With the Nintendo Switch 2's imminent arrival, speculation abounds regarding its launch titles. While an official lineup remains elusive, let's explore some highly anticipated possibilities, blending established Nintendo franchises with promising indie projects.
While a day-one release of all these titles is wishful thinking, even a partial inclusion would make for a stellar launch. Here are our top picks:
1. Mario Kart 9
A successor to the wildly successful Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is practically guaranteed. Rumors of a "new twist" in development since 2022 fuel anticipation for fresh gameplay mechanics, building upon the series' legacy while pushing its boundaries. A Switch 2 launch title would be a significant boon for Nintendo.
2. New 3D Super Mario Title
The Switch's relative lack of 3D Mario titles since Super Mario Odyssey (2017) creates substantial demand. A new entry, brimming with innovative gameplay, level design, and collectibles, would be a powerful statement, potentially alongside Mario Kart 9 or shortly thereafter.
3. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
After years of anticipation and a developer change, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond’s gameplay reveal hinted at impressive visuals, potentially exceeding the original Switch's capabilities. A Switch 2 launch would mark a triumphant return for this beloved franchise.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom Enhanced Editions
Backward compatibility is expected, but enhanced versions of these masterpieces, leveraging the Switch 2's rumored power for improved visuals and performance (e.g., 4K resolution, stable framerate), would be a welcome addition.
5. Ring Fit Adventure 2
Nintendo often includes a unique title at launch. The success of Ring Fit Adventure suggests a sequel utilizing the Switch 2's enhanced capabilities could be a strong contender, offering a fresh take on fitness gaming.
6. Resident Evil 4 Remake
The Switch's limitations prevented the original Resident Evil 4 Remake from appearing. The Switch 2's increased power could finally bring this critically acclaimed title to Nintendo's console.
7. Doom: The Dark Ages
With previous Doom titles on Switch and Microsoft's expanding cross-platform strategy, Doom: The Dark Ages on Switch 2 is a plausible, albeit bold, prediction.
8. The Haunted Chocolatier
Following the immense success of Stardew Valley, The Haunted Chocolatier from the same developer could be a perfect fit for the Switch 2, offering a compelling blend of simulation and RPG elements. A launch-year release seems more likely than a day-one launch.
9. Earthblade
As a successor to the beloved Celeste, Earthblade's unique blend of exploration and action, coupled with its stunning pixel art, aligns well with the Switch 2's potential audience. A 2025 release is plausible, potentially coinciding with the console's launch.