Nintendo boasts a rich history of incredible games across its various consoles. While many have enjoyed modern ports, several fan favorites remain trapped on older hardware. With rumors of a Nintendo Switch 2 swirling, the time is ripe for Nintendo to resurrect these classics. Here are seven Nintendo games that deserve a second life on the next-generation Switch.
Metroid Prime 2 and 3
Metroid Prime 2 Echoes
The Metroid franchise is experiencing a resurgence thanks to the success of Metroid Dread and Metroid Prime Remastered. With Metroid Prime 4 on the horizon, bringing Metroid Prime 2 and 3 to the Switch 2 would be a strategic move. While full remasters might be unlikely, simple ports would be a significant win for fans eager to revisit these beloved titles. This could also build anticipation for Metroid Prime 4, especially if its 2025 release window shifts. Imagine playing through the Prime trilogy on a single, modern console!
Donkey Kong 64
Donkey Kong 64
Donkey Kong has seen some love on the Switch with Nintendo Switch Online titles, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD, and Donkey Kong Country Tropical Freeze. However, Donkey Kong 64 is conspicuously absent. This Rare-developed, Nintendo-published classic deserves a spot on the Switch 2. Even Banjo-Kazooie, another Rare collectathon, has made a modern comeback, making DK’s absence even more glaring. Fans are hopeful for a potential HD remake, but even a straightforward port would be warmly welcomed.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, released originally on the Wii and GameCube, later saw an HD remaster on the Wii U. Its absence on the Switch is puzzling. With the HD version readily available, porting it to the Switch 2 would be a logical step. While a new Zelda title is undoubtedly in development, it’s likely some time away. Twilight Princess on the Switch 2 would bridge the gap and satisfy fans craving a classic Zelda adventure.
The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker
The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker
Like Twilight Princess, Wind Waker received an HD remaster on the Wii U but hasn’t graced the Switch. Its distinct art style would differentiate it from Tears of the Kingdom and provide a refreshing experience for players. Releasing Wind Waker on the Switch 2 would be another excellent way to keep Zelda fans engaged while awaiting the next installment.
F-Zero GX
F-Zero GX
The F-Zero franchise has felt neglected, but F-Zero 99 demonstrated a renewed interest in the series. With the popularity of futuristic racers like Fast RMX and Redout 2, the market is primed for a high-speed F-Zero revival. While a brand-new F-Zero game might be a long shot, a port or even an HD remaster of F-Zero GX for the Switch 2 could reintroduce the franchise to a new generation.
Diddy Kong Racing
Diddy Kong Racing
Licensing hurdles between Nintendo and Microsoft (who now own Rare) make a Diddy Kong Racing port challenging. However, fans have been clamoring for a return to this beloved racer for years. Diddy Kong Racing offers a unique experience compared to Mario Kart, with its charming characters and distinct gameplay. Its inclusion on the Switch 2 would be a significant victory for nostalgic fans.
Yoshi’s Woolly World
Yoshi's Woolly World
Yoshi’s adorable adventures have always delighted players. Yoshi’s Woolly World, with its charming yarn aesthetic, is a standout title. While Yoshi’s Crafted World was a solid follow-up, it didn’t quite capture the magic of the Wii U and 3DS original. Bringing Yoshi’s Woolly World to the Switch 2 would be a perfect addition to the console’s launch lineup.
Nintendo has a vast catalog of games, many of which are already accessible on the Switch. These seven titles, however, deserve a modern revival. Hopefully, the Nintendo Switch 2 will provide the perfect opportunity to revisit these classic experiences.
