The Nintendo Switch had a very successful 2017, but owners of the hybrid console have a lot more to look forward to in 2018.
Among the things that Nintendo Switch owners can expect in 2018 is a strong lineup of upcoming games, Nintendo Switch Online, and a Homebrew Launcher.
Nintendo Switch 2018 Games Lineup
The Nintendo Switch flourished with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey as the big titles for 2017. In 2018, the hybrid console looks to continue its impressive library of games.
In addition to Zelda and Mario, Nintendo has several other franchises that it may bring to the Nintendo Switch. On the dock for the Nintendo Switch are Kirby Star Allies and Yoshi, marking the latest installments in the series for the two cute characters. Metroid Prime 4 and an unnamed new Pokémon RPG are also known to be coming to the hybrid console, but it is unknown whether these games will get a 2018 release date. The arrival of a Pokémon game for the Nintendo Switch, however, is expected to boost the already high demand for the device.
Also coming to the Nintendo Switch in February is Bayonetta 2, originally launched for the hybrid console's predecessor, the Nintendo Wii U. This follows previous comments made by Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime that Nintendo will look to bring Nintendo Wii U games to the Nintendo Switch, as too few players got to experience the titles offered by the failed console. Will Super Mario Maker and Super Smash Bros. arrive soon to the Nintendo Switch?
The next Nintendo Direct is rumored to be broadcast on Jan. 11, with 18 games set to be revealed. Hopefully, we will get a more concrete idea of the Nintendo Switch games coming in 2018 after the presentation.
Nintendo Switch Online To Launch
Nintendo Switch Online, which will function like the PlayStation 4's PlayStation Plus and the Xbox One's Xbox Live Gold, is expected to launch this year. According to rumors, the release date may be in the fall.
The planned paid online subscription service has long been delayed. However, if its launch does push through this year, it will provide another dimension to the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch.
Nintendo Switch Homebrew Launcher Coming Soon
Hackers have declared that a homebrew launcher for the Nintendo Switch will soon be available so that the hybrid console will be able to run unofficial homebrew apps.
The hackers developing the Nintendo Switch homebrew insist that their work is intended only to be used for homebrew apps. Hopefully, the work will not lead to a challenging fight against piracy for the fledgling console.