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An overview of the Nintendo Switch 2 launch games

Sofia8 APRIL 2025

Starting June 5, the Nintendo Switch 2 will be on store shelves, the successor to the popular Nintendo Switch. This new console represents a big step forward. Of course, a strong launch line-up comes with that. Discover on this page which games you can start playing right away.

Nintendo Switch 2 launch line-up: 4 types of games

The launch line-up of the Nintendo Switch 2 can actually be divided into 4 types of games: brand-new titles, Switch 2 Editions, GameCube classics, and re-releases.You'll not only be able to play new releases on the first day of the new console, but also existing top games that get a special Switch 2 upgrade version (Switch 2 Edition games). In addition, nostalgic gamers will be thrilled by the arrival of GameCube games, and other publishers are releasing their well-known titles on June 5 for the new platform.

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New titles in the Nintendo Switch 2 launch line-up

At the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, several new games will be released right away. The biggest highlight? Mario Kart World. In this open-world racing game, you race with up to 24 players at the same time on the track, and between races, you can freely explore the world, either solo or online with friends.Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour will also be available in stores on June 5. This title playfully introduces you to all the new features of the Switch 2 through a series of fun mini-games — think games that show the difference in frame rates or other technical innovations.Finally, the long-awaited Deltarune arrives on launch day with two extra chapters. A great addition for fans of strong indie games

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Switch 2 Edition games: what can you expect?

Nintendo is not only launching new titles on June 5, but also two refreshed classics with a new look. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom are returning as so-called Nintendo Switch 2 Editions. Both titles are being released in a special Switch 2 Edition, featuring significant improvements.

Games with this label have been specially upgraded for the Nintendo Switch 2, each in a different way. Think enhanced visuals, higher frame rates, extra features, or even entirely new game modes. These titles will be released as separate Nintendo Switch 2 games, but if you already own them on the original Nintendo Switch, you won’t miss out. Thanks to an upgrade package, you can convert your original copy into a Switch 2 Edition. Some upgrades are even available for free through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass.

That’s the case for both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, which are getting some nice extras: think faster load times, HDR support, and Zelda Notes – a new feature that lets you consult the map of Hyrule and discover hidden story elements via the Nintendo Switch app on your smartphone.

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII is also launching on day one in a special Switch 2 Edition. The update adds mouse support, a valuable addition for this strategy hit. Already own Civilization VII as an original Nintendo Switch game? Then you’ll need an upgrade package to switch to the updated version.

GameCube classics return on the Switch 2

Retro fans will also have something to look forward to with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. Starting June 5, you’ll be able to play GameCube games exclusively on the new system. What do you need? A Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass, which also gives you access to NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Mega Drive games.The first three GameCube hits you can play from launch day are The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur II.

Multiplayer fans are in for a treat: in addition to split-screen, you can now also play online with up to 4 players at once. And there’s more on the way. During the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo already gave a small preview. Titles like Super Mario Sunshine, Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, Super Mario Strikers, Chibi-Robo!, Luigi’s Mansion, and Pokémon Colosseum are on their way to the new Nintendo console.

Re-releases complete the Nintendo Switch 2 launch line-up

It’s not just Nintendo making waves on June 5 — other publishers are joining the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 as well. Big names like Fortnite, Hogwarts Legacy, Split Fiction, and Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will be available on the new system from day one. And that’s not all. So far, 11 additional titles are scheduled to release on launch day. That means you can kick off your Nintendo Switch 2 adventure with a solid line-up of classic games and new experiences

Curious about what you’ll be able to play on the Nintendo Switch 2 starting June 5? Here’s the full list:

  • Mario Kart World
  • Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
  • Deltarune Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4
  • The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
  • The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
  • Sid Meier's Civilization VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
  • The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (Nintendo Classics GameCube)
  • F-Zero GX (Nintendo Classics GameCube)
  • Soulcalibur II (Nintendo Classics GameCube)
  • Split Fiction

  • Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
  • Street Fighter 6 - Official Years 1-2 Edition
  • Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
  • Hogwarts Legacy
  • Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster
  • Yakuza 0 Director's Cut
  • Fortnite
  • Fast Fusion
  • Hitman World of Assassination - Signature Edition
  • Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition
  • Survival Kids
  • Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma
  • Arcade Archives 2 RIDGE RACER
  • Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S

Will the Nintendo Switch 2 launch line-up expand even further?

The game line-up for the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 hasn’t been finalized yet. Nintendo may still announce new titles just before June 5. One thing is certain: there will already be plenty to discover and play on release day. And who knows — that list might soon become even more impressive.

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