Super Smash Bros. Ultimate stands as a cornerstone of the Nintendo Switch’s gaming offerings, fueling speculation about how the impending launch of the Switch 2 might impact this beloved series. Although there has been no official announcement regarding a new installment in the Super Smash Bros.franchise, introducing a refreshed version as a launch title could strategically enhance Nintendo’s momentum in capitalizing on the game’s extensive popularity.
Since its launch in 2018, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has enjoyed a remarkably successful seven-year run. Ranked as the third highest-selling Switch game in the past year, its enduring popularity is evidenced by a dedicated player base that continues to engage with the game long after its debut. Unfortunately, recent communications have indicated that no new content updates, including minor additions like last year’s extra spirit fighters, are planned for Smash Ultimate moving forward. With the Switch 2 set to debut later this year, a new iteration of this iconic title could be just what fans need to transition to the next generation without losing touch with their cherished games.
Smash Ultimate Faces a Halt in Updates
Unlike many other titles, Smash Ultimate has continued to receive updates even years after its initial release. Its ongoing success has even led to an array of bug fixes and limited new content as recent as October 2024. DLC introduced many fan-favorite characters such as Joker, Steve, and Sora shortly after the game’s launch. Despite some minor updates over recent years, game director Masahiro Sakurai has officially stated that no further content will be added to Smash Ultimate.
Noteworthy DLC characters that were not part of the original game include:
- Piranha Plant
- Joker
- Hero
- Banjo & Kazooie
- Terry Bogard
- Byleth
- My My
- Steve / Alex
- Sephiroth
- Pyra / Mythra
- Kazuya
- Sora
With the cessation of updates and the new console on the horizon, many enthusiasts are speculating about potential new directions for the Smash Bros.franchise. Although no announcements have emerged regarding a new title, there is hope that a definitive edition of Smash Ultimate might be launched for the Switch 2. Fortunately, plans for cross-generation compatibility suggest that players will be able to access Smash Ultimate on the new console without needing to repurchase it. However, a newly updated version that bundles all DLC could greatly enhance the initial sales momentum of the Switch 2, thereby capitalizing on the ongoing popularity of Smash Ultimate as a quintessential multiplayer experience.
When Might We See a Hypothetical Definitive Edition of Smash Bros. Ultimate?
While no definitive edition of Smash Ultimate has been confirmed, the idea aligns perfectly with Nintendo’s history of launching successful titles alongside new console releases. Such a version could include newer fighters introduced in recent DLCs and possibly even offer fresh content like new Mii costumes or additional spirit fighters drawn from more recent games. Although details about titles slated for the Switch 2 remain scant, a dedicated Nintendo Direct presentation scheduled for April aims to unveil significant news, including potential launch lineups.
Nintendo has a longstanding tradition of debuting new Smash Bros.games with each console release since the N64 era. Although a re-release may not equate to a brand new game, offering a definitive edition at launch could serve as a temporary solution for gamers awaiting a seventh installment in this beloved series. It is essential to recognize that Masahiro Sakurai is involved in various projects, necessitating adequate time for each endeavor. A definitive edition of Smash Ultimate could provide Switch 2 players with an updated entry while they await future developments. Regardless of whether a new game or a revamped edition materializes, fans remain eager for announcements during the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 4th.
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