We’re one month into theNintendo Switch 2’s lifespan, and early adopters of the home console/handheld hybrid may be wondering what they should check out this weekend. Since launch, theNintendo Switch 2has proven to be a powerful handheld device, and its compatibility with original Switch games means it has a massive library of games from day one.
Some Switch 1 games have received updates so that they run and look better on the Nintendo Switch 2, a trend that will continue in the near future with upcoming releases like the Switch 2 Editions ofSuper Mario Party JamboreeandKirby and the Forgotten Land. There are also brand-new Switch 2-exclusive games on the horizon as well, withDonkey Kong Bananzareleasing July 17 andDrag x Drivedropping August 14.
Those new games will no doubt keepthe millions of Nintendo Switch 2 gamersbusy, but in the meantime, these five games are the ones they should play this 4th of July weekend.
Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
Cyberpunk 2077’s launch was a disastrous one, but the game has enjoyed one of the most impressive comebacks in gaming history. Instead of giving up onCyberpunk 2077, CD Projekt RED worked tirelessly to turn the game’s reputation around, squashing lingering bugs, vastly improving the experience across the board, and releasing the critically-acclaimed Phantom Liberty DLC. Nintendo fans missed out on the originalCyberpunk 2077because the Switch 1 hardware couldn’t really handle it, but CD Projekt RED wasted no time bringing the game to the Switch 2.Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Editionon the Nintendo Switch 2 bundles the base game together with thePhantom Liberty expansion, giving players the completeCyberpunk 2077out of the gate. Being able to takeCyberpunk 2077on the go is an added bonus, and the fact that the full game is on the cartridge as opposed to being a Game-Key Card makes it even more of a no-brainer for Switch 2 early adopters needing something to play this holiday weekend.
Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time
A newAnimal Crossinggame will inevitably make its way to the Nintendo Switch 2 at some point down the line, but in the meantime, cozy game fans should definitely check outFantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time. Currently one of the highest-rated new video game releases of the year,Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Timeexpertly blends cozy game elementswith action-adventure gameplay reminiscent of theZeldafranchise. The graphics look similar to theLink’s Awakeningremake andEchoes of Wisdom, while the game also throws a job system into the mix for good measure. The sheer amount of things to do inFantasy Life ican be almost overwhelming at times, but it’s easily one of the best games currently available on the Nintendo Switch 2. Its multiplayer support may make it especially appealing to Switch 2 early adopters that are looking for something fun to play with their friends over the 4th of July weekend.
Mario Kart World
The headlining Nintendo Switch 2 launch title was by farMario Kart World, and it’s still a game that Switch 2 owners should be playing a month later. While some recentMario Kart Worldupdates have unfortunately made the online a little less fun, there is still a dizzying amount of content in Nintendo’s new racer.Mario Kart World’s open world is fun to explore, even with its lack of direction, and Knockout Tour is wildly entertaining.Mario Kart Worldis the kind of timeless game that will stay in any Switch 2 owner’s rotation for years to come. It may also be the best game to play for those that are traveling on the 4th of July weekend and want something to play with their family.Mario Kart Worldsupports 4-player local multiplayer along with its online options, with dozens of racers and tracks to enjoy across a variety of game modes.
Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
Pokemon Scarlet and Violetare technically Switch 1 games that did not receive native Switch 2 ports. Even so,Pokemon Scarlet and Violethave received updatesthat have dramatically improved the games when played on a Nintendo Switch 2 system. If you are someone that playedPokemon Scarlet and Violeton the Switch 1 and has yet to try them on the Switch 2, make it a point to do so this weekend.Pokemon Scarlet and Violetlook and run significantly better on the Switch 2, to the point where they practically feel like brand-new games. IfPokemon Scarlet and Violetlaunched in this state, they would have fared far better among fans and critics.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wildwas a launch title for the OG Switch, so it’s only fitting that it’s gotten a big upgrade to coincide with the launch of the Switch 2. There has never been a better time to revisitZelda: Breath of the Wild’s massive open world, with the game boasting far better performance and graphics when played on a Nintendo Switch 2 console.Zelda: Breath of the Wildis also compatible with the Nintendo app’s Zelda Notes feature, which adds a helpful map, achievements, and more to enhance the experience.Zelda: Breath of the Wild’s Switch 2 upgradeis available for $9.99, but those signed up for the Expansion Pack tier of the Nintendo Switch Online service can access it at no additional cost.
