What To Expect From Nintendo in 2026

2026 is shaping up to be a massive year for Nintendo, and after the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025, the company’s sophomore year with its new hardware could be one of the most exciting yet. In this video, IGN breaks down everything to expect from Nintendo in 2026, including confirmed releases, rumored projects, major anniversaries, third-party support, movies, and bold predictions for what’s next.

IGN starts with a recap of Nintendo’s already stacked release calendar, highlighting how consistently Nintendo is delivering new content for both the original Switch and Switch 2. From the Animal Crossing: New Horizons 3.0 update and its enhanced Switch 2 edition, to brand-new exclusives like Mario Tennis Fever, Nintendo continues its strategy of frequent releases to keep players engaged throughout the year.

2026 also brings some surprising returns and experiments, including Virtual Boy games joining Nintendo Switch Online, the creative Pokémon city-builder Pokémon Poptopia, and new amiibo releases tied to games like Kirby Air Riders and upcoming third-party titles. On the third-party front, Switch 2 is seeing strong support with major releases like Monster Hunter Stories 3, Pragmata, Final Fantasy VII Remake, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, 007 First Light, and more arriving throughout the year.

IGN also looks ahead to major spring and summer titles, including enhanced editions like Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Edition, which adds new multiplayer features, mini-games, and potential side story content. The release timing may line up perfectly with the Super Mario Galaxy movie, which hits theaters in April 2026, further fueling Mario Mania. Other highlights include Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, Fire Emblem: Fortune Weave, Rhythm Heaven Groove, and Pokémon Champions, which is set to play a key role in the Pokémon World Championships.

A huge portion of the video focuses on Pokémon’s 30th anniversary, which could define Nintendo’s entire year. IGN predicts a major Pokémon Presents, the reveal of Pokémon Generation 10 as a November Switch 2 release, and the possible standalone launch of Pokémon Red, Blue, and Yellow outside of Nintendo Switch Online. There’s also discussion of the opening of the first-ever Pokémon theme park in Japan, making 2026 one of the most important years in the franchise’s history.

On the speculation side, IGN discusses potential late-year releases like Luigi’s Mansion 4, which could fit perfectly into an October release window, as well as possible Zelda remasters for the series’ 40th anniversary, including a touched-up Ocarina of Time HD based on the 3DS remake. Additional predictions include Mario Kart World DLC themed around Donkey Kong and long-awaited answers regarding Nintendo’s mysterious Switch Online playtest program.

Looking further ahead, IGN covers what Nintendo may tease for the future, including Monolith Soft’s next project and the possibility of a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Switch 2 Edition being announced for a 2027 launch. Rather than a brand-new Smash game, IGN explores the idea that Ultimate could receive an enhanced port similar to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, carrying the franchise forward for years on Switch 2.

Beyond games, Nintendo’s entertainment strategy continues to expand. With the Super Mario Galaxy movie expected to be another box office hit, IGN anticipates an official announcement for an animated Donkey Kong movie and the debut of the first trailer for the upcoming Legend of Zelda movie before the end of 2026.

Finally, IGN wraps up with realistic industry expectations, including the possibility of a Nintendo Switch 2 price increase after March 2026 and what that could mean for fans considering an upgrade.

Whether you’re excited for Pokémon, Zelda, Mario, Smash Bros., or third-party games on Switch 2, this video covers everything to expect from Nintendo in 2026.

👉 What game are you most excited for?
👉 Have you picked up a Switch 2, or are you still happy with the original Switch?