Nintendo’s Ambitious 2026 Switch 2 Lineup: Classic Franchises Return, But a Major Absence Looms
Nintendo appears to be gearing up for a monumental year in 2026 with its upcoming Switch 2 console, according to insider reports. The company is reportedly planning a significant revival of beloved classic franchises, alongside potential new entries and remakes. However, a notable absence from the rumoured holiday 2026 slate has left fans both excited and a little disappointed: a new 3D Mario game.
According to credible Nintendo insider NateTheHate, the Switch 2 is set to receive a substantial influx of content throughout 2026. This upcoming year for the console is shaping up to be a celebration of Nintendo’s rich gaming history, focusing on bringing back fan-favourite series and marking significant anniversaries.
A Star Fox Comeback and More Classic Revivals
One of the most exciting rumoured returns is that of the Star Fox franchise. The insider claims that a new Star Fox game is slated for release in the summer of 2026. This upcoming title is described as a “classic-style” experience, aiming to recapture the essence of what made the series so popular. Early reports suggest that the game will boast impressive visuals and, perhaps most significantly, will feature online multiplayer – a feature that has been absent or limited in previous entries.
This would mark the first major release for the Star Fox series since Star Fox Zero and its accompanying vehicle, Star Fox Guard, which launched in 2016. The prospect of a modern take on the classic space combat shooter, with enhanced graphics and online capabilities, is sure to ignite nostalgia and anticipation among long-time fans.
Beyond Star Fox, the rumoured 2026 lineup for the Switch 2 is packed with potential. Other titles reportedly on the horizon include:
- Splatoon Raiders: While details are scarce, this could signal a new direction or spin-off for the popular ink-based shooter series.
- Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave: The critically acclaimed Fire Emblem series is expected to continue its tradition of deep strategy and engaging narratives with a new entry.
- Rhythm Heaven Groove: Fans of Nintendo’s unique rhythm game series may also have something to look forward to, with a new instalment rumoured for release.
- Nintendo Switch Sports Update/New Entry: Reports also suggest that the family-friendly sports compilation, Nintendo Switch Sports, might see a new iteration or significant update to coincide with the Switch 2’s launch window.
The Notable Absence: No 3D Mario in 2026
While the return of classic franchises is a major draw, the most significant piece of news from the insider’s report is what’s not expected for the crucial holiday 2026 period. NateTheHate explicitly stated that a new 3D Mario game will not be releasing in 2026, with its launch reportedly pushed back to 2027.
This news comes as a surprise and perhaps a disappointment to many, especially considering the immense popularity of 3D Mario titles. The last major 3D entry in the franchise, Super Mario Odyssey, launched in 2017, meaning fans will have waited a full decade for a new mainline 3D adventure by the time it potentially arrives in 2027.
Ocarina of Time Remake and a Focus on Legacy
The absence of a 3D Mario game in 2026 appears to be a strategic decision by Nintendo to focus on reviving and celebrating its legacy titles. Leading the rumoured slate for a potential 2026 release is a full remake of the seminal Nintendo 64 title, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. This iconic game is widely considered one of the greatest of all time, and a modern remake for the Switch 2 would undoubtedly be a system-selling title.
Furthermore, the insider suggests that Nintendo might be altering its usual announcement schedule, with a general Nintendo Direct potentially not occurring until June 2026. This could mean that many of the anticipated game reveals will be rolled out through smaller, more focused announcements leading up to and following the console’s launch.
Additional reports hint at further content for the Switch 2 in 2026, including:
- Pikmin 4 Switch 2 Editions: It’s suggested that Pikmin 4, which launched on the original Switch, might receive special editions tailored for the new console.
- Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Switch 2 Editions: Similarly, the critically acclaimed JRPG Xenoblade Chronicles 2 could also see enhanced editions for the Switch 2.
- The Duskbloods: A third-party title known as The Duskbloods is reportedly targeting a later release window, indicating a steady stream of content beyond the initial launch period.
While all leaks and rumours should be treated with a healthy dose of scepticism, NateTheHate’s consistent accuracy in the past lends significant weight to these claims, keeping fans both hopeful and a little pensive about the future.
Why the Wait for 3D Mario?
The decision to hold back a new 3D Mario game until 2027 seems to be a deliberate move to ensure the title can stand out and make a significant impact. Super Mario Odyssey set an incredibly high bar, and Nintendo likely wants its next 3D Mario offering to be equally exceptional, if not more so.
Furthermore, 2027 is shaping up to be another banner year for Nintendo. Rumours are already circulating about a new Pokémon title and a potential Zelda movie being slated for release around that time. By strategically placing a new 3D Mario game in 2027, Nintendo could create a powerful release window, aligning it with other major franchise events and maximising its impact. For now, 2026 is set to be a year of celebrating Nintendo’s storied past, with the promise of Mario’s grand return in 2027.
