Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Lineup: Predicted Games Available

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation is just around the corner, and excitement is building as fans eagerly await its unveiling. Let’s dive into some predictions about what we can expect from this momentous event.

Scheduled for Wednesday morning at 9 a.m. ET, Nintendo is set to reveal crucial details about the Switch 2, including its pricing and release date. While this information is certainly exciting, the real question on everyone’s mind is: what games will be available at launch? As of now, Nintendo has only partially confirmed one game for the Switch 2’s lineup, leaving much to speculation. However, that won’t stop us from making informed guesses about what titles could potentially grace the new console upon its release.

So, without further ado, here are my predictions for the highly anticipated game lineup for the Switch 2 when it launches later this year.

Anticipated Game Lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2 Launch

To clarify, our predictions are largely based on a few brief snippets from the console’s reveal video in January, along with various online rumors and fan theories. But let’s not let the lack of solid information hold us back; let’s explore what could be included in the Switch 2 launch lineup.

Get Ready for the Thrilling Mario Kart 9

During the initial reveal of the Switch 2, Nintendo tantalizingly showcased a few seconds of gameplay from a new Mario Kart title. While this installment is numerically the ninth in the beloved series, it’s quite possible that Nintendo opts for a different name instead of simply calling it Mario Kart 9. What we do know is that the footage hinted at exciting new features, such as an expansion of the racing field from 12 to at least 24 players, and a larger track size that promises even more exhilarating races. Observant fans have also noted changes, including a revamped character design for Donkey Kong and the presence of new fuel tanks on the karts. Additionally, a mysterious orange glowing item pickup was briefly glimpsed, raising curiosity about potential new gameplay mechanics—could a boost meter be on the horizon? As for the release timing, I’m confident that this game will be available as a launch title.

It’s an exciting time for fans of the franchise, and the combination of familiar gameplay and new elements is bound to capture the attention of both loyal players and newcomers alike.

Embark on a New 3D Super Mario Adventure

Regrettably, that’s the last solid prediction I can confidently make about the Switch 2’s launch lineup. However, I can certainly make some educated guesses from this point forward. It has been nearly eight years since the release of the last mainline 3D Super Mario adventure, which was Odyssey during the first year of the Switch’s life. While Odyssey remains a remarkable game, waiting eight years for a new installment is quite lengthy, even by gaming standards. Given this extended gap and the necessity for Nintendo to entice gamers to purchase the Switch 2, it would be highly logical for a fresh adventure featuring the iconic Italian plumber to debut early in the console’s lifecycle.

Whether it launches alongside the console or hits the shelves before the end of 2025, my money is on seeing this game in stores sooner rather than later.

Exciting Prospects for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

This prediction may lean more towards wishful thinking than sober analysis, but I genuinely hope that Metroid Prime 4 becomes a launch title for the Switch 2. Just a few days ago, Nintendo surprised many by dropping a Metroid Prime 4 trailer during a Direct focused on the Switch 1, notably avoiding a specific release date beyond “2025.” This ambiguity leads me to wonder if Prime 4 is intended solely for the first Switch. However, Nintendo is known for its surprising reveals, so it’s possible that we could see another trailer during the Switch 2 Direct, complete with a real release date that aligns with the console’s launch. This would provide the Switch 2 with a more “hardcore” title alongside Mario Kart, especially if the new 3D Mario game isn’t quite ready for release yet.

Expect at Least One Major Third-Party Title

One of the more open-ended predictions on this list is that Nintendo will showcase one or two impressive third-party games during the Direct presentation, allowing fans to see the technical capabilities of the Switch 2 firsthand. Recent reports from well-known leaker NatetheHate hint that titles such as Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater and Final Fantasy VII Remake and Rebirth could be making their way to the Switch 2. With Delta set for release in late August, it remains uncertain whether it will be available at launch, depending on the timing of the Switch 2’s release. The inclusion of Remake and Rebirth would be significant for Nintendo, especially since these titles are not currently accessible on Xbox platforms.

Additionally, the same leaks suggest that Ubisoft may consider bringing one or two recent Assassin’s Creed titles to the new console, including either Mirage, Shadows, or possibly both. If this comes to fruition, I wouldn’t be surprised to see either title featured at launch. Historically, Ubisoft has shown strong support for Nintendo consoles at launch, and these titles could serve as impressive technical showcases to highlight the Switch 2’s performance.

While I lack insider knowledge about this, I can’t shake the feeling that Elden Ring might also make an appearance, which would undoubtedly generate significant buzz within the gaming community.

Potential for a Zelda Remaster

Considering the recent releases of Echoes of Wisdom and Tears of the Kingdom within the last two years, it seems premature to expect a new The Legend of Zelda title at the Switch 2 Direct. I wouldn’t anticipate any announcements regarding a new game during this event.

However, reports from a couple of years ago indicated that Nintendo began showcasing the Switch 2 to corporate partners with an enhanced version of Breath of the Wild, the most notable launch title for the original Switch. Given Nintendo’s penchant for re-releasing popular titles, it wouldn’t be surprising if we see a remastered version of Breath of the Wild—and perhaps even Tears of the Kingdom—early in the Switch 2’s lifecycle.

Other Surprising Candidates for Launch

Returning to the realm of speculative predictions, there are a couple of prominent Nintendo franchises that experienced remarkable success on the original Switch and could benefit from new entries early in the Switch 2’s life. While these titles may not be available right at launch, I wouldn’t be shocked to see announcements for them within a year following the release.

For instance, it has been five years since Animal Crossing: New Horizons became a cultural phenomenon during the pandemic. Given the depth and complexity of these seemingly simple games, a new entry may not be ready for immediate release. However, I would not be entirely surprised to see an announcement regarding Animal Crossing during the Nintendo Direct on Wednesday.

Another major franchise that comes to mind is Fire Emblem. This beloved turn-based tactics/dating simulation series achieved remarkable success with 2019’s Three Houses. Though Engage was released just a couple of years ago, it failed to resonate with players, leaving many hoping for a more captivating follow-up. Whether the upcoming Fire Emblem title is a brand new game or a remake of one of the classic Japan-only titles, I fully expect to see it on the Switch 2, and it could be unveiled during the upcoming Direct event.

While there’s a strong possibility that my predictions may not come to fruition, I believe they are grounded in reasonable speculation. Feel free to share your thoughts, and if I’m way off, you can throw some virtual tomatoes my way!