Iconic Nintendo Characters Make a Triumphant Return on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 in 2025

For decades, Nintendo has captivated gamers worldwide with a roster of iconic characters who have become household names.

From the adventurous Mario to the courageous Link and the resilient Samus Aran, these beloved personalities have defined generations of play.

As the gaming landscape welcomes new platforms like the Nintendo Switch™ and the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, these classic heroes demonstrate impressive staying power, adapting seamlessly to modern audiences and evolving hardware. The Nintendo Switch, launched in March 2017, quickly became a global phenomenon, surpassing 139 million units sold as of early 2024.

This success story has only bolstered Nintendo’s commitment to bringing both new adventures and timeless classics to its rapidly expanding user base.

With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, fans are eager to see how their favorite characters will shine with enhanced technology and innovative gameplay features. According to statements from Nintendo’s game development team, the enduring popularity of these franchises is no accident.

Developers have emphasized their efforts to maintain the timeless charm of each character while embracing technical advancements unique to the Switch series.

"We are dedicated to celebrating the legacy of our flagship characters, ensuring every new release offers fresh experiences while honoring what fans have loved for decades," a Nintendo spokesperson shared. Many classic Nintendo game series continue to receive major updates and new releases.

Mario Kart, The Legend of Zelda, and the Super Smash Bros.

series all remain at the forefront of Nintendo’s lineup, consistently breaking sales milestones and earning critical acclaim.

For example, "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom"—released on Nintendo Switch in May 2023—quickly achieved over 20 million copies sold worldwide, reinforcing the universal appeal of these time-honored characters. As we move into 2025, the Nintendo eShop continues to offer both remastered classics and innovative new titles, ensuring players can rediscover old favorites or meet them anew on the latest generation of hardware.

The Nintendo Direct presentations have been instrumental in keeping fans informed about upcoming projects, sneak peeks, and character-driven features, solidifying the bond between creators and their loyal gaming audience. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, one thing is clear: Nintendo’s hallmark characters are thriving, evolving, and more accessible than ever.

Whether experienced on the Nintendo Switch or the next-generation Switch 2, these legendary icons remain at the heart of interactive entertainment in 2025.

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