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The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation is just around the corner, and it’s time to make some predictions. Nintendo is gearing up to reveal the price and release date of the Switch 2, but what about the games? The only confirmed title so far is a new Mario Kart game, which is likely to be a launch title. Let’s dive into some rough predictions for the Switch 2 launch lineup.
## Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Lineup Predictions
We don’t have much to go on besides a few seconds of footage from the January reveal video and some online rumors, but who cares? Let’s speculate! The new Mario Kart game showcased in the teaser video looks promising, with larger races and intriguing new features. I would bet that this game will be available right at launch.
### A New 3D Super Mario Adventure
It’s been a long wait since the last mainline 3D Super Mario adventure, so it’s about time for a new one. With the need to entice buyers to the Switch 2, a new Mario game would make perfect sense as an early title. Whether it’s a launch game or released before the end of 2025, we can expect to see Mario back in action soon.
### Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
While it may be more of a wish than a solid prediction, it would be fantastic to see Metroid Prime 4 as a launch title for the Switch 2. Nintendo’s recent trailer for the game left its release date vague, but there’s still hope for it to coincide with the new console’s launch.
At least one big third-party game
Nintendo is likely to showcase some flashy third-party releases during the Direct to demonstrate the Switch 2’s capabilities. Rumors suggest that games like Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater and Final Fantasy VII Remake and Rebirth could be coming to the console. Additionally, Ubisoft might bring some Assassin’s Creed games to the Switch 2, making for an exciting lineup.
Possibly a Zelda Remaster
While it’s too early for a new Legend of Zelda game, a remaster could still be in the cards. With recent Zelda titles released, we may not see a new game during the Switch 2 Direct, but a remaster could be a nice addition to the lineup.
But wait, there’s more…rumors from a couple of years back hinted that Nintendo was already teasing the Switch 2 to select partners, showcasing an upgraded version of Breath of the Wild, the standout title from the original Switch launch. Nintendo has a knack for re-releasing games, so don’t be surprised if we see a remastered version of Breath of the Wild (and maybe even Tears of the Kingdom) early in the Switch 2’s life.
Other surprise contenders
Now, let’s circle back to the “Alex is just guessing” portion of the discussion. There are a few key Nintendo franchises that found success on the Switch and could benefit from a fresh installment in the early days of Switch 2. While they might not hit store shelves immediately, it wouldn’t be shocking to see them within a year of the new console’s launch.
It’s been five years since Animal Crossing: New Horizons brought joy to our lives during the pandemic. These games may seem simple on the surface, but they are surprisingly deep and intricate, so a new release might not be ready at launch. However, keep an eye out for any announcements related to Animal Crossing during the upcoming Nintendo Direct.
Another major franchise on my radar is Fire Emblem. Following the success of 2019’s Three Houses, the series took a misstep with Engage a few years later. Whether the next Fire Emblem is a fresh installment or a remake of a Japan-only title, it’s likely to find its way to the Switch 2, possibly even making an appearance in the upcoming Direct.
Of course, these predictions could be way off the mark, and if they are, feel free to throw tomatoes my way. But for now, they seem like plausible scenarios to consider.
