There’s a buzz in the air right now surrounding the fast-approaching release of the Nintendo Switch. Due for release on March 3rd, Nintendo are upping the hype surrounding their new console. Just last week, we saw a presentation of the Nintendo Switch, giving us a closer than ever insight into the innovative new console and its unique features. We were also given an indication of what games you will be able to play on it upon its launch, along with teasers of titles that are being developed as we speak. In this article, you’ll find out which games will be available at launch, along with a sneak peek at some of the most eagerly anticipated titles that will be released later this year.

Games Confirmed for the Launch Date

Currently, just 8 games have been confirmed for release upon the launch of the Switch. These are The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Bomberman R, 1-2-Switch, Skylanders Imaginators, Has Been Heroes, Just Dance 2017, Snipperclips – Cut it out, together and I am Setsuna. Whilst this may seem like a relatively small amount of games, this is no doubt part of Nintendo’s strategy to keep the console relevant and exciting. There are various games which have already been scheduled for release in Spring, Autumn and Winter, plus tons more which are yet to have their release date confirmed. Of course, Nintendo may still have a few tricks up their sleeve. Who knows what new surprise game releases they may announce in the countdown to launch day.

Standout Games Due for Release Later in 2017

A quick glance on the Nintendo game store gives you a taster of what is to come later this year on the game front. There are plenty of iconic brands included, like Fifa, Minecraft and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. There also seems to be plenty of family friendly games included, which is no surprise, given the emphasis that Nintendo has placed on this being a console for the whole family to enjoy. Of the 30 or so games currently advertised by Nintendo, these are the games which I am most excited to play.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

For me, the most eagerly anticipated of these is Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Due for release at the end of April, this enhanced version of the superb Wii U racer boasts new characters and the return of fan-favourite modes. With enhanced graphics, more courses and Balloon Battles with support for up to 8 players via local wireless multiplayer, I can see this bringing endless hours of entertainment with both family and friends.

Sonic Mania

This is another title that I am waiting for with baited breath. Due for release in Spring, if the trailers are anything to go by, this will be an authentic nod back to the retro, platform style game that originally made the Sonic series so dear in the heart of gamers worldwide. It should make for a nostalgic playing experience, with iconic zones and acts from the original game, complemented by new and improved features.

Super Mario Odyssey

This new Mario game has a release date of the holidays, so make sure you pop this one on your Christmas wish list! It boasts unknown, 3D worlds with sandbox-style levels. Along with all the typical Mario-esque features, there are new actions incorporated into the game, such as the ability to throw Mario’s cap.