Overview
- Nintendo has officially announced the Switch 2, with a Direct presentation planned for April 2, 2025, hinting at a possible June launch.
- Exciting titles such as Microsoft’s Master Chief Collection, Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Square Enix’s Final Fantasy 7 Remake could be among the lineup for the new console.
- The launch lineup is expected to include a 4K-enhanced version of “Breath of the Wild,””Mario Kart 9,”a new 3D Mario entry, and potentially a version of “Cyberpunk 2077.”
After extensive anticipation and numerous leaks, Nintendo has revealed their next-generation gaming console, aptly named the Switch 2. With a projected release in June 2025 and a Direct scheduled to showcase this console on April 2, 2025, the excitement surrounding this announcement marks a significant moment for gaming. The first iteration was praised for its innovative gameplay, and fans are eager to see how Nintendo plans to build upon that success.
The initial game lineup is still shrouded in mystery, but it has a formidable legacy to uphold. The original Switch launched with the critically acclaimed “Breath of the Wild”and followed up with “Super Mario Odyssey.”Anticipation is high, and many speculate that the upcoming titles may range from iconic first-party franchises to ambitious third-party ports that could redefine the console’s impact over its lifespan. The year following the Switch 2’s launch promises to deliver unforgettable gaming experiences.
10 Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Master Chief Could Make His Nintendo Debut
The gaming landscape has evolved considerably, and the era of fierce console rivalry is giving way to a more collaborative approach among major players. Microsoft has increasingly embraced cross-platform opportunities, evidenced by the availability of titles like Sea of Thieves and Pentiment on Nintendo systems. The potential arrival of Halo: The Master Chief Collection on the Switch 2 represents a significant shift, marking the iconic character’s crossover into Nintendo territory.
Rumors suggest that this beloved collection could debut on both the PS5 and Switch 2 in 2025. This would symbolize a major industry transition, as Microsoft’s pivot towards software over hardware continues to gain traction. While an official announcement isn’t expected until their Developer Direct on January 23, the excitement generated from this possibility alone could amp up interest in the Switch 2’s launch.
9 A New Star Fox Game
Return of Star Fox: A Long-Awaited Comeback
After the last major release, Star Fox Zero, which debuted on Wii U back in 2016, beloved character Fox McCloud has been noticeably absent. With nearly a decade since the franchise’s last title, fans argue that it’s high time for Star Fox to make a grand return, especially on the Switch 2.
To captivate audiences, a new installment should ideally merge classic elements of previous games with fresh mechanics. Envisioning a mix of traditional rail-shooter gameplay combined with on-foot exploration, inspired by titles such as Star Fox Adventures and Assault, could turn a new Star Fox game into a standout offering during the Switch 2’s inaugural year.
8 Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Samus Aran Returns: A Long-Awaited Reintroduction
Metroid Prime 4 has faced its share of challenges since its initial unveiling at E3 2017. Following several delays and a shift in development to Retro Studios, the project has finally resurfaced, now rebranded as “Metroid Prime 4: Beyond”and scheduled for release in 2025
Despite the anticipated date, there’s still a chance that this highly awaited title could face further delays, possibly pushing to 2026. The big question remains: will it come out as a next-gen version or simply as a native Switch 2 game? Regardless, the excitement for Samus’s latest quest is palpable, particularly as fans eagerly await her return after an eighteen-year absence since the last Prime title, “Corruption.”
7 The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild 4K
Experience Link’s Journey in Stunning 4K
The illustrious The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild helped to define the Switch’s launch year, quickly cementing its status as a masterpiece in the franchise with over 30 million units sold globally. Following the release of its sequel, “Tears of the Kingdom,”in 2020, producer Eiji Aonuma hinted that upcoming entries will explore new directions.
Given the Switch 2’s potential for enhanced graphics, there is a strong possibility that an upgraded version of Breath of the Wild will be released, showcasing the console’s advanced capabilities. This might include remarkable features such as 4K resolution and 60fps performance utilizing DLSS technology. Furthermore, there’s speculation about a potential next-gen update for “Tears of the Kingdom,”which may be reserved for later years.
6 Red Dead Redemption 2
Experience the Wild West with Red Dead Redemption 2
In a surprising turn of events, Rockstar successfully launched the original Red Dead Redemption on the Switch in August 2023. While fans thought hope was lost for the sequel’s arrival on the handheld, the forthcoming Switch 2 now appears to be the ideal platform for Red Dead Redemption 2.
Unlike its predecessor, which was limited by the original Switch’s hardware, the new console is expected to perform within the realm of PS4 and PS4 Pro, expanding the potential for showcasing visually stunning games. A port of Red Dead Redemption 2 would be a major flagship title for the Switch 2, potentially even serving as a launch title later this year.
5 Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Ubisoft’s New Assassin’s Creed Title Set for Potential Switch 2 Launch
Nintendo’s partnership with Ubisoft has flourished, particularly after the success of “Mario+Rabbids: Kingdom Battle”and its sequel “Sparks of Hope.”As the relationship continues, the upcoming Assassin’s Creed Shadows, set in feudal Japan, is expected to arrive in March 2025—well in advance of the Switch 2’s launch.
This could position Assassin’s Creed Shadows as a flagship title during the Switch 2’s launch year, further solidifying Ubisoft’s commitment to the Nintendo ecosystem. Anticipated by fans, Shadows promises to provide a captivating experience that fits perfectly within the initial offerings for the new console.
4 Cyberpunk 2077
Discover Night City with Next-Gen Cyberpunk 2077
Despite a challenging launch, CD Projekt Red has revitalized Cyberpunk 2077 through continuous updates and enhancements, transforming it into a beloved gaming experience. Given its resurgence, it is highly likely that the developer will seek to make this title available on additional platforms.
A next-gen version of Cyberpunk 2077 tailored for the Switch 2 could allow an entirely new audience to engage in V’s journey through Night City, alongside Keanu Reeves’s unforgettable portrayal of Johnny Silverhand. Inclusion of the 2024 expansion, “Phantom Liberty,”would undoubtedly enhance the overall offering, making it an enticing prospect for early adopters.
3 Final Fantasy 7 Remake
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Could Launch with Switch 2
The original “Final Fantasy 7“faced some complicated history following a divide between Squaresoft and Nintendo, leading to its absence from earlier consoles. Although the game made its way to the Switch in 2019, the prospect of Final Fantasy 7 Remake launching on the Switch 2 is an appealing thought for fans.
Industry insiders have reported that Square Enix is seeking to diversify their offerings across various platforms as part of a new strategy, potentially paving the way for the Remake’s availability on the Switch 2. Additionally, there is speculation surrounding whether the sequel, 2024’s “Rebirth,”might be part of this push, although if so, its arrival could be limited to 2026.
2 Mario Kart 9
A New Chapter in Mario Kart: Mario Kart 9
One of the most exciting confirmations stemming from the Switch 2 announcement is the development of Mario Kart 9. This title commanded attention in the promotional video, showcasing enhanced graphics and a striking visual style reminiscent of “Super Mario Wonder,”with even more vibrant character designs.
Details regarding gameplay mechanics remain under wraps, but there is speculation regarding an expanded driver count. While no specific release timeline has been established, Mario Kart 9 could potentially launch alongside the Switch 2 or grace the holiday season later in the year. Given the legacy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which while exceptional, is essentially a remaster of an older title, the prospect of a fresh installment is long overdue.
1 A New 3D Mario
A Fresh 3D Mario Adventure Is Essential
The iconic Super Mario Odyssey made waves eight years ago with its release in October 2017. Given the considerable interval since then, the demand for a new 3D Mario title has only intensified. Fans have been buzzing with speculation about a new Mario adventure, especially leading up to the Switch 2’s highly anticipated reveal. The last Nintendo console to launch alongside a Mario title was the Wii U in 2012, signaling the need for a fresh experience.
Rumors indicate that the expansion “Bowser’s Fury,”tacked onto the Switch version of “Super Mario 3D World,”was a testing ground for innovative gameplay styles within the franchise. A large-scale, open-world 3D Mario adventure with fewer constraints could be precisely what the community is yearning for. This could further amplify the Switch 2’s launch, coinciding with Mario’s 40th anniversary, creating a perfect opportunity for celebration.
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