15 Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Games You Need to Try

The Nintendo Switch 2 launched today, June 5, 2025, bringing a beefy upgrade with sharper visuals, faster performance, and neat tricks like Joy-Con 2 mouse controls. It’s backward compatible, so your old Switch games still work, but the real excitement is the fresh launch lineup packed with exclusives, enhanced editions, and third-party hits.

I’m stoked to share the 15 must-play games available right now. From open-world racers to epic RPGs and cozy sims, these titles show off the Switch 2’s power. Let’s dive into what makes each one a day-one essential.

Mario Kart World

‘Mario Kart World’ shakes up the series with a huge open-world map where 24 players race through dynamic courses. Day-night cycles and moves like rail-grinding keep things thrilling.

With 50 characters, including surprises like Sonic, and a Free Roam mode for exploration, it’s a blast. The 60fps handheld performance makes it perfect for solo or multiplayer fun.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

‘Breath of the Wild’ is back with a visual overhaul, featuring crisp HDR graphics and smoother frame rates. Hyrule’s vast landscapes and clever puzzles feel more immersive than ever.

The Zelda Notes feature in the Nintendo Switch app adds lore for deeper dives into the story. It’s a stunning way to revisit this open-world classic on new hardware.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

‘Tears of the Kingdom’ gets a similar upgrade, with sharper visuals and faster load times that make Ultrahand and Fuse mechanics pop. Exploring Hyrule’s skies and depths is seamless.

Zelda Notes brings extra story details, and the boosted performance ensures every contraption and battle runs smoothly. This is a must for RPG fans.

Street Fighter 6

‘Street Fighter 6’ lands with the Years 1-2 Fighters Edition, packing eight DLC characters and new stages. Local wireless play and crossplay make it easy to battle friends anywhere.

The World Tour story mode and Amiibo support add flair, while tight controls and vibrant visuals make this a knockout choice for fighting game lovers.

Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition

‘Cyberpunk 2077’ shows off the Switch 2’s muscle with its sprawling Night City, now with improved graphics and faster load times. The Phantom Liberty expansion is included for a full RPG experience.

Playing this gritty world in handheld mode feels like a technical marvel. It’s a bold pick for fans of deep, immersive adventures.

Hogwarts Legacy

‘Hogwarts Legacy’ brings the wizarding world to Switch 2 with upgraded visuals and HDR support. Explore Hogwarts, cast spells, and uncover secrets in this open-world RPG.

Smoother performance and new side quests make it a magical escape. It’s perfect for Harry Potter fans and anyone craving a rich adventure.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

‘Animal Crossing: New Horizons’ gets a refresh with enhanced textures and quicker load times. Build your dream island with new furniture and seasonal events exclusive to this version.

The cozy vibe and deeper customization make it a relaxing getaway. It’s ideal for chilling solo or sharing your island with friends online.

Hollow Knight: Silksong

‘Hollow Knight: Silksong’ stars Hornet in a gorgeous metroidvania with hand-drawn art. Explore a haunting new kingdom filled with tough bosses and hidden secrets.

The Switch 2’s smooth performance ensures fluid combat and fast load times. It’s a challenging yet beautiful pick for platformer fans.

Civilization VII

‘Civilization VII’ lands on Switch 2 as a launch title, letting you build empires from scratch with a fresh twist on the 4X strategy formula. Lead your civilization through three distinct ages—Antiquity, Exploration, and Modern—each with unique tech and civic trees, narrated by Gwendoline Christie.

Choose leaders like Harriet Tubman or Benjamin Franklin, separate from civilizations, and switch nations at each age for dynamic gameplay. The Switch 2’s power ensures smooth performance, with crossplay and new features like crisis events adding depth to your conquests.

Super Mario Party Jamboree plus Jamboree TV

‘Super Mario Party Jamboree’ brings new boards and minigames, plus Jamboree TV for live viewing with friends. The Switch 2’s enhanced visuals make every party pop.

Online play and motion controls keep the chaos fresh. It’s a great pick for group gatherings or solo challenges.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star Crossed World

‘Kirby and the Forgotten Land’ returns with new Star Crossed World content. Kirby’s 3D platforming shines with improved graphics and smoother performance.

New levels and abilities add replay value, making it a joyful adventure for kids and adults who love lighthearted fun.

Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

‘Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe’ gets a visual boost and new challenges. Run, jump, and power up through classic 2D levels with Mario and friends.

Enhanced modes and co-op play make it a solid pick for platformer fans looking for nostalgia with a modern twist.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

‘Xenoblade Chronicles 3’ delivers a massive RPG with sharper character models and smoother battles. Explore a vast sci-fi world with a gripping story of war and bonds.

The Switch 2’s power makes every cutscene and fight feel epic. It’s a deep dive for fans of story-driven adventures.

Splatoon 3 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

‘Splatoon 3’ splashes in with HDR support and smoother online play. New weapons and maps keep the ink-flinging action fresh and colorful.

The single-player campaign expands Inkling lore, making it a great choice for shooter fans who love style and teamwork.

Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

‘Fantasy Life i’ blends life-sim and RPG with a charming world where you master professions and battle enemies. The Switch 2’s visuals enhance every colorful scene.

Improved performance makes switching roles seamless. It’s a delightful pick for players who love crafting their own stories.