If you’re a Nintendo Switch fan like me, you know that preorder season always brings a mix of excitement, impatience, and… fear of missing out. With several major titles set to release this year, now’s the time to get ahead of the game (literally) and lock in those preorders before the best bonuses disappear.
Whether you’re into epic adventures, remastered classics, or cozy life sims, this roundup covers the top five Nintendo Switch games that are worth every penny—and some come with sweet preorder perks. Let’s dive into the most anticipated Switch titles of the year!
At a Glance: Top 5 Nintendo Switch Games to Preorder in 2025
| Game Title | Release Date | Platform | Key Features | Retailer Exclusives |
| Mario Kart World | June 5, 2025 | Switch 2/Switch | 24-player races, dynamic tracks, 4K/120Hz on Switch 2 | Best Buy bundle, GameStop posters |
| Donkey Kong Bananza | July 17, 2025 | Switch 2 | Destructible environments, 4-player co-op | Walmart Golden Banana pack, Target stickers |
| Pokémon Legends: Z-A | Late 2025 | Switch/Switch 2 | Urban terraforming, time-based evolutions | Amazon Mega Lucario, eShop Poké Ball skin |
| Tales of the Shire (LOTR) | July 29, 2025 | Switch/Switch 2 | Cozy hobbit life sim, Gandalf quests | Best Buy recipe book, GameStop Elven Garden decor |
| Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2) | June 5, 2025 | Switch 2 | 1440p resolution, voice navigation, Master Sword pendant | Walmart Joy-Con skins, Nintendo Store Collector’s Ed |
Mario Kart World
Release Date: June 5, 2025
Platform: Nintendo Switch 2 (backward compatible with original Switch)
Why It’s a Must-Buy
The Mario Kart franchise is back with its most ambitious entry yet. Mario Kart World introduces 24-player races and dynamic tracks where you can literally drive anywhere—up walls, underwater, and even through gravity-defying loops. New power-ups like the Gravity Hammer (smash opponents into the ground) and Hologram Decoy (confuse rivals with fake racers) add fresh chaos to the chaos. On the Switch 2, the game shines with 4K resolution at 120Hz when docked, ensuring buttery-smooth gameplay.
Retailer Exclusives:
- Best Buy: Preorder the $499 Switch2 +Mario Kart World bundle and earn a $20 certificate for every $150 spent on Nintendo gear.
- GameStop: Midnight launch events with free posters for in-store pickups.
2. Donkey Kong Bananza
Release Date: July 17, 2025
Platform: Nintendo Switch 2
Why It’s a Must-Buy
Donkey Kong Bananza reinvents the classic platformer with fully destructible environments. Smash mountains, dig tunnels, and uncover hidden treasures in a vibrant, open-world jungle. The co-op mode supports up to four players, letting you team up as DK, Diddy Kong, or new characters like Tiki Kong, a flame-haired cousin with a penchant for explosives.
Retailer Exclusives:
- Walmart: Preorder bonus includes a Golden Banana cosmetic pack for DK’s gloves and tie 6.
- Target: Free retro DK sticker sheet with physical copies 3.
3. Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Release Date: Late 2025 (TBA)
Platform: Nintendo Switch/Switch 2
Why It’s a Must-Buy
Set in a reimagined Lumiose City, Pokémon Legends: Z-A tasks players with balancing urban development and Pokémon habitats. New mechanics like urban terraforming let you reshape the cityscape, while time-based evolution triggers (e.g., evolving Eevee at dawn for an Espeon) add depth to classic gameplay.
Retailer Exclusives:
- Amazon: Early access to the Mega Lucario in-game companion.
- Nintendo eShop: Preorder for a special-edition Poké Ball controller skin.
4. Tales of the Shire: A Lord of the Rings Game
Release Date: July 29, 2025
Platform: Nintendo Switch/Switch 2
Why It’s a Must-Buy
Swap epic battles for cozy hobbit life in this charming sim. Farm cabbages, bake honey cakes, and decorate your hobbit hole while befriending iconic characters like Samwise Gamgee. Exclusive quests, like helping Gandalf restore the Green Dragon Inn, blend Lord of the Rings lore with relaxing gameplay.
Retailer Exclusives:
- Best Buy: Free Hobbit Recipe Book (physical collectible) with preorders.
- GameStop: Unlock the Elven Garden decor set for your homestead.
5. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition
Release Date: June 5, 2025
Platform: Nintendo Switch 2
Why It’s a Must-Buy
This enhanced edition of Tears of the Kingdom leverages the Switch 2’s power for 1440p resolution and near-instant load times. New features like voice-assisted navigation and item sharing via the Nintendo Switch app streamline exploration.
Retailer Perks:
- Walmart: Free surprise gift.
- Nintendo Store: Preorder the Collector’s Edition for a Master Sword replica pendant.
Bonus: Preorder Pro Tips
- Stack Rewards: Best Buy’s My Best Buy members earn $20 certificates for every $150 spent on Nintendo gear.
- Act Fast: Major retailers like GameStop and Walmart sold out of Switch 2 preorders within hours—set restock alerts!.
- Go Digital: Some eShop preorders include 48-hour early access (e.g., Pokémon Legends: Z-A).
Why Preorder?
- Secure Limited Editions: Physical bundles (like the Mario Kart World console) are selling out fast.
- Early Bonuses: Cosmetic packs, in-game items, and exclusive quests reward early adopters.
- Future-Proof Gaming: Switch 2 enhancements ensure these titles will shine for years.
Where to Preorder These Games
Looking to lock in your copy before stock runs low? Here are a few trusted spots:
- Amazon: Fast shipping, great for bundle deals.
- Best Buy: Known for collector’s editions and steelbooks.
- GameStop: Often offers exclusive DLC or physical merch.
- Target: Watch for gift card promos on preorders.
- Nintendo eShop: Good for digital-only bonuses and convenience.
Just be sure to check what each store offers—some preorder bonuses are store-specific!
Final Thoughts: What Are You Preordering First?
2025 is shaping up to be a massive year for the Nintendo Switch—and whether you’re into action, story, or chill vibes, there’s something worth adding to your library.
From the grand return of Donkey Kong and Zelda, to the surprise charm of Tales of the Shire and Mario Kart World, the preorder scene is stacked. And with exclusive DLCs, collectibles, and bonus content on the line, now’s the time to act.
Don’t wait until these are out of stock (or selling for double on eBay). Preorder now and treat your future self to some serious Nintendo joy.
Visit our technology section for more gaming comparisons!
