With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, speculation is rife about its launch day lineup. While no official titles have been announced, we can make some educated guesses based on Nintendo's history and current projects. Some predictions are highly probable, while others represent hopeful wishes for exciting new releases.
Genki Nintendo Switch 2 Mockup Images from CES 2025
3 Images
While a day-one release of all these games is unlikely, even a partial appearance would make for a stellar launch. Here are our predictions (and hopes) for the Switch 2's debut:
High Probability Titles:
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Mario Kart 9: Following the decade-long success of Mario Kart 8, a new installment is almost guaranteed. Rumors suggest a "new twist," promising fresh innovation while retaining the series' core appeal. A Switch 2 launch title would be a powerful marketing move.
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New 3D Super Mario: The Switch has surprisingly lacked substantial 3D Mario titles beyond Super Mario Odyssey. A new entry, brimming with inventive gameplay and collectibles, is highly anticipated and would be a perfect launch companion to Mario Kart 9.
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Metroid Prime 4: Beyond: After years of anticipation and a developer change, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is nearing completion. Its recent gameplay reveal hinted at impressive visuals, suggesting a Switch 2 release is probable.
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The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Enhanced: Backward compatibility is expected, but enhanced versions leveraging the Switch 2's power (potentially in 4K) would be a welcome addition.
Potential Launch Titles (with varying likelihoods):
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Ring Fit Adventure 2: The success of the original Ring Fit Adventure makes a sequel plausible. A launch title would showcase the Switch 2's motion control capabilities.
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Resident Evil 4 Remake: The original Switch's limitations prevented the RE4 Remake's release. The Switch 2's enhanced power could make this a strong launch title, showcasing the console's graphical capabilities.
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Doom: The Dark Ages: Given the success of previous Doom titles on Switch and Microsoft's expanding platform reach, a Switch 2 release isn't out of the question. A launch day release would be a bold move.
Strong Indie Contenders (less likely for launch day, but possible in the launch window):
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The Haunted Chocolatier: The highly anticipated follow-up to Stardew Valley from ConcernedApe. While a launch day release is less likely due to the developer's solo status, a launch year release is plausible.
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Earthblade: The successor to Celeste, Earthblade is a promising title. While a 2025 release is targeted, a Switch 2 launch alongside other titles is within the realm of possibility.
Ultimately, the Switch 2's launch lineup remains a mystery. However, these predictions offer a glimpse into what could be a truly exciting launch for Nintendo's next-generation console.
