The Nintendo Switch 2 is coming on July 13, 2025, and the lineup looks stacked. There were over 30 games shown in Nintendo’s full console reveal, and the best part is that the Switch 2 is backward compatible with original Switch games which means players will have a lot to play if they’re upgrading.
The Switch 2’s reveal showed exclusive, multiplatform, and Switch 2-enhanced (Switch 2 Edition) games. It was an impressive showcase, and many of them made me impatient for release day.
1Deltarune
Deltaruneis the latest game from the creator ofUndertale. It’s an episodic RPG where you play a human who must save the world. It’s set in a parallel universe toUndertale, featuring the same excellent pixel art, soundtrack, and unique turn-based combat. You will even see alternate versions of characters fromUndertale(if you’re familiar with that game). The first three episodes are available on PC/Mac, Switch, and PS4, but a Switch 2 release of the game will launch with episodes three and four.
2Civilization VII
Civilization VIIis a real-time strategy (RTS) game where you grow human civilization from primitive to advanced societies. What is notable about the Switch 2 version, which will be available on launch, is that it takes advantage of the Joy-Cons' mouse controls, which will make the experience smoother than using a controller. Assomeone who is not a fan of PC, I have always envied how RTS games are much easier to play with a mouse.
3Street Fighter 6
For a while, it seemed like modernStreet Fightergames would never make it to Nintendo. That’s why it’s a joy to seeStreet Fighter 6making its way to the platform on launch day with two new modes exclusive to the Switch 2. There will also be amiibo figures available for Luke, Jamie, and Kimberly, while other characters will get their own amiibo cards. All this extra content is great for both new and old players to enjoyStreet Fighter 6even more.
4EA SPORTS FC 25
Switch 2 players will also be able to enjoy the Switch Edition ofFC 25sometime in 2025. Like the Switch version, it will be packed with all the modes available on other platforms, including FUT and Rush. The Switch 2 version looks like it will not only have better visuals but improved performance as well. Other sports games that will be released on the Switch 2 includeNBA 2K25andMadden NFL 25.
5Borderlands 4
It’s unlikely thatBorderlands 4will be on any last-gen consoles, and the Switch 2 is coming right on time so Nintendo fans don’t miss out. The game takes place on an all-new planet instead of the series' staple, Pandora. Plus, it features all-new Vault Hunters, skills, abilities, locations, enemies, and, of course, billions of guns. If there’s one thing theBorderlandsseries gets right, it’s the looting and shooting, and this one looks great for newcomers when it releases on September 23rd, 2025.
6Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition
The only FromSoftware game on the Switch isDark Souls: Remastered, meaning Nintendo fans are pretty much starved of Hidetaka Miyazaki’s greatness. But fret no more, as the massive, open-world soulslikeElden Ringis coming to the Switch 2 sometime in 2025 (via a 30 FPS port). Players can look forward to the vanilla version as well as theShadow of the Erdtreeexpansion. That’s over 100 hours of FromSoft greatness they can take on the go.
7Donkey Kong Bananza
We haven’t seen a fully 3DDonkey Konggame sinceDonkey Kong 64. That changes whenDonkey Kong Bananzacomes out on August 03, 2025. You will play the titular character, who will punch and smash his way through a beautiful 3D world. From what I have seen from the trailer, everything, including Donkey Kong’s new design, gameplay, and destructible environments, looks amazing.
8Hollow Knight: Silksong
To sayHollow Knight: Silksongis a highly anticipated game is an understatement. It is a sequel to the critically acclaimed 2DMetroidvania video gameHollow Knight. It was announced in 2019 and has finally been confirmed to be coming in 2025. You will play as Hornet, one of the bosses from the original game, as she fights and explores a whole new kingdom.
9Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion
Coming this September 5th, 2025 is the fast-paced mech shooterDaemon X Machina: Titanic Scion. The game looks likeArmored Core 6: Fires of RubiconandAnthemrolled into one but with a heavy anime aesthetic. I can’t wait to customize my mech and unleash my arsenal on both hostile robots and aliens while exploring the open world and seeing the epic story unfold.
10The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the WildandTears of the Kingdom
Both open-worldZeldatitles are coming to Switch 2 on launch day. The former is known for its exploration, physics-based gameplay, and freedom to approach challenges in creative ways. The latter expands on the previous game by adding more verticality and building mechanics. I had to stop myself from finishingTotKbecause I wanted to experience it with better visuals and framerate on the Switch 2, and I’m glad I waited.