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Nintendo has consistently proven to be one of the most innovative companies in the gaming world, and 2025 looks like it will be no different. With the Switch continuing to dominate, and a catalog of beloved franchises to rely on, the year promises to be full of new releases and exciting surprises for gamers of all ages.
In 2025, Nintendo is expected to offer an impressive range of games, from new entries in fan-favorite series to potential surprises that will capture the hearts of both old-school fans and newcomers. But what exactly is on the horizon? In this article, we’ll dive into everything we know so far about Nintendo’s 2025 game lineup, from confirmed titles to highly speculated games, and discuss the impact these releases might have on the Switch ecosystem.
⚔️ The Games We Know So Far
1. The Legend of Zelda: The Lost Kingdom
The next installment in The Legend of Zelda series is one of the most highly anticipated games of 2025. Tentatively titled The Lost Kingdom, this sequel to the critically acclaimed Tears of the Kingdom is rumored to expand upon the open-world formula that made its predecessor such a masterpiece.
Players can expect the continuation of Link’s journey through Hyrule, but with new regions, dungeons, and mysteries to uncover. Fans have speculated that the game will explore more of the sky and underground spaces, offering new gameplay mechanics that take advantage of the Switch’s capabilities. The introduction of new tools, enemies, and puzzles will likely make this sequel even more immersive and challenging.
Nintendo has been tight-lipped about its release window, but early 2025 could be the perfect time to launch this highly anticipated title.
2. Super Mario Odyssey 2
After the massive success of Super Mario Odyssey in 2017, it’s no surprise that a sequel is on the way. Super Mario Odyssey 2 is expected to build on the innovative mechanics of the original, particularly with the use of Cappy, the sentient hat, to possess enemies and interact with the environment.
Fans are hoping to see new worlds and innovative platforming challenges, possibly with more player freedom and expanded cooperative gameplay. Could Mario and friends team up for local or online multiplayer? It seems like a natural addition, considering the success of Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury.
If Nintendo manages to top the first game with new power-ups, creative level design, and more freedom of exploration, Super Mario Odyssey 2 could be another classic for the Switch.
3. Mario Kart 10: A New Era
It’s been years since Mario Kart 8 Deluxe made its way to the Switch, and many are eagerly waiting for a new entry in the series. While Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is still a fan favorite, a new installment (Mario Kart 10) could refresh the series with exciting new features.
Rumors suggest we could see new tracks, characters, and perhaps even new gameplay mechanics that introduce fresh ways to race. An expanded online mode, with more robust tournaments and a deeper ranking system, would further enhance the game’s multiplayer appeal. Additionally, fans are hoping for improvements to the battle mode, which was lacking in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
If Nintendo can continue to innovate while keeping the series’ trademark fun and accessibility, Mario Kart 10 could be a must-play for every Switch owner.
4. Metroid Prime 4
Metroid Prime 4 has been a long time coming, with Nintendo taking several years to announce its official development after a rocky start. But in 2025, it’s possible that we’ll finally see the release of Samus Aran’s next adventure.
The game promises to return to the franchise’s first-person perspective, offering exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving in a world full of mystery. Expectations are high, with fans hoping to see more polished mechanics and an even more immersive atmosphere.
If Nintendo can meet the high bar set by the previous entries in the Metroid Prime series, this could be one of the biggest releases of 2025.
5. Pokémon Legends 2: Exploring New Frontiers
After the success of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, the sequel (Pokémon Legends 2) is expected to explore even more daring innovations. While the core of the game will still be focused on open-world exploration, capturing Pokémon, and battling, fans expect new regions and features that make the game feel even more dynamic.
The next game in the series could introduce more interactive mechanics and a fresh approach to the traditional Pokémon formula. New Pokémon, updated mechanics, and expanded customization options for your team could all make their way into Pokémon Legends 2. Expect an engaging story that weaves together the rich lore of the Pokémon world with a sense of adventure and discovery.
6. Donkey Kong 3D: Return of the Jungle King
After the success of Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze on the Switch, many fans have been speculating about a new entry in the Donkey Kong series. Rumors suggest that Nintendo could finally deliver a fully 3D Donkey Kong game, providing a fresh take on the series while keeping the iconic platforming gameplay intact.
In Donkey Kong 3D: Return of the Jungle King, players could explore vast, lush jungles, solve puzzles, and fight off new enemies in an expansive, immersive world. This could be a true evolution for the series, blending the classic 2D platformer style with modern 3D adventure mechanics.
7. Fire Emblem: New Horizons
The Fire Emblem series has always been a staple for tactical RPG fans, and with Fire Emblem: Three Houses earning critical acclaim, a follow-up is expected. Fire Emblem: New Horizons could bring new characters, tactical systems, and story elements that build upon the series’ legacy.
With the success of Three Houses‘ multiple routes and branching storylines, New Horizons could further refine this approach while introducing new mechanics, possibly exploring new settings, classes, and character relationships. It would be a welcome addition for fans of tactical battles and engaging narratives.
8. Splatoon 4
Splatoon 4 could push the limits of what we’ve seen in the previous entries, offering new multiplayer modes, a deeper single-player campaign, and an expanded customisation system. With a new game likely coming in 2025, fans are expecting more dynamic, fast-paced action and even more imaginative environments and weaponry.
The Splatoon series has always focused on accessibility, fun, and teamwork, but a new entry could bring even more ways to compete online with friends and strangers alike. Look out for possible enhancements in the Turf War modes, ranked battles, and special abilities for new characters.
9. Animal Crossing: New Horizons – The Sequel
Animal Crossing: New Horizons remains one of the best-selling Switch games of all time, but it’s possible that 2025 could see a true sequel that introduces new mechanics, characters, and locations. We might see larger islands to explore, more customization for homes, and innovative features that keep the laid-back fun going strong.
There’s also the potential for expanded multiplayer features, where friends can interact in more meaningful ways or even visit each other’s towns on a deeper level.
10. New IPs and Surprises from Nintendo
While we know plenty about some of the major franchises, there’s always the possibility of new IPs that surprise and captivate audiences. Nintendo has a history of experimenting with fresh ideas, whether it’s the wacky fun of ARMS or the physics-based puzzle action of Luigi’s Mansion.
Could 2025 bring a new, innovative franchise that blends genres or introduces something entirely new? Fans will be eagerly waiting to see what Nintendo has in store.
🎯 What We Can Expect from Nintendo in 2025
In 2025, we can expect Nintendo to continue pushing the envelope with new ideas while maintaining the familiar charm of their iconic franchises. Alongside these big-name games, we might see updates to Nintendo’s online infrastructure, especially for multiplayer games like Splatoon 4 and Mario Kart 10. The success of the Switch has also led to speculation that Nintendo might introduce a new hardware revision or even a successor, although that remains uncertain.
Nintendo’s unique ability to blend nostalgia with cutting-edge innovation will undoubtedly shape their 2025 strategy. Fans can look forward to blockbuster releases, fresh IPs, and the continued success of their beloved franchises.
🌟 Conclusion
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Nintendo fans. From sequels to iconic franchises like The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Odyssey to new surprises, the company is delivering a diverse range of games for all types of players. Whether you’re into RPGs, platformers, or action-adventure titles, Nintendo’s 2025 lineup has something for everyone.
With new gameplay mechanics, deeper worlds, and plenty of opportunities for multiplayer fun, it’s clear that Nintendo’s innovation will continue to set the stage for the next era of gaming. Keep an eye on these releases, and get ready to dive into some unforgettable adventures in 2025!