As we gear up for 2025, Nintendo fans are buzzing with excitement for the next wave of incredible gaming experiences on the Nintendo Switch. This console, known for its versatility and innovative design, continues to dominate the gaming scene with its mix of first-party classics and third-party gems. But what can we expect in 2025? Whether you’re a long-time Switch enthusiast or just picking one up, the upcoming titles are set to redefine what we know about gaming.
In this article, we’ll explore the most anticipated Nintendo Switch games for 2025, delving into what makes each one special and why they should be on every gamer’s radar.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of the Past
Release Date: Expected in 2025
Genre: Action-Adventure, Open World
After the monumental success of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, Nintendo is bringing another installment to the beloved Zelda franchise in 2025. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of the Past promises to take everything fans loved about the previous games and amplify it to new levels.
What to Expect:
- Expanded Open World: This time, Link will be exploring an underground kingdom, revealing more of Hyrule’s ancient past and its forgotten history.
- New Abilities and Combat Systems: Time-manipulation powers and elemental magic will add more depth to the gameplay.
- Co-op Multiplayer: For the first time, players will be able to team up with a friend in co-op mode, tackling puzzles and bosses together.
- Gorgeous Visuals: The game will push the Switch to its limits, with enhanced graphics and detailed environments that make Hyrule feel even more alive.
Why It’s Anticipated: Echoes of the Past is expected to elevate the Zelda series to new heights, combining the beloved exploration of previous games with new mechanics and a more immersive, story-driven experience.
2. Super Mario Odyssey 2
Release Date: Expected in 2025
Genre: Platformer, Action-Adventure
Super Mario is a name synonymous with innovation and timeless gameplay, and after the success of Super Mario Odyssey (2017), a sequel is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated games on the horizon. In 2025, Super Mario Odyssey 2 will return with brand-new worlds, mechanics, and surprises.
What to Expect:
- New Worlds: Mario will explore never-before-seen kingdoms filled with unique challenges, puzzles, and hidden secrets.
- Enhanced Cappy Mechanics: Mario’s trusty hat, Cappy, gets even more abilities, opening up new ways to interact with the environment.
- Co-op Mode: Team up with a friend and control Mario and another character, tackling platforming puzzles and engaging in exciting co-op challenges.
- Stunning Visuals: Expect the game to push the boundaries of the Switch, offering vibrant, colorful worlds that’ll be a visual feast for the eyes.
Why It’s Anticipated: As a continuation of one of the most acclaimed platformers of all time, Super Mario Odyssey 2 is expected to be just as innovative and fun as its predecessor, with even more creative ideas and unforgettable adventures.
3. Metroid Prime 4
Release Date: Expected in 2025
Genre: First-Person Shooter, Action-Adventure
It’s been years since the initial announcement of Metroid Prime 4, but after a long wait and a reboot in development, it’s finally time to prepare for the next chapter in Samus Aran’s saga. Set for release in 2025, Metroid Prime 4 will take players to new, unexplored worlds with the same first-person adventure that made the Prime series a fan favorite.
What to Expect:
- Exploration and Combat: The game will blend intense combat with deep exploration, offering players the chance to discover new environments while battling alien enemies.
- New Abilities for Samus: Players can expect to see new powers and upgrades that enhance both the combat and puzzle-solving aspects of the game.
- Intricate Storyline: Delving into the mysteries of the Chozo and the origins of Samus, the game will feature an intricate narrative filled with twists and lore.
- Stunning Environments: The game’s visuals are expected to rival Tears of the Kingdom, with lush alien landscapes, intricate architecture, and high-tech facilities.
Why It’s Anticipated: As one of Nintendo’s most iconic franchises, Metroid Prime 4 has been hotly anticipated for years. Fans are excited to return to the franchise’s roots with new mechanics, a gripping story, and top-tier action.
4. Splatoon 4
Release Date: Expected in 2025
Genre: Third-Person Shooter, Multiplayer
The Splatoon series has become a beloved Nintendo classic, offering fast-paced, ink-based combat in both single-player and multiplayer modes. After the success of Splatoon 3, Splatoon 4 is expected to bring fresh mechanics, new weapons, and exciting multiplayer battles.
What to Expect:
- New Weapons and Gear: Expect even more creative ink weapons and gear, along with customization options for your Inkling or Octoling.
- Expanded Multiplayer Modes: Splatoon 4 will offer new ways to compete online, from ranked modes to innovative co-op experiences.
- Single-Player Storyline: The single-player campaign will dive deeper into the lore of Inkopolis and the world of Splatoon, featuring new characters and storylines.
- Seasonal Updates: Nintendo plans to keep the game fresh with continuous seasonal updates, adding new content and challenges throughout the year.
Why It’s Anticipated: With its unique twist on competitive shooters, Splatoon 4 is expected to offer something for everyone, from casual players to competitive gamers looking for a fun and strategic experience.
5. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: Sun and Moon Chronicles
Release Date: Expected in 2025
Genre: RPG, Adventure
Pokémon Scarlet and Violet brought a new era of open-world exploration to the Pokémon series, and in 2025, we’ll see the next chapter in the franchise’s evolution with Sun and Moon Chronicles. This new installment will continue to expand the world, offering fresh Pokémon to catch and new regions to explore.
What to Expect:
- Expanded Open-World Areas: The new game will offer even larger, more diverse regions to explore, with more wild Pokémon to encounter.
- New Pokémon Species: Fans can expect more than 100 new Pokémon, including regional forms and new evolutions.
- Dynamic Weather and Day/Night Cycles: Weather and time of day will affect the availability of Pokémon, adding more depth to the exploration.
- Raids and Competitive Battles: As with previous games, the competitive aspect will be a big focus, with raids, tournaments, and online play taking center stage.
Why It’s Anticipated: Pokémon continues to be a powerhouse in the gaming world, and Scarlet and Violet: Sun and Moon Chronicles promises to enhance the open-world experience, offering both casual and hardcore players a wealth of content to explore.
6. Bayonetta 4
Release Date: Expected in 2025
Genre: Action, Hack-and-Slash
Bayonetta is known for its fast-paced, stylish combat and over-the-top action, and Bayonetta 4 is set to deliver even more intense, breathtaking gameplay. As the next chapter in the Bayonetta saga, this title promises to elevate the series to new heights.
What to Expect:
- Epic Combat: Expect new weapons, moves, and transformations that let Bayonetta take on enemies in even more stylish and creative ways.
- Cinematic Boss Fights: The game will feature massive, cinematic battles against towering enemies that test both your reflexes and strategy.
- Deeper Story: The narrative will dive deeper into Bayonetta’s past, uncovering new revelations about her origins and her role in the ongoing war between angels and demons.
- Flawless Visuals: Expect fluid animations and stunning graphics that bring the fast-paced combat to life in ways never seen before on the Switch.
Why It’s Anticipated: Bayonetta fans are eager to experience more of the high-octane action that has made the series a cult classic. Bayonetta 4 is poised to be the most ambitious entry yet, with even more spectacle and gameplay innovations.
Conclusion: 2025 is Shaping Up to Be a Landmark Year for the Nintendo Switch
Nintendo’s lineup for 2025 promises a year packed with diverse, high-quality games that cater to all types of gamers. Whether you’re looking for epic adventures in Zelda and Metroid, thrilling multiplayer battles in Splatoon, or Pokémon exploration in Scarlet and Violet, the Nintendo Switch will have something for everyone. With groundbreaking gameplay, innovative mechanics, and unforgettable stories, these upcoming titles are sure to make 2025 a year to remember in the world of gaming.
