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Abdulazeez Abubakar
1 week ago
Overview
The Best Games to Play at the Launch of the Nintendo Switch 2
he Nintendo Switch 2 is almost here, and that of course means: new games, enhanced versions of classics, and a fresh starting point for both newcomers and longtime fans. Whether you’re planning to stock up on titles right away or are just looking for that one hidden gem, the launch line-up offers a surprising amount to look forward to. Below, you’ll find the best games to play right away on your brand-new Switch 2.
Mario Kart World
The undeniable launch game of the Nintendo Switch 2 is Mario Kart World, and it absolutely deserves the top spot on this list. It’s the first true exclusive first-party title for the system and marks a major leap forward for the iconic racing franchise. This new edition not only brings visual upgrades but also introduces meaningful innovations. Think dynamically linked racetracks, a large open world to explore freely, 24 playable racers per race, new vehicles, characters, and unique upgrades.
The price is notably higher than usual, with physical copies costing up to €90. However, you can save quite a bit by opting for the bundle deal, where you get the game with your Switch 2 for just €40 more.
Although the game is not fully available yet, we recently had an extensive hands-on session at a press event. Our first impression? Very promising. As we wrote then:
“Nintendo seems to be leaning into some of the franchise’s most successful ingredients from the past, while also not shying away from innovation. Mario Kart World is getting the refreshing update the series truly needed. It manages to retain its loyal fans while exciting new players.”
Split Fiction
Even though it’s only April, Hazelight Studios—best known for It Takes Two—has already delivered one of the year’s biggest surprises. Split Fiction is their latest co-op adventure and it launches right alongside the Switch 2.
In this imaginative game, you play as two young writers who finally get their big break: their stories will be published. But when the company behind the contract tries to steal their characters’ imaginations to generate endless content, the two become entangled in each other’s creations. What follows is a journey through one another’s fantasies, where cooperation is essential.
Split Fiction is being praised by critics and boasts an impressive 91 on Metacritic. It’s without a doubt one of the most original and immersive titles of the year—and a serious contender for Game of the Year.
Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2 Upgrades)
If you haven’t played these titles yet, now is the perfect time. Both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom are getting major upgrades for the Nintendo Switch 2. These modern classics are not only among the best games on the original Switch but are considered by many to be some of the greatest games of all time—period.
The Switch 2 versions take advantage of the upgraded hardware, offering higher frame rates, shorter load times, and a bit more graphical flair. The upgrade is also reasonably priced: if you already own the game, you can move to the enhanced version for just ten euros. Newcomers can grab a special Switch 2 edition, complete with all the extras.
Hogwarts Legacy
Although Hogwarts Legacy got plenty of attention when it launched in 2023, it remains a solid choice for new gamers—especially now that a Switch 2 version is available with better performance and visual enhancements. While the game may not be a must-play in terms of review scores, it’s a delight for Harry Potter fans, full of familiar faces and magical discovery.
If you’ve already played it on another platform, the added value is limited. But if you’re a Nintendo-only gamer and missed out on this title? Now’s the time to roam the halls of Hogwarts. Hogwarts Legacy offers dozens of hours of magic, adventure, and fan service.
Zelda: The Wind Waker
Nintendo is also using the launch of the Switch 2 to highlight a few beloved classics. The Wind Waker, originally a GameCube game and later remastered for the Wii U, is finally making its debut on a modern handheld console. And that’s fantastic news—this cel-shaded classic still captivates players today.
The Switch 2 version includes several quality-of-life improvements like faster loading times, gyro controls, and a slightly tweaked interface. What remains unchanged is the game’s unique rhythm and atmosphere, with its charming sailing world and memorable cast.
For many players, this will be their first encounter with a highly underrated Zelda masterpiece—and now in its best possible form.
https://nordic.ign.com/nintendo-switch-2-unofficial-name/93156/feature/the-best-games-to-play-at-the-launch-of-the-nintendo-switch-2
