EsportsHeaven With the Nintendo Switch 2 enjoying massive commercial success, fans are eagerly awaiting news on the next *Super Smash Bros.* title. The speculation has intensified recently, especially with reports that series director Masahiro Sakurai has wrapped up his current project and is potentially available for a new endeavor.
• A new *Super Smash Bros.* game or enhanced *Ultimate* edition is reportedly in development
• Masahiro Sakurai is widely expected to return
• Potential reveal in late 2026 with a 2027 release window
• Bandai Namco Studios likely supporting development again
Sakurai’s Availability Fuels Hope
After completing *Kirby Air Riders*, Sakurai is no longer tied to that project. This has led to widespread speculation that he and his team may have already transitioned to a *Smash Bros.* project for the Switch 2. The timing makes sense — many expected Sakurai to take on a new major title once his previous work concluded.
Main Theories Circulating
Fans are currently split between two main possibilities:
1. A Brand-New Super Smash Bros. (Smash 6)
Many hope for a full sequel featuring a new roster foundation, fresh mechanics, improved online infrastructure, and new single-player content. This would fully utilize the Switch 2’s enhanced power for better visuals, faster load times, and smoother 120fps gameplay.
2. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Enhanced / Deluxe Edition
Others believe Nintendo may release a premium version of *Ultimate* with upgraded resolution, frame rates, new fighters/stages added post-launch, and quality-of-life improvements. This approach would allow a faster release while building on the massive existing roster.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| New Game (Smash 6) | Fresh start, new mechanics, modern features | Longer development time, smaller roster at launch |
| Ultimate Enhanced | Largest roster available, faster release | May feel like less of a true "next-gen" experience |
Additional Fan Speculation
Community discussions frequently mention:
- Stronger online netcode and better rollback support
- New fighters from recent Nintendo franchises
- Cross-progression and save data transfer from *Ultimate*
- Potential for larger stage layouts and more dynamic environments
Nintendo’s Silence
As usual, Nintendo has remained completely quiet on the matter. No official confirmation or denial has been issued. However, the combination of the Switch 2’s success, Sakurai’s availability, and consistent insider chatter has created significant excitement in the community.
Many analysts believe a *Smash Bros.* announcement would be a perfect system seller for Nintendo in 2027.
Outlook
Whether it ends up being a full sequel or a definitive edition of *Ultimate*, the demand for new *Super Smash Bros.* content on Switch 2 is extremely high. Fans will likely have to wait until a Nintendo Direct or major event later in 2026 for concrete news, but the current rumors paint a very promising picture.