Nintendo Switch 2 Games: Your Guide to Day One & Beyond

Waiting for a new Nintendo system is a bit like waiting for a festival—you can feel it in the air! Whenever Nintendo hints at a new console, our group chat just explodes with wild speculation, wishlist discussions, and, honestly, some pretty creative game concepts. But with the Nintendo Switch 2, things are especially exciting, because this time around, it feels like everyone is not just hoping for more of the same, but for an evolution—new stories, expanded worlds, and fresh ways to play together. That’s why we’ve been poring over every rumor and confirmed update, building this friendly walkthrough to welcome you into the dazzling roster of Nintendo Switch 2 games.

• Features a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD touchscreen with HDR10 support and up to 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals.

 Nintendo Switch 2 Games: Exploring the Exclusive Launch & Beyond

We want to take you through the confirmed and exclusive Nintendo Switch 2 Games, sharing details, anecdotes, and why each one should be on your radar. Whether you’re a seasoned Nintendo pro or just gaming between study sessions, there’s something here for all of us.

 1. Mario Kart World (Release Date: June 2025)

• New gameplay mechanics like Charge Jump and Rewind, along with 24-player online races, bring fresh excitement and strategy to the beloved racing franchise.

Few announcements make hearts race quite like a new Mario Kart. With Mario Kart World coming exclusively to Switch 2, we’re ready for globe-trotting circuits and multiplayer mayhem. New drift mechanics, “world tour” racetracks, and dynamic weather promise to shake up our weekly kart nights. We’ve already called dibs on testing the rumored co-op modes—imagine tag‐teaming Rainbow Road at midnight with your friends!

 2. Donkey Kong Bananza (Release Date: July 2025)

• The game follows Donkey Kong’s quest to recover stolen golden bananas from the villainous VoidCo

We can’t count how many hours we lost to barrel‐blasting adventures in previous Donkey Kong titles. Donkey Kong Bananza revives those jungle thrills but dials it up for Switch 2, complete with wild cooperative action. Expect lush environments, inventive platforming, and hilarious boss fights—plus online multiplayer so those classic couch co-op arguments can go global!

 3. Super Mario Party Jamboree (Release Date: July 2025)

• The game introduces innovative modes like Bowser Kaboom Squad and Koopathlon, offering cooperative and competitive experiences

Board game chaos takes center stage again—Super Mario Party Jamboree brings over 110 minigames and seven diverse boards. It introduces “Jamboree TV,” which includes new modes utilizing Joy-Con 2’s mouse controls, microphone, and a compatible USB-C camera. We plan to host marathon game nights, snacks in hand, friendships at risk, but laughter guaranteed.

 4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Enhanced) (Release Date: June 2025)

• It introduces the “Zelda Notes” feature via the Nintendo Switch app, providing players with voiced navigation

When Nintendo announced an enhanced Breath of the Wild for Switch 2, our whole gaming group felt the urge to explore Hyrule all over again! Improved visuals, performance, HDR support, and compatibility with the “Zelda Notes” app breathe new life into one of gaming’s greatest adventures. This re-release looks set to rekindle those wide-eyed moments atop snowy peaks and deep in lost shrines, making it a must-have among the Nintendo Switch 2 games.

 5. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Enhanced) (Release Date: June 2025)

• Experience the great The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom with higher resolution and smoother frame rate.

Building on its predecessor’s magic, this enhanced Tears of the Kingdom edition features improved resolution, textures, HDR support, smoother frame rates, faster load times, an additional save slot, and compatibility with the “Zelda Notes” app. Returning to Hyrule with new abilities and expanded lore makes us eager to compare notes, trade secrets, and perhaps even attempt twin speedruns for bragging rights.

 6. Kirby and the Forgotten Land+ (Release Date: August 2025)

• Launching on August 28, 2025, it features improved graphics and frame rates, providing a more immersive experience for players.

Few games make us smile like Kirby does. Kirby and the Forgotten Land+ takes the whimsical 3D adventure and adds a new story titled “Star-Crossed World,” improved graphics, and enhanced frame rates. Those late-evening co-op sessions, filled with laughter and a bit of sibling sabotage, are coming back in style on Switch 2.

 7. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (Release Date: 2025)

• The Nintendo Switch 2 edition offers enhanced visuals with 4K resolution at 60 fps or 1080p at 120 fps, and HDR support.

We’ve waited years, but finally, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is on the horizon. This flagship first-person adventure promises atmospheric exploration, mind-bending puzzles, and intergalactic threats. If Metroid games taught us anything, it’s that nothing feels quite as rewarding as conquering an alien world, and we’re ready for late-night lore debates!

 8. Pokémon Legends: Z-A (Release Date: late 2025)

• Players begin their journey with Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile, exploring Wild Zones and participating in the Z-A Royale.

Pokémon fans in our circle are already buzzing about Pokémon Legends: Z-A, a highly anticipated addition to the Nintendo Switch 2 games. Set in Lumiose City, this game features exploration and battles, including the return of Mega Evolutions. Trading, teaming up for raids, and hunting shinies in sprawling cityscapes—this is a Pokémon dream come true for Switch 2.

 9. Kirby Air Riders (Release Date: 2025)

• The game reintroduces the beloved “City Trial” mode, where players collect power-ups in a cityscape before competing in randomized challenges

After years of hope from the community, Kirby Air Riders is returning and looking better than ever. We’re ready to settle some old scores from our GameCube days, now with turbo‐charged visuals!

 10. Drag x Drive (Release Date: Summer 2025)

• The game features online multiplayer matches where players can perform tricks, shoot, and compete in fast-paced action.

Something new and a bit mysterious—Drag x Drive promises a 3-on-3 sports title with mouse control support via Joy-Con 2. We’re excited to change things up on weekend tournaments, juggling strategy with pure speed.

 11. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour (Release Date: Launch Day, June 2025)

• This standalone experience allows players to explore a virtual Switch 2, engaging with various exhibits.

Nothing sets the tone for a console like its welcome bundle. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is an interactive exhibit designed to demonstrate the features of the Switch 2. It’s perfect for family game night, especially when introducing newcomers (or convincing skeptical siblings that Switch 2 is worth every penny).

 12. GameCube Classics (Release Date: June 2025)

• Enjoy your favorite GameCube Titles with Switch 2.

Our nostalgia is in overdrive with the GameCube Classics initiative—a rotating lineup of fan favorites. Picture Mario Sunshine, F-Zero GX, and Luigi’s Mansion with Switch 2’s smoother performance offered by Nintendo Switch 2 games. We’re already planning a retro gaming weekend!

 13. The Duskbloods (Release Date: 2026)

• Directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, the game features customizable vampire-like characters, dynamic roles, and atmospheric settings reminiscent of Bloodborne

Looking for something dark and story-rich? The Duskbloods is a new exclusive set in a gothic world brimming with secrets, focusing on multiplayer action. With branching narratives and atmospheric graphics, this is one we’ll dive into with headphones on, lights off, and a hot drink nearby.

 14. Hades II (Release Date: Late 2025)

• Utilizing new mechanics like mana-based magic and the Arcana system to enhance her abilities

Roguelike fans rejoice! Hades II will launch as a timed console exclusive on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. We’re ready to test our skills, trade strategies, and swap wild escape stories late into the night as we navigate this mythological labyrinth.

 15. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment (Release Date: Winter 2025)

• The game offers large-scale hack-and-slash combat, allowing players to fight as Zelda, Rauru, and the Seven Sages.

For those of us who love epic battles, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment The game allows players to experience the Imprisoning War, featuring characters like Zelda and Rauru. No doubt we’ll be comparing who can rack up the highest combo—just don’t hold us responsible for any sibling rivalries that ensue!

 16. Elden Ring Tarnished Edition (Release Date: 2025)

• This edition offers enhanced performance tailored for the Switch 2

One of the biggest surprises: Elden Ring Tarnished Edition includes the base game, the “Shadow of the Erdtree” expansion, new weapons, armor, and customization options for Torrent. Exploring the Lands Between, wherever we want, this is peak gaming freedom. Get ready for long weekends, tough bosses, and plenty of “just one more try” moments with this standout title in the Nintendo Switch 2 games lineup.

Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Games June 5, 2025

This is going to be an exciting day for Nintendo fans! A plethora of titles will be available right when you get your hands on the new console:

1. Mario Kart World: The headline launch title, mixing traditional kart racing with open-world exploration and online co-op. It will be available separately and in a bundle with the console. It’s priced at $80 for the digital edition.
2. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour: A paid digital title to welcome players to the new console. Priced at $10.  
3. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. An enhanced version with improved resolution, frame rate, and HDR support.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. Also receiving the “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition” treatment with similar enhancements as Breath of the Wild. Both Zelda titles will use a new “Zelda Notes” app feature.
5. GameCube Classics Launching on day one for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers, featuring enhanced resolution and customizable controls. Initial titles include: 

• Enhanced audio experience with 3D audio support and improved stereo speakers for immersive sound for all Nintendo Switch 2 games.

5. The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker
6. F-Zero GX  
7. Soulcalibur II
8. Super Mario Sunshine
9. Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
10. Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness
11. Super Mario Strikers
12. Luigi’s Mansion
13. Pokémon Colosseum
14. Chibi-Robo
15. Split Fiction A launch title supporting Hazelight Friends Pass and Cross Play. Priced at $49.99 for pre-order starting April 24th, 2025.
16. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
17. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade
18. Street Fighter 6 (Listed as Street Fighter VI: Years 1-2 Fighters Edition in some sources )
19. Sid Meier’s Civilization VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
20. Hogwarts Legacy
21. Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster (Listed as Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster in some sources)
22. Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut
23. Fortnite (Nintendo Switch 2 Edition )
24. Deltarune Chapters 1-4 (Listed as Deltarune)
25. Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition (Listed as Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening)
26. Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S (Listed as Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 )
27. Fast Fusion
28. Hitman: World of Assassination – Signature Edition (Listed as Hitman World of Assassination – Signature Edition)
29. Kunitsu-Gami: Path Of The Goddess

• Maintains backward compatibility with most Nintendo Switch games and accessories, preserving your existing library.

Games Releasing in July 2025

Get ready for a hot summer of gaming with all the exciting Nintendo Switch 2 games releasing!

1. Donkey Kong Bananza – July 17 A new 3D adventure for Donkey Kong, shown to have digging and smashing gameplay in the trailer.
2. Shadow Labyrinth: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – July 18 (Listed as Shadow Labyrinth )
3. Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV – July 24. An enhanced version of Super Mario Party Jamboree with the Jamboree TV expansion, adding minigames and camera support.
4. Wild Hearts S – July 25
5. No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files – July 25

Games Releasing in August 2025

August continues the momentum with more exciting releases:

1. Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road – August 21
2. Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar – August 27
3. Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World – August 28. The Switch 2 edition of the open-world Kirby adventure with a new chapter, Star-Crossed World, featuring a meteor crash and new Mouthful Mode techniques.

• Equipped with 256GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD Express cards up to 2 TB.

Games Releasing in September 2025

September brings at least one confirmed title:

1. Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion – September 5

Games Releasing in Q3 2025 (July – September)

This quarter is expected to see the release of:

1. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 – Q3 2025 (Listed as Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4  )

Games Releasing in Q4 2025 (October – December)

The holiday season will bring these exciting Nintendo Switch 2 games:

1. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment – Winter/Q4 2025 (Listed as Q4 2025 )
2. Marvel Cosmic Invasion – Holiday/Q4 2025 (Listed as Q4 2025 )
3. Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – Late 2025/Q4 2025 Expected in late 2025, with a Switch 2 Edition featuring potential 4K/60fps upgrades. ,
4. Witchbrook – Q4 2025
5. My Time at Evershine – Q4 2025

• The Switch 2 is a complete step up, with a great lineup of games.

Games Releasing in 2025 (Release Date To Be Announced – TBA)

A large number of games are slated for 2025, but without a specific release date yet:

1. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – 2025 Enhanced for Switch 2, potentially featuring 120fps Performance mode when docked and mouse controls.
2. Kirby Air Riders – 2025 A new title from Masahiro Sakurai, director of Super Smash Bros.  
3. Drag x Drive – Summer/2025 A Switch 2 exclusive.  
4. Hades II – 2025 Coming to Nintendo Switch consoles before other platforms in 2025.  
5. Elden Ring Tarnished Edition – 2025
6. Borderlands 4 – 2025
7. Star Wars Outlaws – 2025
8. Hollow Knight: Silksong – 2025
9. Professor Layton and the New World of Steam – 2025 (Listed as Professor Layton and the New World of Steam)
10. EA Sports FC 26 – 2025 (Listed as EA Sports FC)
11. Madden NFL 26 – 2025 (Listed as Madden NFL 25)
12. NBA 2K – 2025, (Likely NBA 2K26)
13. WWE 2K – 2025, (Likely WWE 2K26)
14. Goodnight Universe – 2025
15. Mouse Work – Launch Window/2025 A party game utilizing Switch 2’s mouse controls.
16. Two Point Museum – 2025
17. Sonic x Shadow Generations – 2025
18. Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade – 2025
19. Aurascope – 2025

• Offers GameShare functionality, allowing local multiplayer with a single game copy, promoting shared gaming experiences.

Games Releasing in 2026 (Release Date to Be Announced – TBA)

Looking ahead to 2026, we have these upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 games:

1. The Duskbloods – 2026 A Switch 2 exclusive title from FromSoftware.  
2. Enter the Gungeon 2 – 2026
3. Project 007 – 2026

Rumored Games for Nintendo Switch 2 – 2025

These titles are currently rumored, but could add even more to the Switch 2’s library in 2025:

1. Halo: The Master Chief Collection – 2025 Reports suggest Microsoft is planning to bring this collection to Switch 2
2. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 – 2025 is also rumored to be part of Microsoft’s support for the console.
3. Assassin’s Creed Mirage – Launch Window – Rumored to be within the launch window.
4. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater – 2025 – Rumored for 2025 release.
5. The Duskbloods – 2025 – Listed as rumored for 2025 in one source, while confirmed for 2026 in others.

• Expands Nintendo Switch Online with GameCube titles, bringing classic games to the modern platform.

Important Notes:

• TBA: “To Be Announced.” Games listed with TBA dates have not yet received a specific release date.
• Rumored: Games listed as “Rumored” are based on reports and speculation and are not officially confirmed by Nintendo or publishers. Release plans are subject to change.
• Launch Window: Generally refers to the period shortly after the console’s release (typically within the first 3 months).
• Switch 2 Exclusives: Games specifically marked as “Switch 2 Exclusive” are designed to only be playable on the Nintendo Switch 2 console, leveraging its enhanced hardware capabilities.  
• Nintendo Switch 2 Editions: Enhanced versions of existing games, optimized for the new console with improved graphics, performance, and sometimes new features.

This list represents the most current understanding of the Nintendo Switch 2 games lineup based on the provided information as of April 16, 2025. As we approach the launch and further announcements are made, this list is likely to expand and become even more exciting!

To Sum Up

In the end, what excites us most about the Nintendo Switch 2 games lineup isn’t just the promise of exclusive games or the return of our childhood favorites—it’s the way these releases will bring us all together, again and again, on the couch, online, and everywhere in between. Here’s to the endless gaming journeys ahead—see you on launch day!

Read the news recap and feature articles of the latest trends in video game industry via Gamerative.

 FAQs: Nintendo Switch 2 Games & Exclusives

Q1: Will Nintendo Switch 2 games be playable on the original Nintendo Switch? 

No, most Nintendo Switch 2 games are developed specifically for the new hardware to take advantage of its improved specs, meaning they won’t run on the original Switch consoles.

Q2: Are digital purchases on the current Switch eShop transferable to the Nintendo Switch 2? 

Nintendo has suggested that your Nintendo Account will carry over, but transferability of specific game licenses depends on publisher support and Nintendo’s official eShop migration policies.

Q3: Will GameCube Classic releases include local multiplayer support? 

Yes, most GameCube Classic remasters are promised to include enhanced local and online multiplayer features, letting you relive party battles with friends old and new.

Q4: Can I use old Joy-Cons and Switch Pro Controllers with Nintendo Switch 2 games? 

While Nintendo Switch 2 supports some legacy controllers, certain exclusive games may require new hardware features found in the latest controllers for full gameplay functionality.