Hi there! We had a small technical glitch and our WordPress autosave shit its pants and deleted some of our reactions. It should all be fixed up soon, but if you’re reading this, we have not fixed it yet. Feel free to read through the Nintendo Direct recap, and check back in 24 hours for the corrected Reacts. Thanks!
Nintendo held their Switch 2 Direct. Not only did it show off new features to the Switch 2 but we got plenty of game reveals too!
Let’s take a look at what the hour-long Direct featured and what we all thought about here at GCR!
// The System & New Features
Nintendo Switch 2
Release Date:
June 5, 2025
Price:
$629.99 CAD for the Nintendo Switch 2
$699.99 CAD for the Mario Kart Worlds Bundle
Description:
Key specs and new details for the Switch 2 were revealed at the Direct today:
- 7.9″ LCD screen that has 1080p resolution, supports HDR and up to 120fps (with variable refresh rate).
- Joy-Cons are bigger, attach to the console with magnets, and have a new function where they can be used as a mouse. The old joy-cons will still work with the Switch 2, per Nintendo.
- When the Switch 2 is docked, it supports up to 4K (games that are 4K compatible are capped at 60fps).
- The dock also now has a fan to help keep the system cool.
- Comes with 256GB of internal storage and supports microSD Express cards for external storage. “The system can also read and write data faster.” (Source: Nintendo)
- The sound quality has been improved, allowing you to experience games with “more immersive, three-dimensional sound, as if it were coming from all around you” (Source: Nintendo)
- 2 USB-C ports, one on the bottom and one on the top. The top can be used to charge the console in tabletop mode or connect the new Nintendo Switch 2 Camera to the console.
- An internal microphone can be used while the console is docked or in tabletop mode. It can pick up your voice even from a great distance. It also can block out background noise, as the trailer featured a person using a blender while someone else was using the console mic.
- The new C button is the GroupChat button. We’ll take a closer look at that in a moment.
- Game Share: With select games, you can share the game with someone locally and play together instead of doing split-screen co-op.
- The Switch 2 carts are now red.
- While this was not revealed at the Direct, it has been since confirmed that some game carts will no longer contain the game on them. These carts will be known as “Game Key Carts” and the box will look like the image below. These carts will be a “key to downloading the full game” (Source: Nintendo):
- A new Pro controller was also revealed! The controller has two new rear buttons, “GL” and “GR” on the back, which can be programmed. The Pro controller also features the C button and a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing for a headset with a microphone to be connected to the controller. The price point has been revealed to be $79.99 USD (no CAD price has been revealed yet, but we will update this article once we know it). We don’t have a release date yet, but it’s assumed to be released alongside the Switch 2. The Switch 2 will still support the old Pro controller, as per Nintendo.
The Switch 2 comes with:
- Nintendo Switch 2 console
- Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R)
- Joy-Con 2 grips & straps
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock
- Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
- Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter & USB-C Charge Cable
The Mario Kart World Bundle includes a digital version of the game.
Pre-orders go live on April 9th at select retailers. Pre-orders go live on Nintendo’s website a month later, on May 8th. You can sign up now here. These pre-orders are done by invite only and require a Nintendo account to sign up. If you receive an invite, you have 72 hours to make an order. The requirements to get an invite are:
“As of 4/2/2025, (i) you must have been the one who purchased any Nintendo Switch Online membership, (ii) you must have had any paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for a minimum of 12 months, and (iii) you must have opted in to share gameplay data and have at least 50 hours total gameplay hours.” (Source: Nintendo)
Reactions:
NAA |
 |
An easy heart react from me. I know you might expect a mind blown reaction, but I am of the mind that a lot of these features only seem this cool because it’s Nintendo and we’ve come to expect less of them in terms of hardware and technical capabilities from the console than everyone else. These things SHOULD be standard at this point. That said, it is still great to see them here. Legitimately surprised that the handheld screen supports HDR and 120 FPS. The game share is also really cool. Overall, this console does more or less everything you’d want it to do. Maybe an OLED screen would have made this an 11/10 but given the price with just an LCD console, I can see why they decided to not do that. The price of the console itself is more than people thought and the OLED would have just inflated it more. I don’t think it is ridiculous though for a machine that can in many ways compete with other major consoles now. |
2R |
 |
I was reasonably sure we were going to get 1080 at 60, or 4k. Seeing games at 4k 60 and even 120 frames per second is kinda crazy. Through and through I was super impressed with the technical specifications of the Switch 2. Now we just wait and see if Nintendo can hit their targets. |
LF |
|
The Switch 2 is far more powerful than I had anticipated, and even though it has an LCD screen, the fact that it’s capable of doing 120fps and HDR is insane. I mainly play in handheld mode, so this is perfect for me. I don’t know what else to say other than I’m hyped as fuck and cannot wait for June 5th. Also, Nintendo, I got to know: DO THE CARTS STILL TASTE GROSS?? PLEASE. THIS IS IMPORTANT INFO. It’s also great to see game share back. That was a nifty little feature that some games had back in the DS era. |
C Button – GroupChat & Nintendo Camera
Description:
From Nintendo’s official website:
Chat, share, and hang out together with GameChat
GameChat, a brand-new feature on the Nintendo Switch™ 2 system, lets a group of up to 12 people chat while playing games.
You can share your screen in real time, even if you’re playing different games! Whether you’re sharing an in-game discovery or just waving hello, GameChat makes it feel like your friends are right there next to you.
If you connect a compatible USB-C® camera (sold separately), you can also see each other while playing with GameChat.
Have fun with friends and family—wherever they are
With GameChat, you can play games and hang out like you’re all in the same room, even if you’re miles apart.
You will need a Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) membership to use this feature. Nintendo has announced that they will allow players until March 31, 2026 to try the new feature without an NSO membership.
Nintendo will also be releasing a new peripheral, the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera.
From Nintendo’s official website:
The Nintendo Switch 2 camera is a dedicated USB-C® camera made especially for Nintendo Switch 2.
Whether in TV mode, tabletop mode, or handheld mode, simply plug it into the USB-C® port on top of the system to get started.
The camera’s wide-angle lens can capture the whole room and be easily adjusted, so even a big group can get in on the fun!
The Camera will be $49.99 USD when it releases on June 5.
If you don’t want to buy the Switch 2 Camera but want to use this feature, according to Polygon, you’re in luck! Third-party cameras will be supported. The Switch 2 will even have an option in the menu so you can test to make sure your camera is compatible.
Reactions:
NAA |
 |
The C-button stuff is whatever to me, but I can see how for people that play a lot of co-op games on the Switch, it could be a game-changer. I just find it hard to get past the thought that it’s ridiculous it’s taken this long to get here. Even the direct couldn’t make the screenshare run at a framerate higher than a potato’s so we already know that is gonna suck. I guess it’s nice they’re doing this, but I’m not particularly impressed by any element of it. For that reason, this one’s a yawn. |
2R |
|
I think this is a great addition. Nintendo was the only one lacking this sort of system, so it’s overdue. I don’t see it getting regular use from me, but perhaps on occasion when I don’t feel like dragging out a device that has Discord on it. |
LF |
|
This feature doesn’t do anything for me, as I’m not big on multiplayer. I doubt I’ll use it at all. I’m happy for those who will use it, though! It certainly was something that was lacking from the OG Switch, and using the app was less than stellar based on what I’ve heard from those who have used it. I do appreciate the third-party camera support. That’s great for those who want to use this feature but don’t want to buy a camera when they already have one. |
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass Update – GameCube
Release Date:
June 5, 2025
Description:
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass will be getting an update to its Nintendo Classic’s lineup: the GameCube! This will only be available for the Switch 2.
At launch, the following games will be available:
- The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
- SOULCALIBUR II
- F-Zero GX
Additional titles will become available later. They include:
- Super Mario Sunshine
- Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
- Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness
- Super Mario Strikers
- Chibi-Robo!: Plug into Adventure
- Luigi’s Mansion
- Pokemon Colosseum
The GameCube controller will also be available for purchase directly from Nintendo. It has been confirmed that for the initial wave, only those who are invited to pre-order the Switch 2 system from Nintendo will be allowed to order the GameCube controller.
Reactions:
NAA |
|
I needed no time to smash the mind blown reaction for this one. The GameCube is my favourite console, it has my favourite controller, and it has some of my favourite games. I absolutely adore SOULCALIBUR II. I’ve played almost every game they showed off in this section at some point. They’re selling the controller!!! They honestly could have ended the presentation here and I’d have been good. |
2R |
|
This simply rules, no two ways about it. Odd they had Wind Waker here when the talk of an HD remake has been around for so long. Guess they aren’t doing that one! Can’t wait to get my hands on that purple controller. |
LF |
|
IT ACTUALLY HAPPENED. GAMECUBE ON THE SWITCH 2, BABY. AND WE’RE GETTING SOME FORM OF WIND WAKER. AND THEN POKEMON XD & COLOSSEUM IN THE FUTURE!! PLUS THE CONTROLLER TOO??? Unbelievably hyped for this news. I also cannot wait to see what other titles will join the service outside of what has already been announced. If you read this Nintendo, please give us Twilight Princess. Please. I beg you. Please. PLEASE. |
// Already Released Games Receiving Switch 2 Versions/Updates
Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV
Release Date:
July 24, 2025
Description:
Super Mario Party Jamboree is getting even more minigames and an upgrade on Nintendo Switch 2! The upgrade expands on the base game and adds Nintendo Switch 2 gameplay features, such as mouse controls, enhanced rumble, sound recognition, and modes that use a camera accessory (sold separately).
Nintendo Switch 2 players who already own Super Mario Party Jamboree can upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV by purchasing an upgrade pack. (Source: Nintendo)
The price of the upgrade pack is not known at this time.
Reactions:
NAA |
|
I don’t play this and don’t particularly care. |
2R |
 |
Mario Party was a mistake. |
LF |
|
I don’t play Mario Party, so this does nothing for me. I do encourage you to watch the video, though even if you don’t like Mario Party. The fact that you can use the camera so you can see yourself and your friends while you play looks funny. |
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Editions
Release Date:
June 5, 2025
Description:
Upgrade your adventures in Hyrule on the Nintendo Switch 2 system! Jump back into the Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom games, now with enhanced resolution, increased frame rates, HDR support, and faster load times.
Plus, you can get even more out of your adventures with ZELDA NOTES. Use Navigation to find shrines and Koroks, hear previously untold stories from in-game characters, share Autobuild blueprints, and more! This game-specific service is designed to provide a more streamlined gameplay experience. ZELDA NOTES can be found in the Nintendo Switch app on smart devices and is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of these games.
If you already have the Nintendo Switch versions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, you can upgrade to Nintendo Switch 2 Editions by purchasing upgrade packs. Or access the upgrade packs at no additional cost with a paid Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. Please note that the current Nintendo Switch Online app will be renamed to the Nintendo Switch app in late May 2025. A Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required to use ZELDA NOTES. (Source: Nintendo)
Nintendo also announced 4 new amiibo releasing on June 5 for Tears of the Kingdom
Reactions:
NAA |
|
I played most of BOTW but I never touched TOTK. Maybe these new upgrades will entice me to finally delve into TOTK. Either way, this is a great fresh coat of paint for games that were really pushing the limits of the last system and can finally breathe and thrive the way they should. |
2R |
|
I don’t see myself returning to these games aside from maybe a quick pop-in to see the new performance. Great additions for the people still grinding out korok seeds! |
LF |
|
A more stable version of both BOTW and TOTK with enhanced resolution and HDR support? Sign me up! PLUS, I won’t even have to pay for the upgrades since I have NSO + Expansion Pass?? Hell yeah. Very, very excited about this. I’m also very excited for the new amiibo too! |
Kirby & the Forgotten Land Switch 2 Upgrades
Release Date:
August 28, 2025
Description:
In Star-Crossed World, a new story included in the upgrade pack, Kirby must use his abilities, including the all-new Mouthful Modes, to clear a trail through uncharted territory. The upgrade pack will include this new content which can be played in single-player and local co-op, as well as improved performance for the entire game. (Source: Nintendo)
Reactions:
NAA |
|
Not only is the performance improving, but there’s new content! Easy W. |
2R |
|
Definitely getting this upgrade. |
LF |
|
I don’t play Kirby games, so this announcement doesn’t do anything for me, either. |
Free Updates for Existing Switch Titles
This wasn’t announced in the Direct, but it has since been posted by Nintendo.
These games will receive free updates “that may improve performance or add support for features such as GameShare in select games. The contents of these free updates will differ depending on the game” (Source: Nintendo)
The games are:
- ARMS
- Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
- The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
- Game Builder Garage
- New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe
- Pokemon Scarlet & Violet
- Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
There are no dates for when these will become available, so stay tuned!
Reactions:
NAA |
|
Consumer-friendly improvements are hard to come by these days from any gaming company, and much less Nintendo. So big props to them on this. Maybe Pokemon Scarlet & Violet will finally be recommendable games. |
2R |
|
Nintendo definitely could charge $10 per upgrade for most of these and people would buy them, so its nice they’re providing them for free. |
LF |
|
I know this wasn’t in the Direct, but it’s just great to see Nintendo giving free updates to their existing titles for the Switch 2. Even if it ends up being just the game share feature, I can’t complain. It’s very consumer-friendly, and I’m here for it. |
// Unreleased Switch Games Getting Switch 2 Versions
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Switch 2 Version
Release Date:
2025
Description:
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will be getting both a Switch and a Switch 2 version! The Switch 2 version will feature mouse controls as well as different gaming modes: Quality Mode (4K 60fps HDR docked, 1080p 60fps HDR handheld) or Performance Mode (1080p 120fps HDR docked, 720p 120fps HDR handheld).
Reactions:
NAA |
|
120 FPS? Hell. Yes. This will definitely find its way to my library and I cannot wait to test the limits of its performance once I get my hands on it. Looks like a great mix of classic Metroid and new elements. |
2R |
|
The game looks great, I might make this my first Metroid Prime game. 120 fps definitely pushes me little closer to a buy. |
LF |
|
As I said in the Nintendo Direct article, I’m not sure if I’m going to play this one. That being said, the fact that it can be played in up to 120fps is crazy, and I hear is the best way to play shooters. And not only that, if you’re someone who prefers mouse controls for aiming over a controller, Metroid Prime 4 sounds like the perfect game for you. Maybe it’ll be something I’m into after all! It certainly looks beautiful. |
Pokemon Legends Z-A – Switch 2 Version
Release Date:
2025
Description:
Pokemon Legends Z-A will also be getting both a Switch and Switch 2 version! The Switch 2 version will feature an enhanced resolution and framerate versus its Switch counterpart.
Reactions:
NAA |
|
I was always going to get this, but to see a Pokemon game with great performance is just a such a joy to see. 60 fps yes please ASAP. |
2R |
|
I’m giving this the mind blown because I’m going to go out on a limb and say I believe they will get this game running at 60. That would be super cool! Almost unimaginable if you consider not long ago we were playing Pokemon S/V. |
LF |
|
I will be getting the Switch 2 version, hands down. It looks stunning in the above clip. I’ve since gone back and compared it to the footage we saw last week, and you can certainly tell there’s a boost in performance. It’s rumoured to be running at 60fps. Who doesn’t want that?? It was already a day-one purchase for me, but this just sold it for me even more. |
// Switch 2 Titles – 1st Party
Mario Kart World
Release Date:
June 5, 2025
Description:
In Mario Kart World, you can go off the racetrack and drive virtually everywhere!
Race seamlessly across connected roads and racetracks that deliver Mario Kart racing like never before. Participate in the new Knockout Tour mode, where you’ll barrel through back-to-back courses with no pit stops along the way. And in Free Roam mode, it’s possible to go off the racetrack and drive in any direction you wish, explore areas that pique your interest and take some photos at scenic spots with a group of friends.
More details about the game will be shared in an upcoming Mario Kart World Direct on April 17 at 6am PT/9m ET. (Source: Nintendo)
Reactions:
NAA |
|
They could have really rested on their laurels and made this a slight change and upgrade on the tried and true formula. I really commend Nintendo for instead really changing up the formula and making this a really great new entry with interesting modes and features. I’m always kind of not sure about getting Mario Kart (I’m probably the new only Switch owner without Mario Kart 8) but I think this one will make the cut. Plus, COW! |
2R |
|
All of the new open-world Forza-esq things here make me feel special. Can’t wait to dive into this one. Plus they got the cow! |
LF |
|
I haven’t been a lifelong fan of Mario Kart but I did enjoy my time with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. It’s also just the perfect game to play when you’re with a group of friends. Mario Kart World has some new stuff to it, though that has got me interested. I think it’s kind of cool that you drive to the next race track. You can go off-roading in the races themselves, but also just explore the world in a new free-roam mode. I HAVEN’T EVEN MENTIONED ALL THE CHARACTERS YOU CAN PLAY AS. OH MY GOD YOU CAN PLAY AS THE COW FROM MOOMOO MEADOWS. NINTENDO I KNOW YOU CAN SEE THIS, YOU GOT TO RELEASE A MOOMOO MEADOWS COW AMIIBO PLEASE AND THANK YOU. |
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Release Date:
June 5, 2025
Description:
Players can enter a virtual exhibition with Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour and gain insights into what makes Nintendo Switch 2 such a unique gaming experience. Through tech demos, minigames and other interactions, players will get to know the new system inside and out in ways they may never have known about otherwise. (Source: Nintendo)
Reactions:
NAA |
|
Fucking offensive |
2R |
|
lol, lmao even. |
LF |
|
Had this been a free title, I likely would have checked this out. Since it’s paid, I really don’t see myself buying this just to learn about the Switch 2. It feels strange to make it a paid title, especially when Astro’s Playroom was included on the PS5 to showcase the Dualsense controller. This should have been included with the Switch 2 as more people would have checked it out. |
Drag x Drive
Release Date:
Summer 2025
Description:
A new online 3v3 game experience, Drag x Drive (pronounced “Drag and Drive”) challenges players to use the mouse controls with both Joy-Con 2 at the same time to intuitively steer, speed up, perform tricks and make plays such as dunks. (Source: Nintendo)
Reactions:
NAA |
|
I don’t know man. This brought 0 reaction from me and continues to not. |
2R |
|
I like this in theory, a little fast-paced basketball game, but in application it didn’t do much to me. The pace looked a bit too slow and the whole thing was the exact same shade of grey. I think some tweaks could get me into it but as it stands, probably a pass. |
LF |
|
SInce this is online, I’m not really interested in this one at all. It feels very reminiscent of ARMS, in the sense that Drag x Drive showcases the mouse controls, much like how ARMS showcased the joy-con’s motion controls. |
Kirby Air Riders
Release Date:
2025
Description:
Kirby Air Riders, a brand-new title originated from the Nintendo GameCube classic racing-action game Kirby Air Ride, and Masahiro Sakurai, the director of the Super Smash Bros. series. The trailer revealed a dramatic introduction of Kirby on his Warp Star machine and other Kirby air riders on a variety of unique machines, as they joined together on a racetrack. (Source: Nintendo)
Reactions:
2R |
|
Excited to give this series a try! |
NAA |
|
Never played the original and the trailer doesn’t give much information, but it just looks fun. Will need to see more but enough here to give it a heart for now. |
LF |
|
I never played the GameCube version, and there wasn’t much to go off of the trailer. Nevertheless, still looking forward to seeing more about this one! |
Donkey Kong Bananza
Release Date:
July 17, 2025
Description:
A brand-new 3D platforming action adventure. Crash, bash, and climb through nearly everything in DK’s path and tear off chunks of terrain to swing around and throw in groundbreaking exploration. The more that is demolished with powerful punches, the more areas open up to discover. (Source: Nintendo)
Reactions:
2R |
|
Let’s FREAKING go dude. DK64 was my first ever Nintendo platformer (sorry Mario) so this is super exciting to me. I suppose I should comment on the eye-discourse. Frankly, I’m not crazy about them. Sorry everyone, I just think they’re weird! Dig the pants though. |
NAA |
|
I’m the not art person in the group here so it just looks fun to me, and I’m not particularly bothered by the new art. Not a purist personally. But boy does this look fun and innovative while keeping the clear core of Donkey Kong. This is a day 1 for me and I can’t wait to wreck shit. |
LF |
|
I don’t like platformers but I do love me some Donkey Kong, especially since it’s a 3D action adventure game too. I loved Donkey Kong 64 when I was growing up, so I’m looking forward to this one. I also like his new model! I noticed it in the Mario Kart World trailer, and it seems like they’ve used the same one here. Very close to his model in the Mario movie. |
// New Switch 2 Games from Third-Party Developers
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
Release Date:
Winter 2025
Description:
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is the newest title in the Hyrule Warriors series and is developed by Koei-Tecmo Games with support from Nintendo. The game features epic battles against hordes of enemies as it tells the untold story from Hyrule’s distant past of the Imprisoning War that ultimately led to the events of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Fans of the Legend of Zelda series and players of both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom can experience the thrill of battle and this canonical tale featuring Princess Zelda, King Rauru, and other familiar characters. (Source: Nintendo)
Reactions:
2R |
|
Not big on these games but I’m stoked it’s out for all the Warriors fans! |
NAA |
|
Happy for the fans, but not my cup of tea. |
LF |
|
The mindblown emoji doesn’t do this announcement justice for me because it doesn’t convey just how unbelievably excited I am for this one. I love the Nintendo musou spin-off titles as they’re a great way to de-stress; it’s a lot of fun pushing buttons mindlessly to take down hordes of enemies. Can’t remember combos? That’s okay; you just have to press a series of two buttons, and you’ll get some kind of combo going. I’m also excited to explore the Imprisoning War and learn more about what led to the events of both BOTW and TOTK. The last Hyrule Warriors was canon-ish, so I’m hoping it’s the same here! |
The Duskbloods
Release Date:
2026
Description:
The moontears will flow for one and one alone in The Duskbloods, a brand-new multiplayer title from the creators of DARK SOULS and ELDEN RING, FromSoftware. Available exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2.
Read more in our upcoming developer diary series, Creator’s Voice, with the game’s director Hidetaka Miyazaki, coming on April 4th.
Reactions:
2R |
|
I had to keep myself from jumping up at my desk at work when the FROMSOFT logo showed up. I’ve been that guy screaming for more Bloodborne for years, and this feels as close as we’re going to get to something new in that world. I’m curious about the multuplayer aspect. If I can jetpack around with my vampire homies I’m all about that. This was the highlight of the show for me, and may be one the most exciting reveals of all time for my money, in part because of how completely unexpected it was. |
NAA |
|
My mind-blown react is less about the game itself (not a FromSoft head), but the fact that this is a thing at all. A Bloodborne ripoff multiplayer game exclusive to the Switch? I bet if you told someone this the day before the announcement, they’d think you were high. I could not have called this seriously in a thousand years and it just boggles the mind that this is real. |
LF |
|
I’m giving this a heart react because the trailer does look cool. I loved the setting and the vibes. That being said, because it’s a multiplayer title, this one isn’t for me. It’s crazy, though, that Nintendo managed to get a Switch 2 exclusive FromSoft title. |
// Existing Games Coming to the Switch 2 from Third-Party Partners and Publishers
With the way Nintendo has segmented this portion of the Direct into separate videos, we’re going to do this in blocks. We will list each game shown off in each video in the order they appear in the video.
Third-Party Partners & Publishers Spotlight – Part 1
Games Releasing on the Switch 2:
- Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition – 2025
- Hades 2 – 2025
- Street Fighter 6 – Includes two versions. A standard version and a “Years 1-2 Fighters Edition” version that includes 26 playable characters. Amiibos and Amiibo cards will also be released. Both versions, amiibos and amiibo cards will be releasing on June 5, 2025.
- DAEMON X MACHINA: Titanic Scion – September 5, 2025
- Split Fiction – June 5, 2025
- EA Sports FC & Madden NFL – No release dates given
- Hogwarts Legacy – June 5, 2025
- Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 – Summer 2025
- Hitman World of Assassination – June 5, 2025
- Project 007 – No release date given, but stay tuned!
- Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD – June 5, 2025
- Yakuza 0 – June 5, 2025
Reactions:
2R |
|
This is to be expected, but their third-party lineup is very strong right off the bat. I don’t know if I will buy many here over on other places, but this is great for Nintendo-only folks. I’ll probably double-dip on Elden Ring though. |
NAA |
|
Although it sucks to have a system that can’t support most modern games, the advantage to that is when you finally arrive in 2025 with a console worthy of the times, you suddenly have an arsenal of games ready to be played. That said, some of these are definitely really noteworthy and I’m very happy for people who can now enjoy titles they had to watch from afar because Nintendo didn’t support them. Good for Nintendo, the developers and the consumers. |
LF |
|
There’s nothing I’m super crazy about in this block, but it’s still very nice to see the Switch 2 being supported by third-party studios and publishers from day one. I’ll likely keep an eye on Elden Ring since playing it on the go sounds ideal (even if I already own it for my PS5), and Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD is another game up my alley. Big thumbs down for Hogwarts Legacy, though. |
Third-Party Partners & Publishers Spotlight – Part 2
Games Releasing on the Switch 2:
- Deltarune Chapters 1, 2 & 3, 4 – June 5, 2025
- Borderlands 4 – 2025
- Civilization VII – June 5, 2025. Paid upgrade available if you already have purchased the Switch version
- WWE2K & NBA2K -No release dates given
- Survival Kids – June 5, 2025
- Enter the Gungeon 2 – No release dates given
- Starseeker: Astroneer Expeditions – 2026
- Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition – June 5, 2025
- Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade – No release date given as its in active development. They also mentioned to “please stay tuned for more updates on Final Fantasy VII remake project for Switch 2″.
Reactions:
2R |
|
More Deltarune, hype. |
NAA |
|
Mostly the same reaction for me as the first set of games, but mind-blown that they got Cyberpunk 2077 running on this along with the DLC at this quality. Switch 2 may not LOOK all that different to the first Switch, but these titles really prove that this is a big step up under the hood. |
LF |
|
More great games coming to the Switch 2, particularly in this block I’m most interested in Deltarune, Borderlands 4, Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition and of course, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Again, it’s great to see Switch 2 support right off the bat, even if these are games that have already been out for a while. There are still people who haven’t played them yet. Plus, if CP2077 and FFVIIR perform well, I wouldn’t mind double dipping. |
Third-Party Partners & Publishers Sizzle Reel
Games Releasing on the Switch 2:
- Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess – June 5, 2025
- Hollow Knight: Silksong – 2025
- Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – August 27, 2025
- Goodnight Universe – 2025
- Two Point Museum – 2025
- Wild Hearts S – July 25, 2025
- Witchbrook – Holiday 2025
- Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S – June 5, 2025
- Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – June 5, 2025
- MARVEL Cosmic Invasion – Holiday 2025
- Star Wars Outlaws – 2025
- NOBUNAGA’S AMBITION: Awakening Complete Edition – June 5, 2025
- Fast Fusion – June 5, 2025
- Shadow Labyrinth – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – July 18, 2025
- RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army – June 19, 2025
- No Sleep for Kaname Date – From AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES – July 25, 2025
- Reanimal – 2025
- Fortnite – June 5, 2025
- Arcade Archives 2 RIDGE RACER – June 5, 2025
- Professor Layton and The New World of Steam – 2025
- Tamagotchi Plaza – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition – June 27, 2025
- Human Fall Flat 2 – No release date given
Reactions:
2R |
|
This gets a heart from me. Even more solid third-party games. It’s great to see the new console is going to have such a strong library. Also I can’t believe they stuck Silksong in the fucking sizzle reel. Hilarious |
NAA |
|
You just know Team Cherry were laughing at how this went down. Nothing here particularly stands out to me, but the sheer amount of games that this system will support in the next year or so is great for everyone. |
LF |
|
And even more games are coming to the Switch 2! There are going to be so many games to check out on the Switch 2’s release and just there after. I was already excited for Story of Seasons and Rune Factory, but knowing they’re getting Switch 2 versions has made the news even better. And hey, even Silksong was here! Outside of the two I’ve already mentioned, I’ll also be grabbing Witchbrook and RAIDOU Remastered, too. I’ll be keeping an eye on Reanimal. |
// Final Thoughts
Reactions:
2R |
|
When I wrote my Switch 2 Wishlist, I never expected so much of that to be real. Even surpassed, at times. Technically – especially the handheld mode – I can’t believe what we’re getting. My “hopes and dreams” list were a higher resolution screen (granted I said 1440), 120 fps, and gamecube on NSO with a controller. They listened!! DK and Mario Kart World are day one. I can’t wait to jump into those games. This would have been a 9/10 showcase already, then they dropped The Duskbloods. The only negative to take away from all this for me is the price. I think it’s unfortunate that the price discourse has completely taken over the discussion of the event, but I get it. At the time of writing, we don’t have the game price in Canadian Bucks, but we’re likely looking at $100 games. While that will sting, it hasn’t detracted from my excitement from the games. I’m in on day one. |
NAA |
|
The system is a real show-stopper for me. 2R’s wishlist felt like a stretch for the most part and almsot all of it is here, if not more. I am looking forward to new games as well as old ones as I sink hours into the GameCube offerings. Being able to play these in crisp quality is a great win. Some of the price stuff, although understandable to some extent, is a bit of a bummer given the state of things. The Welcome Tour thing is legitimately infuriating, but none of the negatives are enough to overcome the sheer positivity of the rest of the announcements. I’m gonna be playing DK and Mario Kart immediately and more hours than I’m willing to admit on SoulCalibur II. Loved this and can’t wait to get my hands on this in a couple of months. |
LF |
|
The Switch 2 Direct was more than I had anticipated it to be. The Switch 2 is far more powerful than the original Switch and is capable of more than I had anticipated it to be. While I’m a bit disappointed by the LCD screen, the fact that it’s capable of supporting up to 120fps and has HDR has cushioned the blow. I’m sure it also helps keep costs down. As for the games, firstly I cannot wait to finally play Wind Waker on a Switch system. I’ve been waiting for that rumoured Wind Waker + Twilight Princess Switch port forever, and while this isn’t that, beggars cannot be choosers. I will take what I can get. I’m also looking forward to the future GameCube games dropping on NSO. I’m also excited about many of the games announced today as well as the existing Switch games getting Switch 2 versions/upgrades. I hope more upgrade versions end up being available through NSO + Expansion Pass, as it’s a great way to get those upgrades without having to pay. All in all, this was a banger direct. I cannot wait to get my hands on the Switch 2 and am prepping pre-orders next week. |
