Get ready for an exciting year with Nintendo in 2026! The gaming giant has some major surprises in store, and we're here to give you a sneak peek. The Switch 2 is here, and it's time to explore what's next!
Nintendo's 2026 Lineup: A Recap
Before we dive into the unknown, let's recap what we already know is coming our way. Nintendo has a packed schedule, with new releases almost every month, keeping us entertained throughout the year.
Starting this January, we're heading back to our Animal Crossing: New Horizons islands, but this time, it's on the Switch 2! The free update brings a new hotel, Nintendo-themed items, and improved storage. And if you're an early adopter, you'll enjoy enhanced graphics, mouse controls, and multiplayer options.
February brings the first exclusive title for the Switch 2, Mario Tennis Fever. With its unique Fever Rackets, you can freeze the court or create duplicates. Plus, get ready to meet Baby Waluigi for the first time ever!
For collectors, February also marks the addition of Virtual Boy to the Nintendo Switch Online library. You'll need a special headset, either a plastic replica or a cardboard option, to access this forgotten gem.
March is all about Pokémon Pokopia, an exclusive Switch 2 title that combines the world of Pokémon with Minecraft-like creativity. Design your town using Pokémon moves and materials. It's a perfect follow-up to the Animal Crossing update, and with Amiibo support, the fun continues!
Spring Surprises
Super Mario Bros. Wonder, an enhanced port of the 2023 platformer, arrives in April, along with new Amiibo figures. And don't forget about Yoshi and the Mysterious Book on Switch 2 and Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream on Switch 1. Yoshi's illustrated style is a treat, and Tomodachi Life is a hilarious cult classic returning to the spotlight.
Later in 2026, we have Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, marking its debut on Switch 2. Nintendo and FromSoftware team up for The Duskbloods, an action-RPG exclusive. Switch 1 players can look forward to Rhythm Heaven: Groove, bringing back the quirky rhythm series.
Third-Party Titles and More
Switch 2 is getting major third-party support, with day-one releases like Resident Evil Requiem, Monster Hunter Stories 3, and Pragmata. Capcom is bringing the heat! Other titles include Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. We might even see some delayed games from 2025, like Elden Ring Tarnished Edition and Borderlands 4, cleaned up and ready for action.
Pokémon's Big Year
2026 is a special year for Pokémon fans as the franchise celebrates its 30th anniversary. Expect a Pokémon Presents in February, and I predict it'll be a game-changer. I believe the 10th Generation Pokémon games will release in November for Switch 2, giving us our first glimpse. And get ready for the return of Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow on Switch, a nostalgic treat for fans.
What Else Is on the Horizon?
Nintendo has shown us a lot, but there's still room for surprises. Splatoon Raiders, a single-player Switch 2 spinoff, might arrive in early 2027. October could bring a spooky surprise with Luigi's Mansion 4, a sequel to the popular series. And with The Legend of Zelda's 40th anniversary, we might get a remake or remaster of Ocarina of Time HD, a fan-favorite.
DLC and Beyond
Nintendo is likely prepping DLC for Mario Kart World, focusing on Donkey Kong. And let's not forget about the mysterious Switch Online Playtest program; hopefully, we'll get some answers this year.
Looking Ahead to 2027
Monolith Soft, the Xenoblade developers, might tease their next project in the September Nintendo Direct. And my bold prediction? We'll get a glimpse of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, setting the stage for a 2027 release. It could follow the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe model, an enhanced port with new characters.
Beyond Gaming
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie hits theaters on April 3, building on the success of the original. Expect an animated Donkey Kong movie announcement before the year ends, and a trailer for The Legend of Zelda movie. But brace yourself for a potential Switch 2 price increase after March; it's a possibility we can't ignore.
And there you have it, folks! An exciting year awaits with Nintendo. What game are you most excited for? Will you be upgrading to the Switch 2, or are you content with the original? Let us know in the comments! We'd love to hear your thoughts and predictions for 2026 and beyond.
