Polygon Speculates on Switch 2 Super Smash Bros. Roster and Mechanics
A predictions piece outlines how Nintendo's crossover fighter could evolve to reflect the Switch 2 era's game library.
Nintendo's Super Smash Bros. franchise has always functioned as a living archive of the company's biggest hits. Polygon's new speculative piece examines how the next entry could reshape itself around the Switch 2's emerging library, updating fighters and mechanics to mirror recent franchise evolutions.
"Super Smash Bros.' best quality is its role as a time capsule. Each new game takes a snapshot of the current state of Nintendo's most popular franchises," the author writes.
Potential Roster Additions
Polygon's predictions highlight several newcomers drawn from Switch 2 titles released between 2025 and 2026. The piece suggests The Mechanic from Splatoon Raiders could join the roster, alongside Karate Joe from Rhythm Heaven Groove. A humanoid Ditto from Pokémon Pokopia is also floated as a potential fighter.
The article further proposes that Tomodachi characters from Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream could replace the series' Mii Fighters, offering more personality-driven customization options.
Returning Fighter Overhauls
The predictions outline significant updates to existing veterans. Donkey Kong could receive a moveset redesign based on Donkey Kong Bananza, potentially including the ability to rip chunks from stages during battle.
Samus Aran may incorporate psychic powers and the Control Beam mechanic from Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. Yoshi could gain power-borrowing abilities inspired by Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, adding new strategic depth.
Hardware Transition Precedent
The speculation aligns with Nintendo's historical approach to Smash Bros. during hardware transitions. Previous entries have consistently updated character designs and move sets to reflect each franchise's most recent mainline release.
The article is characterized as a wishlist and prediction piece rather than news reporting, reflecting community interest in deeper integration of modern mechanics and broader representation of Nintendo's spin-off catalogs.
Super Smash Bros. remains one of Nintendo's most successful franchises and serves as the primary showcase for the company's entire IP library. The predictions highlight ongoing fan desire for the series to continue evolving alongside Nintendo's hardware and software ecosystem.