The recent Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation brought a wave of updates on the upcoming console, with exciting news about its hardware upgrades and an extensive list of compatible games. However, fans of Super Smash Bros. were left with a few lingering questions. Specifically, the lack of any mention of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate receiving a deluxe version or a sequel was a notable absence that sparked speculation within the competitive scene.
A well-known figure in the Smash community, Juan ‘Hungrybox’ DeBiedma, had previously predicted that Super Smash Bros. Ultimate would receive a deluxe edition optimized for the Nintendo Switch 2. Many in the fighting game community (FGC) hoped this would be announced during the Direct. Yet, Nintendo chose not to reveal any immediate plans related to the iconic franchise. That said, there’s still a lot to unpack regarding the future of Ultimate and what the Switch 2 means for the Smash series.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2
One of the major confirmations before the Direct came from Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa. He announced that the Nintendo Switch 2 would support backward compatibility for a large selection of Switch games. Among those listed was Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, meaning the beloved platform fighter will indeed be playable on the new system.
However, this doesn’t mean that fans will be getting a deluxe edition. Unlike some titles that are receiving special “Nintendo Switch 2 Editions” with graphical improvements and performance upgrades, Ultimate is not part of that list. Instead, the version available on Switch 2 will remain the base game — the same one that has powered tournaments and competitive scenes since its release.
Super Smash Bros (image via Getty)How the Switch 2 Could Improve Online Play for Ultimate
Despite the lack of a deluxe edition, many in the esports scene are expected to migrate to the Nintendo Switch 2 to take advantage of its rumored internet performance upgrades and improved hardware. Online connectivity has long been a sore point for Ultimate players, especially considering the game’s reliance on frame-perfect inputs and fast reactions.
The current online infrastructure of the Switch is notorious for inducing lag in matches, leading to frustrations and competitive disadvantages. In fact, pro player Hurt was previously suspended after using a custom Switch delay mod designed to improve online latency — highlighting the lengths players will go to in order to achieve a smoother competitive experience.
Will There Be a New Super Smash Bros. Game?
While no new Smash game was revealed during the Direct, fans haven’t given up hope. Series creator Masahiro Sakurai has left the door open for a sequel, stating in the past, “I can’t say with certainty that this would be the end of Smash.” However, no official announcements have been made, and current signs suggest a new installment is still years away.
One reason for this delay could be Sakurai’s recent involvement in Kirby Air Riders, a newly announced title that’s a follow-up to the cult-classic Kirby Air Ride on the GameCube. The game is being developed by Sora Ltd., the studio Sakurai leads. Historically, Sora Ltd. has focused on one project at a time. With that in mind, it’s likely that no serious development has yet begun on a new Smash Bros. title.
Super Smash Bros (image via Getty)When Could We See a New Super Smash Bros. Game?
Given the development timelines of past entries, if production on a new Smash game were to begin now, we might not see its release until around 2029 or 2030. This has led many in the FGC to hope for a deluxe version of Ultimate to bridge the gap. An upgraded edition with balance changes — particularly addressing concerns around characters like Steve — and additional DLC content would go a long way in keeping the competitive scene energized.
Keeping the Competitive Scene Alive Until Then
In the meantime, fans can continue following the top players in 2025 and stay up-to-date with the evolving meta, as shown in recent updates like the Luminosity 2025 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate tier list, which revealed unexpected shifts in the competition terrain.
Hungrybox also recently made headlines by winning the Genesis X2 Melee Championship, ending a long-standing curse and showcasing that passion for Smash — whether Melee or Ultimate — remains as fierce as ever.
