Nintendo's Game-Changing Sequel: What Titles to Expect for the Highly Anticipated Switch 2 Launch!
Unveiling a 38-year-long Nintendo tradition, this article delves into the exciting launch titles anticipated for the highly-awaited Switch 2 With a consistent pattern of Mario or Zelda games, get ready to embark on a thrilling gaming journey with Nintendo's next-gen console
Highlights
Nintendo's pattern of launching its consoles with either a Mario or Zelda game suggests that the Switch 2 will likely follow suit.
A new Zelda game is unlikely to be released alongside the launch of the Switch 2. However, there is a possibility of a new Mario game being available. Mario Kart 9 is also a potential strong contender for the Switch 2's launch title, given the success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
Since its inception 38 years ago, every Nintendo home console has debuted with either a Super Mario or Legend of Zelda game on the very first day. This pattern hints at the potential launch lineup for the Switch 2. Given that Zelda and Mario are Nintendo's flagship franchises, it is hardly surprising that the company consistently includes one of them right from the start.
The NES arrived with Super Mario Bros., followed by Super Mario World on the Super Nintendo, and Super Mario 64 on the Nintendo 64. Although the GameCube did not launch with a mainline Super Mario game, it did introduce the spin-off Luigi's Mansion. The Wii, however, debuted with The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, while the Wii U arrived alongside New Super Mario Bros. U. Finally, the Switch was introduced with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
Considering this pattern has been going on for 38 years now, it appears highly improbable that Nintendo would deviate from it with the release of the Switch 2 console, or whatever name they ultimately decide to give to their next system. Presently, Nintendo has not disclosed significant details about the upcoming console that will succeed the Switch, with the exception of confirming that it will support the existing user accounts. Nonetheless, reliable sources suggest that the next Nintendo console is slated for a 2024 debut, indicating that more information about it will likely be unveiled next year.
Nintendo Consoles Launch With Mario or Zelda
NES - Super Mario Bros.
SNES - Super Mario World
Nintendo 64 - Super Mario 64
GameCube - Luigi's Mansion
Wii - The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Wii U - New Super Mario Bros. U
Switch - The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
It is typical for Nintendo consoles to debut alongside Super Mario games, with the exception being when Zelda takes the spotlight. However, since The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom just recently came out on the Switch, it seems unlikely that there will be another large-scale Zelda game available when the Switch 2 is expected to launch in 2024. It would be more believable for the Switch 2 to come with a new Mario game instead.
Despite the imminent release of Super Mario Bros. Wonder in a few weeks, it is still reasonable to assume that the Switch 2 could have a new Mario game available from day one. This is because Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a 2D platformer, leading one to believe that Nintendo has also been working on a new 3D Super Mario adventure at the same time. While this project has not been officially announced, there is speculation from a trusted source that a new 3D Super Mario game is currently in development. Although fans should approach this information with caution, the leaker has claimed that the next Super Mario game will indeed be a launch title for the Switch 2, and not only that, but it will apparently be set in an open world.
There was a time when that idea seemed ludicrous, but it appears that Nintendo is genuinely considering the development of an open-world Super Mario game. The recent release of the Bowser's Fury expansion in the Switch version of Super Mario 3D World served as a trial to explore the potential of an open-world Mario experience. Additionally, the release of a more traditional 3D Super Mario game would undoubtedly bring joy to numerous fans. Therefore, even if the rumors turn out to be false, there will still be something thrilling to anticipate next year.
The Mario series has a history of being represented by spin-offs rather than main series entries during the launch of a home console, like Luigi's Mansion on the GameCube. Nintendo could follow a similar path with the release of the Switch 2 console. In that case, Mario Kart 9 would be the most obvious choice. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has been incredibly successful for Nintendo, with ongoing content releases even six years after its initial release. As the best-selling Switch game and a standout title for the console, it would make sense for Nintendo to prioritize a new Mario Kart game for the Switch 2.
However, it's important to note that Nintendo may deviate from this established pattern. They could take a completely different approach by releasing the Switch 2 without Mario or Zelda games, and fans should be prepared for that possibility. Although Nintendo has always launched their home consoles with either Mario or Zelda, they made an exception with the 3DS handheld. It's unlikely but not impossible that they could do the same with the Switch 2.
Nintendo is currently dedicated to showcasing the last batch of major Switch titles, meaning fans may not receive any intel on the launch titles for the Switch 2 until sometime next year.
