Quick Take:
- Switch 2 exclusives already include major new titles and upgrades.
- Only on Switch 2: Mario Kart World, The Duskbloods, and more.
- New hardware, new games — here’s what you can’t play elsewhere.
All Exclusive Nintendo Switch 2 Games
If you’re picking up a Nintendo Switch 2 this year, there’s already a growing list of Switch 2 games that are either exclusive or feature major enhancements. Some are brand-new entries in long-running franchises, others are third-party games making their Nintendo debut with upgraded performance, and a few are familiar favorites retooled to take advantage of the new hardware. While Switch 2 is backwards-compatible, its launch catalog already includes a handful of titles that require Nintendo’s latest console.
Here are the key games either confirmed as exclusive Switch 2 games along with what makes each one worth watching.
1. Mario Kart World
Available Now | $79.99 | Exclusive to Switch 2
The first of all exclusive Switch 2 games is of course a flagship title for the console introducing Free Roam and Knockout Tour modes, both designed around its new 24-player online support. Knockout Tour, in particular, flips the Mario Kart formula into a survival race across interconnected courses. Moo Moo Cow is now playable, and the meme potential hasn’t gone unnoticed. The new engine takes full advantage of the Switch 2’s 4K output in docked mode.
2. Donkey Kong Bananza
Releases July 17, 2025 | $69.99 | Exclusive to Switch 2
This new 3D platformer combines open-world traversal with environmental destruction. Donkey Kong can roll, punch, and even surf through dense jungle levels. Critics have likened it to Super Mario Odyssey in scale and style. The lack of Diddy Kong has been a sticking point, but the game’s traversal systems and visual polish have drawn early praise.
3. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Available Now | $9.99 | Exclusive to Switch 2
A guided, interactive explainer of the new hardware that functions more like a digital exhibit than a proper game. It includes motion-controlled mini-games that highlight features like the new Joy-Con mouse mode and haptics. The experience has split players—some call it a slick tech demo, others think it should’ve been bundled with the console. Either way, it’s part of the Switch 2 launch story.
4. Drag x Drive
Releases Summer 2025 | Price TBA | Exclusive to Switch 2
Part arcade sports game, part control showcase, this multiplayer wheelchair basketball title turns each Joy-Con into a player-controlled wheel. The motion mechanics are calibrated for physical comedy and chaos, with emphasis on local co-op and force feedback. It’s already being used as a demonstration of Joy-Con 2’s responsiveness.
5. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
Releases Winter 2025 | Price TBA | Exclusive to Switch 2
A prequel to Tears of the Kingdom, this new entry in the Musou-style Hyrule Warriors series focuses on Zelda’s time-travel arc. Set during the ancient Zonai wars, players can control characters like Rauru, Sonia, and Mineru in large-scale battles. This is the third Warriors title in the Zelda timeline, continuing the approach taken in Age of Calamity.
6. Kirby Air Riders
Releases 2025 | Price TBA | Exclusive to Switch 2
A successor to Kirby Air Ride from the GameCube era, this entry brings the classic Warp Star racing back with modern physics and visuals. Developed by Bandai Namco with Sakurai returning, it leans into copy abilities and varied vehicle types across airborne circuits. Fans have already called it a spiritual return to a long-dormant favorite.
7. The Duskbloods
Releases 2026 | Price TBA | Exclusive to Switch 2
Last but not least of the Switch 2 games is FromSoftware’s new PvPvE title immediately drew comparisons to Bloodborne, thanks to its gothic tone and aggressive melee focus. Players compete to become the “First Blood” in a world of altered humanity. While it shares thematic DNA with Souls titles, its core is online multiplayer—up to eight players in one match. Nintendo has teased more details in an upcoming developer interview.
Honorable Mentions:
Several upgraded ports of older titles are receiving Switch 2-specific editions, such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Street Fighter 6, Cyberpunk 2077, and Yakuza 0. These aren’t exclusive Switch 2 games, but they include enhancements like 4K resolution, 60fps gameplay, and better load times when played on the new console.
