Nintendo Switch 2 First-Party Games: Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, and More

Nintendo Switch 2 First-Party Games: Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, and More

Nintendo has officially revealed its first-party lineup for the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, and the gaming world is buzzing with excitement. From the revolutionary Mario Kart World to the thrilling Donkey Kong Bananza, let’s dive into the biggest upcoming titles.

Mario Kart World: The Ultimate Racing Adventure

Kicking off the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, Mario Kart World was confirmed as a launch title, set to release on June 5, 2025. This latest installment introduces a massive open-world experience, blending traditional racing with free exploration.

• New Vehicles & Mechanics: Race with cars, motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, and even planes.
• Expanded Gameplay: Characters can now grind rails, ride walls, and explore off-track areas.
• Knockout Tour Mode: A high-intensity battle royale-style racing experience.
• Free Roam Mode: Explore courses at your own pace with friends.
• Mario Kart World Direct: More details to be revealed on April 17, 2025.

Donkey Kong Bananza: A Smashing New Adventure

Nintendo is bringing back Donkey Kong in a brand-new 3D platforming action-adventure titled Donkey Kong Bananza, launching on July 17, 2025.

• Breakable World Mechanics: Smash through terrain and uncover hidden areas.
• New Combat Abilities: Use debris from destroyed objects to attack enemies.
• Classic & Modern Gameplay: A mix of 2D and 3D platforming.

Kirby Air Riders: Sakurai’s New Racing Game

From Super Smash Bros. director Masahiro Sakurai, Kirby Air Riders is a high-speed racing game coming later in 2025. While details are scarce, the reveal trailer showcased Kirby on his Warp Star alongside other racers.

Zelda Enhanced Editions for Nintendo Switch 2

Both The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom are getting enhanced Nintendo Switch 2 Edition versions at launch, featuring:

• Smoother frame rates and faster load times.
• Enhanced graphics for an even more immersive experience.
• New Zelda Notes App: Exclusive content with commentary from Princess Zelda to assist players.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Switch 2 Enhancements

The long-awaited Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is getting a Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade, including:

• Mouse controls for precision aiming.
• Quality Mode: 4K resolution, 60FPS, HDR.
• Performance Mode: 1080p, 120FPS, HDR.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World

Kirby returns with Kirby and the Forgotten Land featuring a new expansion, Star-Crossed World, launching on August 28, 2025.

• New Mouthful Modes for creative gameplay.
• Performance upgrades tailored for Nintendo Switch 2.

Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV

Nintendo expands its party franchise with Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV, featuring:

• New minigames utilizing Switch 2’s mouse controls, built-in mic, and camera.
• Bowser Live: A 2v2 game-show experience.
• Launch Date: July 24, 2025.

Pokémon Legends Z-A: Switch 2 Upgrades

Pokémon Legends Z-A will launch later in 2025 with enhanced resolution and frame rates.

Nintendo GameCube Classics Arrive on Switch 2

For the first time, GameCube games are coming to Nintendo Switch Online, exclusive to Switch 2. The first wave includes:

• The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
• F-Zero GX
• Soulcalibur II

A wireless GameCube controller will also be released for these classic titles.

New Exclusive Titles and Third-Party Games

Nintendo Switch 2 will also introduce brand-new exclusives:

• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment – A prequel to Tears of the Kingdom (Winter 2025).
• The Duskbloods – A new FromSoftware action RPG launching in 2026.
• Nintendo Switch 2: Welcome Tour – A hands-on interactive experience showcasing the console’s features.
• Drag x Drive – An online 3v3 basketball game utilizing Switch 2’s new mouse controls.

Major Third-Party Games Coming to Switch 2

Nintendo Switch 2 will support a variety of third-party titles, including:

• Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition
• Hades 2
• Street Fighter 6
• Hogwarts Legacy
• Hitman: World of Assassination – Signature Edition
• Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition (Launches June 5, 2025)

• Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4
• EA Sports FC & Madden
• Project 007 by I/O Interactive

Final Thoughts

Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be a game-changer with exciting first-party exclusives, enhanced classics, and a strong lineup of third-party titles. Whether you’re racing in Mario Kart World, exploring in Donkey Kong Bananza, battling in Metroid Prime 4, or experiencing classic GameCube titles, 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for gamers.

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the Nintendo Switch 2 launch on June 5, 2025!