Gamers Anticipate Switch 2 Launch Lineup

With the Nintendo Switch 2's imminent arrival, speculation about its launch titles is rampant. While an official lineup remains elusive, let's explore some likely and hoped-for contenders. Nintendo boasts a strong portfolio of established franchises, making certain predictions – like a new Mario title – highly probable. However, we also anticipate exciting new projects from acclaimed indie developers.

Genki Nintendo Switch 2 Mockup Images from CES 2025

While expecting all these games on day one is optimistic, even a partial release would be thrilling. Here are our predictions (and hopes) for the Switch 2 launch lineup:

Mario Kart 9

Over a decade since Mario Kart 8's Wii U debut, its Switch iteration, bolstered by DLC, boasts 96 tracks, becoming a best-seller on both platforms. A sequel is highly anticipated. While a "new twist" was rumored in 2022, official confirmation is pending. We hope for innovative features to propel the franchise forward, ideally launching alongside the Switch 2.

A New 3D Super Mario Game

The Switch surprisingly only features one new 3D Mario title (Super Mario Odyssey, released in 2017) besides a Super Mario 3D World port. The absence of Odyssey DLC further fuels anticipation for a new installment. A launch-day release alongside a new Mario Kart would be a powerful statement, showcasing the future of Nintendo's flagship franchise.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Metroid Prime 4, initially announced in 2017, experienced development delays and a studio change (from Bandai Namco to Retro Studios). Now titled Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, its gameplay trailer hints at impressive visuals, potentially exceeding the original Switch's capabilities. A Switch 2 launch would perfectly cap off the long wait.

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

These Switch masterpieces deserve a place on the new console. Backward compatibility is hoped for, ideally with a performance boost. Enhanced versions leveraging the Switch 2's power, offering 4K resolution and improved framerates, would be a welcome addition.

Ring Fit Adventure 2

Nintendo often includes unique titles at console launches. Ring Fit Adventure, a fitness-focused RPG, sold over 15 million copies. A sequel leveraging the Switch 2's capabilities would be a fitting addition, showcasing innovative controller use.

Resident Evil 4 Remake

The original Switch lacked the power for Capcom's impressive Resident Evil 4 Remake. The Switch 2, however, could provide a suitable platform, showcasing its graphical capabilities. A launch-day release would be a significant accomplishment.

Doom: The Dark Ages

This is a bolder prediction. Given the success of Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal on Switch, and Microsoft's platform openness, a Switch 2 release is plausible. Further details at the Xbox Developer Direct could confirm this.

The Haunted Chocolatier

Following the success of Stardew Valley, ConcernedApe's The Haunted Chocolatier is highly anticipated. A Switch 2 launch would be a perfect fit, offering a compelling handheld experience. While a launch-day release might be ambitious, a launch-year window seems more realistic.

Earthblade

Another indie sequel, Earthblade from Extremely OK Games (creators of Celeste), is a promising "2D explor-action" title. A 2025 release was hinted at, aligning with the potential for a Switch 2 launch.

The Switch 2 launch lineup holds immense potential. A blend of established franchises and exciting indie titles could define a new era of gaming.