March 3rd 2024.
As we eagerly await the release of the highly anticipated Switch 2, one question remains at the forefront of our minds: what will be the first games to grace this new console? One reader has taken it upon themselves to make some predictions, listing six games they believe will be released within the first 12 months, including a new Animal Crossing and Splatoon game.
For many Nintendo fans, the news of a delay can bring about a mix of emotions – disappointment and relief. While we all want new games as soon as possible, it's reassuring to know that the developers are taking their time to ensure a quality product, rather than rushing to meet a deadline.
So, although it's upsetting that we won't be getting our hands on a Switch 2 in time for Christmas, it gives Nintendo the necessary time to perfect their launch games. And for me, it's the perfect opportunity to come up with a wishlist of games that I believe should and will be released within the console's first year. Of course, I can't predict any new IPs, but these are the titles that I feel are a safe bet.
First on my list is Animal Crossing 6. This one didn't cross my mind until I read about it on GC, but it makes perfect sense. With the success of New Horizons and the strange decision to halt updates for the current game, it's safe to assume that Nintendo is hard at work on the next installment. And with the series now in the big leagues, it only makes sense for it to be released early on in the Switch 2's life.
Next up, we have Mario Kart 9. It's been a while since we've seen a new Mario Kart game, and with the success of the Wii U port, it's almost guaranteed that a new installment will be released soon. Plus, with the early release and consistent sales of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, it's safe to assume that Nintendo will want to keep the momentum going. And who knows, maybe we'll even see some non-Mario characters added to the mix.
Of course, we can't forget about Splatoon 4. This franchise is a huge hit in Japan, and with the final DLC for Splatoon 3 recently released, it only makes sense for Nintendo to start working on the next game. I can already hear the complaints about it taking priority over other titles, but Nintendo tends to focus on what's popular in Japan, and this series deserves more recognition in the West. Plus, a new console is the perfect opportunity to give it a push.
It's no surprise that a new 3D Mario game is on the list, and I'm willing to bet that it'll be Super Mario Odyssey 2. Rumors suggest that it may be a Donkey Kong game, and I would love to see a throwback to the original where Mario and DK were enemies. It could also explain the recent release of Mario Vs. Donkey Kong on the Switch. But regardless of the theme, I have no doubt that it will be amazing and show off the capabilities of the Switch 2.
There are also rumors of a remastered version of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. As a huge fan of the game, I can't help but get excited at the thought of experiencing it on the new console. And with rumors of a tech demo already circulating, it's hard to imagine Nintendo not releasing it as an actual game. Perhaps it could even be bundled with the sequel, Tears of the Kingdom.
Last but not least, I predict we'll see a deluxe version of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. While rumors have suggested that Nintendo may be done with the franchise, I believe a deluxe version of the current game would be the perfect way to continue the series on the Switch 2. With upgraded graphics, all DLC included, and a few new characters, it would be the ultimate game for the new console.
Of course, predicting what Nintendo will do is no easy feat. And one thing that's particularly difficult to predict is how they'll handle backwards compatibility and upgrades for games. For example, if Metroid Prime 4 is released on the Switch 1 this Christmas, will it just be cross-gen or will there be a major upgrade for the Switch 2? And if so, will it be a separate purchase or an update? These are all questions that remain to be answered.
But one thing is for sure, Nintendo has a different way of thinking compared to other companies. So while these may not be literal predictions, they are my priorities for the first 12 months of the Switch 2's release. And with the constant evolution of the gaming industry, who knows what surprises Nintendo has in store for us.
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