10 Nintendo Switch Remasters We’re Still Waiting to See

Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but reminisce about the incredible collection of games Nintendo GameCube offered back in the day. Some of its finest titles have gracefully transitioned to the Switch, leaving me thrilled and excited. However, there’s one gem that remains stubbornly absent – “Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem.” Released in 2002, this survival horror masterpiece transported players through various eras of human history, while also incorporating mind-bending sanity effects that could make you question the very existence of your game or TV.

Punch-Out!! (2009)

Next Level Games gave a fresh start to the Luigi’s Mansion series around a decade ago by reviving an NES gem, “Punch-Out!!”, for Nintendo Wii in 2009. The boxing game was a fantastic match for the system due to its motion controls, and its stunning visuals remain impressive even today. With Joy-Cons being effectively used as substitutes for Wii Remotes in remastered versions like “The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword” and “Star Wars: The Force Unleashed,” the lack of “Punch-Out!!!” on Switch stands out all the more. It’s high time to bring this classic back, and the repackaged version should incorporate the content from “Doc Louis’s Punch-Out!!” as well.

Pokemon Black and White

The Pokemon Company has faced criticism for not making past Pokemon generations accessible on newer devices. For instance, the excellent fifth generation of Pokemon in games like “Pokemon Black and White” is only available on the Nintendo DS, which can be expensive to buy used. A remake with minor enhancements, akin to “HeartGold and SoulSilver,” would not only please dedicated fans but also introduce newcomers to the beloved franchise.

Kirby: Planet Robobot

The Nintendo Switch has been home to numerous Kirby titles throughout the years, including enhanced versions of past games such as “Kirby’s Return to Dream Land Deluxe.” Nevertheless, the platform is yet to include “Kirby: Planet Robobot,” a critically acclaimed game in the series. Originally launched on 3DS in 2016, this game allowed Kirby to don a giant mech suit and embark on an exciting journey. With its captivating storyline and unique mechanics, “Planet Robobot” could potentially attract a larger fanbase on the Switch and gain from the upgrade to high-definition graphics.

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker

Initially, when Nintendo unveiled “The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker” for the GameCube, many fans predicted it would be a major disappointment. Its cel-shaded visuals sparked controversy and reinforced the system’s perceived kid-friendly identity. Yet, following its release, critics were swiftly converted. The art style harmoniously blended with the gameplay and looked even more impressive after an HD upgrade on Wii U. Surprisingly, Nintendo hasn’t yet transferred that remaster to the Switch, despite growing demand. Reasons for this remain unclear, but with its status as one of the greatest Zelda games, it’s a worthy addition to the Switch library.

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Certainly, The Wind Waker wasn’t the only Zelda game remastered for Nintendo Switch. Another instalment, Twilight Princess, joined the lineup as well. It’s quite surprising that these two games haven’t been ported over yet, considering the extensive collection of Zelda titles available on the platform. However, it’s high time we see this corrected, as Twilight Princess is an excellent addition to the series. Originally released for Wii and GameCube in 2006, Twilight Princess presented a significantly darker tone than its predecessor and granted Link the unique ability to transform into a wolf.

F-Zero GX

F-Zero hasn’t been a significant franchise for Nintendo compared to heavyweights like Mario, Zelda, and Animal Crossing. This was not always so, as Captain Falcon received more attention two decades ago. The 2003 release, F-Zero GX, is often hailed as the best game in the series by fans. They have longed for a remastered version on Nintendo Switch, complete with updated graphics and online multiplayer, to rekindle interest in the title and attract new fans.

Soulcalibur II

Few third-party games reach their optimal form on Nintendo systems, but Soulcalibur II is an exceptional case. Although the game was available on PS2 and Xbox in 2002, the GameCube version stood out with its exclusive fighter – Link from The Legend of Zelda. Link’s combat skills based on his sword made him a fitting addition to the game’s roster, contrasting the guest characters Heihachi and Spawn in the PS2 and Xbox versions. Regrettably, Soulcalibur II has yet to be re-released on any newer Nintendo platform, which is unfortunate.

Metroid: Samus Returns

In 2017, Nintendo 3DS saw the launch of “Metroid: Samus Returns” developed by MercurySteam. This was among the final first-party games released for the system. Although MercurySteam later created the acclaimed “Metroid Dread” for Nintendo Switch in 2021, their initial attempt at revitalizing Samus remains stranded on the 3DS. Sadly, with the eShop now closed, it’s no longer available for purchase. Essentially, this 2D Metroid game is currently the last one yet to make its way to Switch. Despite not receiving as much praise as “Metroid Dread,” reviews were generally favorable. A graphical upgrade would significantly enhance its appeal and it’s surprising that such an update hasn’t been implemented yet.

Super Mario Galaxy 2

Nintendo has impressively brought many of Mario’s top games to the Switch, yet the second installment of “Super Mario Galaxy,” named “Super Mario Galaxy 2,”, remains a noticeable absence from the console’s collection. This game was widely praised upon its release and is often considered even better than the first one. The initial “Super Mario Galaxy” was included in the compilation “Super Mario 3D All-Stars,” but that bundle is no longer available on the Switch. It’s quite unfortunate that neither of these games can be played on the console, and a remastered version of “Super Mario Galaxy 2” is definitely overdue.

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