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Nintendo Switch 2: Anticipated Games Revealed Ahead of Direct Showcase
The gaming community eagerly awaits the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct on April 2nd, where details regarding the highly anticipated console, including specifications, launch date, and pre-order information, are expected to be unveiled. Excitement is also building around the potential lineup of games that will debut with the new system and in the period shortly after launch. Rumours suggest that the Nintendo Switch 2 could feature an exceptional launch offering, boasting a robust selection of both first-party and third-party titles.
With the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct event just days away, we delve into the selection of games rumoured to be in development for Nintendo’s next-generation console.
Potential Launch Titles and Upcoming Games
1. Mario Kart
Nintendo offered a glimpse of the Switch 2 in a brief trailer released in January. While the preview primarily showcased the console itself, a seemingly new iteration of Mario Kart was presented within the video.
Speculation suggests this could be an enhanced or expanded version of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, or potentially a completely new instalment in the beloved Mario Kart franchise.
Discerning fans noted that the new or upgraded Mario Kart appears to support races with up to 24 participants.
By pausing the trailer precisely, viewers can observe a starting grid displaying 24 positions, double the driver capacity of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, fuelling speculation of chaotic 24-player multiplayer races.
2. Legend of Zelda Remastered/Enhanced Breath of the Wild
Prior to Nintendo’s official console announcement, reports circulated indicating that an upgraded version of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was being demonstrated in private briefings.
Confirmation of enhanced Switch games seems to be supported by details within Nintendo’s upcoming Virtual Game Cards scheme website, explicitly stating the existence of Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of certain titles.
“Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games can only be loaded on a Nintendo Switch 2 system,” the Virtual Game Cards website clarifies.
This distinction suggests that “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games” are likely upgraded iterations of games also available on the original Switch, potentially revitalising existing favourites.
This strengthens the speculation that Breath of the Wild will receive enhancements for the Switch 2.
Furthermore, a retailer listing previously hinted at a Legend of Zelda Remake or Remaster as a potential Switch 2 game. This could refer to Breath of the Wild, or perhaps a remastered older Zelda title with an HD visual upgrade, similar to Skyward Sword HD.
3. New 3D Mario
Coinciding with the Zelda remake rumours, the same retailer suggested a new 3D Mario game is planned for release on the Switch 2, either at launch or shortly thereafter.
Given the 2017 release of Super Mario Odyssey, anticipation for a new 3D Mario title appears to be a matter of time, not possibility.
4. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond stood out as a key highlight during the recent Nintendo Direct presentation in March.
It is anticipated that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will be among the titles receiving an enhanced port for the Switch 2, mirroring the speculated Breath of the Wild upgrade. Pokemon Legends: Z-A can also be potentially included in this category.
5. Xbox Published Titles: Microsoft Flight Simulator 2025, Halo, Starfield, and Doom: The Dark Ages
Earlier this year, Xbox head Phil Spencer confirmed Microsoft’s intention to support the Nintendo Switch 2. He acknowledged these plans, stating “I just always applaud the moves that they make. I know we’ll get more detail over time. Really looking forward to supporting them with the games that we have.”
Separate reports indicate potential Xbox-published games for Nintendo Switch 2 including Microsoft Flight Simulator 2025, Doom: The Dark Ages, Starfield, and Halo Master Chief Collection.
According to Tom Warren of The Verge, Microsoft remains committed to releasing Halo games on Switch 2, although the full Master Chief Collection may not be included.
6. Final Fantasy 9 and Final Fantasy 7 Remake/Rebirth
Despite critical acclaim as one of 2024’s top-rated titles, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth’s initial PlayStation 5 exclusivity reportedly resulted in lower-than-expected sales for the expansive role-playing game.
While Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has since launched on PC, rumours are emerging suggesting its potential inclusion in the Switch 2 launch lineup in the foreseeable future.
Industry insider NateTheHate recently indicated in a podcast that Final Fantasy 7 Remake and FF7 Rebirth are in development for Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2, a strategic move by publisher Square Enix to potentially improve sales.
Regarding Final Fantasy 9, Nintendo insider Dark Samus Hunter previously claimed a remake was in development for Switch 2.
“There is however the Final Fantasy IX Remake that will be coming out although I have no information on a possible bundle or limited edition at the moment,” Dark Samus Hunter stated.
Public awareness of these claims may have resurfaced following Square Enix’s launch of a dedicated Final Fantasy 9 news page to commemorate the game’s 25th anniversary.
With this website launch occurring just prior to the Switch 2 Direct, fans are beginning to believe in the possibility.
7. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
Limited concrete evidence exists for this title other than claims from trusted leaker NateTheHate on his podcast.
As Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is slated for release on August 28th, it will not be a launch title. However, it would offer fans a highly anticipated release towards the end of the summer.
Its release on Switch 2 would also demonstrate the console’s capability to handle demanding new releases, particularly with its rumoured upscaling capabilities.
8. Other Games Rumoured for Switch 2
The following games have been mentioned in various reports and rumour discussions, although lacking substantial evidence at this stage:
- Assassin’s Creed Mirage
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows
- Diablo 4
- EA Sports FC 25
- Marvel Rivals
- Metaphor ReFantazio
- No Man’s Sky
- Red Dead Redemption 2
- Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
- Tekken 8
- Visions of Mana