At a recent preview event in Toronto, the Nintendo Switch 2 software lineup provided an compelling look at what the next generation will offer.
Nintendo is making significant efforts to ensure a smooth transition from the original Switch to the Switch 2. Backward compatibility is in place for most titles, and Nintendo Switch Online will carry over with expanded features and support for the GameCube. Many existing Switch games will receive upgrades, either by default thanks to the new system’s power, or through paid enhancements that offer resolution boosts, performance improvements, and even full content expansions.
Equally important is the new wave of titles developed specifically for the Switch 2, many of which were available to play at the event. Here are some brief impressions of how the early lineup is taking shape, ranging from the exceptional and surprising to one game that may need a bit more refinement.
Mario Kart World
Mario Kart World is more than just Mario Kart 9; it represents a complete reimagining of the franchise. Drawing inspiration from Burnout Paradise and the Forza Horizon series, it also mirrors the design of Bowser’s Fury by incorporating distinct tracks within a larger, explorable world. Tracks are broader and more dynamic, offering a greater sense of scale and visual clarity that was not possible on the original Switch.
The expanded roster of 24 racers introduces a chaotic and unpredictable energy, making the series feel closer than ever to Wacky Races, and it’s all the better for it. The highlight was the new Knockout Tour mode, which strings together a sequence of courses into a mini-campaign. After each race, the lowest-placed drivers are eliminated, adding pressure and drama as the field narrows toward a showdown. It’s brilliantly tense, and a refreshingly different experience for the series.
On the track, the handling feels more refined, partly due to the new Joy-Con 2 controllers. The glider mechanic also returns, now more graceful than ever. However, I was most impressed by the Wave Race-inspired water sections, where weather effects and dynamic wave physics come together beautifully. Mario Kart World is familiar yet larger, bolder, and faster. It’s exactly what a next-generation Mario Kart should be.
Donkey Kong Bananza
Donkey Kong is back, and it’s hard to know what to make of his return. On a technical and visual level, Donkey Kong Bananza immediately demonstrates the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2. The game is vibrant and colourful, filled with particle effects and destructible environments. It creates an overwhelming sensory experience, which was a little too much for my tired old eyes to handle at times.
The game captures the loose, exploratory spirit of Super Mario Odyssey, featuring large, semi-contained levels to explore. However, instead of focusing on precise, intricate platforming, Bananza emphasizes Donkey Kong’s brute strength. Players can dig down, dig up, smash through floors, and throw giant rocks at unfortunate enemies.
The demo level, Ingot Isle, is fun to explore and smash apart in the moment. However, its heavy reliance on environmental destruction can start to feel repetitive. While the experience is often visceral and joyful, it remains uncertain whether this loop can sustain an entire game. Hopefully, there will be more variety to come. As a demonstration of the Switch 2’s capabilities, Bananza is a home run. However, as a complete game, the final verdict is still pending.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land
This upgraded version of Kirby and the Forgotten Land enhances an already delightful platformer by refining every detail. The added power of the Nintendo Switch 2 results in noticeable improvements in resolution, frame rate, and lighting, all of which elevate the game’s charm. It’s a testament to the original version’s art direction that it still looks gorgeous, even under a sharper lens.
Although this isn’t a complete reimagining, it is clearly a polished and confident refresh. A new content expansion, titled Star Crossed World, is set to introduce fresh levels and abilities, although it was not playable during this demo. The original game was fantastic fun, so if the quality remains of the expansion is just as high, this Switch 2 upgrade is likely worth the price of entry.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Yes, it’s still Breath of the Wild, but the Switch 2 makes a significant difference. With a 4K resolution, 60fps performance, dramatically faster loading times, and upgraded lighting, this version is undoubtedly the definitive edition of a Nintendo’s all-timer. While there is no new content, the visual and technical enhancements breathe new life into the game, making even well-worn paths feel worth revisiting.
A new integration with the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app offers a Wii U-style second-screen experience, providing real-time displays of maps, quest logs, and inventory. While this feature is non-essential, it will help players mop up lingering side quests and elusive Korok seeds.
My over-the-shoulder look at Tears of the Kingdom suggests it benefits from the same upgrades. Expect to be drawn back to Hyrule once again.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is a polished experience designed to showcase the new features of the Switch 2. While it may seem like just a simple tech demo, I think it offers more than some critics suggest. It’s fun, inventive, and even a bit self-aware. One segment quizzes players on frame rates, while another demonstrates 4K resolution by presenting World 1-1 of Super Mario Bros. at its actual scale.
One Redditor pointed out that the Japanese title, Exhibition of Nintendo Switch 2 Secrets, better encapsulates the spirit of the experience, and I have to agree. Nintendo’s signature showmanship can be found in every corner, so while it would be nice for the game to be a pack-in, I can see myself being tempted nonetheless.
Cyberpunk 2077
When the original Switch launched, Nintendo flexed its enthusiast credentials with Skyrim. This time around, it’s Cyberpunk 2077 stepping into that role. It’s a far more ambitious and riskier showcase, but it just about works.
CD Projekt Red’s troubled and troubling RPG is certainly a technical feat on Switch 2. While it’s understandably not on par with the Xbox Series X or PS5 versions, the dynamic resolution holds up well, and performance was stable during combat sequences. Visual compromises are evident, but it looks good, is undeniably playable, and crucially, fully portable. For many, that will be enough.
Yakuza 0
There are moments at video game events when you become acutely aware of yourself. One such moment for me was the 15 gloriously chaotic minutes I spent smashing heads with a baseball bat, much to the vocal delight of the Nintendo event staffer, Michelle. All I can say is: top marks for enthusiasm!
Meanwhile, this much-loved classic hits the Nintendo Switch 2 in fine form. Visually, it looks on par with the version I played on Xbox Series S, and its micro-mission-based gameplay, which is part crime drama and part karaoke sim, makes it a perfect fit for handheld play. The melodrama, the absurd minigames, and the neon-soaked streets of Kamurochō and Sotenbori are all here and looking slick. Plus, the Nintendo Switch 2 version includes new, exclusive content. Fingers crossed this is just the start, and the full series makes its way over.
Hogwarts Legacy
Look, I’m not inclined to enjoy much from the Harry Potter universe. I didn’t like the few books I read, and I found the films draining. Let’s just say that I’m not on the same page as J.K. Rowling.
That said, even putting personal bias aside, Hogwarts Legacy on Nintendo Switch 2 looks rough. It’s clearly a step up from the heavily compromised original Switch port, but of all the games I saw at the event, this one feels like it needs more time. Performance was inconsistent, the image quality lacked crispness, and it didn’t feel particularly fun to play. For die-hard fans, this new version may be enough, but it left me unconvinced.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is another title originally built for the first Nintendo Switch that benefits significantly from a Switch 2 boost. I played it docked at 1080p and 120fps and it was as smooth as you’d hope. The game also supports 4K at 60fps, and while the visuals don’t scream “next-gen” in screenshots, the game shines in motion.
The demo takes place in a hub-like area filled with NPCs. Hopefully, this is just a temporary stop before the game returns to its traditionally solitary atmosphere. An early boss fight provided an exciting dose of action, however, and a great chance to test the Joy-Con 2’s new mouse mode. The transition from standard controls to mouse mode was seamless, and aiming felt precise and responsive. I’m not sure I’d play that way on the couch, but at a desk, especially with the Switch 2’s larger screen, it’s genuinely appealing.
All in all, the demo left me wanting much more. It’s my most anticipated game across both Switch generations.
Nintendo Switch Online: GameCube
Nintendo is finally dipping into the GameCube vault for the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service, and based on what I played, it’s off to a strong start. I had a brief hands-on with The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and F-Zero GX, and came away happy with their performance and emulation quality.
Both titles run smoothly, look sharp, and benefit from modern quality-of-life updates like save states and remappable controls. Wind Waker‘s cel-shaded visuals remain timeless, while F-Zero GX hits 60fps and feels as thrillingly cruel as ever. It’s a promising start.
The Future
I was impressed by the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware during my recent hands-on experience. However, the true value of a gaming platform lies in its software. Since most games perform well, I am optimistic about the Nintendo Switch 2’s future.
Nintendo’s first-party titles look excellent. They are polished, creative, and clearly built with the new hardware in mind. Third-party support is understandably mixed (these games weren’t developed for this architecture, after all), but the overall outlook is promising. Anyone expecting games running on a portable system to compete those on larger living room consoles are likely be disappointed. However, those looking for a meaningful upgrade on the original Nintendo Switch experience should be excited.
Read our hands-on report of the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware.
