Predicting the Switch 2 Launch Games

With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, speculation is rife about its launch day lineup. While no official list exists, we can make educated guesses, combining likely Nintendo titles with anticipated releases from beloved indie developers.

While a day-one release of all these games is wishful thinking, even half would make for a stellar launch. Here are our hopeful predictions:

High-Probability Nintendo Titles:

• Mario Kart 9: Given Mario Kart 8's phenomenal success, a sequel is practically guaranteed. A "new twist" is rumored, promising fresh innovation while retaining the series' core appeal. A Switch 2 launch title would be a powerful statement.

• New 3D Super Mario: The Switch surprisingly lacks a robust selection of 3D Mario titles. A new entry, brimming with inventive gameplay, would be a highly anticipated launch title, potentially alongside Mario Kart 9 or shortly thereafter.

• Metroid Prime 4: Beyond: After a prolonged development period and a studio change, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is finally nearing completion. Its smooth gameplay suggests it could be a perfect showcase for the Switch 2's capabilities.

• 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 4K and improved frame rates) would be a welcome addition.

High-Potential Third-Party and Indie Titles:

• Ring Fit Adventure 2: The success of Ring Fit Adventure makes a sequel highly plausible. It could showcase new controller features and further refine the unique fitness-RPG hybrid.

• Resident Evil 4 Remake: While the original Switch couldn't handle it, the Switch 2 might offer a portable experience for this acclaimed remake.

• Doom: The Dark Ages: With previous Doom titles on Switch and Microsoft's cross-platform strategy, a Switch 2 release is a possibility.

• The Haunted Chocolatier: A launch-year release seems more likely than launch-day, but this charming sequel to Stardew Valley would be a perfect fit for the Switch 2's handheld mode.

• Earthblade: A follow-up to the critically acclaimed Celeste, Earthblade's 2025 release window leaves open the possibility of a Switch 2 launch alongside or shortly after.

The Switch 2's launch lineup will undoubtedly be a significant event. These titles represent a strong mix of anticipated sequels, new IPs, and indie darlings that could define the console's early success.