Nintendo has long thrived on the unmatched strength of its first-party IPs, from Mario and Zelda to Pokémon, crafting experiences that define entire console generations. The original Switch’s hybrid design amplified this magic, but its third-party support, while impressive, often leaned on ports or indies rather than day-one blockbusters. With the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo aims to complement its one-of-a-kind titles with a robust third-party lineup, blending global heavyweights and niche gems to broaden its appeal. A powerful GPU, improved CPU, and enhanced input capabilities make the Switch 2 a prime canvas for big third-party blockbusters, and securing the following franchises or titles could elevate the console to new heights.
10. The Witcher IV
CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher III: Wild Hunt is a cultural titan selling over 50 million units. Its open-world RPG formula—blending gritty storytelling, monster hunting, and player choice—has captivated millions. The Witcher IV, still in early development as of 2025, promises to push these boundaries further, introducing Ciri as the new protagonist. For the Nintendo Switch 2, this title would be a flagship RPG, showcasing Nintendo’s ability to handle huge open worlds with top-of-the-line graphics. The original Switch’s Witcher III port, though a technical marvel, made too many compromises; The Witcher IV could release on the Switch 2 in a much better state.
Portability could also be a key draw over other platforms: imagine tackling side quests on a commute or diving into epic battles on a bigger screen at home. Features like touchscreen inventory management or gyro-based aiming could add Switch-specific flair as well. The Witcher IV‘s launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 would be a must-have to showcase the console’s technical prowess and send a message that big games will not be missing the platform.
9. Riot Games (League of Legends, Valorant)
Riot Games’ Valorant and League of Legends (amongst their other titles) dominate competitive gaming, with League boasting over 180 million monthly players in 2024 and Valorant hitting 15 million monthly players. Bringing these to the Nintendo Switch 2 would tap into their massive, dedicated communities, offering Nintendo a slice of the live-service pie. The console’s rumored performance upgrades could ensure crisp visuals at 120fps, critical for competitive play, while its hybrid design suits quick matches or extended sessions.
Valorant’s precise gunplay would shine with the Nintendo Switch 2’s mouse mode support, arguably making it the best console for the game, compared to the traditional controllers on PS5 or Xbox. League of Legends, long requested for consoles, could finally see a tailored port, leveraging touchscreen and Joy-Con 2’s mouse mode. The Switch 2’s portability fits Riot’s accessible, free-to-play model and their vibrant art styles mesh with Nintendo’s colorful aesthetic. However, I could see the built-in mic being even more fuel to the fire of a notoriously toxic fanbase.
8. Baldur’s Gate III
Larian Studios’ Baldur’s Gate III, released in 2023, sold over 10 million copies by 2024 and won Game of the Year at multiple outlets, redefining CRPGs with its lovable characters, strategic turn-based combat, and masterful branching narratives. Its concurrent Steam players showcase its staying power and it’s a golden opportunity to host a modern classic on the Nintendo Switch 2.
The game’s co-op focus—up to four players online or two players local—screams Nintendo, encouraging shared adventures on a single screen or across devices. Its portability suits the long campaign, letting players pick up and drop at any time. Mouse mode would again come in handy as a PC-like option. Landing this title close to the console’s launch would position the Switch 2 to be the best place to play one of the best games of the last few years portably.
7. Final Fantasy XIV Online
Square Enix’s Final Fantasy XIV is a titan among MMORPGs, with over 30 million registered accounts by 2024 and a peak of 1.2 million concurrent players during the Endwalker expansion’s launch. Its critically acclaimed story, expansive world, and cross-platform play have made it a cultural touchstone, rivaling World of Warcraft. The Nintendo Switch 2 could finally bring FFXIV to Nintendo fans, leveraging improved processing to handle its vibrant zones and raid mechanics. Portability is a game-changer—players could tackle dailies, craft gear, or join friends for trials anywhere, aligning with the console’s on-the-go model.
FFXIV’s inclusive community and beginner-friendly design mesh with Nintendo’s family-oriented vibe, while its controller-optimized UI could integrate touchscreen shortcuts for menus or emotes. The game’s subscription model ensures long-term engagement and revenue, and cross-play would connect Switch 2 users to PC, PlayStation and Xbox players, fostering a unified experience. The inclusion of the built-in mic and GameChat could make the social experience even better.
6. Hoyoverse (Genshin Impact, Honkai Star Rail, Zenless Zone Zero)
Hoyoverse’s Genshin Impact has grossed over $5 billion since 2020, with 65 million monthly players in 2024, while Zenless Zone Zero hit 50 million downloads shortly after its 2024 launch. Genshin’s open-world exploration and Zenless’s stylish action RPG combat have redefined free-to-play gaming. The original Switch struggled to meet Genshin’s demands, but the Nintendo Switch 2’s upgraded hardware could deliver buttery-smooth performance and vivid visuals, letting players glide through Teyvat or battle in New Eridu. These titles would amplify Nintendo’s reach, tapping into Hoyoverse’s global fanbase.
Their games are perfect for the Switch 2’s pick-up-and-play design. Genshin’s elemental combos and Zenless’s fast-paced dodging suit short bursts or marathon sessions, whether handheld or docked. Their gacha mechanics could drive massive microtransaction revenue, benefiting both Hoyoverse and Nintendo. Also, features like gyro aiming or touch-based menus could enhance immersion, while cross-platform saves ensure seamless progress for current and returning players
5. Call of Duty
Activision’s Call of Duty franchise is a sales behemoth, with over 500 million lifetime units sold by 2024 and 100 million monthly active players across titles like Black Ops 6 and Warzone. Its fast-paced FPS action defines mainstream gaming, yet Nintendo has missed out since the Wii U. The Nintendo Switch 2’s NVIDIA chipset could easily run modern CoD entries natively, however storage space is likely to be a huge concern. Bringing CoD to Switch 2 would draw millions of casual and competitive players, expanding Nintendo’s player reach.
Portability transforms CoD into a commute-friendly thrill—tackling campaign missions during a commute could be a winning experience. Gyro aiming and mouse controls via Joy-Con 2s could offer precision rivaling PC, while local split-screen multiplayer aligns with Nintendo’s social roots. The franchise’s live-service model could be a passive revenue driver for Nintendo and landing the next Call of Duty would signal their serious push for mainstream relevance, blending its quirky charm with the raw adrenaline of a global blockbuster.
4. Monster Hunter Wilds
Capcom’s Monster Hunter series is a colossal franchise, especially in Japan, where it’s a cultural phenomenon driving hardware sales—Monster Hunter Wilds, the best selling new release of 2025, introduces seamless open-world hunting, dynamic ecosystems, and enhanced co-op. Following Rise’s Switch exclusivity, Wilds feels like a natural fit, reinforcing Nintendo’s bond with Capcom’s monster-slaying epic.
The series’ loop of hunting, crafting, and teamwork thrives on portability—players could join hunts on lunch breaks or grind materials on a train. In Japan, a Nintendo Switch 2 release could replicate Rise’s sales surge, driving console adoption. Monster Hunter Wilds would cement the Switch 2 as a co-op paradise, blending spectacle with social fun.
3. Dragon Quest XII
Dragon Quest is a cornerstone of JRPGs and a massive franchise in Japan, where titles like Dragon Quest XI S sold 6 million units globally by 2023, with Japan as its heartland. Announced as a darker, action-leaning chapter, Dragon Quest XII could redefine the series while retaining its charm, crafted by Yuji Horii and the late Akira Toriyama. As a Nintendo staple, its presence would honor tradition while more than likely being the main platform for the release.
The series’ turn-based roots and accessible storytelling appeal to all ages, fitting Nintendo’s family-friendly ethos, yet XII’s mature tone could attract older players. Portability is ideal for its lengthy quests and touchscreen menus could add Switch-specific polish. In Japan, Dragon Quest XII could be a system-seller, mirroring past entries’ impact on DS and 3DS. Its blend of nostalgia and innovation would make the Nintendo Switch 2 a JRPG haven, drawing millions eager for the next saga.
2. Marvel Rivals
NetEase’s Marvel Rivals, a 6v6 hero shooter launched in 2024 and hit 20 million players within two weeks. Its vibrant, stylishly-designed heroes, from Spider-Man to Storm, and team-based chaos echo Overwatch’s appeal but with a comic-book flair. The Nintendo Switch 2’s display would be perfect for making its colorful battles pop, while improved specs could ensure smooth performance, critical for competitive play. As a live-service title, Rivals would generate recurring funds for Nintendo to put towards their first party lineup.
Portability suits Rivals’ quick matches—jump into a round as Iron Man during a work break or practice your strategies while docked at home. Gyro aiming and mouse controls could enhance precision, giving Nintendo Switch 2 an edge over other consoles. Marvel Rivals is one of the biggest games at the moment and it would be a huge fumble to not have it on the Switch 2 close to launch.
1. Grand Theft Auto VI
Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto series is a cultural juggernaut, with GTA V selling over 200 million units and generating $8 billion in revenue. GTA VI, set to launch in 2025, is easily the most anticipated game of this decade. It promises a neon-soaked Vice City, dual protagonists, and unmatched open-world freedom. Securing it for the Nintendo Switch 2 would be a defining moment, proving Nintendo can host the industry’s biggest blockbusters. The original Switch never saw GTA V, but with the Switch 2’s power, it has a chance to run the most ambitious game of the generation.
GTA VI’s sandbox chaos is perfect for portable play: wreak havoc in single player at your local park and plan heists online once you make it home. Its mature tone would broaden Nintendo’s audience, attracting players who aren’t fans of Nintendo’s family-friendly franchises like Kirby or Splatoon. The mix of portability plus features like touchscreen map navigation or gyro motion for driving could make it a viable choice over other consoles. A Nintendo Switch 2 version could push console sales into the stratosphere and would redefine Nintendo’s image, blending its whimsical roots with raw, mainstream energy, making the Switch 2 a must-own.
Conclusion
Nintendo’s legacy rests on the unparalleled strength of its first-party IPs, from Super Mario’s platforming joy to The Legend of Zelda’s epic adventures, which have carried consoles like the Switch to almost 150 million units sold. Yet, to reach new heights in a competitive landscape, the Nintendo Switch 2 needs a robust third-party lineup to complement these singular titles. By securing these blockbusters, competitive hits, and RPG epics, Nintendo could redefine their place in the console market, creating a platform where its iconic characters share the stage with the world’s biggest third-party stars, captivating every type of gamer, everywhere in the world.
