Nintendo is bringing out the big guns for the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. With a mix of beloved franchises, fresh takes on classics, and a few surprises — there’s a lot to be excited about.
Headlining the show was an all-new 3D Donkey Kong game, Donkey Kong Bananza, in addition to Mario Kart World and Kirby Air Riders. As for a new 3D Mario platformer, we’ll have to wait and see.
Here’s everything that was announced:
Release date: July 17, 2025
DK is back! This new 3D adventure lets you smash, swing, and tear through levels — literally.
The environments look to be completely destructible and the famous ape isn’t holding back.
It’s been a while since we’ve had a full 3D Donkey Kong game, so this one’s going to be a treat.
We’re getting a brand-new Mario Kart, and it’s bigger than ever!
This time, courses are connected in an open-world style, with huge 24-player races and even a Free Roam mode to explore tracks at your own pace.
This is the official launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2 and is exclusive to the console. More details are coming in a special Mario Kart Direct on April 17.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will hit the Nintendo Switch 2 (and the original Switch) this year.
The game, which was originally revealed in 2017, restarted production in 2019 because “progress had not reached the standards (Nintendo) expected” of a Metroid Prime title. Six years later, the game looks gorgeous.
Samus will explore Planet Viewros with new “psychic abilities” in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, allowing her to curve the path of her beams, missiles and bombs.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is also set to take advantage of the Nintendo Switch 2’s new mouse controls. It also features a 4K 60fps game mode, a 1080p 120fps mode, and has full HDR support.
Pokemon Legends Z-A continues the Pokemon Legends series with new gameplay and story elements.
Fans can expect to explore a new region and encounter unique Pokemon. Its release is highly anticipated by the Pokemon community.
The game, which will also release on the Nintendo Switch, isn’t a graphical showcase for the system, but will certainly sell.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Editions
Release date: June 5, 2025
Both Zelda Switch masterpieces are getting an upgrade!
Smoother gameplay, faster load times, and an exclusive new feature — Zelda herself will give you hints through a new in-game app.
There’s so much to love about these games and fans of the series will be thrilled they’ll be able to experience it all again in 4K.
If you own the original versions of these games, an upgrade will be available to purchase.
A fresh take on the classic Kirby Air Ride is on the way!
The first game was released on the Nintendo Gamecube in 2003, now it’s getting a sequel some 22 years later.
High-speed racing, wild machines, and new power-ups — this is gonna be fun.
This is the second racing game Nintendo is putting up for the Nintendo Switch 2.
This one was a major surprise.
A brand-new multiplayer action RPG from the creators of Dark Souls and Elden Ring? Yes, please! It’s exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2, and we can’t wait to hear more.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World
Release date: August 28, 2025
That’s not all from Kirby… Kirby’s big 3D adventure is getting even bigger.
A mysterious meteor crash kicks off a brand-new story, with fresh Mouthful Modes and co-op play.
Players will also go on a new journey with Kirby titled Star-Crossed World.
Nintendo Switch Welcome Tour
Release date: June 5, 2025
In a similar vein to what Astro’s Playroom did for the PlayStation 5, Nintendo now has it’s own version — but you’ve got to pay for it.
The game is designed to give players a tour of the Switch 2, learning the features and hardware of the system in an interactive way. Not so sure about this one.
A bigger, crazier sequel to the beloved bullet-dodging dungeon crawler, now in full 3D.
We didn’t get to see a whole lot of this one but I’m very intrigued to see more!
After selling millions of copies in the past few weeks alone, it’s a joy to learn that Split Fiction is also coming to the Nintendo Switch 2.
It’s the perfect couch co-op game and already one of the best games of the year.
All of your old Switch games
All of your old Switch games will work on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Better still, they’ll look and play better.
Nintendo has confirmed all games will get a modest performance bump on Nintendo Switch 2 with higher frame rates and better resolutions.
Nintendo will also sell upgraded versions as Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games.
Like on PlayStation, if you already own a game on Switch, you can upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition game for a nominal fee.
Nintendo Switch Online subscribers will get these upgrades for free.
The most anticipated video games of 2025
Other major hitters coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 include Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, Street Fighter 6 and Final Fantasy VII Remake.
More games on the way below:
Sid Meier’s Civilization VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
Release date: June 5, 2025
Release date: June 5, 2025
Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster
Release date: June 5, 2025
Release date: June 5, 2025
Release date: June 5, 2025
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4
Madden NFL & EA SPORTS FC
Hitman World of Assassination – Signature Edition
