Most Awaited Switch Games of 2024: From Donkey Kong to New Contra

The Nintendo Switch is one of the most popular consoles Nintendo has ever produced, with a wide variety of games to choose from and plenty of unique features.

We've already gotten to play new entries across the Zelda, Super Mario, and Pokémon series on Nintendo Switch, but there are still plenty of great games on the way for the hybrid console.

These include exclusive games developed internally by Nintendo, as well as third-party titles and ports of games that are also available on other platforms.

Here's our list of the best upcoming Nintendo Switch games for 2024 and beyond. Of course, some titles without release windows could skip the Switch entirely and wind up on Nintendo's next-gen console.

Also if you're looking at future releases on multiple consoles, don't forget to take a look at what's upcoming on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC this year.

Upcoming Switch Games 2024

The games listed below either have 100% confirmed release dates or solid release windows that we expect them to hit this year. Anything that's up in the air due to more vague launch predictions or previous delays will be listed below confirmed launches.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong - February 16, 2024

Launching on February 16, this new title is the first entry in the Mario vs. Donkey Kong series to hit the Nintendo Switch. Like the original, the Mario vs. Donkey Kong Switch remake is a puzzle game where you play as Mario.

Throughout the game, you'll complete puzzles to collect the mini-Mario robot toys and eventually defeat Donkey Kong. The puzzles involve using a variety of switches and making your way across platforms and other obstacles to get free and collect these toys. Other times, you'll be collecting keys to progress through levels.

Unicorn Overlord - March 8, 2024

Embark on a regal adventure in Unicorn Overlord. Crafted by the brilliant minds behind 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim and Odin Sphere, this epic saga follows exiled prince Alain on a quest to reclaim his kingdom from the rogue General Valmore.

In a vibrant world torn by war, assemble a grand army of over 60 unique characters, from humans and elves to massive beasts and heavenly angels.

With real-time field movement and battles, Unicorn Overlord promises a tactical RPG experience, blending overworld exploration and innovative battle systems in true Vanillaware style.

Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door - 2024

Nintendo is on its remake game in 2024 - it will also be launching a remaster of the second game in the Paper Mario series, originally released for the Nintendo GameCube in 2004. We don't have a lot of details yet, but the modern makeover of this classic is set to release sometime in 2024.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown - January 18, 2024

Prepare to embark on an epic adventure in Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, a thrilling return to the series' 2D roots in a captivating Metroidvania-style action-platformer. Experience the fast-paced, real-time combat the franchise is renowned for as you step into the shoes of a sword-wielding protagonist and delve into Ubisoft's rich Persian setting.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown introduces an exceptional combat system that surpasses expectations, offering a level of depth that will leave players pleasantly surprised. As you navigate the intricate world, be prepared to discover hidden passages and secret areas that can only be accessed by unlocking specific power-ups.

Contra: Operation Galuga - Q1 2024

Gear up for a pulse-pounding revival of the iconic Contra series with Contra: Operation Galuga. Immerse yourself in a modernized take on the 1980s classic run-and-gun action game, featuring sleek graphics, revamped sound, and an arsenal of updated weapons.

Face the relentless Red Falcon terrorist group as they seize control of the Galuga Islands near New Zealand, triggering an intense war that only elite Contra commandos Bill Rizer and Lance Bean can wage. Experience explosive co-op combat for up to two players in Story Mode or assemble a squad of four players in Arcade Mode.