Nintendo Switch’s 2025 Must-Play Lineup: The Hits Keep Coming

Few games have endured a development saga as dramatic as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. First announced at E3 2017, this sequel to the beloved Metroid Prime trilogy faced a reboot in 2019 when Retro Studios took the reins from Bandai Namco. After years of silence, the June 2024 Nintendo Direct finally showcased gameplay, confirming a 2025 release. Samus Aran returns in a visually stunning first-person adventure, pitting her against Space Pirates and Metroids in a world that promises to push the Switch’s limits. Speculation abounds that Beyond could be a cross-platform title, potentially serving as a launch highlight for the Switch 2. With its rich lore and iconic action, this is poised to be one of Nintendo’s biggest releases of the year.

The Pokémon franchise continues to evolve with Pokémon Legends: Z-A, set for a 2025 release. Following the success of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, this spin-off takes players to Lumiose City in the Kalos region, inspired by France and first seen in Pokémon X and Y. Details remain scarce, but the game’s trailer hints at an “urban redevelopment plan” uniting humans and Pokémon, suggesting a fresh narrative twist. Fans are eager for new mechanics and potential Mega Evolution returns, with hopes pinned on a Pokémon Presents event—rumored for February 27, 2025—to unveil more. Whether it’s a Switch exclusive or a dual-platform title, Z-A is a must-watch for trainers worldwide.

Landing on March 20, 2025, Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition brings the Wii U’s cult-classic JRPG to the Switch with enhanced visuals and new story content. This sprawling sci-fi epic follows humanity’s struggle on the alien planet Mira, complete with vast open-world exploration and mech-based combat. For fans of Monolith Soft’s Xenoblade series, this port completes the trilogy’s availability on a single modern platform—a milestone made sweeter by rumors of tie-ins to previous entries. Its early-year release makes it a perfect appetizer for Switch owners awaiting the Switch 2’s arrival.

Scheduled for April 2025, Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time is the long-awaited sequel to the 3DS gem Fantasy Life. This cozy RPG blends life simulation with adventure, letting players choose “Lives” (jobs) like blacksmith or mage while unraveling a time-travel narrative. Its vibrant world and expanded town-building mechanics have fans of the original chomping at the bit. Though delayed from its initial 2024 window, the extra polish could make this a standout title for Switch players seeking a relaxing yet engaging experience.

Set for March 25, 2025, Tales of the Shire offers a cozy escape into Middle-earth. Developed by Wētā Workshop, this life sim lets you create a hobbit and live a peaceful life in the Shire, complete with farming, cooking, and socializing. For fans of Animal Crossing and Tolkien alike, its promise of a gentle, hobbit-sized adventure stands out amid 2025’s action-heavy lineup. Its multi-platform release suggests Switch 2 compatibility, but its early-year debut ensures original Switch owners won’t miss out.

Kicking off the year on January 16, 2025, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD revives the Wii classic with updated visuals and the same challenging 2D platforming that made it a fan favorite. Originally ported to the 3DS, this HD remaster brings Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong’s banana-hoarding antics to the Switch in style. While not a new title, its polished presentation and nostalgic appeal make it a strong opener for Nintendo’s 2025 slate, especially for players awaiting bigger releases.

Level-5’s puzzle-solving gentleman returns in Professor Layton and the New World of Steam, slated for 2025. Announced years ago, this installment has fans hopeful for a concrete release date soon, possibly tied to the Switch 2’s launch. Set in a steampunk-inspired world, it promises brain-teasing riddles and a charming narrative. With no exact date yet, anticipation builds for Layton’s first major Switch outing, blending tradition with potential next-gen flair.

Konami’s legendary RPGs Suikoden I and Suikoden II return in glorious HD on March 6, 2025. First released in 1995 and 1998, these classics follow a hero uniting 108 Stars of Destiny to topple oppressive empires. The Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars collection boasts upgraded visuals, redrawn portraits by Junko Kawano, enhanced sound, and modern features like auto-battle and recorded dialogue. Whether you’re reliving these deep narratives or discovering their unique base-building and army battles for the first time, this remaster is a JRPG dream come true.

While not officially confirmed, the Switch 2’s reveal trailer in January 2025 teased what looks like a new Mario Kart game. With Mario Kart 8 Deluxe still dominating sales since 2017, fans are clamoring for a fresh installment—potentially Mario Kart 9. The trailer’s glimpse of updated tracks and Joy-Con innovations (like magnetic attachments) fuels speculation of a launch title for the Switch 2. If true, this could redefine racing on Nintendo’s hybrid platform in 2025.