Nintendo fans, get ready—2025 and 2026 are shaping up to be some of the most exciting years for the beloved gaming giant. From long-awaited sequels to new IPs and indie gems, Nintendo has a treasure chest of releases lined up. Whether you’re a fan of platformers, RPGs, or party games, the next two years promise something special for every type of gamer.

Here’s a look at the most anticipated upcoming Nintendo games for 2025 and 2026.

🌟 1. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of the Past (Rumored – 2026)

Genre: Action-Adventure
Platform: Nintendo Switch 2 (TBA)

Following the massive success of Tears of the Kingdom, Nintendo is reportedly working on a new Zelda title developed specifically for its next-gen hardware. Leaks suggest a darker tone, enhanced visuals, and deeper dungeon mechanics that harken back to classic titles like Twilight Princess.

Why it’s exciting:

• Built for the next-gen Switch
• New take on dungeon crawling
• Potential co-op mechanics teased in early dev notes

🛸 2. Metroid Prime 4 (Confirmed – Late 2025)

Genre: First-Person Action/Adventure
Platform: Nintendo Switch

Yes, it’s finally happening. After years of silence and a full reboot in 2019, Metroid Prime 4 is officially scheduled for release in late 2025. Retro Studios is back at the helm, and the latest showcase teased a cinematic space thriller packed with atmosphere.

What to expect:

• Samus returns in high-definition glory
• New planets, enemies, and suit upgrades
• Enhanced scanning system and environmental storytelling

🏞️ 3. Donkey Kong: Jungle Rebirth (Rumored – 2025)

Genre: 3D Platformer
Platform: Nintendo Switch

Nintendo is reportedly developing a new Donkey Kong game—this time in full 3D, similar in scope to Super Mario Odyssey. The game will focus on DK’s homeland, bringing jungle platforming and boss battles back in epic style.

Rumored Features:

• Dynamic camera and parkour-style movement
• Massive boss fights and co-op mode with Diddy
• Original jungle soundtrack composed by David Wise

🧙‍♂️ 4. Fire Emblem: Flames of Eternity (Confirmed – Q1 2026)

Genre: Tactical RPG
Platform: Nintendo Switch

A fresh entry in the Fire Emblem series is coming early 2026. This title introduces a new continent, time-travel mechanics, and a dual-campaign system where your choices split the timeline and reshape alliances.

Highlights:

• Over 40 recruitable characters
• Fully voiced campaign
• Branching storyline paths

🏎️ 5. Mario Kart X (Expected – 2026)

Genre: Racing
Platform: Nintendo Switch 2

With Mario Kart 8 Deluxe continuing to dominate sales charts, it’s no surprise Nintendo is prepping a successor for its next-gen platform. Mario Kart X is rumored to blend real-world cities with traditional tracks, feature an expanded roster, and even offer a battle royale mode.

Expected innovations:

• Track builder and custom cups
• Online co-op tournaments
• Cross-play support (speculated)

🧩 6. Kirby: Dreambound Dimensions (Confirmed – 2025)

Genre: Puzzle/Adventure
Platform: Nintendo Switch

Kirby’s next big adventure shifts the formula toward puzzle-solving and dimension hopping. The environments blend 2D and 3D physics in clever ways, and new transformations bring creative gameplay opportunities.

Why you’ll love it:

• Brainy level design
• Split-reality puzzles
• Colorful visuals and relaxing soundtrack

🐉 7. Pokémon Legends: Arceus II (Rumored – Late 2026)

Genre: Open-World RPG
Platform: Nintendo Switch 2

After the success of Legends: Arceus, Game Freak is working on a spiritual sequel set in the ancient Kalos region. Expect enhanced visuals, improved catching mechanics, and an even deeper Pokédex system.

Key upgrades (rumored):

• Dynamic weather and biomes
• Customizable protagonist
• Base building and crafting

💎 Indie & Third-Party Titles to Watch

Alongside Nintendo’s big hitters, 2025–2026 will also bring a variety of exciting indie and third-party games:

• Hollow Knight: Silksong (2025) – It’s real, it’s happening (we think).
• Octopath Traveler III (2026) – HD-2D magic returns.
• Shovel Knight: Final Quest (2025) – Yacht Club’s epic finale teased.
• Persona 6 (Possibly coming to Switch) – Rumors are swirling after Atlus teased multi-platform support.

🔮 Final Thoughts

Nintendo is clearly preparing for a major transition into its next generation of hardware, and the upcoming game lineup reflects that ambition. With beloved franchises returning and fresh experiences being crafted, the years 2025 and 2026 could mark a golden age for Nintendo fans.

Whether you’re diving into the mythical lands of Hyrule, racing through Mushroom Kingdom circuits, or managing a team of tactical warriors in Fire Emblem, there’s never been a better time to be a Nintendo gamer.