The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is on Technology News of release, following its official reveal during a Nintendo Direct presentation on Wednesday. Nintendo provided an in-depth look at its next-generation hybrid console during the hour-long event, detailing both the hardware specifications and new features, as well as an extensive lineup of games set to launch with the device.
Among the unveiled titles, the standout launch game is Mario Kart World, an expansive, open-world sequel to the well-received Mario Kart 8. This game will debut alongside the Switch 2 on June 5 and will be available in a special bundle with the console itself.
Exclusive new first-party titles confirmed for the Switch 2 include a 3D Donkey Kong game, the latest installment in the Hyrule Warriors series, and a fresh Kirby title, alongside numerous popular third-party games. The original Nintendo Switch faced limitations due to its hardware, but the more powerful Switch 2 now allows for the inclusion of high-profile titles such as Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, Hogwarts Legacy, and Street Fighter 6.
The Nintendo Direct also provided some surprises, including a new FromSoftware title exclusive to the Switch 2, updates on the long-anticipated Hollow Knight: Silksong, and insights into IO Interactive’s Project 007. Let’s delve into some of the major releases coming to the Nintendo Switch 2:
Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusives
The Switch 2 Nintendo Direct unveiled a plethora of game announcements, showcasing a blend of first-party and third-party exclusive titles set to launch exclusively on the console:
Mario Kart World – June 5
Described as Mario Kart meets Forza Horizon, Mario Kart World is the much-anticipated follow-up to Mario Kart 8, which has sold nearly 75 million units worldwide. This title will feature a vast open world where players can race and explore with friends. The game will enable players to traverse a large interconnected map filled with diverse environments and will be available exclusively on the Switch 2 starting June 5. More information about the game is expected during a dedicated presentation on April 17.
Donkey Kong Bananza – July 17
Fans were surprised by the announcement of a new 3D Donkey Kong game instead of a new Mario title. Donkey Kong Bananza is an action-platformer where players use Donkey Kong’s strength to explore and navigate through destructible, colorful environments, uncovering secrets along the way. The game is set for release on July 17.
Kirby Air Riders – 2025
In a nod to nostalgia, Kirby Air Riders, created by the renowned director Masahiro Sakurai, is a new exclusive coming in 2025. This game revisits the classic GameCube title, combining elements of racing and action with a familiar roster of characters.
Drag X Drive – Summer 2025
This new arcade-style game merges basketball with racing mechanics, utilizing the advanced controls of the Joy-Con 2 controllers. Players will engage in an online 3v3 format, maneuvering through gameplay using dual mouse controls. Drag X Drive is anticipated to launch in Summer 2025.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment – Winter 2025
A new entry in the Hyrule Warriors franchise, this title is set before the events of Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Developed by Koei-Tecmo Games with Nintendo’s assistance, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment will feature beloved characters from the series. An official release date has not been announced, but it is expected to arrive in Winter 2025.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour – June 5
Launching alongside the console, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is designed to educate players about the new console’s features. Rather than being pre-installed, this interactive title will be available for purchase on the Nintendo eShop starting June 5.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour will be a paid title available on launch day
Photo Credit: Nintendo
The Duskbloods – 2026
In an intriguing announcement, FromSoftware has confirmed that it is developing an exclusive multiplayer game titled The Duskbloods for the Switch 2. Directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, the trailer suggests the game will blend steampunk and gothic elements. The release is anticipated for 2026.
Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrades
The launch of the Switch 2 will also bring upgrade packs for several existing Nintendo Switch games, enhancing graphics and offering new content. These upgrades apply to both popular titles and new releases, including:
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (2025)
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (June 5)
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (June 5)
Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV (July 24)
Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World (August 28)
Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition (late 2025)
Nintendo Switch 2 edition titles will feature graphical upgrades
Photo Credit: Nintendo
Nintendo Switch 2 Games From Third-Party Developers
The Nintendo Direct also highlighted a variety of third-party titles that are set to arrive on the Switch 2, showcasing both previously released games and brand-new entries. Key titles confirmed for the console include:
Split Fiction (June 5)
Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition (June 5)
Street Fighter 6 (June 5)
Hitman: World of Assassination – Signature Edition (June 5)
Sid Meier’s Civilization 7 (June 5)
Hogwarts Legacy (June 5)
Fortnite (June 5)
Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut (June 5)
Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess (June 5)
Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster (June 5)
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma (June 5)
Deltarune (June 5)
Survival Kids (June 5)
Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S (June 5)
Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition (June 5)
Fast Fusion (June 5)
Arcade Archives 2: Ridge Racer (June 5)
Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army (June 19)
Tamagotchi Plaza (June 27)
Shadow Labyrinth (July 18)
Wild Hearts S (July 25)
No Sleep for Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files (July 25)
Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar (August 27)
Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion (September 5)
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 (Summer 2025)
Witchbrook (Winter 2025)
Marvel Cosmic Invasion (2025)
Elden Ring Tarnished Edition (2025)
Hollow Knight: Silksong (2025)
Borderlands 4 (2025)
Hades 2 (2025)
Star Wars: Outlaws (2025)
Sonic X Shadow Generations (2025)
EA Sports FC (2025)
Madden NFL (2025)
Two Point Museum (2025)
Goodnight Universe (2025)
Reanimal (2025)
Professor Layton and the New World of Steam (2025)
Enter the Gungeon 2 (2026)
Starseeker: Astroneer Expeditions (2026)
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade
Project 007
NBA 2K
WWE 2K
Human Fall Flat 2
