Every September, fans eagerly anticipate the Nintendo Direct, and this year's showcase did not disappoint. Scheduled to run for about an hour, it featured a plethora of exciting announcements, especially with the upcoming release of the Switch 2. Let’s dive into the most significant news from the event, starting with the much-anticipated Switch 2 version of Overcooked 2.
September 13 marks the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. in Japan, making this Direct particularly special. Nintendo leveraged this occasion to unveil the title of the next Mario film—The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, set to hit U.S. theaters on April 3. Unfortunately, no new 3D Mario game was announced, but fans can look forward to some thrilling releases.
Mario Tennis Fever will debut on the Switch 2 in February, marking the first new entry in the Mario Tennis franchise since 2018. Additionally, Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, a platformer featuring Yoshi, is scheduled for release in spring 2024. Another exciting announcement includes a Switch 2 version of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which will introduce new multiplayer modes around the same time.
Before all these releases, Nintendo will bring beloved Wii classics Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 to the Switch on October 2. Players can purchase them separately or as part of a bundle on the eShop, with a combined physical edition priced at $70. Notably, these games will support 4K resolution on the Switch 2.
Fans can also look forward to two new Amiibo figures from the Mario Galaxy series, set for an April release, along with a physical collectible of the Talking Flower from Super Mario Bros. Wonder.
For those who have already enjoyed Donkey Kong Bananza, exciting news awaits! A new expansion titled DK Island & Emerald Rush was announced during the Direct and is available now for $20. This expansion invites players to explore Donkey Kong's home island and engage in timed runs to collect emerald ore and other treasures after completing the main game. Additionally, a demo for Donkey Kong Bananza is now available for those who haven't experienced the game yet.
While many were hoping for an announcement regarding a new Animal Crossing title, Nintendo surprised fans with Pokémon Pokopia, the first Pokémon life simulation game. Players will take on the role of a Ditto transformed into a human, transforming barren land into a cozy paradise for both themselves and their Pokémon companions. Expect this enchanting game to arrive on Switch 2 in 2026.
Nintendo also revealed Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, a new entry in the Fire Emblem series, slated for release in 2026. This title will continue the franchise's tradition of turn-based tactical RPG gameplay. Additionally, fans received long-awaited release dates for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Hades 2, with both titles expected to arrive on December 4 and September 25, respectively.
As part of the Direct, Nintendo confirmed that Resident Evil Requiem will launch on Switch 2 on February 27, coinciding with the release of new entries in Capcom's iconic survival horror series. Furthermore, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is set to debut on January 22, bringing the beloved title to the Switch 2.
The Nintendo Switch has been a hotbed for indie games, and several popular titles are getting Switch 2 versions. Overcooked 2 will feature enhanced graphics with 4K visuals and 60fps gameplay. Additionally, Stardew Valley is set to support GameShare for cooperative play, while Human Fall Flat will arrive with mouse controls and multiplayer options.
Fans of Suika Game will rejoice with the announcement of its sequel, Suika Game Planet, which adds a new dimension to the puzzle gameplay. This title is expected to launch on both Switch and Switch 2 this winter, complete with a GameShare mode for collaborative play.
In a surprising twist, Nintendo announced that Virtual Boy games will be available on the Switch Online + Expansion Pack service. To experience these classic titles, players will need a new accessory, either a $100 tabletop version mimicking the original or a $25 cardboard alternative.
Overall, this September Nintendo Direct showcased a wealth of thrilling announcements, setting the stage for an exciting future for both the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2. Fans can look forward to a rich lineup of games across various genres, keeping the Nintendo legacy alive and vibrant.
