With the Nintendo Switch 2 rumors gaining traction, speculation is running wild regarding the console’s potential launch games. Nintendo has a history of delivering strong first-party titles at launch, and third-party developers are expected to push the hardware to new heights.
While no official lineup has been confirmed, several highly anticipated titles are rumored to be in development for the Switch 2. These games are expected to take full advantage of the console’s upgraded power, bringing enhanced visuals, improved performance, and immersive gameplay. Here’s a detailed look at the strongest contenders for the Nintendo Switch 2 launch lineup.
1. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
One of the most anticipated titles in Nintendo’s history, Metroid Prime 4 was originally announced for the Nintendo Switch but faced a complete restart in development under Retro Studios. With no concrete updates for years, the game is now widely expected to be a flagship title for the Switch 2.
The new hardware could allow for higher fidelity environments, smoother aiming controls, and ray-tracing effects to enhance the sci-fi atmosphere. Given the franchise’s legacy, launching alongside the Switch 2 would solidify the console as a must-have for hardcore gamers.
2. Mario Kart 9
Nintendo’s best-selling franchise is long overdue for a new entry. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe continues to dominate sales charts, but a next-gen sequel would be the perfect way to showcase the capabilities of the Switch 2.
Features we would like to see in Mario Kart 9:
- A brand-new physics engine for more realistic drifts and boosts.
- Dynamic weather effects that impact track conditions.
- A significantly expanded roster featuring characters from across Nintendo’s history.
Given its immense popularity, a new Mario Kart would instantly boost Switch 2 sales worldwide.
3. A New 3D Super Mario Game
Every major Nintendo console launch is accompanied by a definitive Super Mario title, and the Switch 2 is unlikely to be an exception.
While Super Mario Odyssey pushed the boundaries of 3D platforming, a new installment could take things even further with:
- Larger open-world-style levels inspired by Breath of the Wild.
- More interactive environments where Mario’s hat abilities evolve.
- Enhanced multiplayer mechanics, similar to Bowser’s Fury.
With Nintendo’s internal teams working on multiple projects, a next-gen Mario game seems inevitable for the Switch 2’s debut.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom Enhanced Editions
Nintendo has a history of remastering its flagship Zelda titles for new hardware, and the Switch 2 is the perfect opportunity to enhance Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.
Potential improvements could include:
- A higher frame rate (60 FPS or beyond) for smoother gameplay.
- Native 4K resolution to fully showcase Hyrule’s breathtaking world.
- Ray-traced lighting and environmental effects for increased immersion.
Given how these two games defined the open-world genre, enhanced versions would be an instant system-seller for the Switch 2.
5. Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Ubisoft’s upcoming feudal Japan entry in the Assassin’s Creed series is expected to release across multiple platforms, and the Switch 2’s rumored power boost could allow a fully-fledged version of the game to run natively.
Unlike cloud-streamed versions seen on the Switch, this installment could feature:
- Full open-world exploration without streaming limitations.
- Next-gen combat mechanics optimized for Switch 2 hardware.
- Higher resolution textures and improved AI behavior.
The ability to play a major Assassin’s Creed title on a handheld device would set the Switch 2 apart from its competitors.
6. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
The remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater is one of the most ambitious projects in Konami’s recent history. With enhanced graphics, modernized controls, and a faithful recreation of Hideo Kojima’s legendary stealth gameplay, this could be one of the biggest third-party launches on the Switch 2.
A handheld version running natively with optimized controls would be a massive draw for fans of tactical espionage action.
7. Resident Evil 4 Remake
Capcom’s remake of Resident Evil 4 has already set a new benchmark for survival horror. Given Capcom’s history of bringing Resident Evil games to Nintendo platforms, a Switch 2 port makes perfect sense.
With improved performance and graphical fidelity, players could experience Leon Kennedy’s mission in stunning handheld form—a first for a fully upgraded RE4 experience on a Nintendo console.
8. Monster Hunter Wilds & Rise HD
The Monster Hunter franchise thrives on handheld platforms, and Capcom has already confirmed that Monster Hunter Wilds will be a next-generation title. If the Switch 2 is powerful enough, Wilds could make its way to the system, bringing seamless open-world hunting and breathtaking monster encounters to portable players.
Additionally, a high-resolution remaster of Monster Hunter Rise could launch alongside it, allowing fans to revisit Kamura Village with improved visuals, faster load times, and upgraded performance.
9. DOOM: The Dark Ages
DOOM has been a major presence on the Switch, and Bethesda’s rumored new installment, DOOM: The Dark Ages, is expected to push first-person shooter mechanics into new territory.
If the Switch 2 has enhanced CPU and GPU capabilities, it could allow for:
- More enemies on screen at once without frame rate drops.
- Real-time lighting and destruction physics.
- Faster load times for instant-action gameplay.
Given the success of DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal on Switch, this would be a high-profile shooter for launch.
10. DRAGON BALL: SPARKING! ZERO
A new 3D arena fighter based on Dragon Ball Z is exactly the kind of action-packed title that could take advantage of the Switch 2’s improved performance.
- Smoother animations and destructible environments.
- A massive roster of characters spanning Dragon Ball’s history.
- Online multiplayer modes optimized for the new hardware.
Given the popularity of Dragon Ball games on Switch, this could be a standout title for anime and fighting game fans.
Final Thoughts: A Powerful Launch Lineup
The Nintendo Switch 2 launch games are shaping up to be an exciting mix of first-party Nintendo masterpieces and major third-party blockbusters.
- Nintendo staples like Metroid Prime 4, Mario Kart 9, and a new 3D Mario game will ensure strong system sales.
- Third-party hits like Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Resident Evil 4 Remake, and Metal Gear Solid Delta will bring AAA gaming to handheld form.
- Monster Hunter, DOOM, and Dragon Ball titles will provide something for every type of player.
With so many high-profile titles rumored, the Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be the company’s strongest launch ever.
Would you pick up the Switch 2 on day one if this lineup becomes a reality?
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