Since the launch of the Nintendo Switch in 2017, the gaming community has witnessed an impressive array of game ports that many thought were impossible. Games like Doom (2016) and Witcher 3 have demonstrated that with the right optimizations, even the most demanding titles can be adapted to run on the Switch’s less powerful hardware. Despite newer gaming consoles entering the market, the Nintendo Switch continues to receive new ports, such as the recent highlight Pentiment. Gamers still hold hope for upcoming ports like Ace Combat 7 and Stray, although the mixed reception to ports like the Batman Arkham Trilogy suggests that caution is advisable.
As Nintendo’s hybrid console moves into its eighth year, it remains a versatile platform. Even with the technology within not being state-of-the-art at its launch, the device still performs admirably. With over 140 million units sold worldwide, there’s a massive audience eager for more titles to be available on the go. As rumors swirl about a forthcoming announcement of a new Switch model, now is a perfect time to dream about what other games could enhance the library of this beloved console.
Many are hopeful for ports of neglected Wii U titles and gems from the Wii era that deserve a refreshed HD release, similar to the treatment Donkey Kong Country Returns received. Alongside these, there are numerous third-party classics and personal favorites that fans are not ready to give up on hoping for. Notably, games like Alan Wake 2 and Baldur's Gate 3, despite their technically demanding natures, top the wishlist, hinting at the need for more powerful hardware — potentially making them perfect candidates for a next-gen Switch.
On the more achievable side, titles like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night seem like simpler feats. The game, highly celebrated yet absent from Nintendo consoles, could potentially see a release given its absence in exclusive collections on other platforms. Similarly, classics like Chrono Trigger continue to hold immense appeal; a re-release on the Switch could replicate or even surpass its storied success on previous platforms.
Switch enthusiasts also have eyes on newer indie titles and unexpected genres. Crow Country, a throwback to survival horror classics, could happily nestle into the Switch ecosystem, especially considering the success of similar indie ventures on the platform. The Disney Afternoon Collection – a bundle of classic Capcom Disney games – seems like an obvious addition that would likely resonate well with Nintendo’s family-friendly audience.
Even the realm of possibilities extends to more ambitious games like Elden Ring. While it’s a stretch, the game did see releases on previous-gen consoles like the PS4, which performed adequately. Elden Ring on a next-gen Switch could potentially offer an avenue to enjoy the game’s expansive world in a portable format.
As the current generation of the Switch continues, the pipeline of potential ports provides an interesting insight into what could be viable. Excitebots: Trick Racing, originally on Wii, could make an excellent port with its engaging arcade-style gameplay and potential innovations using Switch’s HD rumble features.
Looking ahead, the anticipation of a new Switch iteration stirs the pot even further. If the next-gen Switch is an evolutionary step up, it could provide the necessary power to bring more demanding titles to the portable platform. Such a move would not only extend the life of the console further into the new decade but also expand its library to include games that are currently beyond its reach. This hopeful outlook keeps the community excited and guessing what might come next, proving that even as technology advances, the joy of gaming in one’s hands remains timeless.
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