Next-Gen Nintendo: Must-Have Launch Titles for the Highly-Anticipated Switch Successor

Highlights

The Nintendo Switch successor is likely to have a strong lineup of games at launch, and it makes sense for Nintendo to focus on its popular franchises.

Potential launch titles for the new console include Mario Kart, Pokemon, Fire Emblem, Super Smash Bros., and Metroid Prime. These renowned franchises from Nintendo would serve as excellent selling points for the successor to the Nintendo Switch.

The numerous swirling rumors surrounding a potential Nintendo Switch successor strongly suggest that the console is on the verge of being officially confirmed. A crucial aspect to consider when it comes to the release of any new gaming hardware is the availability of games to play immediately after the system becomes available, and Nintendo has a wealth of potential with its diverse range of franchises to ensure a strong launch for the successor to the Switch.

Out of all the franchises that could be considered for the launch of the Nintendo Switch successor, it would be wise to strike a balance between realism and idealism. While many fans might eagerly anticipate the release of a new F-Zero game and Earthbound in the next generation, it is more reasonable to expect games from the intellectual properties that Nintendo is currently invested in nurturing and keeping alive.

Mario Kart

Pokemon

The enormous popularity and enduring appeal of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Nintendo Switch has firmly established it as a staple title for gamers. With its regular updates and captivating downloadable content (DLC), the game has managed to stay remarkably fresh even after six years, making it the top-selling game on the Switch. Given the tremendous success of Mario Kart 8, it only makes logical sense for the ninth installment in the main series to eagerly join the lineup of a brand new Nintendo console from day one.

In recent years, the frequency of new Pokemon games has significantly increased, with the Switch receiving a major release almost every year starting from 2018. Although the popular franchise was absent from the Switch during its initial year, the overwhelming sales success of the latest Pokemon main series entries makes it highly improbable for Nintendo to launch its next console without a new Pokemon game.

Fire Emblem

The Fire Emblem series has continued its successful streak on the 3DS, and now with its new titles on the Switch. The series has gained popularity in the West, despite many games being exclusive to Japan. Nintendo and Intelligent Systems seem focused on creating new Fire Emblem titles rather than revisiting old content. However, the limited release of the long-awaited English port of the original Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light in 2020 indicates potential for future ports or remakes. A remake of Genealogy of the Holy War or Thracia 776 would surely excite diehard Fire Emblem fans, who are eagerly anticipating the release on the Switch's successor.

Super Smash Bros.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has become one of the highest-selling titles for the Nintendo Switch. Its release in 2018 played a significant role in establishing the Switch as a console surpassing its predecessors. It is evident that Nintendo would want to develop another game in the series for its future console. However, the future of a follow-up to Smash Ultimate remains uncertain, as the director of all the previous Smash Bros. games, Masahiro Sakurai, seems unsure about the franchise's fate. Despite claiming to retire from directing Smash Bros. for years, Sakurai always ends up returning to create another installment, leaving room for endless possibilities.

Metroid Prime

Metroid Prime 4 was announced during the early stages of the Nintendo Switch's development. Despite the approaching release of its successor, the game has yet to showcase any gameplay. Thankfully, Nintendo has recently reassured fans that Metroid Prime 4 is still in the works and will ultimately be released on the Switch. If a new console is introduced in 2024, there's a possibility that Metroid Prime 4 could serve as a launch title, much like how The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was available for both the Wii U and the Switch.