Nintendo Switch Adds 2 More Games to Its Launch Lineup
By Jasmine Henry 23 February 2017
Nintendo has confirmed that two more games will available as part of its launch line-up. Two indie games, Fast RMX and Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove will both be available when the console launches on March 3.
Developed and published by Shin’en Multimedia, Fast RMX is a racing game that has been compared to F-Zero. Meanwhile, Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove is a complete version of Yacht Club Games’ hit side-scrolling platformer that includes all of the post-release campaign content, including Specter of Torment. The games will join other Nintendo Switch launch titles, such as the highly anticipated RPG The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and the over-the-top party game 1-2 Switch.
Additionally, a press release from Nintendo stated that it will soon be hosting an indie game focused event. Called “Nindies Showcase,” the event takes place on Tuesday, February 28 (9AM PT/12PM ET/5PM GMT) and will focus on the upcoming slate of downloadable indie games that will be made available on the Nintendo Switch this year. Over 60 games will be available on the Nintendo eShop in 2017.
For those Nintendo Switch fans with concerns that the launch line-up is “weak,” this is delightful news. Admittedly, while Shovel Knight is not technically a brand new game, the fact that it will be available on the Switch right from the jump is still a huge win. Likewise, the futuristic sci-fi races and visuals of Fast RMX should offer players of the upcoming console plenty to do as they take the Switch’s portable tablet component with them on the go.
It’s also positive to see Nintendo’s commitment to indie games so early on. Other indie hits making their way to the console (many of which will no doubt be featured during the Nindies Showcase) include Stardew Valley, Yooka-Laylee, Snipperclips, and former PS4 exclusive RIME. Many fans will be glad to see that they won’t have to look at other games platforms just to get their hands on smaller scale titles and it also shows that Nintendo is actively encouraging weird and creative titles to release on its new platform.
However, on the other hand, some will have concerns that with such a huge slate of indie titles, this will give Nintendo a reason to rest on its laurels. Nintendo Switch players still crave big budget games such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and FIFA 18, and they will be hoping that Nintendo still develops and pursues those sorts of games and partnerships and doesn’t only try and beef up the console’s indie game roster.
The Nintendo Switch is set to launch on March 3, 2017.
