Nintendo’s latest console has just hit the shelves and is enriching the gaming lineup with some major titles in July.
Generally, I’m not particularly fond of monkeys. While all the zoo-goers are constantly exclaiming Oh, how adorable!
or Oh, how hilarious!
, I find myself standing there uninterested. They probably remind me too much of … well, myself.
Nonetheless, there is one monkey that I have genuinely grown fond of: Donkey Kong! Nintendo’s resident banana aficionado is set to star in his own 3D adventure again on June 17, 2025, after a significant 26 years of absence. Donkey Kong Bananza is poised to become the biggest Switch 2 success of the year.
In addition, July 2025 will witness the launch of several thrilling games for the Switch 2 that often go unnoticed. Therefore, I am now sharing my top 5 personal picks for July 2025!
Quick navigation:
- The top Switch 2 games for July 2025
- All Switch 2 games launching in July 2025
- All new Switch 2 games in 2025
The top Switch 2 games for July 2025
Donkey Kong Bananza
- Release: July 17, 2025
- Developer: Nintendo
- Genre: 3D Jump&Run
What’s it about? The monkey Donkey Kong has an immense love for bananas. This is why he journeys around the globe in search of the especially delicious banandium. However, his adventure takes a sudden turn when he gets pulled inside the planet, where he encounters a mysterious and very chatty stone that joins him thereafter. Together, they set off to explore the deepest depths of the underground, as it is rumored that all wishes come true there.
The gameplay in Donkey Kong Bananza takes center stage over the narrative. In terms of mechanics, Bananza bears a strong resemblance to Nintendo’s blockbuster Super Mario Odyssey right from the first moment, and after trying it ourselves, we can confidently say so. The game could easily be dubbed Mario Odyssey 2 if not for the monkey in the lead role.
The ingredient list looks impressive: vast, nearly fully destructible environments, countless secrets and collectibles, an amazing soundtrack, and a plethora of innovative gameplay ideas. There’s a strong possibility that we are on the brink of a major Switch 2 hit in 2025.
Islanders: New Shores
- Release: July 10, 2025
- Developer: The Station
- Genre: Construction game
What’s it about? Even on the Nintendo Switch 2, you won’t have to miss out on your favorite building titles. My preferred games in this genre are always those that allow me to create in peace, without conflicts or any distractions.
This makes me even more thrilled about Islanders: New Shores, the sequel to the 2019 Steam hit, which boasts an impressive 94 percent positive user reviews to date. New Shores also emphasizes the serene, creative development of my city. The warm visuals are incredibly soothing and perfect for unwinding after a long workday.
Tip: A free demo is already available for download from the Nintendo eShop.
Shadow Labyrinth
- Release: July 10, 2025
- Developer: S Forum
- Genre: Puzzle-Action
What’s it about? Shadow Labyrinth takes you to a magical realm where puzzles and action collide. Players will navigate through a maze filled with challenges and discover hidden treasures to enhance their skills and abilities.
The visuals are captivating, and the immersive sound design grips you from the very start, pulling you into its enchanting atmosphere. Expect brain-teasing challenges paired with thrilling action that will keep players engaged for hours.
Tip: Keep an eye out for hints hidden throughout the levels that can aid you on your journey!
All Switch 2 games releasing in July 2025
- Donkey Kong Bananza
- Islanders: New Shores
- Shadow Labyrinth
- Cybernetics: Future War
- Sky Lane Adventures
With such a fantastic lineup ahead, July 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting month for Switch 2 gamers!