Hey, fellow gamers! The latest Nintendo Direct has just wrapped, and it was an absolute firehose of announcements for both Switch and the upcoming Switch 2. From long-awaited release dates to completely unexpected hardware revivals, this presentation had it all. Let’s dive into everything you need to know – and trust me, you’re gonna want to see this.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Finally Drops in December

The wait is finally over! Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is officially launching on December 4, 2025. The new trailer showcased Samus exploring the alien world of Viewros, and yes – she’s now got a slick new motorcycle called the Vi-O-La that looks perfect for tearing across open landscapes. The game will also receive a series of amiibo, including Samus with her new bike and the enigmatic Sylux, arriving the same day as the game.

Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave Closes the Show

The Direct ended with a bang – the announcement of Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave, coming in 2026. The game seems to revolve around a grand coliseum tournament called the Heroic Games, where characters like Cai, Queen Theodora, and the blade-wielding Dietrich compete for a wish granted by the Divine Sovereign. Classic Fire Emblem tactical combat meets a thrilling new narrative.

Donkey Kong Bananza DLC Is Out TODAY

If you’ve been itching for more Donkey Kong Bananza action, you’re in luck. The paid DLC DK Island & Emerald Rush is available right now. It adds a nostalgia-packed new level filled with series deep-cuts and a new “Emerald Rush” mode that plays like a roguelite challenge – farm emeralds under time pressure, unlock perks, and power up DK with new abilities. Early hands-on impressions say it’s a must-play.

Pokémon Pokopia: Ditto’s Cozy Life Sim

In arguably the most charming announcement of the show, Pokémon Pokopia was revealed – a cozy life-sim/farming game where you play as a Ditto that looks surprisingly human. Befriend classic Pokémon like Bulbasaur and Squirtle to learn skills (Leafage for farming, Water Gun for irrigation), build homes for your Pokémon pals, and craft your dream island. Look for it in 2026.

Super Mario Bros. 40th Anniversary Blowout

Nintendo is pulling out all the stops for Mario’s 40th. Here’s what’s coming:

• Super Mario Galaxy 1 & 2 Bundle: Releasing October 2, 2025 with enhanced resolution, updated UI, and optional motion controls. On Switch 2, a free update bumps it to 4K.
• The Super Mario Galaxy Movie: The sequel to the hit animated film arrives April 3, 2026 with the full cast returning. The teaser gave us a glimpse of Luma and the stars.
• New amiibo: Mario & Luma and Rosalina & Lumas figures arrive in April 2026.
• Yoshi and the Mysterious Book: A beautiful, watercolor-style puzzle adventure coming Spring 2026.
• Mario Tennis Fever: Launching February 2026 with 38 characters, an adventure mode, and motion controls.

Virtual Boy Returns as a Physical Switch Accessory

Yes, you read that right. Nintendo is re-releasing the Virtual Boy – sort of. It’s a new accessory that lets you slot your Switch into a Virtual Boy-like headset to play 14 classic Virtual Boy games (like Mario’s Tennis and Teleroboxer) in VR. There’s even a cardboard version for budget-conscious players. This wild piece of kit arrives February 17, 2026 for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment | November 6, 2025

This musou-style game delves into the ancient past of Tears of the Kingdom, letting you play as Zelda, Rauru, Sonia, and even a Korok. Use Zonai devices with elemental effects, team up for Sync Strikes, and enjoy 2-player split-screen co-op. It’s hitting shelves on November 6, 2025.

Hades 2 Exits Early Access on Switch 2

Supergiant’s acclaimed roguelike Hades 2 arrives on Switch 2 on September 25, 2025 (digital) and November 12 (physical). It’ll run at 1080p and 120fps in TV Mode and support cross-save with PC and original Switch.

Resident Evil Comes to Switch 2

Capcom is bringing the horror:

• Resident Evil Requiem – February 27, 2026
• Resident Evil 7 Gold Edition & Village Gold Edition – Same date, same platform.

Everything Else You Need to Know

• Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade – January 22, 2026
• Kirby Air Riders amiibo – With swappable riders, out November 20
• Stardew Valley: Switch 2 Edition – Free upgrade adds mouse controls & 8-player online
• Power Wash Simulator 2 – With pettable cats. Need we say more?
• Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake – October 30, 2025
• LEGO Voyagers – From the Builder’s Journey team, out September 15

Summary of Key Release Dates:

That’s it for our recap! From cosmic Mario adventures to cozy Ditto farming, Nintendo is clearly aiming to make 2025–2026 an incredible time to be a gamer. What was your favorite announcement? Let us know in the comments, and keep checking nineinchsandwich.com for more deep dives and updates! 🎮✨

Written by the team at nineinchsandwich.com – your home for deep-cut gaming coverage and unabashed enthusiasm.