With the official unveiling of the Nintendo Switch 2, excitement builds around the potential game lineup set to accompany its launch later this year. As we count down the months to the anticipated April 2nd Nintendo Direct presentation, it provides ample opportunity to speculate and predict which titles will be available on day one.
For context, the Nintendo Switch initially launched on March 3, 2017, with an impressive roster of day-one titles in North America, including:
- 1-2-Switch
- Just Dance 2017
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- Skylanders: Imaginators
- Super Bomberman R
- I Am Setsuna
- Snipperclips
- Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
- Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment
- Fast RMX
Now, let’s dive into our predictions for the Nintendo Switch 2 launch game lineup.
10 Mario Kart 9
The only confirmed Switch 2 title
Mario Kart 9 is the lone game that has been confirmed during the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal, making it a likely candidate for launch day. Although Mario Kart 8 Deluxe was not a day-one release, it was launched within the initial window and has consistently been a best-seller.
The initial footage of Mario Kart 9 teases the introduction of 24-player races, a feature that could raise the excitement bar significantly. More details are expected in the coming months.
9 Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
A return to form
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is still considered a Nintendo Switch title, although its simultaneous launch alongside its predecessor is not unprecedented, as seen with both Breath of the Wild and Twilight Princess. Despite the limited information shared since its teaser trailer last year, the game could potentially serve as both a concluding chapter for the original Switch and a showcase for the enhanced capabilities of the Switch 2.
8 Legend of Zelda Remasters
An overdue release?
Rumors persist about Nintendo remastering fan-favorite titles like Wind Waker and Twilight Princess, which have been highly anticipated among the community. The absence of these releases during the franchise’s 35th anniversary celebration left many fans hopeful for an imminent announcement, particularly following the successful launch of Metroid Prime Remastered in 2023.
There is a strong possibility that these remasters could arrive in time for the Switch 2’s launch, potentially delivering a nostalgic experience for long-time fans and attracting new players.
7 Pokémon Legends: Z-A
A new journey beckons
Though Pokémon Legends: Z-A is slated for a 2025 release, it has yet to be categorized among upcoming Nintendo Switch titles. As the sequel to the original Pokémon Legends, this installment is expected to take players to the vibrant Lumoise City in the Kalos region.
Nintendo understands the marketing power of Pokémon and is likely strategizing to leverage this franchise to drive sales for the Switch 2.
6 Hollow Knight: Silksong
An indie sequel in the balance
The anticipation for Hollow Knight: Silksong continues to grow, as fans widely recognize its potential importance within the gaming scene. Given the success of its predecessor, which launched with the original Switch, it’s presumed that the release of Silksong alongside the new console is possible.
5 Halo: Master Chief Collection
Could Master Chief make an appearance?
If Microsoft is serious about expanding its game catalog to other platforms, launching the Master Chief Collection on the Nintendo Switch 2 could be a groundbreaking move. This would demonstrate a new era of collaboration between two major gaming powerhouses.
Given that reports indicate the Switch 2 matches the power of a PS4 Pro, handling the Master Chief Collection should be well within its capabilities. This would surely enhance the Switch’s appeal and expand its audience.
4 Ring of Fire
An ambitious crossover
The successful release of Dark Souls Remastered on the Nintendo Switch demonstrates the platform’s capacity for FromSoftware’s challenging titles. A partnership releasing Elden Ring, coupled with the expected Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, would significantly bolster the Switch 2’s third-party support and appeal to fans of the genre.
3 Madden and EA Sports College Football
A sports showdown
While Madden NFL 25 was available on Steam, interest in EA Sports College Football 25 reveals a gap in mobile accessibility within gaming. Historically, EA Sports has supported Nintendo at launch, and there’s potential for them to leverage the capability of the Switch 2.
With expectations for impressive sales, EA Sports would certainly want to tap into the Nintendo market with titles like Madden NFL and College Football 25.
2 Call of Duty
A long-awaited return
Call of Duty has not graced a Nintendo console since Call of Duty: Ghosts made its debut on the Wii U in 2013. Given the anticipation surrounding the Switch 2 and its enhanced hardware capabilities, the franchise is primed for a comeback.
With Black Ops 6 designated for last-generation consoles, the Switch 2 presents a suitable environment for this acclaimed shooter to thrive once again.
1 Just Dance
The dance continues
It may not be the most thrilling prediction, but Just Dance is almost guaranteed to return as a staple launch game. Having debuted alongside the original Switch, the franchise’s continued success suggests a familiar path for the Switch 2.
With the expected inclusion of gyro controls in the new joy-cons, Just Dance seems to be an optimal choice to cater to casual gamers and maintain its legacy within Nintendo’s console lineup.
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