The Nintendo Switch 2 released last June, and became the fastest-selling console of all time. Early adopters have been enjoying Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, and several high-quality ports, including Cyberpunk 2077.
But the year’s not over, and we’re only just now approaching the glutenous fall release schedule — including plenty of exciting games for the Switch 2.
Here are the biggest game releases to watch for if you own a Switch 2 — or plan on getting one.
(A few games, such as Marvel Cosmic Invasion and the Switch 2 port of Stardew Valley, do not currently have 2025 release dates. We’ll update this list accordingly).
Hades 2
After a year in Steam Early Access, the direct sequel to one of the most best roguelike games of all time is hitting 1.0. It’s beloved indie developer Supergiant’s first-ever sequel, and they bill it as their biggest game yet. Needless to say, the hype is pretty dang high. The Switch 2 version promises 120 fps at 1080p, with 60 fps in handheld mode. Players who get the Switch version can download a free upgrade for the Switch 2.
The Switch 2 version is also getting a retail release later this year, and will include a physical game card, a full-color Character Compendium, and a download code for the Original Soundtrack. The Switch 2 version will also be fully compatible with the original Switch.
Release: September 25 (digital)
Rating: T for Teen
Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles
One of the best-ever Final Fantasy games was actually a tactical-strategy spinoff for the original PlayStation in 1997. The modern remaster builds upon the enhanced 2007 port (War of the Lions) with updated graphics, revamped UI, fully voiced dialogue(!), and various modern features such as autosave.
The game is known for its serious, mature story, well-developed medieval fantasy world (which would be used in other Final Fantasy properties), customizable character classes, and grid-based combat system. The Switch 2 version features improved framerates and resolution over the original Switch.
Release: September 30
Rating: T for Teen
Borderlands 4
Borderlands 4 is the latest in the beloved looter shooter franchise, full of colorful characters, and equally colorful explosions. The new game features a series-first open-world design, new Vault Hunters with multiple skill trees, insta-summonable vehicles, and, of course, co-op support.
On the other hand, BL4 is experiencing some serious growing pains on PC, and we’re worried about the Switch 2’s performance. Plus, the official FAQ only lists split-screen multiplayer for the PS5 and XBX versions, although Switch 2 can still do online co-op, including cross-play.
Release: October 3
Rating: M for Mature
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Pokémon Legends: Z-A is easily the biggest release for the Switch 2 this Fall. Legends: Arceus was a breath of fresh air when it launched in 2022, with a cool prequel story, large zones, and emphasis on real-time catching.
Legends: Z-A kicks things a step further, with real-time battling for the first time in a main Pokémon game, including positioning and dodging. It’s also set in one of the most popular and most beloved Pokémon settings, the Kalos region (Pokémon Black/White). Specifically, the story is set around the Paris-inspired Lumiose City. Plus, the most popular of the modern battle gimmicks, Mega Evolution, is making a triumphant return.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A is also releasing on the original Switch, but the Switch 2 version features improved performance, resolution, and frame rate. If it’s similar to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, it will make a big difference!
Release: October 16
Rating: E10+
Two Point Museum
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that one of our favorite games of the year is coming to Nintendo Switch 2. Two Point Museum is Two Point Studio’s magnum opus, expanding the management sim series with the hustle of discovering, displaying, and decorating hundreds of potential exhibits. Hiring Experts to scour the land is a fun use of ‘loot boxes,’ while the museum management offers continual challenges with thwarting criminals, managing and training staff, and maximizing profits.
Two Point Studios’ post-launch support has also never been better, including free and paid DLC, an additional museum, and seasonal events. Don’t miss one of this year’s best strategy sims.
Release: October 28
Rating: E for Everyone
Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake
It’s an excellent time to be a nostalgic JRPG fan. Thanks to the parade of excellent JRPG remakes and remasters, more players can enjoy these classic games than ever before. And few JRPGs are more classic than the OG: Dragon Quest.
Following in the footsteps of the excellent Dragon Quest 3 remake, Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake updates the pixelated RPGs into the beloved retro-inspired HD-2D visual style. The remake also adds new story content, quality of life improvements, and a more refined battle system.
Release: October 30
Rating: E10+
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
The Hyrule Warriors spinoff series continues with Age of Imprisonment. The series does two things: provide players with a more bombastic hack and slash combat system against hordes of enemies, and fill in some backstory and gaps between (or during) mainline Zelda games.
As a follow-up to 2020’s Age of Calamity, Age of Imprisonment takes place during the Imprisoning War, an event often referenced and teased throughout The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. It also notably stars Princess Zelda, as she’s teleported into the past where she, the sages, and the King and Queen battle the evil forces of Ganondorf. Age of Imprisonment will feature split-screen co-op and GameShare.
Release: November 6
Rating: T for Teen
Kirby Air Riders
One of the more surprising Switch 2 releases this year is the sequel to the 20-year old, just-okay Kirby racing game, Kirby Air Ride. Aside from adding an ‘rs,’ Kirby Air Riders expands the roster to include more of the Kirby cast, adding special abilities and multiple vehicles. Multiplayer has also expanded, including up to six players for normal races, and 16 for the City Trial mode.
The kid-friendly series features automatic acceleration, with players handling steering, boosting, drifting, and abilities. The City Trial mode acts like a campaign of sorts, with players building their machine and gathering power-ups by taking on events throughout the floating city.
Release: November 20
Rating: E10+
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
It’s finally happening! Eight years after its initial reveal, and at least one major studio do-over later, Metroid Prime 4 is finally launching this holiday season. The Prime series (which is still set between Metroid and Metroid 2) puts space bounty hunter Samus Aran with a first-person perspective as she explores creepy alien planets and mysterious life forms.
Metroid Prime 4 is launching on Switch and Switch 2. The Switch 2 version will feature improved framerates, resolution, and load times. Plus, Switch 2 owners can utilize the new mouse features for more precise aiming using the Joy-Con 2.
Release: December 4
Rating: T for Teen
Octopath Traveler 0
Octopath Traveler 0 is actually a follow-up to the mobile spinoff, Champions of the Continent, with players creating a custom character and rebuilding their hometown. But don’t let the mobile game thing scare you away, you’ll still enjoy the same beautiful HD-2D art style, classic turn-based combat, and a gigantic story. Also, no free-to-play gacha mechanics here!
The town-building system is integral to the campaign, as players place hundreds of buildings, plant crops, and decorate with a grid-based building system. Players can also recruit dozens of potential companions to join their town and/or journey alongside in battle.
Release: December 4
Rating: T for Teen
Which 2025 Switch 2 game releases are you most excited for? Let us know via our social media channels, and subscribe to our weekly newsletter!
