Top Switch Games in 2025: Final Year Finale & Switch 2 Compatibility

by Sylvia January 17, 2025

The Nintendo Switch is preparing for its grand finale as it welcomes exciting new games before the arrival of its successor, the officially announced Switch 2. These upcoming games, whether developed exclusively for the Switch or ported from other platforms, will not only wrap up the Switch’s final year but also be compatible with the Switch 2 upon release. In 2025, players can expect the last few games announced in Nintendo Directs and The Game Awards 2024. Whether you currently own the original Switch or are looking forward to the Switch 2, here are the anticipated new Switch games set to release in 2025 and beyond.

Top Switch Games in 2025: Final Year Finale & Switch 2 Compatibility

– The Nintendo Switch is nearing the end of its lifespan, with the announcement of its successor, the Switch 2.
– Upcoming Switch games in 2025 will serve as a final send-off for the original Switch and will also be compatible with the Switch 2 upon release.
– Some notable games releasing in 2025 include Guilty Gear -Strive-, Cuisineer, The Stone of Madness, Hello Kitty Island Adventure, and Civilization VII.

The Nintendo Switch is preparing to bid farewell with a bang, as a slew of exciting games are set to launch prior to the arrival of its successor, the newly announced Switch 2. These upcoming games, whether exclusive to the Switch or ported over from other platforms, will not only bring the Switch’s final year to a close but will also be compatible with the Switch 2 upon its release. In 2025, we can finally get our hands on the last few games that were revealed during last year’s Nintendo Directs, as well as The Game Awards 2024. Whether you currently own the original Switch or are eagerly anticipating the release of the Switch 2, here are all the new Switch games to look forward to in 2025 and beyond. For release dates on all platforms, make sure to check out our comprehensive guide to upcoming video games.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the upcoming Switch games and their release dates:

1. Guilty Gear -Strive- (January 23, 2025)
The highly acclaimed seventh installment in the Guilty Gear series initially launched on PS4, PS5, and PC in 2021. As we enter 2025, this cell-shaded 2D fighting game will bring its distinctive style and engaging gameplay to Nintendo’s handheld console.

2. Cuisineer (January 28, 2025)
Originally released on PC in 2023, this food-themed dungeon crawler is making its way to consoles, including the Nintendo Switch, later in January. Embark on an adventure where meals serve as your motivation for exploring treacherous dungeons.

3. The Stone of Madness (January 28, 2025)
Set in an 18th-century Spanish Jesuit monastery, The Stone of Madness combines tactical stealth mechanics with elements of horror. Assume the roles of five unique characters, each with their own abilities and fears, as you attempt to unravel the mysteries within and plot your escape. This intriguing title from The Game Kitchen (known for Blasphemous) will be available on the Switch, PC, Xbox, and PS5.

4. Hello Kitty Island Adventure (January 30, 2025)
Prepare for cuteness overload with Hello Kitty Island Adventure, a cozy game where you can manage your own island and interact with adorable Sanrio characters. Similar to Animal Crossing, engage in activities like fishing, cooking, and decorating, with the added bonus of puzzles and light platforming elements.

5. Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero (January 30, 2025)
From the renowned developer NIS America, creators of the Atelier, Ys, and Tails series, comes a brand-new release in the Phantom Brave franchise. The Lost Hero builds upon the original Phantom Brave game, which debuted on the PS2. Embrace the game’s experimental nature and expect tactical turn-based combat presented in an adorable art style.

6. Civilization VII (February 11, 2025)*
One of the most significant announcements from gamescom 2024 was the reveal of Sid Meier’s Civilization VII, set for release on February 11. Featuring the captivating narration of Gwendoline Christie, known for her role in Game of Thrones, this turn-based strategy game will mark the second installment in the series to grace the Switch. New features like the “Age” system await players, promising an immersive experience.

These are just a few examples of the exciting games slated to arrive on the Switch throughout 2025. Whether you enjoy combat-oriented titles, visual novels, remasters of beloved classics, or even cozy farming games, there’s something for everyone. Keep an eye out for future announcements and release dates for even more upcoming Switch games.

And now, let’s address the burning question on everyone’s minds: When will the Nintendo Switch 2 be released? For months, rumors have swirled regarding its appearance, launch date, and official name. Finally, on January 16, Nintendo confirmed the existence of the Switch 2, unveiling an exciting announcement trailer that showcased some new features, such as potential Joy-Con mouse functionality. However, the trailer provided no insights into specifications or game launches. Nintendo has scheduled a Nintendo Direct for April 2, where they will reveal additional information, such as pricing and an official release date.

What about the games that will be available for the Switch 2? The trailer confirms that the Switch 2 will largely maintain backward compatibility, allowing players to enjoy both physical and digital games from the original Switch. Moreover, the trailer hints at the possibility of a new Mario Kart game and suggests the potential for Square Enix’s highly anticipated Final Fantasy 7 Remake to be ported to the console.

2025 promises to be an exciting year for Nintendo Switch owners and fans alike. With a lineup of diverse and captivating games on the horizon, there’s plenty to look forward to. Whether you’re reveling in the final year of the original Switch or eagerly anticipating the arrival of its successor, the Switch 2, gaming enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a world of thrilling adventures and heartwarming experiences. Let the countdown to 2025 begin!