Nintendo Switch 2: Unveiling the Launch Titles and Future Franchise Plans

The Nintendo Switch 2 is generating massive buzz, and with good reason. Gamers are eager to know what to expect from Nintendo's next-gen console. Leaks and official announcements have provided a clearer picture, and it's time to break down the confirmed launch titles and speculate on the future of beloved Nintendo franchises.

Launch Lineup: A Promising Start

The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5th with a mix of first-party exclusives and impressive third-party titles. Confirmed titles include:

• Mario Kart World
• Nintendo Switch 2: Welcome Tour
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
• Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
• Sonic x Shadow Generations
• Hogwarts Legacy
• Split Fiction
• Fortnite

Beyond games, a plethora of accessories are also hitting the market alongside the Switch 2. Essential and premium starter packs offer protection and charging solutions, while a variety of cases and grips cater to personalized comfort and enhanced gameplay. For budget-conscious gamers, the Essential starter pack offers core necessities for just $24.95. But if you’re on a splurge, the Premium starter pack at $69 includes dual charging, tempered glass protection, and premium casing.

What About the Future of Nintendo Franchises?

While the launch titles are exciting, many fans are wondering when their favorite Nintendo franchises will make their debut on the Switch 2. Let's take a look at some predictions:

Mario: Don't expect a new 3D Mario game anytime soon. The team behind Super Mario Odyssey is likely focused on Donkey Kong Bananza. A new Paper Mario might arrive around 2028, following the release pattern of previous titles. Mario Sports titles, like Mario Golf or Mario Strikers, could potentially appear sooner.

The Legend of Zelda: A new engine and art style require significant development time, making a new main series Zelda title unlikely in the immediate future. However, remakes, especially from Grezzo, could fill the gap. In the meantime, enjoy the enhanced 60 FPS experience of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom on the Switch 2.

Kirby: With Kirby and the Forgotten Land receiving a performance boost and new story content on the Switch 2, and with Kirby Air Riders coming this year, a new mainline Kirby game is likely a year or two away.

Animal Crossing and Splatoon: The future of these franchises remains uncertain. While both are undoubtedly in development, it's unclear which will arrive first. A combined release of Animal Crossing and Tomodachi Life in 2026 would be a dream for cozy gamers.

Other Franchises: Fire Emblem could see a new entry as early as next year. Xenoblade Chronicles is likely a year or two away, given Monolith Soft's impressive output. Pikmin and WarioWare both received new games relatively recently, so their return might take longer. Unfortunately, the prospects for F-Zero, Golden Sun, and other dormant franchises remain bleak.

The Super Smash Bros. Question: Fans are anxious about a new Super Smash Bros. title. With Masahiro Sakurai currently working on Kirby Air Riders, the future of the franchise is uncertain. A new installment could be developed by a different team, but official information remains elusive.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch 2's launch lineup is promising, and speculation about future titles keeps the excitement high. What Nintendo franchises are you most eager to see on the Switch 2? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!

• Mario Kart
• Nintendo
• Nintendo Switch 2