emerging in 2024 as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. The gameplay reveal hinted at impressive visuals, leading to speculation about its potential Switch 2 release. A launch day appearance would end the long wait for this highly anticipated title.
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. We anticipate backward compatibility, potentially with enhanced versions leveraging the Switch 2's rumored power for improved visuals and performance. Experiencing Hyrule in crisp 4K would be a dream come true.
Ring Fit Adventure 2
Nintendo often includes a unique title at launch. Ring Fit Adventure, despite its unconventional premise, sold over 15 million copies. A sequel utilizing the Switch 2's capabilities could be a compelling launch title.
Resident Evil 4 Remake
The original Switch lacked the power for Capcom's Resident Evil 4 Remake. The Switch 2, however, could easily handle this critically acclaimed title, making a launch day release a strong possibility and a fitting return to Nintendo after its GameCube debut.
Doom: The Dark Ages
This is a bolder prediction. Given the success of Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal on Switch and Microsoft's platform expansion, Doom: The Dark Ages on Switch 2 is plausible. A launch date reveal alongside the Xbox Developer Direct would be a significant event.
The Haunted Chocolatier
Following the massive success of Stardew Valley, developer ConcernedApe's The Haunted Chocolatier is highly anticipated. While a launch day release may be unlikely given its development status, a launch year release on the Switch 2 would be a significant win for the platform.
Earthblade
Earthblade, the successor to the acclaimed Celeste, is another strong indie contender. With a 2025 release window already announced, a Switch 2 launch is within the realm of possibility.
