Sunsoft announces Route-16R, Route-16 Collection for Nintendo Switch

Today, Sunsoft unveiled both Route-16R and Route-16 Collection for Nintendo Switch. A release is planned for August 6, 2026.

Route-16R is a brand new title, which builds off of the start of the series in the 1980s. Similar to the original game, the goal is to collect money in stages while avoiding enemy vehicles and monsters. There’ll be support for players to switch between modern and classic visual styles at any point with the press of a button. A multiplayer mode will also be included for the first time involving capturing flags.

Here’s some additional information:

Route-16R is a brand-new entry in the classic Route-16 series, originally released in the 1980s.

Avoid enemy vehicles and monsters as you race through the stage, collecting every item scattered across the maze.

Switch dynamically between Maze Mode, where you navigate intricate labyrinths filled with traps and gimmicks, and Radar Mode, which reveals the entire stage made up of 16 mazes-delivering a high-speed chase experience that surpasses the original games.

Key Features

• Don’t Just Run – Fight Back with the Evolved MAD X-R: Unlike previous Route16 titles, colliding with enemies triggers a transformation: MAD X-R shifts into a combat robot, initiating battle. Use your upgraded MAD X-R’s attacks along with SP items collected throughout the stage to deal damage and defeat your enemies.
• Customization: Before entering a stage, use the money you’ve recovered to customize your MAD X-R. Enhance core attributes like fuel and speed, as well as combat performance, to suit your playstyle.
• Boss Battles: The Kanharoo Gang won’t go down without a fight. Collecting all items won’t end the stage-doing so will trigger a boss encounter. Bosses unleash intense attacks to corner MAD X-R. Dodge their assaults, find openings in their defenses, and strike back by transforming into robot form to deal decisive damage!
• Multiplayer: Multiplayer mode is included for the first time in the series. Compete in a mini-game where players battle to capture the flag. Enjoy fast-paced, arcade-style chase action with friends and family!
  * Local multiplayer only. Online multiplayer is not supported.

Check out the first trailer below.

Announcement Trailer

As for Route-16 Collection,  it will include the original Route-16 and Route-16 Turbo. These titles will also be available as digital downloads. In Japan, Route-16 Collection will have a physical release, including a collector’s box with various goodies including a glittering gold replica cassette of Route-16 Turbo and a limited edition acrylic stand.