Nintendo Switch 2 is here and it’s bringing a massive lineup of games in 2025. The new console launched on June 5, 2025, and gamers are already excited about what’s coming next. From exclusive titles to enhanced versions of beloved games, there’s something for everyone.
The Switch 2 packs serious power with its 7.9-inch 1080p HDR display and 120 FPS support. When docked, it can output 4K resolution for supported games. This means games look better than ever before.
Launch exclusives that define the console
Mario Kart World became the headline launch title on June 5, 2025. This isn’t just another Mario Kart game – it’s an open-world racing experience inspired by Forza Horizon. Players can drive virtually anywhere across connected roads and racetracks.
The game supports 24 racers per race and features dynamic weather and day-night cycles. There’s also a Free Roam mode where you can explore off-track and take photos with friends. Mario Kart World costs $79.99, making it pricier than traditional Nintendo games but packed with content.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour also launched alongside the console on June 5. This $9.99 tech demo helps players learn about the console’s new features through interactive mini-games. It’s basically a paid tutorial, but it shows off what the system can do.
Major exclusives coming later in 2025
Donkey Kong Bananza arrives on July 17, 2025, as the first internally developed Donkey Kong game by Nintendo since 2004. This 3D platformer features fully destructible environments where DK can smash through almost any surface to create paths and find items.
The game follows Donkey Kong and a young character named Pauline as they venture underground to recover stolen banana-shaped diamonds from a villainous group called VoidCo. Players can destroy terrain, stack soft materials to create new paths, and even dig underground tunnels.
Kirby Air Riders launches on November 20, 2025, bringing back the beloved racing gameplay from the GameCube era. This Switch 2 exclusive features multiple riders to choose from, new Air Ride machines, and returning game modes like the famous City Trial.
The game offers frantic arena battles and fast-paced races on ground and in air. Players use the Boost Charge button to brake and control turns while their machines automatically fight for top speed. Masahiro Sakurai is directing this new title.
Enhanced versions of popular games
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond finally arrives in December 2025 after years in development. The Switch 2 Edition offers mouse controls using Joy-Con 2 controllers for more precise aiming.
Players can choose between Quality Mode (4K at 60fps docked, 1080p handheld) or Performance Mode (1080p at 120fps docked, 720p handheld). The game follows Samus Aran as she explores the mysterious planet Viewros.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A gets a Switch 2 Edition on October 16, 2025. This enhanced version offers improved performance with higher frame rates and resolution. The game is set entirely in Lumiose City and features real-time battles for the first time in the series.
Players can choose from starter Pokémon Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile before exploring the city. The game introduces the Z-A Royale competition and Mega Evolution mechanics. A Nintendo Switch 2 bundle with the game costs $499.99.
Horror and action titles
Little Nightmares 3 arrives on October 10, 2025, bringing online co-op for the first time in the series. Players control new protagonists Low and Alone as they navigate through The Spiral, a cluster of disturbing places.
The game can be played solo with an AI companion or with a friend online. Low wields a bow and arrow while Alone uses a wrench. A free demo called “Necropolis” is already available.
Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition is coming to Switch 2 in 2025, though it faces some performance challenges. The edition includes the base game, Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, plus new weapons, armor, and Torrent skins.
Early reports suggest the game struggles in handheld mode, with frame rates dropping to 15-20 FPS in open areas. However, developers still have time to optimize before the final release.
More games to watch
Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles launched on September 30, 2025, as an expanded remaster with full voiced dialogue and accessibility options. The game offers a free upgrade to Switch 2 for existing Switch owners.
Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 arrived on October 2, 2025, bringing these Wii classics to Switch 2 in stunning 4K resolution when docked. The games look amazing with their new HD makeover.
Disgaea 7 Complete releases on October 10, 2025, including the base game plus all previously released DLC and brand new features. This makes it one of the more content-packed releases of the year.
Upcoming 2026 titles
Mario Tennis Fever serves up on February 12, 2026, introducing ranked matches and Swing Mode that lets players use Joy-Con controllers like tennis rackets. The game features 30 different tennis rackets with various abilities and 38 playable characters.
Resident Evil Requiem arrives on February 27, 2026, following Grace Ashcroft, daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft. The game can be played in both first-person and third-person perspectives and represents the next mainline Resident Evil entry.
The Duskbloods from FromSoftware is also planned for 2026, though details remain scarce. This appears to be a Switch 2 exclusive from the Elden Ring developers.
Why 2025 matters for Switch 2
The year 2025 represents a massive transition for Nintendo gaming. With over 50 confirmed games already announced for Switch 2, the console is building momentum fast.
Many games offer upgrade paths from the original Switch. Players who own certain Switch games can purchase upgrade packs to get enhanced Switch 2 versions. This makes the transition smoother for existing Nintendo fans.
The console’s backward compatibility means you can play most original Switch games on Switch 2. Combined with the new exclusives and enhanced editions, there’s never been a better time to jump into Nintendo’s gaming ecosystem.
2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for Switch 2 gaming. From racing across open worlds in Mario Kart World to exploring destructible environments in Donkey Kong Bananza, there’s something for every type of gamer. The future looks bright for Nintendo’s newest console.
