Bang! Bang! Bandits Announced for Nintendo Switch 2: Enhanced Rail Shooter Set for 2026 Release in Japan

Nippon Columbia has officially announced Bang! Bang! Bandits will be making its debut on Nintendo Switch 2, with a Japanese release date scheduled for March 19, 2026.

This latest edition builds upon the unique motion-controlled rail shooter that initially launched on the Nintendo Switch in Japan last year, bringing with it a suite of technical improvements and expanded gameplay features for the upcoming hardware. Bang! Bang! Bandits is recognized for revitalizing the classic on-rails shooting genre.

The game drew praise for its accessible controls, allowing players to use the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con as a simulated handgun.

Players aim at on-screen enemies and fire with unlimited ammunition, benefiting from streamlined, automatic field movement so the focus remains squarely on action.

The original version has already attracted a diverse audience thanks to its blend of simple rules, vivid character designs, and family-friendly gameplay. The Nintendo Switch 2 edition promises notable upgrades.

According to Nippon Columbia, the game will offer enhanced local and online multiplayer support, making it easier to share the experience with friends and family.

Performance has been a central focus, with the Switch 2 version supporting up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, or 1440p resolution at a smoother 120 frames per second.

Additionally, fans can look forward to having the entire game included on the physical cartridge, as suggested by official box art reveals.

This edition will maintain comprehensive language options, supporting Japanese, English, Korean, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese out of the box. The gameplay structure of Bang! Bang! Bandits combines accessible entry points with depth for dedicated players.

It features a total of 12 stages across multiple environments—such as jungles, cityscapes, ancient ruins, and caves—divided between two leagues: the Normal League for standard progression, and the Wild League, catering to those seeking a higher challenge.

Each stage introduces waves of unique enemies called "Goomins" and culminates in boss battles designed to test players’ quick reflexes and teamwork. A major highlight for the Switch 2 update is its approach to multiplayer.

Players can enjoy Challenge Mode solo or with up to four players collaborating locally or online to complete levels.

Competitive gamers can engage in Single Battle mode, striving for the highest score individually, while Team Battle mode pits two teams of two players against each other in head-to-head showdowns. Nippon Columbia, the developer and publisher behind Bang! Bang! Bandits, has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering titles that are accessible to all ages and skill levels while taking full advantage of the enhanced capabilities on Nintendo’s forthcoming hardware.

With an affordable upgrade price point of 500 yen, returning players can experience these enhancements without breaking the bank. Bang! Bang! Bandits for Nintendo Switch 2 launches March 19, 2026, in Japan.

The release exemplifies both the enduring appeal of rail shooters and Nippon Columbia’s ongoing investment in innovative, family-friendly gaming experiences for the Nintendo community.