Nintendo has made a remarkable impact on the gaming world with iconic franchises like The Legend of Zelda, Mario, Star Fox, and Animal Crossing. Many beloved series have seen fresh installments on the Nintendo Switch, while others remain frustratingly stagnant. Nintendo’s upcoming console, the Switch 2, presents an ideal opportunity to revive some of these dormant titles and give fans the sequels they’ve been eagerly anticipating.
This article highlights ten game series that deserve new life on the Switch 2, whether as launch titles or as future releases during the console’s lifecycle. From renowned classics to hidden gems, it’s time these franchises, both mainstream and niche, receive the sequels they rightfully merit.
10 The Stretchers (Tarsier Studios)
A Fun Co-Op Indie That Needs A More Ambitious Sequel
Among the innovative co-op titles released during the Switch’s extensive lifecycle, The Stretchers from Tarsier Studios stood out as a quirky, physics-driven experience. Drawing parallels with games like Moving Out and Overcooked, it is a delightful adventure where players embark on whimsical missions to rescue people or gather items using a stretcher.
Despite its unique charm and contrasting nature to Tarsier’s darker title Little Nightmares, The Stretchers has not received due recognition. With its mix of open-world exploration and hilariously chaotic co-op gameplay, a more expansive sequel could effectively elevate it into the gaming mainstream on the Switch 2.
9 Good Job! (Paladin Studios)
A Short Puzzle Game That Should Get More Recognition
Good Job! also emerged as an entertaining experiment during the Switch era, blending physics-based mechanics with puzzling scenarios. Similar to The Stretchers, it allowed players to tackle various office tasks creatively, either solo or cooperatively.
Despite its merits, Good Job! has not achieved the cult following it deserves. The foundation it lays supports further innovation in the cooperative puzzle landscape, making a sequel on the Switch 2 not only a possibility but a necessity.
8 Advance Wars (Intelligent Systems)
It Only Got A Remake On Switch
Advance Wars by Intelligent Systems cleverly adapted the fire emblem strategic gameplay into modern warfare on the Game Boy Advance. Despite the success of two original entries and a handful of sequels on other platforms, the series has been dormant since the last entry in 2008, aside from a remake for the Switch.
This lack of attention is surprising, especially with the Fire Emblem series enjoying a revival. Given the growing demand for strategy games, it’s time for Nintendo to reignite the Advance Wars series and give it the love it deserves.
7 Fire Emblem: Three Houses (Intelligent Systems/Koei Tecmo)
One Of The Best Entries In The Franchise’s History
Among Nintendo’s best strategy games, Fire Emblem: Three Houses remains a standout title on the Switch. This entry revolutionized the series with its mixture of combat, storytelling, and life-sim elements, setting a high bar.
While later installments have emerged, none have matched the depth of Three Houses. Although a direct sequel may be impractical, a spiritual successor or a return to the game’s rich universe on the Switch 2 could spark renewed interest and capitalize on its memorable elements.
6 Astral Chain (Platinum Games)
A Unique Action Game That Would Benefit From A Bigger Sequel
Astral Chain from PlatinumGames stands as a bold entry into the action genre, offering a captivating sci-fi narrative. Its innovative combat system, set against a dynamic cyberpunk backdrop, captivated many players.
While the original was impressive, its full potential was constrained by the Switch’s hardware limits. A sequel on the more capable Switch 2 could explore its universe more deeply and enhance its combat mechanics. Fans are eager for that next thrilling chapter in the Astral Chain saga.
5 EarthBound (Ape Inc./HAL Laboratory)
One Of The Most Requested Nintendo Sequels
The EarthBound series, known as Mother in Japan, has garnered a massive cult following thanks to its unique RPG mechanics, endearing setting, and relatable themes.Mother 3, in particular, has become legendary, especially in the West, despite never receiving an official localization.
With characters like Ness and Lucas prominently featured in Super Smash Bros., fans are perplexed by the lack of new entries, including the omission of Mother 3 for Western readers. The potential for a new EarthBound game on the Switch 2 is staggering, particularly in the current era where indie RPGs thrive.
4 Star Fox (Nintendo)
It Has Been Too Long Since The Last Game
Star Fox stands as one of Nintendo’s iconic franchises, yet its last mainline entry, Star Fox Zero, suffered critical setbacks. Despite the franchise’s considerable legacy and impact, legitimate fears persist that it will fade away entirely.
While appearances in titles like Starlink: Battle For Atlas have kept the franchise in the spotlight, dedicated fans have been waiting for a genuine Star Fox game. A new installment utilizing the enhanced capabilities of the Switch 2 could reintroduce the series to both old fans and a new generation of players.
3 Pokémon Stadium (HAL Laboratory)
An Excellent Take On The Fighting Genre
Several Pokémon spin-offs have demonstrated the series’ adaptability across various genres, from Pokémon Mystery Dungeon to Pokémon Snap. However, few can rival the success of Pokémon Stadium, which masterfully converted turn-based battles into thrilling, bite-sized duels against either AI or friends.
A sequel to this N64 classic could incorporate every Pokémon generation and elevate it to be the ultimate fighting game for Pokémon enthusiasts, providing a comprehensive battle platform like no other.
2 Pokémon Colosseum (Genius Sonority)
It Took Pokémon In A Whole New Direction
Pokémon Colosseum was a groundbreaking title, recognized as the first 3D RPG in the franchise. It distinguished itself with its mature storyline and RPG elements, prioritizing narrative depth over the typical catching mechanic.
Although it inspired a sequel in Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, it did not fully capture the essence of its predecessor. The demand for a true sequel, rejuvenating the unique features of Pokémon Colosseum while providing a rich narrative experience, is stronger than ever and could find a suitable home on the Switch 2.
1 Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo)
One Of The Best 3D Mario Games Of All Time
The anticipation for a sequel to Super Mario Odyssey feels palpable, particularly considering its phenomenal success when it launched in 2017. Recognized as one of the finest 3D platformers, fans have been craving a follow-up for over eight years, with only the Bowser’s Fury expansion to fill the void.
While there is also the call for sequels to Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Sunshine, the innovations pioneered by Odyssey give it a unique position. Utilizing the upgraded capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2 could undoubtedly result in an extraordinary sequel that pushes the bounds of the platforming genre.
Sources: Nintendo of America/YouTube, Nintendo UK/YouTube
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