The Perfect Dream Lineup for Nintendo Switch 2: What Games Should Make the Cut?

My Dream Lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2 Launch

With the official reveal of the Switch 2, anticipation for its launch has reached a fever pitch. The hybrid console is set to arrive later this year, and as I look forward to its launch, I’m dreaming up the ideal lineup of games that would accompany it. Let’s explore the titles I hope to see as part of the Switch 2’s launch window!

Mario Kart 8 Excitement builds for the Switch 2 lineup.

Mario Kart 9

First up is Mario Kart 9, which seems almost guaranteed after the success of its predecessors. The previous entry, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, continues to dominate sales charts, shifting over 64 million copies. After such an overwhelming success, it’s hard to imagine Nintendo not rolling out a new entry that harnesses the power of the Switch 2.

Fans were treated to a glimpse of a new Mario Kart game during the announcement, and it looked like a breath of fresh air. Likelihood: With the last wave of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe DLC wrapping up recently, a new game feels imminent, especially since we already have reason to believe it’s in the works.

Mario Kart 8 The kart racing series may land a new hit.

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and Twilight Princess HD

How can we talk about a Nintendo lineup without mentioning The Legend of Zelda? Two of the most beloved titles, Wind Waker HD and Twilight Princess HD, deserve their moment on the Switch 2. While the Switch has been home to stunning Zelda titles like Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, many fans were left wondering why these HD remakes from the Wii U era were never made available on the hybrid console.

I would love to revisit Twilight Princess in handheld form. Likelihood: Though it’s uncertain if Nintendo will cater to fan requests, the absence of these titles on Switch is a puzzle waiting to be solved.

Wind Waker HD Zelda titles would be ideal for a handheld experience.

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Next up is Metaphor: ReFantazio, the fantasy RPG from Atlus that I’ve enjoyed immensely. Gaming in handheld mode makes a difference; I find it more engaging to venture through expansive RPG worlds in my own time, especially during commutes. After seeing how well Persona 5 Royal performed on Switch, I’m hoping Atlus realizes that Metaphor seems like a natural fit for handheld play.

Likelihood: Though this title just launched, given Atlus’s history of bringing RPGs to the Switch, a port feels much like a possibility over time.

Metaphor: ReFantazio RPGs thrive in handheld form.

Baldur’s Gate 3

What about third-party titles? I can already envision the excitement for Baldur’s Gate 3 on the Switch 2. The acclaimed RPG by Larian Studios could thrive on handheld, bringing the captivating world of the Forgotten Realms wherever we go. While it may have been optimized for other consoles, the Switch’s proven capability for rich experiences could make this a reality.

Likelihood: Considering how the Switch has catered to third-party titles before, I believe this one is worth holding out hope for, especially if the hardware can manage the demanding gameplay.

Can Baldur’s Gate 3 find a new home on Switch?.

Metroid Prime 4

I would be remiss not to mention Metroid Prime 4 — Nintendo’s own flagship title that fans have been eagerly waiting for. Set for its debut in 2025, this game promises to be powerful and visually stunning, a perfect showcase for the new hardware.

Likelihood: Definitely a strong contender for launch, as Nintendo likely understands the importance of grabbing core fans with a big title.

Metroid Prime 4 The return of Samus is set to impress.

Hollow Knight: Silksong

Next, the anticipation surrounding Hollow Knight: Silksong cannot be understated. This title has gained a massive following, and given the game’s ties to its predecessor, it’s bound to be a hit on a new console.

Likelihood: The Switch was instrumental in the success of the first Hollow Knight, making this game a likely candidate for launch.

Hollow Knight: Silksong Indie games can shine on the Switch 2.

An Innovative Wildcard Game

Nintendo has a knack for surprises, and I sincerely hope they’re preparing another unexpected title like Arms as part of the launch lineup for the Switch 2. The rumored functionality of the new Joy-Con controllers could pave the way for unique gameplay experiences, perhaps even a first-person title that takes advantage of that innovation.

Likelihood: Given Nintendo’s history, you can be sure a wildcard is in the works.

Arms Unexpected games often steal the show.

More Nintendo Switch Online Games

Finally, more games for Nintendo Switch Online would be a welcome addition. This service could benefit greatly from expanding its library, especially with classics like Donkey Kong 64 or old Pokémon titles.

Likelihood: Expanding the service is a smart strategy that would likely cater to nostalgia while enticing new subscribers.

Nintendo Switch Online Revamping classics can win fans over.

The Next 3D Mario Game

No discussion of a Nintendo launch is complete without dreaming about the next 3D Mario game. With Super Mario Odyssey being such a fantastic experience, the desire for a follow-up has grown immensely.

Likelihood: While Mario Kart 9 may precede it, fans are hungry for Mario’s next big adventure, and it seems reasonable to expect its arrival during the Switch 2 era.

Mario Odyssey Mario’s adventures are timeless.

As we look forward to the arrival of the Switch 2, I’m thrilled not just for the console’s improvements, but for the exciting games that are sure to come. Will Nintendo surprise us with additional gems? We can only wait and see while dreaming of our perfect launch lineup.