By Sebastian Jordan As the Nintendo Switch continues to captivate millions of gamers worldwide, the anticipation for its successor, the Switch 2, is already building. Nintendo has a rich history of iconic franchises, many of which have yet to receive sequels on the current console. With the technological advancements and expanded capabilities of the Switch 2, there is no better time for Nintendo to revisit some of its classic franchises and give them the sequels they’ve long deserved. Here, we rank the top 8 Nintendo franchises that should make a return with sequels on the Switch 2.
1. F-Zero
Franchise Highlight: F-Zero GX (2003)
F-Zero is one of Nintendo’s most beloved yet underutilized franchises. The high-speed, futuristic racing series has always been known for its fast-paced action and challenging gameplay. The last major F-Zero title was F-Zero GX for the GameCube, which still stands as one of the best racing games ever made. Fans have been clamoring for a new installment for years, but Nintendo has largely left the series dormant.
With the Switch 2 offering enhanced processing power and graphical capabilities, F-Zero would be the perfect franchise to revive. A high-speed, hyper-realistic racing game with online multiplayer and intense, visually stunning courses could bring this franchise into the modern era. The potential for innovative new features like motion controls or VR support would make an F-Zero sequel an absolute must-have for racing fans.
2. Kid Icarus
Franchise Highlight: Kid Icarus: Uprising (2012)
The Kid Icarus franchise made a triumphant return on the Nintendo 3DS with Kid Icarus: Uprising, a game praised for its creative gameplay mechanics and dynamic combat system. Since then, fans have been eagerly awaiting a follow-up, and the Switch 2 could be the perfect platform to deliver one.
With improved controls, HD graphics, and enhanced depth, a Kid Icarus sequel could further expand the action-platformer experience. The game could take advantage of the Switch 2‘s processing power to offer larger, more intricate levels, as well as online multiplayer battles. A more cinematic story, combined with rich environments and aerial combat, would make a Kid Icarus sequel an unforgettable experience.
3. Wave Race
Franchise Highlight: Wave Race 64 (1996)
For fans of water sports and racing, Wave Race is a franchise that holds a special place in Nintendo’s history. The last Wave Race game was Wave Race: Blue Storm for the GameCube, and it has been over 20 years since we’ve seen a new entry. With the improved graphical power of the Switch 2, it’s the ideal time to bring the jet-ski racing series back to the forefront.
Imagine the possibilities of an open-world water racing game with realistic water physics, diverse environments, and dynamic weather systems. With online multiplayer and perhaps new game modes, a Wave Race sequel could easily find its place as one of the Switch 2’s most fun and immersive titles.
4. Metroid Prime
Franchise Highlight: Metroid Prime 3: Corruption (2007)
While the Metroid series is still alive, the Metroid Prime subseries hasn’t received a proper sequel since Metroid Prime 3: Corruption on the Wii. Metroid Prime 4 is in development, but a true continuation of the Prime series would be an exciting addition to the Switch 2 lineup.
The Switch 2‘s upgraded hardware would allow for a visually stunning and fluid first-person experience in the Metroid universe. Enhanced graphics, improved control schemes, and even more expansive worlds would make the Metroid Prime franchise a standout on the new console. With a more fleshed-out narrative and complex puzzles, a new Prime game would likely appeal to both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.
5. Star Fox
Franchise Highlight: Star Fox 64 (1997)
Star Fox is another iconic Nintendo franchise that has not seen a true, traditional sequel in years. While Star Fox Zero for the Wii U attempted to revive the series, it received mixed reviews and didn’t live up to the expectations of fans. The Switch 2 would be the perfect opportunity to bring Fox McCloud and his team back for a modern adventure.
A new Star Fox game on the Switch 2 could take full advantage of the console’s advanced technology to deliver visually impressive space combat and atmospheric dogfights. With a fresh storyline, engaging characters, and potential VR or motion controls, the Switch 2 could breathe new life into this classic franchise.
6. EarthBound (Mother)
Franchise Highlight: EarthBound (1994)
The EarthBound series, also known as Mother in Japan, is one of Nintendo’s most beloved RPG franchises, though it has only seen three installments. EarthBound (SNES) is a cult classic, and its unique blend of quirky humor, emotional depth, and turn-based combat still has fans hoping for a sequel.
While it remains unclear if Nintendo will ever give EarthBound the attention it deserves, the Switch 2 is an ideal platform to finally continue the series. The console’s power could support a grander scope for the series, with a more refined combat system, improved visuals, and an expansive world. Fans are waiting for the return of Ness and his friends, and a Switch 2 version of EarthBound would be the perfect way to deliver that.
7. Donkey Kong
Franchise Highlight: Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze (2014)
While Donkey Kong made a return in 2014 with Tropical Freeze on the Wii U and later the Switch, the franchise has not seen a brand-new major title since. With the Switch 2’s potential for more power and creativity, it’s time for Donkey Kong to get the next big installment.
A new Donkey Kong game on the Switch 2 could push the 2D platforming genre further, with more innovative level design, more dynamic worlds, and deeper mechanics. The series has always been known for its challenging gameplay and colorful visuals, and with the power of the Switch 2, these could be taken to new heights. Plus, Donkey Kong’s unique personality and classic side-scrolling action would be perfect for the new console.
8. Pikmin
Franchise Highlight: Pikmin 3 (2013)
The Pikmin series, created by Shigeru Miyamoto, is one of Nintendo’s most creative and underappreciated franchises. Pikmin 3 for the Wii U was a well-received title, but with the Switch 2 offering greater performance, it’s time for a new Pikmin game to shine.
A sequel could take the series to the next level with enhanced graphics, more diverse environments, and a richer narrative. With the Switch 2’s added power, Pikmin could have even more intricate gameplay mechanics, new Pikmin types, and multiplayer options, making it an enticing game for both fans of the series and newcomers alike.
Conclusion
The Switch 2 is poised to offer a new era for Nintendo’s game library, and these 8 franchises are just waiting to be revived. From F-Zero’s high-speed racing to Pikmin‘s strategic management, each of these beloved titles has the potential to make a significant impact on the new console. With their unique gameplay, memorable characters, and untapped potential, sequels to these franchises would not only delight long-time fans but also introduce a new generation of players to Nintendo’s classic worlds. Here’s hoping that Nintendo answers the call and delivers these highly anticipated sequels on the Switch 2.