It has been only seven months since Nintendo hinted at the upcoming successor to the Nintendo Switch, yet for many fans, this period feels prolonged. The internet has been rife with speculation, as leaks regarding the unannounced console emerge from an array of sources – both credible and dubious. Almost every detail about the Switch 2, from its specifications to its design and controller features, appears to have surfaced online. Despite the buzz, Nintendo has maintained a curious silence regarding its new console, offering minimal hints about what enthusiasts can expect.
The heart of the conversation surrounding the Switch 2 often focuses on its anticipated launch date. With an expected announcement before March 31, 2025, conjecture is rampant about a January reveal, with hopes for a summer release. Some even speculate about a potential March launch. Regardless of the specific date, it’s likely that the Switch 2 will debut with a robust library of games, including notable titles from third-party developers. Among these, Genshin Impact stands out as a strong candidate for a launch title.
Why Genshin Impact Should Be a Launch Title for the Switch 2
Genshin Impact: A Zelda-Inspired Gacha RPG by HoYoverse
Genshin Impact is undeniably one of the most recognized AAA games today. Developed by HoYoverse, this gacha RPG transformed from humble origins to a multibillion-dollar phenomenon within a few years. After its initial launch across platforms like PlayStation 4, PC, and mobile devices in 2020, Genshin Impact generated an astonishing $3.9 billion in revenue, significantly popularizing the gacha genre globally, which had previously garnered limited attention outside Asia.
While Genshin Impact has inspired numerous titles in the gaming landscape, it’s worth noting its roots in the beloved Legend of Zelda series. At its inaugural showcase at the ChinaJoy expo in 2019, it was criticized by some for resembling Breath of the Wild, particularly due to shared open-world aesthetics and exploration mechanics. Although Genshin Impact has since forged its unique identity, it undoubtedly carries a hint of that distinct Zelda essence.
Launching Genshin Impact on Switch 2: A Redemption for the Delayed Port
Given Genshin Impact’s clear inspiration from a classic Nintendo franchise, its absence on Nintendo’s consoles is surprising. It was announced for the Switch in January 2020, yet fans have yet to see any significant updates regarding its port. Competing consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S have since received the game, while a Switch version remains elusive. Although HoYoverse mentioned in 2022 that a Nintendo Switch adaptation was in progress, the lack of recent updates might suggest that it has been put on hold, particularly with the upcoming Switch 2.
While Genshin Impact is available on mobile devices, its demanding gameplay raises questions about the original Switch’s capabilities. The anticipated Switch 2 promises enhanced graphics and processing power, making it a more suitable host for HoYoverse’s acclaimed action RPG. If HoYoverse decides to introduce Genshin Impact on the Switch 2 at launch, it would symbolically rectify the long wait for Nintendo fans, making the release a significant moment for both the game and its dedicated community.
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