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Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Games Spark Fan Frenzy and Animal Crossing Queries
Gaming enthusiasts are expressing widespread reactions following the reveal of the initial lineup of games slated for release alongside the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console. The unveiling of the Switch 2 launch games and the new console itself, boasting enhanced features, has generated significant buzz within the Nintendo community, although some fans are voicing concerns over the absence of a particular beloved franchise.
Nintendo Direct Presentation Unveils Switch 2 and Launch Titles
Earlier this week, the prominent gaming corporation Nintendo hosted a dedicated Nintendo Direct presentation, providing fans with a comprehensive preview of their latest hardware innovation, the Nintendo Switch 2. Set to launch on June 5th, the next-generation console, featuring an enhanced display and improved processing capabilities compared to its predecessor, has been met with considerable excitement from the gaming community globally.
In addition to showcasing the new console, priced at £395.99, Nintendo also disclosed the roster of launch games that will be available concurrently with the hardware release. These titles represent the initial selection of software that players can access on day one with their new console.
Mario Kart World Headlines Switch 2 Launch Lineup
For devotees of the Mario Kart series, the presentation delivered positive news with the announcement of Mario Kart World, designated as the flagship Nintendo title to accompany the Nintendo Switch 2 at launch. The initial wave of launch games will also feature prominent third-party titles, including:
- Hogwarts Legacy
- Cyberpunk 2077
- Street Fighter 6
- Fortnite
Future Game Releases Teased for Nintendo Switch 2
Further expanding the anticipation for the Nintendo Switch 2, the presentation included previews of several forthcoming games, encompassing both Nintendo-developed and partner titles, scheduled for release after the console’s initial launch. Notable mentions included a new installment in the Hyrule Warriors series, titled Age of Imprisonment, and a Nintendo-exclusive title from FromSoftware named The Duskbloods.
Animal Crossing Absence Sparks Fan Disappointment
The presentation also featured announcements of new games featuring iconic Nintendo characters such as Kirby and Donkey Kong. Despite the wave of positive announcements, a segment of Nintendo fans expressed disappointment, noting the conspicuous absence of any mention of the popular Animal Crossing franchise.
The most recent Animal Crossing installment, New Horizons, debuted in 2020, three years following the original Nintendo Switch launch in 2017. The lack of any information regarding a new Animal Crossing game for the Switch 2 has led to concerns among fans about the future of the series on the new console.
Fan Reactions Highlight Animal Crossing Demand
Eloise, a user on TikTok, voiced her frustration in a video, questioning Nintendo’s strategy. “Nintendo, is this a joke? Are you having a laugh? No Animal Crossing whatsoever, and you expect me to have a reason to pay 400 Great British f***ing pounds for the new Switch. Not even a Switch 2 version of New Horizons. Are you crazy?” she exclaimed.
Warning: The below media contains strong language
Eloise further indicated her intention to continue using her existing Switch console until a new Animal Crossing game is announced for the Switch 2.
Comments on her video largely echoed her sentiment. Other users also observed the absence of any announced plans for a new Legend of Zelda title. While fans of the Zelda franchise will receive Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment later in the year, it was emphasized that this hack-and-slash game is a spin-off and not a mainline entry in the series.
One commenter stated, “I’m not buying a Switch 2 unless Animal Crossing comes out. Other than that everything I need is on my regular switch!”
Another added, “No Zelda either. I guess there’s Hyrule Warriors, but until there’s a new Zelda, I ain’t buying.”
Anticipation for Future Animal Crossing Release Persists
Conversely, numerous commentators pointed out the release pattern of the previous Animal Crossing game, which arrived three years after the original Switch launch. These individuals suggested that Nintendo might be employing a similar strategy, anticipating that a new Animal Crossing game could serve as a significant sales driver for the console at a later stage.
One user remarked, “Animal Crossing is their second best-selling switch game; it was pretty clearly not a launch game. They are going to wait so they can sell more consoles later on and do a special edition one.”
Another added, “Animal Crossing has never been a launch title, and it’s excellent news that it isn’t because launch titles don’t get special edition consoles! Hang tight and we’ll get a cute Animal Crossing-themed console.”
Nintendo Switch 2 Launch and Preorder Details
The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to launch on June 5th, with preorders commencing on Tuesday, April 8th.