Top 5 Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Games to Watch on Day One

Nintendo Switch 2 drops on June 5, and whether you’re a day-one buyer or still hunting down pre-orders, let’s be real—you’re here for the games. And this time? Nintendo’s not pulling punches. From bold remasters to next-gen exclusives and unexpected ports, the launch lineup is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the company’s history.

Here’s my top 5 Nintendo Switch 2 launch games worth obsessing over.

1. Mario Kart World

Nintendo’s crown jewel is evolving—and fast. Mario Kart World promises a full-on global racing overhaul. This isn’t just track selection; this is world-building. Think interconnected cities, wild weather shifts, seamless biomes, and a 24-player online mode that’s already stirring up competitive buzz.

Mechanics like wall-jumping, rail-grinding, and weather-based physics add tactical depth that Mario Kart veterans will love. And the character roster? Over 40 racers. It’s not just a sequel—it’s a statement.

2. Sonic x Shadow Generations

Sonic Generations was already a celebration—now it’s a reawakening. Sonic x Shadow Generations remasters the original while stacking in an all-new Shadow-centric campaign. For fans who’ve begged for more anti-hero energy, it’s finally here—and powered by the Switch 2’s upgraded visuals and framerate stability.

Expect new cinematics, expanded lore, and Shadow-only boss fights that turn the spotlight toward one of Sonic’s most iconic rivals.

3. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty – Switch 2 Edition

Yes, really. CD Projekt Red somehow pulled this off. A full version of Cyberpunk 2077—with the Phantom Liberty expansion—running on a Nintendo handheld hybrid. Ray tracing, upscaling, stable framerate… what timeline are we in?

This port doesn’t just show off Switch 2’s horsepower—it shatters old perceptions about what Nintendo systems can handle. Mature, narrative-rich, and technically polished, it’s a huge win for third-party powerhouses entering the Nintendo space.

4. Zelda: Breath of the Wild + Tears of the Kingdom – Enhanced Editions

Not new, but newly essential. These enhanced editions pack upgraded textures, smoother frames, and better performance for two of the greatest open-world games ever made. It’s the perfect excuse to revisit Hyrule—or to finally play the sequel if you missed it.

This is Nintendo setting a baseline: if these classics can look and run this well, imagine what future Zelda entries will bring. It’s a love letter to longevity and replayability.

5. Street Fighter 6

Capcom’s newest entry finally lands on a Nintendo platform—and it’s coming in hot. Street Fighter 6 includes the full feature set: ranked online play, character customization, World Tour mode, and cross-platform competitive support.

This isn’t a watered-down handheld build. It’s the real deal. And if you’re into combos, counters, or esports-level footsies, this is your launch day pickup.

Bonus: Retro Remasters

If rumors hold, launch day might also include F-Zero GX, Soulcalibur II, and Wind Waker via Switch Online’s expansion tier. That’s a retro flex—and one that longtime Nintendo fans should definitely keep an eye on.

Final Thoughts

Nintendo’s not just launching hardware. They’re launching a new identity for their software. The Switch 2 isn’t just more power—it’s more ambition. And with these games leading the charge, it might just be the boldest Nintendo launch since the SNES.