The much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is nearly here, and Nintendo has officially revealed its lineup of games in a recent Nintendo Direct showcase. With new exclusives, third-party hits, and upgrades for existing favorites, this hybrid console promises to elevate gaming on the go to new heights. Let’s take a closer look at the upcoming games that will define the Switch 2 experience.
The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch with a slew of exciting titles, ranging from new, highly anticipated games to enhanced versions of beloved classics. The console will be available on June 5, 2025, alongside Mario Kart World, the headline launch title. The new generation of gaming brings massive improvements in graphics, gameplay, and the overall user experience.
The long-awaited follow-up to Mario Kart 8, Mario Kart World combines the beloved racing franchise with open-world exploration. Players can race across a sprawling, vibrant world with friends, free-roaming and taking part in various challenges. This is a must-have for fans of the series, offering innovative new features that break away from the traditional track racing formula.
Nintendo’s iconic gorilla returns in an all-new 3D platformer, Donkey Kong Bananza. This action-packed game is built around exploration and the sheer power of Donkey Kong’s fists, allowing him to smash through terrain and uncover hidden treasures. Expect colorful, destructible environments and plenty of classic platforming action.
Kirby fans are in for a treat with Kirby Air Riders, a new entry from Masahiro Sakurai, the legendary director of the Smash Bros. series. The game builds upon the GameCube classic, Kirby Air Ride, offering high-speed, action-packed races with Kirby and friends. 2025 will see its release exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Hyrule Warriors fans will get a new action-packed adventure set right before the events of Tears of the Kingdom. Developed by Koei-Tecmo Games with support from Nintendo, the game will focus on explosive battles against hordes of enemies in Hyrule, featuring characters like Princess Zelda and King Rauru.
A brand-new game from Nintendo, Drag X Drive brings a unique twist to Rocket League-style gameplay, featuring 3v3 arcade basketball with motion controls. Using the Joy-Con 2 controllers, players will perform tricks and maneuvers to outplay their opponents in this fast-paced, team-based game.
The Switch 2 will also feature a massive lineup of third-party games, many of which are making their way to Nintendo for the first time. Here are some of the most exciting third-party titles confirmed for the system:
Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition – June 5, 2025
Elden Ring – 2025
Street Fighter 6 – June 5, 2025
Hogwarts Legacy – June 5, 2025
Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut – June 5, 2025
Fortnite – June 5, 2025
Sid Meier’s Civilization 7 – June 5, 2025
Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster – June 5, 2025
Elden Ring Tarnished Edition – 2025
Hollow Knight: Silksong – 2025
Star Wars Outlaws – 2025
In addition to brand-new games, Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrades for previous titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Party Jamboree will bring enhanced graphics, exclusive content, and new gameplay experiences to the console. Fans of existing Nintendo franchises can expect to enjoy their favorite games in an entirely new light with Switch 2-specific updates.
In one of the biggest surprises of the Nintendo Direct, FromSoftware, the developers behind Elden Ring, revealed that they are working on a new multiplayer action title exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2. The Duskbloods, which is expected to feature a mix of steampunk and gothic styles, is a PvPvE game directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki. The game won’t be available until 2026, but it’s already one of the most anticipated titles for the new console.
With launch titles like Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Kirby Air Riders, the Nintendo Switch 2 promises to be the definitive console for both Nintendo fans and third-party game enthusiasts alike. The combination of exclusive first-party games, powerful hardware, and innovative features makes it a highly exciting time for the future of gaming. Whether you’re into action, adventure, racing, or RPGs, there’s something for everyone on the Switch 2.
Keep an eye out for more details and game announcements as the Switch 2 draws closer to its June 5 release. With an incredible lineup of games already revealed and many more surprises in store, this could be Nintendo’s biggest console launch in years.