Smash Bros. games have become tentpole titles for every Nintendo console since the N64. Each new entry is highly anticipated by both Nintendo fans and the gaming public. In last month's Nintendo Direct, it was announced that the next entry in the series will hit the Switch later this year. So the big question is, what new characters will be duking it out in Smash Bros. Switch?

I'll be breaking my selections down into three categories: characters added from modern games to raise awareness of other Nintendo franchises, third-party characters that have a good working relationship with Nintendo and last of all, retro characters to appeal to long-time Nintendo supporters. So without further ado...

Modern additions

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^{Image Source: Giant Bomb}

Inkling boy and girl (Splatoon)

These are a given, considering they were already announced in the Smash Bros. Switch reveal trailer. I imagine they'll be a single selectable character that has boy and girl skins, and the inklings will be be able to use many of the different weapons from Splatoon for both ranged and up close combat.

Ribbon Girl and Spring Man (ARMS)

Again, these seem like a no-brainer to push awareness of their new franchise ARMS. I think they can also be combined into a single character using different skins and basically have the same move sets.

Urbosa (Breath of the Wild)

The final modern character they'll add will definitely be from Breath of the Wild, while BOTW Link was already hinted at in the reveal trailer, I'm confident they'll add one of the four champions as a playable character. Of those, I think Urbosa the Gurudo Champion is the most likely choice. Her distinct look and lightning-based skills should be an interesting addition to the game.

Third party characters

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^{Image Source: Castlevania Wiki}

Travis Touchdown (No More Heroes)

With the history of the No More Heroes games on Nintendo systems and the upcoming Travis Strikes Back on the Switch, this selection almost seems too obvious. His beam sword would be a slightly different addition to the game' swordfighters and he's definitely a fan favorite.

Simon Belmont (Castlevania)

I've been beating this drum for years, but they've already brought in classic NES-era characters to the series while ignoring the most obvious choice. Simon has an arsenal of weapons at his disposal and a whip rather than a gun or sword to make him a great character for those who like grapples and throws.

Classic characters

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^{Image Source: Pinterest}

Team Rocket (Pokemon)

Much like how Pokemon Trainer was added to Smash Bros. on the Wii and gave you control over 3 different Pokemon, I think they'll throw a huge curveball here and do the same with Team Rocket which puts you in control of their most popular Pokemon characters.

King Hippo (Punch-Out!)

Outside of Little Mac, King Hippo is arguably the most well-known character from the Punch Out! franchise. His inclusion would be a great new heavy hitter and an awesome and unexpected throwback to the NES era. If they can do the Duck Hunt Dog, they can bring in King Hippo.

Other significant possibilities

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Mario (Super Mario Odyssey)

Waluigi (Mario Series)

Bomberman

Chibi-Robo

Shovel Knight

Rayman

Crash Bandicoot

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Who do you think will show up in the next Smash Bros. game? Let's discuss!

Thanks for reading. As always, upvotes, resteems and comments are appreciated!

^{Cover Image Sources: CNET}