Intro
Nintendo’s current gaming story is centered on the Switch 2: new games built for the system, upgraded versions of existing titles, and a growing hardware lineup. The company is also continuing to support the original Switch, giving players more than one way to keep up with new releases.
A recent high-profile release is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for Switch 2, which launched November 5. Nintendo says this version updates the visuals, cutscenes, dialogue, music, camera, and movement controls. The remake also uses the system’s built-in microphone for a feature that lets players hum learned ocarina melodies. Nintendo Official Site
There are several more games planned in the months to come. Nintendo has Pikmin 4 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy coming on November 12, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on December 3 and Monster Hunter Wilds on December 4. Its calendar also has Metroid Ravenous Jan 28, 2027. Of course, as with any release schedule, it’s worth double checking the dates and platform details before you buy. nintendo.com
On the hardware side of things, Nintendo’s announcement of the anniversary game and events also included a Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 system and accessories. The Switch 2 has a larger 1080p screen for handheld play, up to 4K output to TVs for supported games and Joy-Con 2 controllers that can function like a mouse in compatible titles. Some features depend on game and display. Nintendo Official Site
The updates hint at a few themes: revisiting familiar games, adding Switch 2 upgrades to existing releases, and expanding the system’s uses beyond traditional handheld and TV play. Here’s what gamers can expect, and what they should consider when choosing a game or system.
Next Games and Switch 2 Hardware
The near-term schedule has a mix of new games and upgraded editions. Pikmin 4 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy is scheduled for Nov. 12. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will release on December 3, followed by Monster Hunter Wilds on December 4. Nintendo’s own store also lists Metroid Ravenous for January 28, 2027. See the store page for each title for supported systems, edition contents, and current release date. nintendo.com
The Switch 2 edition approach means that some games get a new version that is tied to the newer system, but the console is still compatible with many original Switch games. Nintendo advises players that some older titles may not be supported or fully compatible, so players should check its compatibility information before assuming a favorite game will work just like it did before. Nintendo US
On the hardware side, Nintendo’s Zelda 40th Anniversary presentation had a themed Switch 2 system, Pro Controller editions and carrying case. These are Switch 2 hardware in special-design versions, not a separate console generation. The Nintendo store currently has the anniversary system and some matching accessories listed as sold out, so availability may depend on retailer stock. Nintendo Official Site
The standard Switch 2 is still a hybrid system, letting players use its 7.9-inch handheld screen or hook it up to a TV. Nintendo lists support for HDR, VRR and up to 120 frames per second in compatible titles. Supported titles can run in 4K up to 60 fps in TV mode. The Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically and can be used as mouse-style controls in some games. Nintendo US
Trends in the Industry: A New System and a Long-Running Library
Nintendo’s most recent financial report provides some insight into how the Switch 2 launch is impacting its business. Nintendo reported sales of 19.86 million Switch 2 systems and 48.71 million Switch 2 games for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2026. It also referred to ongoing sales of original Switch hardware and software, suggesting the older system still has a place alongside the new one. nintendo.co.jp
One trend that is visible is the mix of new games and updated editions. Games like Xenoblade Chronicles 3 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition keep familiar titles in conversation, while giving gamers a reason to revisit them on newer hardware. Then you have remakes like Ocarina of Time, which is a different approach, rebuilding a classic with updated presentation and controls. These approaches can expand a system’s library, but players should check editions carefully to see what’s new and if an upgrade is worthwhile.
Another trend is that Nintendo is showing off hardware capabilities as part of the game design. Controls like the mouse-style Joy-Con, GameChat and a microphone-responsive Zelda demonstrate how developers are able to use the system’s input and communication options in specific games. But these features aren’t universal: Nintendo says some modes require compatible games, internet access, a Nintendo Account or a subscription. Nintendo Official Site
The practical implication for players is to choose according to the desired games and play style. Check whether a game is exclusive to the Switch 2, whether an edition has meaningful additions, and whether a feature requires separate hardware or online services. Nintendo’s store features lists of current release dates and pre-orders, and its compatibility page can help original Switch owners map out a move to the newer system.
Common Questions and Answers
What Nintendo games are coming out soon?
Nintendo has Pikmin 4 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy coming on November 12, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on December 3 and Monster Hunter Wilds on December 4. nintendo.com
When is Metroid Ravenous released?
Nintendo currently lists January 28, 2027 as the release date on its U.S. store. See the listing for updates before you buy. nintendo.com
What’s new in the Switch 2 version of Ocarina of Time?
According to Nintendo, the game features redesigned graphics, fully-voiced cut scenes, more dialog, orchestral music, and new camera and movement controls. Players can also hum learned ocarina melodies to the system’s built-in microphone. Nintendo Official Site
Can Nintendo Switch games be played on the Switch 2?
Many will work, but Nintendo says some original Switch games may not be supported or fully compatible. Check individual titles for compatibility information. Nintendo US
Will Switch 2 run 4K games?
Nintendo lists supported games and displays, up to 4K TV output. Output at 4K limits the frame rate to 60 fps. Nintendo US
Nintendo’s next console after the Switch 2 – is it coming?
The announcements covered in this are about Switch 2 games, features and themed editions. Nintendo’s official news pages for future hardware announcements.
