In the wake of the Nintendo Switch 2 announcement, intriguing footage has emerged online, showcasing several unreleased titles that were slated for the original Nintendo Switch. Among these are an unexpected LEGO Civilization game and a new addition to the Ridge Racer franchise. The footage dates back several years, long before the idea of a Switch 2 was on the radar. While the focus may currently be on the upcoming console, this development could leave fans of these franchises feeling let down as they anticipate new installments.
As reported by Video Games Chronicle (VGC), the leaked content originates from a Nintendo Switch development kit that was sold online. Key highlights include prototype footage for a canceled Ridge Racer title, along with unreleased material from Retro Studios dubbed “Harmony.”Additionally, a menu screen for LEGO Civilization was discovered. Despite these intriguing glimpses into what could have been, none of these titles reached the light of day. Notably, leaker Jesse Young has shared supposed Ridge Racer footage in a post on X.
Insights into Canceled Games
Development Status and Origins
The footage associated with the Ridge Racer and the enigmatic “Harmony”is believed to have been created in 2017, coinciding with the original Switch’s launch. However, neither game was ever officially announced. Reports suggest that Ridge Racer was the most advanced in development, crafted by Bandai Namco Studios Singapore utilizing Unreal Engine 4. In contrast, “Harmony”was intended to feature a fairy character, navigated from a third-person perspective, with the ability to transform and solve puzzles. This project was headed by Retro Studios, which later took charge of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond in 2019.
As for the LEGO Civilization title, comprehensive footage remains elusive. Sources who have accessed the development kit report that the game crashes upon booting, though preliminary elements like a menu screen have been located. Notably, Sid Meier’s Civilization 7 is expected to launch alongside the Switch 2, prompting speculation that development on the LEGO variation may have ceased to refocus resources on the main title for the new console.
Analysis: Potential of Canceled Games
The Value of Diverse Gaming Options
These canceled titles would have been fantastic additions to the Switch library. With the last mainline Ridge Racer installment, Ridge Racer Unbounded, released in 2012 and not available on the Switch, it is clear that Nintendo fans have long yearned for a new title in this series. On the other hand, Sid Meier’s Civilization 6 successfully launched on the Switch in 2018, suggesting that a LEGO reincarnation could have resonated well with the console’s audience, especially given its family-friendly appeal.
While the cancellation of these games might disappoint devoted fans, the potential for a new Ridge Racer title on the Switch 2 remains plausible, particularly with the original game’s recent Arcade Archives release on the new console. Meanwhile, Sid Meier’s Civilization 7 is confirmed for the Switch 2. Ultimately, having more games available is generally deemed a positive, making the cancellations of these Nintendo Switch projects a missed opportunity.
Source: VGC, Jesse Young/X