Nintendo’s September Direct Was Packed With Huge News!
You can always expect big things from a September Nintendo Direct.
This one was over an hour long.
This one was over an hour long, and with everyone eagerly awaiting news about Nintendo’s next console, expectations were incredibly high. the hype and expectations were at a peak.
Amazingly, the event still blew us away. It was a jam-packed show, full of reveals from start to finish.
Let’s break down the biggest announcements. We saw the return of legendary heroes and some deep-cut revivals. And of course, we got the most crucial reveal: a new Overcooked! 2 port for the Switch 2.
The Biggest Headlines:
The Next Console: First, the big one: the “Nintendo Switch successor” was the unspoken star. For instance, many games announced a “console version” for a simultaneous release. This strongly suggests the new hardware is coming soon and will be backward compatible.
A Legend Returns: Great news for fans! The beloved bounty hunter Samus Aran is back. Her new game is called Metroid: Vector Prime.
A Classic Reborn: Nintendo is also reviving a cult-classic series. The new game, Star Fox: Eclipse, will reimagine the on-rails shooter for a new generation.
The Main Event: As expected, the plumber himself is headlining. Super Mario: Odyssey 2 is a direct sequel. It promises new kingdoms and fun new hat-based mechanics.
A Deep Cut Revival: Finally, in the biggest surprise, the Virtual Boy is returning. The “Virtual Boy Archives” will bring its unique games to the new system. Importantly, it will include modern playability enhancements.
And that’s just the start! The Direct also featured a new Donkey Kong Country and a charming Fantasy Life title. Ultimately, it was a non-stop barrage of exciting games.
Nintendo Celebrates Mario’s 40th with a Movie, Games, and More
September 13th is a huge day. It marks the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. in Japan. This special date is the key reason Nintendo held its Direct on a Friday, which is very unusual for them.
The celebration includes several major announcements. Following news about Mario updates for the Nintendo Museum in Kyoto, the company revealed the next movie’s title. It will be called The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. It arrives in US cinemas on April 3, 2026. However, we will have to wait a bit longer for a trailer.
Unfortunately, there was no new 3D Mario game announced. Despite that, there was still plenty of other exciting news:
- Mario Tennis Fever arrives on Switch 2 in February. This is the first new Mario Tennis game since 2018.
- Yoshi is getting a new adventure with Yoshi and the Mysterious Book. This new platformer is coming to Switch 2 next spring.
- Additionally, a Switch 2 version of Super Mario Bros. Wonder is on the way. It will feature fresh multiplayer modes and is due around the same time.
Classic Games Return with a Major Upgrade
Before all of that, Nintendo is bringing two classics to the Switch. The wonderful Wii games Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are coming on October 2. You can buy them separately or as a digital bundle. There will also be a $70 combined physical edition.
Importantly, the Switch 2 version will let you play both games in 4K.
New Collectibles for Fans
The company also announced new figures for collectors. Two new Mario Galaxy Amiibo figures are coming in April. I’m not typically a collector, but I really want these because Luma is just adorable.
Furthermore, Nintendo will release a physical collectible of the Talking Flower from Super Mario Bros. Wonder next spring.
Donkey Kong Bananza DLC Is Out Now!
Calling all Kongs! If you’ve already smashed everything in Donkey Kong Bananza and need more from this massive Switch 2 exclusive, we have great news. A new paid expansion is available starting today!
Introducing ‘DK Island & Emerald Rush’
Revealed during the Nintendo Direct, the ‘DK Island & Emerald Rush’ DLC is available now for $20.
What’s Included:
- Explore DK Island: Barrel around Donkey Kong’s home island and reunite with familiar faces.
- New Emerald Rush Mode: After finishing the main story, test your skills in this new mode. It features timed runs through both DK Island and the main game’s biomes. Your goal is to collect emerald ore, smash fossils, and gather Banandium Gems.
Try Before You Buy with a New Demo
Additionally, for those who haven’t jumped in yet, Nintendo has released a demo for the main game. So, if you have a Switch 2, you can finally see why everyone is constantly shouting, “ooh, banana!”
‘Pokémon Pokopia’ Revealed for Nintendo Switch 2
Many fans were eagerly hoping for a new Animal Crossing announcement during the Nintendo Direct. While that wish wasn’t granted, Nintendo may have revealed something even more exciting—especially for fans of both Animal Crossing and Pokémon.
Introducing Pokémon Pokopia, the franchise’s first life simulation game!
A Cozy, Shape-Shifting Paradise
In this charming new title, you play as a Ditto who has been transformed to look human. Your mission? To turn a vast expanse of empty land into a cozy paradise for yourself and your Pokémon friends.
The gameplay looks delightful and inventive. Your Ditto can learn abilities from other Pokémon to help build and nurture the world. For example, you can use Squirtle’s Water Gun to water plants and bring life to the flora around you.
It looks utterly charming and wonderfully unique. Mark your calendars: Pokémon Pokopia is coming to the Switch 2 in 2026.
Announcement: ‘Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave’ Joins the 2026 Lineup
Nintendo is already building a strong slate of games for the Switch 2 in 2026. A key title announced during the Direct is the next major entry in the beloved Fire Emblem series: Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave.
As a core entry in the franchise, Fortune’s Weave will be a turn-based tactical RPG. The debut trailer offered a first glimpse into the game’s intricate new story and its cast of characters, hinting at themes of destiny and fate.
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave is scheduled to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026.
Major Release Dates: Metroid Prime 4 and Hades 2 Finally Locked In
As expected, two of the most anticipated games finally got official release dates during the Nintendo Direct, and both are coming much sooner than many predicted.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – December 4
The long-awaited Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will finally launch on December 4 for both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. The new trailer revealed a standout feature: Samus has a rad, Tron-esque bike for high-speed exploration.
Hades 2 – September 25
Meanwhile, the superb rogue-like sequel Hades 2 is arriving even sooner. It hits Switch and Switch 2 on September 25. This is the same day the game will exit early access on PC, launching in full on Steam and the Epic Games Store.
Furthermore, the game will feature cross-save support between PC and Nintendo platforms. For performance enthusiasts, the Switch 2 version will support a stunning 120fps when the console is docked.
In an incredible twist of fate, both Hades 2 and the elusive Hollow Knight: Silksong are now set to release in the same month. As a result, we sincerely apologize for any plans you had on being productive or getting sleep this September.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment Launches November 6
First announced during the Switch 2 showcase in April, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment now has an official release date. The hack-and-slash adventure arrives on November 6.
Journey to the Imprisoning War
Developed by Koei Tecmo’s Omega Force, the game follows Princess Zelda as she travels back in time. There, she meets the first king and queen of Hyrule: Rauru and Sonia. Together, they must fight to stop Ganondorf in the legendary event known as the Imprisoning War.
Gameplay & Features
- Uncover Ancient Truths: The story promises to explore “ancient truths only glimpsed in Tears of the Kingdom.”
- Wield Zonai Technology: Use a variety of powerful Zonai devices in combat.
- Playable Characters: Switch between playing as Zelda, Rauru, and Sonia on the fly.
- Two-Player Co-op: Team up with a friend via split-screen or GameShare.
- Play as a Korok: In a fun twist, you can even take control of a Korok yourself—finally giving the beloved creatures a break from your in-game antics.
Mark your calendars; the war for Hyrule’s dawn begins this November.
Major AAA Titles Confirmed for Switch 2, Including Day-One Resident Evil
Nintendo used today’s Direct to solidify the Switch 2’s AAA third-party support, announcing key release dates for major franchises.
Resident Evil Comes to Switch – Day and Date
In a major coup, Resident Evil Requiem (the anticipated next mainline entry) will launch on the Switch 2 on February 27. This is a same-day release alongside all other platforms, signaling strong third-party commitment.
Furthermore, the Switch 2’s capabilities will be further showcased with two classic titles: Resident Evil 7: Biohazard and Resident Evil Village are also coming to the console on the same day, February 27.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Arrives in January
Additionally, the previously announced Final Fantasy VII Remake is now dated. Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade will arrive on the Switch 2 on January 22, bringing the beloved first chapter of the remake trilogy to Nintendo players.
These announcements demonstrate a powerful start for the Switch 2’s library, offering blockbuster experiences from day one.
Beloved Indie Classics Get Enhanced for Switch 2
The original Nintendo Switch was a haven for indie hits, and now several of its biggest success stories are getting major upgrades for the new console. Here’s what’s coming:
Overcooked! 2 – Holiday 2024
The ultimate co-op challenge (and relationship test) is getting a significant upgrade. The Switch 2 version of Overcooked! 2 will feature 4K visuals, 60fps gameplay, and support for GameShare. It will also include CameraPlay, the hilarious feature that puts your and your teammate’s live reactions on screen during the culinary chaos. Arrives this holiday season.
Stardew Valley – Fall 2024
The beloved farming sim is becoming more social than ever on Switch 2. The new version will introduce GameShare for co-op, mouse and keyboard support, four-player split-screen, and eight-player online multiplayer. Best of all, existing owners on Switch will receive a free upgrade when it launches this fall.
Human: Fall Flat – Spring 2026
The wobbly physics-based puzzle game is also making the jump. When it arrives in Spring 2026, the Switch 2 version of Human: Fall Flat will support mouse controls, GameShare, and eight-person multiplayer.
PowerWash Simulator 2 – Fall 2024
While it’s new, the sequel to the surprise hit is also coming to Switch 2. PowerWash Simulator 2 doesn’t have a firm date yet but is still on track for a release this fall.
The Hit Puzzle Game is Back: Suika Game Planet Announced
The incredibly addictive Suika Game is getting a sequel, and it promises to be just as time-consuming. Suika Game Planet is coming to Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 this winter.
A New Dimension of Puzzle Action
The sequel introduces a major twist on the original formula. Instead of dropping fruit into a rectangular box, the action now takes place on a circular stage. This new layout should solve a common frustration from the first game: being unable to reach large fruit stuck at the bottom of the container.
New Multiplayer Fun on Switch 2
Furthermore, the Switch 2 version will include a special GameShare mode that allows up to four players to work together on the puzzle, adding a fun new cooperative element.
Consider your winter schedules officially booked. This is one sequel we can’t wait to drop into.
The Biggest Shock of the Direct: Virtual Boy is Returning
In the most surprising announcement of the entire showcase, Nintendo revealed it is reviving its most infamous hardware failure: the Virtual Boy.
However, this isn’t a new console. Instead, games from the notorious 1995 system are coming to the Switch Online + Expansion Pack service.
A Truly Authentic (and Uncomfortable) Experience
To fully embrace the bizarre legacy, Nintendo is releasing official accessories to replicate the original, headache-inducing experience. Two options will be available:
- A $100 plastic tabletop unit that mimics the original Virtual Boy’s design.
- A more affordable $25 cardboard version, similar to the Labo line.
Importantly, both are compatible with the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. They promise an authentic experience—which, for the Virtual Boy, undoubtedly includes a generous dose of eye strain.
This move is more unexpected than any banana collection in Donkey Kong Bananza and proves that no piece of Nintendo history is ever truly forgotten.
