The Top 5 Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Games, Ranked

After years of rumors and speculation, Nintendo finally revealed the details of its upcoming Switch 2 console. The system will be available on June 5 for $449. You can play several exciting games on day one, including original releases and enhanced ports. Better yet, Nintendo has a release-packed 2025 schedule, so there will be no shortage of games to snap up throughout the year.

If you plan to preorder a Switch 2 (whenever that now-delayed window opens), we recommend you start with these five launch-day titles, ranked from #5 to #1.

5. Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut

This update to RGG Studio’s excellent beat ’em up features new cut scenes, English voiceovers, and French, German, Italian, and Spanish subtitles. More importantly, Yakuza 0 has a new Red Light Raid online multiplayer mode with 60 unlockable characters.

4. Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Editions

Yes, these are technically two games, but they represent some of the best Zelda titles in the series’ history. Nintendo promises faster load times on Switch 2, with smoother frame rates and improved graphics. In an unexpected move, Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom leverage the Nintendo Switch App to deliver game-specific info that can, say, help you find a well-hidden shrine. This feature, called Zelda Notes, even includes commentary from Princess Zelda.

3. Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD

Bravely Default is easily one of Square Enix’s best new franchises and a must-play for Final Fantasy fans. Previously locked to the Nintendo 3DS, the RPG receives an HD Remaster for Nintendo Switch 2, delivering strategic turn-based combat and endearing visuals.

2. Street Fighter 6

Street Fighter 6 is one of the best fighting games ever made, and it’s coming to Nintendo Switch 2 with several enhancements. These include local wireless play, online crossplay, a calorie-buring mode (what?!), Amiibo support, and a separate Years 1-2 Fighters Edition containing eight DLC characters from the fighter’s first two seasons.

1. Mario Kart World

This upcoming racing game was first spotted during the Switch 2’s teaser reveal, and surprised many viewers with its number of on-screen racers (now confirmed to be a hefty 24 drivers). Mario Kart World also has a cool day-night cycle, atmospheric effects, and a Forza Horizon-like open world for wild rides with friends. The new Knockout Tour adds a cross-country elimination mode.

More Switch 2 Titles Launching in 2025

You won’t have to wait long for other Nintendo Switch 2 games. Here’s a small breakdown of the system’s hottest titles scheduled for release in the coming months:

• Donkey Kong Bananza (July 17) is a 3D platformer featuring Nintendo’s lovable ape.

• Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV (July 24) features unique new modes and minigames that showcase the Switch 2’s mouse controls and microphone.

• Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World (August 28) is an enhanced port with new content and improved performance.

• Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition (2025) brings the beloved action-RPG to the Switch with the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC.

• Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (2025) is alien-blasting fun with HDR support and mouse controls.

• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment (Winter 2025) is a new Hyrule Warriors title that depicts the Imprisoning War that leads to the events of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.

Nintendo Switch 2: Hands On

About Jeffrey L. Wilson

Managing Editor, Apps and Gaming

Since 2004, I’ve penned gadget- and video game-related nerd-copy for a variety of publications, including the late, great 1UP; Laptop; Parenting; Sync; Wise Bread; and WWE. I now apply that knowledge and skillset as the Managing Editor of PCMag’s Apps & Gaming team.

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About Gabriel Zamora

My career has taken me through an eclectic assortment of fields, and connected me with people from all walks of life. This experience includes construction, professional cooking, podcasting, and, of course, writing. I’ve been typing up geeky takes since 2009, ultimately landing a freelancing position at PCMag. This blossomed into a full-time tech analyst position in 2021, where I lend my personal insight on the matters of web hosting, streaming music, mobile apps, and video games. 

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