The Nintendo Switch continues to prove that it has lost none of its splendor, while the Nintendo Switch 2 is starting to attract attention with ambitious plans. 2026 marks a strategic turning point for Nintendo, between continuity and renewal. Here are the titles that are already dominating discussions.
Large licenses still at the top
Impossible to talk about 2026 without talking about Pokémon Legends: ZA, which promises to explore new mechanics in a semi-open world. After the success of the previous opuses, this new adventure seems to want to modernize the formula while retaining the historical identity of the license.
Another juggernaut still present: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which continues to enjoy active support and enduring popularity. Even several years after its release, it remains a technical and creative reference on the console. On a more user-friendly note, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remains essential thanks to its regular updates and its solid multiplayer.
Multiplayer stronger than ever
Nintendo remains the king of gaming with family and friends. Super Mario Party Jamboree embodies this philosophy perfectly, with a stronger multiplayer focus and more dynamic mini-games. On the competitive side, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate maintains an impressive active base, notably thanks to the e-sports scene. Finally, festive experiences like Just Dance 2026 Edition continue to attract a wide audience.
The highly anticipated returns and remasters
The year 2026 also sees the return of major titles on Switch and Switch 2. Red Dead Redemption continues its cross-platform expansion, attracting a new generation of Nintendo players. For its part, Minecraft remains a timeless pillar, constantly updated and as popular as ever. The remasters and reissues demonstrate a desire to further expand the hybrid catalog.
New ambitions for the Switch 2
Certain projects seem clearly designed to exploit the additional power of the Switch 2. Among them, Mario Kart World evokes a larger open world, while Donkey Kong Bananza aims to modernize the formula of the famous gorilla. Nintendo seeks here to combine nostalgia and innovation. 2026 confirms one thing: Nintendo’s strategy is based on a balance between its historical licenses and technical experiments adapted to market developments.