December brings a varied lineup of new releases for both the Nintendo Switch™ 2 and Nintendo Switch systems. The month includes major franchise entries, reimagined classics, and new competitive experiences designed for handheld and docked play. Players browsing for holiday additions to their libraries will find a mix of action, adventure, and RPG titles. Each release highlights platform-specific upgrades, pricing details, and gameplay features that help define Nintendo’s end-of-year slate.
A Closer Look at This Month’s Action and Adventure Releases
Marvel Cosmic Invasion is now available for both platforms, offering a fast-paced beat ’em up set across cosmic environments. The game uses pixel-art visuals and a combo-focused combat system to frame a series of scenarios inspired by Marvel’s broader universe. Its approachable design and arcade-style structure position it as a straightforward option for fans of classic action gameplay.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows arrives exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2, where it incorporates touchscreen navigation and hideout-building elements tailored for the hardware. The portable format allows players to explore the game’s historical setting at home or on the go, while still maintaining the series’ established structure centered on stealth, missions, and open-world progression.
Major Franchise Titles Expand to the Switch 2
Red Dead Redemption: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition continues to make its mark as one of the platform's more ambitious releases. The updated version follows John Marston’s story across the American West and Mexico, maintaining the original narrative while leveraging the Switch 2’s performance improvements. The presence of a free upgrade pack reinforces the focus on accessibility for returning players.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is also available on both systems. The game begins with Samus Aran answering a distress call from the Galactic Federation, which leads to an incident on the unfamiliar planet Viewros. Its first-person exploration format remains central to the series, and the Switch 2 edition includes an optional performance-focused upgrade pack. The title extends the legacy of the Metroid Prime series while remaining approachable for new players.
RPG and Multiplayer Experiences Round Out the Month
OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0 introduces a new storyline to the franchise, focusing on themes of restoration and retribution tied to the divine rings of Orsterra. The game preserves the HD-2D aesthetic associated with the series while presenting a multi-character narrative that encourages experimentation with different story paths.
Ultimate Sheep Raccoon releases on December 9 for both systems, offering a competitive party-game experience built around obstacle courses filled with traps and hazards. Players create and place these obstacles themselves, combining platforming challenges with multiplayer unpredictability. The emphasis on stunts and creative level design positions it as a lighter, more chaotic entry compared to the month’s narrative-heavy offerings.
December Adds More Options for Switch Players
In addition to the featured titles, the month includes further releases across various genres, making December a notable period for players building new libraries on Nintendo Switch 2 or continuing with the original Switch. With action titles, RPG experiences, and experimental multiplayer concepts, the lineup provides a broad range of choices heading into the new year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the major December releases for Nintendo Switch 2?
Key releases include Marvel Cosmic Invasion, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Red Dead Redemption: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0, and Ultimate Sheep Raccoon.
Are the new games available on both Nintendo Switch systems?
Several titles, such as Marvel Cosmic Invasion, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0, and Ultimate Sheep Raccoon, are available on both platforms. Others, including Assassin’s Creed Shadows and the Switch 2 edition of Red Dead Redemption, are exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2.
Do any of the games offer upgrade packs for Nintendo Switch 2?
Yes. Red Dead Redemption offers a free upgrade pack, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond provides an optional paid upgrade pack for Nintendo Switch 2.
Is Ultimate Sheep Raccoon available at launch for both consoles?
Yes. It launches December 9 for both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch.
Are there more games coming beyond the ones listed?
Nintendo has additional releases planned throughout December, and players can browse the full release calendar to explore more upcoming titles.
