10 Classic Nintendo Series Missing From the Switch 2 in 2026
We are officially one year into the life cycle of the Nintendo Switch 2. While the console's catalog is steadily growing, there remain several iconic Nintendo series that have yet to make their mark on the new hardware. While some of these classics are accessible via the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service, fans are still waiting for full, proper launches for these fan-favorite titles.
- Report Date: June 15, 2026
- Console: Nintendo Switch 2
- Status: Select iconic franchises remain absent from native releases
Cult Classics and Puzzle Staples
The Kid Icarus series, which hasn't seen a new release since 2012's Kid Icarus: Uprising, remains a high-priority request for many. Despite characters like Palutena appearing in other titles, the series itself is overdue for a revival. Similarly, Dr. Mario, a staple of every previous Nintendo handheld, is currently missing from the Switch 2 library. Fans are eager to see how the classic capsule-matching puzzle gameplay might be expanded for the new generation.
The Competitive and Party Landscape
The fighting game community is feeling the absence of Super Smash Bros., which last saw a release with Super Mario Bros. Ultimate in 2018. Given the console's lack of a major fighting title, the demand for a return of the series is high. On the party front, while Super Mario Party Jamboree arrived in 2024, players are already looking for more than just ports or existing iterations to satisfy their competitive urges.
Adventure and Simulation Favorites
The Paper Mario series, last seen in 2020's The Origami King, remains a top candidate for a new entry, especially following the 2024 remake of The Thousand Year Door. Meanwhile, the Pikmin franchise, which saw its fourth installment in 2023, continues to hold a dedicated following.
Perhaps most notably, Animal Crossing has been quiet since 2020's New Horizons. As one of Nintendo's best-selling games of all time, a new entry for the Switch 2 feels like an inevitability rather than a possibility. Additionally, with a The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake confirmed for later in 2026, many are already looking toward the next mainline Zelda adventure to follow the success of Tears of the Kingdom.
Rounding out the list of series fans are keeping an eye on are WarioWare, which last appeared with 2023's Move It!, and the flagship Super Mario series itself. With excitement surrounding the Mario films, a new mainline adventure remains at the top of many wishlists.