Summary:
Nintendo Switch 2 already has a promising first-year lineup, but fans are hungry for more. With titles like Mario Kart World, Kirby Air Riders, and Donkey Kong Bananza confirmed, attention now shifts to what’s next for Nintendo’s biggest franchises. This piece explores realistic timelines for potential releases across series like Super Mario, Paper Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Kirby, Fire Emblem, Animal Crossing, and more. Drawing from past release trends, developer patterns, and recent Switch 2 upgrades, we piece together a forecast for what games might arrive—and when. Whether it’s the next grand Zelda adventure or a long-overdue Fire Emblem remake, we examine the state of development for each major series. While some beloved IPs are set for a short break, others seem ready to return sooner than expected. This breakdown offers a glimpse into Nintendo’s roadmap, spotlighting which franchises might hit Switch 2 in the coming years and which are likely taking a longer rest.
Nintendo Switch 2’s first-year lineup
The Nintendo Switch 2’s launch year is packed with energy. Titles like Mario Kart World, Kirby Air Riders, and Donkey Kong Bananza have already been confirmed, each promising a revitalized experience that takes advantage of the new hardware. The Switch 2 isn’t just a modest update—it’s a stage for reinvention. This powerful system not only elevates visual fidelity but also broadens development opportunities. Alongside these new releases, we’re also seeing Switch 2 Editions for popular titles like Pokemon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, hinting that Nintendo is balancing fresh content with enhanced upgrades. But beyond the initial wave, the question lingers—what’s coming next?
Mario series: the future of 3D Mario and Donkey Kong
The 3D Mario series is one of Nintendo’s crown jewels, but all signs point to a temporary pause. Donkey Kong Bananza is almost certainly in development by the same team that created Super Mario Odyssey. That development overlap suggests we’re at least a couple of years away from the next mainline 3D Mario. Of course, it’s possible the team has been working on two titles in parallel—but without hard evidence, that remains speculation. Either way, Donkey Kong’s return to 3D gaming is a major event. The beloved ape has been silent for years, and giving him the spotlight again feels like a respectful nod to Nintendo’s roots.
Why Donkey Kong Bananza matters
Donkey Kong Bananza isn’t just another spin-off—it’s a revival. A proper 3D platformer centered around Donkey Kong hasn’t existed in decades, and Switch 2 gives the franchise a fresh canvas. With Super Mario Odyssey’s DNA likely involved, expectations are sky-high for design creativity, controls, and the return of classic jungle flair. This release might redefine how Nintendo treats its legacy characters.
Paper Mario release timeline and 2028 prediction
The Paper Mario series follows a curious pattern. Every four years, a new title drops: Sticker Star in 2012, Color Splash in 2016, Origami King in 2020, and Thousand-Year Door remake in 2024. With that cadence, 2028 is the logical estimate for the next original entry. While it’s possible Nintendo breaks this trend, betting on a 2028 release seems safe. This rhythm gives the development team space to experiment or shift direction without fan panic. Paper Mario fans might have a long wait ahead, but history is on their side.
Fans continue to push for a return to the series’ RPG roots, and with the recent remake reigniting that spark, the next original game could embrace old mechanics while introducing modern twists. If Nintendo listens, 2028 could mark a major turning point.
Expectations for Mario Sports, Mario Party, and Mario & Luigi
It’s been a quiet stretch for Mario’s sub-franchises, but that silence won’t last forever. Camelot hasn’t released a game since 2021’s Mario Golf: Super Rush, suggesting something new could be on the way. Whether it’s golf, tennis, or a brand-new concept, a Mario Sports revival is likely. Meanwhile, NDcube is still riding high with Super Mario Party Jamboree, which just received a Switch 2 Edition—indicating that a new entry is still years off. The Mario & Luigi series also saw a recent comeback with Brothership, so another title isn’t imminent either.
Zelda’s timeline and remake potential on Switch 2
Zelda fans need to buckle in. With a seven-year gap between Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, it’s clear Nintendo takes its time with mainline Zelda. The next installment will likely feature a new setting and style, possibly using a revamped engine. While waiting for that, Grezzo has stepped in with Echoes of Wisdom—a new 2D Zelda—and could become a key player in keeping the franchise active. Remakes and enhanced editions might fill the gap, offering classic titles in new visual fidelity and smoother frame rates.
The remake strategy between mainline games
Grezzo’s strength in translating retro magic into modern form keeps the Zelda name alive between epic releases. If their 2D work on Switch 2 gains traction, fans might enjoy a steady stream of bite-sized adventures alongside larger installments down the road.
Kirby’s roadmap with Air Riders and future possibilities
Kirby is in an unusually strong position. Kirby Air Riders is landing this year, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land is getting a polished Switch 2 Edition complete with a new story. These signs suggest that a brand-new Kirby game won’t appear immediately—maybe in a year or two. HAL Laboratory is keeping the franchise active without overextending. With Switch 2’s stronger hardware, there’s potential for larger, more experimental Kirby experiences ahead, especially if Air Riders performs well commercially.
Yoshi’s return and the potential of Woolly World
Yoshi has been absent for a while, but subtle hints suggest a return might be near. Good-Feel recently wrapped up Princess Peach: Showtime, and Yoshi’s Woolly World was spotted in official promotional material. Even if that was a slip-up, fans are eager for either a new adventure or a definitive edition of Woolly World. The charm of handcrafted visuals and relaxing gameplay would fit perfectly on Switch 2, especially with hardware that can bring texture-rich environments to life.
Animal Crossing and Splatoon release speculation
There’s no concrete information on the next Animal Crossing or Splatoon, but both are definitely in the works. It’s just a matter of timing. Animal Crossing could see a 2026 release, potentially alongside a return of Tomodachi Life for cozy gamers. Splatoon 4 might arrive sooner, though, especially considering Nintendo’s emphasis on community-driven events like Splatfests. The next Direct might clarify their trajectory, but right now, both series feel like they’re just beneath the surface—ready to pop up soon.
Fire Emblem’s future with remakes and new entries
Fire Emblem Engage launched in 2023, and a new title could follow as early as next year. Rumors of a Genealogy of the Holy War remake haven’t materialized yet, but fans are hopeful. A remake of Fire Emblem Awakening would make strategic sense, especially as it marks a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history. Whether on Switch 1 or Switch 2, the next entry might bring back a fan favorite in HD style, appealing to both veterans and new players.
What to expect from Xenoblade Chronicles
Xenoblade Chronicles is a rare case of both quality and quantity. Monolith Soft continues to deliver hit after hit, and even helped out on Zelda and Animal Crossing. Their output is astonishing, so while a new Xenoblade game probably won’t drop this year, it wouldn’t be surprising to see one next year. Given Switch 2’s capabilities, we can expect a visually stunning, system-pushing RPG whenever it arrives.
The status of Pikmin, WarioWare, and legacy franchises
Pikmin 4 and WarioWare: Move It! both launched in 2023, so they’ll be on pause for a bit. However, Pikmin’s strong performance could give it more attention moving forward. Surprisingly, Pikmin 4 didn’t get a Switch 2 Edition, which makes us wonder if Nintendo is planning something special later. Legacy franchises like F-Zero, Punch-Out, Kid Icarus, and EarthBound remain dormant for now, with no strong hints pointing to their return. But as always with Nintendo, surprises are never off the table.
Super Smash Bros. on Switch 2: What’s the plan?
The future of Super Smash Bros. is a massive question mark. Masahiro Sakurai is focused on Kirby Air Riders and has been for years. That leaves two possibilities: a long wait or development shifting to a new team. Ultimate was a monumental success, and Nintendo won’t let this series fade. But how and when it returns is the big unknown. Whether it’s a deluxe edition, reboot, or sequel, something is brewing in the background—it just might take a while to show itself.
Conclusion
Nintendo Switch 2’s first year already packs a punch, but what’s coming next could redefine its legacy. While some franchises like Donkey Kong and Kirby are thriving with new entries, others like Mario, Zelda, and Smash are gearing up for longer development cycles. Trends suggest a mix of strategic remakes and original titles, giving players both nostalgia and innovation. Nintendo’s timing remains unpredictable, but that’s part of the magic. From cozy games to epic adventures, the Switch 2’s future is wide open—and incredibly promising.
FAQs
- Will there be a new 3D Mario on Switch 2?
- It’s possible, but likely a few years away since the Odyssey team is working on Donkey Kong Bananza.
- Is Paper Mario still following a four-year release cycle?
- Yes, and based on past releases, we expect the next one in 2028.
- Could we see a new Zelda game soon?
- A mainline Zelda game will take years, but remakes or side projects could release sooner.
- Is another Fire Emblem remake in development?
- It hasn’t been confirmed, but rumors of a Genealogy or Awakening remake persist.
- Will Smash Bros. return on Switch 2?
- Absolutely—it’s just unclear when and who is developing it.
Sources
- Furukawa Says Nintendo Places “High Importance” On Console Performance, NintendoSoup, May 9, 2025
