Buying a console at launch — becoming what’s known as an “early adopter” — might seem like a smart move. You’ll be ahead of the curve, ready to recommend it before others, dominate early online matches, and make the most of the console’s full lifecycle. But in reality, the experience can be less glamorous: early bugs, constant updates, and the sense of being a test subject for developers often paint a different picture.
Nintendo, well aware that early adopters might start feeling the post-launch blues, has come prepared. The Switch 2 hits the ground running with a strong launch lineup featuring Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza—two titles easily ranking among the company’s best. But once the initial excitement fades, new console owners may start to wonder… what’s next? Don’t worry—Nintendo rarely leaves its fans hanging and surely has surprises in store. Just… maybe don’t ask about the price.
Drag X Drive
If you’re thinking, “Wait… is this wheelchair basketball?”—yes, it is. This unusual Nintendo exclusive was designed primarily to showcase the new Wiimote-as-mouse functionality. It lets you take to the court on two wheels, where you can race, pass, steal, and score in a fast-paced game of accessible hoops. It’s probably not a system seller, but it could scratch that new-game itch when it drops on August 14.
Kirby: Star Crossed World
At first glance, Kirby and the Forgotten Land might look like just a remaster of the original Switch title—but there’s more to it. This version includes a brand-new, exclusive expansion that adds hours of fresh content to one of Kirby’s best adventures yet. If you missed it the first time around, starting August 28, you’ll have the perfect chance to make up for it—and maybe even make your friends without a Switch 2 a little jealous.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
You always say, “This is the last Pokémon game I’m playing,” and yet… here we go again. Especially after the last Legends title completely reshaped the series. While details about Pokémon Z-A are still scarce, we do know it takes place entirely in Lumiose City—and from what we’ve seen, it looks stunning. If you’re a fan, 2025 is shaping up to be your year. Mark your calendar for October 16, when we’ll finally get answers—and you can stop replaying Arceus on your Switch 2 (unless you really want to).
Metroid Prime 4
It’s been 18 years since Metroid Prime 3, but Nintendo hasn’t forgotten us. While there’s still no official release date for Samus’s long-awaited return, one thing is certain: it’s finally happening. Technically, it’s a Switch title enhanced for the Switch 2—but with visuals that promise to be among the best of this new generation, we’re just glad everyone will get the chance to experience it.
Kirby Air Riders
If you’re a Kirby fan, 2025 is your year. The pink puffball is making a big return—not just with a new mainline game, but also with a long-awaited sequel to Kirby Air Ride, arriving 22 years after the original. With Masahiro Sakurai, Kirby’s creator and Super Smash Bros. mastermind, back in the director’s chair, this one’s worth getting excited about. Could this finally be the game to rival Mario Kart? We’ll find out before the year is over.
Oh—and don’t forget, 2026 is shaping up to be even more fun. Professor Layton, Splatoon, Tomodachi Life, and Rhythm Heaven (finally!) are all on the way, ready to prove that picking up the Switch 2 at launch wasn’t such a bad idea after all. Who said it didn’t have games? Now the only thing you’ll need to watch… is your wallet slowly draining.
