While The Biggest Studios Got First Dibs, Many Developers Still Await Nintendo Switch 2 Dev Kits
As excitement builds for the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch worldwide on June 5, 2025, a new report from The Game Business reveals that numerous developers—especially indie studios—are still scrambling to obtain development kits for the upcoming console.
Priority Given to Industry Giants
During this week's Nintendo Direct, Nintendo showcased a strong lineup of first- and third-party titles for the Switch 2, including blockbuster franchises like Mario Kart World, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Donkey Kong Bananza, as well as third-party hits like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition, and Hades 2. However, it's become apparent that only the most prominent publishers and studios received early access to development kits, allowing them to prepare Switch 2 games for launch or for release later this year.
Indie Developers Left in Limbo
Indie developers, often celebrated for their innovation and strong presence on the original Nintendo Switch, are reportedly being left out of the loop. According to The Game Business, many of these studios have reached out to Nintendo without receiving timely responses or dev kits, despite expressing eagerness to support the new console at launch.
One studio co-founder, speaking anonymously, shared their frustrations:
"New console audiences are often willing to try new things at the start, so we were desperate to get our hands on dev kits early. Nintendo has finally responded to us, but we still don’t think we’ll get anything for a few months."
The studio went on to say that they could have had a game ready for launch had they received the kit earlier.
Delayed Support May Hinder Opportunity
The lack of early access may impact smaller developers' ability to capitalize on the console’s launch momentum. New hardware launches are often prime opportunities for lesser-known titles to gain exposure—particularly when competition is lower and early adopters are hungry for unique content. Missing that window could delay critical visibility and sales opportunities for these teams.
Despite the frustration, developers remain cautiously optimistic. Now that the console’s specs, launch date, and game lineup are public, some hope that Nintendo will begin expanding dev kit distribution to a wider range of studios.
Cultural Impact of Indie Games
The success of the Nintendo Switch was partially fueled by its support of indie titles, or "Nindies," which thrived alongside first-party juggernauts. Games like Hollow Knight, Celeste, and Stardew Valley were embraced by millions and proved that the Switch was a platform where indies could succeed both critically and commercially.
If Nintendo hopes to replicate that cultural impact with the Switch 2, it will need to bring more indie developers into the fold soon.
Are you excited about the Nintendo Switch 2’s indie potential? Do you think Nintendo should have done more to support smaller devs earlier in the process? Let’s discuss in the comments!
