Today's Nintendo Direct has concluded, and it was a packed showcase, giving Switch 2 owners plenty to look forward to this holiday season and into early 2026.
Mario's 40th Anniversary kicked off the Direct in style, with confirmation of a Super Mario Galaxy bundle heading to Switch, and a new Mario Tennis game arriving in February 2026. Other headline reveals included a December release date for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, DLC for Donkey Kong Bananza, a new Pokémon farming sim-style title, and Virtual Boy is coming back in the form of a new Switch 2 accessory (yes, really!).
If you want to catch up on all the announcements, our full coverage of the Nintendo Direct September 2025 is down below, and we'll have plenty more to come as we react to everything announced at this Switch 2 event.
Nintendo Direct September 2025 — full recap
If you missed the Nintendo Direct for September 2025 earlier today (Sept, 12), then you can watch it back using the embedded link below.
Welcome!
Nintendo Direct is back, after a summer of Partner Showcases and Indie World Directs. The full-fleshed Nintendo Direct is returning today (Friday, September 12), and Nintendo is promising an entire hour of new announcements and fresh looks at upcoming Switch 2 games. Expect plenty of hype reveals. And Tom's Guide is here to guide you through the showcase before, during and after the Direct.
Nintendo Direct September 2025 — here's what Nintendo have said
Join us on Sept 12 at 6am PT for a #NintendoDirect! Tune in for roughly 60 minutes of information on upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch games.Watch here: https://t.co/JMTr0DNsL7 pic.twitter.com/C3zNyoU10jSeptember 10, 2025
After persistent online rumors, Nintendo confirmed it's next Direct earlier this week on Wednesday (Sept. 10). As always the Big-N was fairly coy with details, but did confirm it will offer up "roughly 60 minutes of information on upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch games." This will be the first full-fledged Direct since the launch of the Switch 2, so I'm expecting some big surprises.
It's time for a Metroid Prime 4 release date (right...)
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond has been a long time coming. After years of fan demand, Nintendo confirmed it was in development back in 2017, before development was restarted in 2019 as Nintendo was concerned about its quality.
In the summer of 2024, we got our first proper look at the hotly-anticipated game, and this year it's even been playable at numerous events including the Switch 2 Experience and Gamescom. All of this is to say, it's been a long road for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, but we appear to be in the homestretch at this point.
Nintendo has been steadfast in saying it will launch in 2025, and if that is to be the case, then it would be very surprising if we didn't get a Metroid Prime 4: Beyond release date in today's Direct. So watch out Metroid fans, the date you've been waiting almost a decade for could be confirmed in just a few hours time.
Mario Movie 2 could get a name at Nintendo Direct
Naturally, the Nintendo Direct is going to be primarily focused on video games, but we could also get an update from the world of movies, and specifically the already confirmed sequel to "The Super Mario Bros. Movie."
According to the online rumor mill, the follow-up to 2023's $1.3 billion grossing smash hit animated flick could be called "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie." This rumor has been swirling after it was revealed NBC Universal (the movie's distributor) had registered the online domain supermariogalaxy.movie.
Of course, company's regularly register a rafter of domain names for IP protection reasons, so this shouldn't be taken as a confirmation. But it's certainly an intriguing clue, and the Nintendo Direct may give us further details on the next Mario movie.
I'm hoping FromSoftware has a BIG presence
On my personal wishlist is plenty of appearances from FromSoftware. The Dark Souls developer has already confirmed it's developing a Switch 2-exclusive, The Duskbloods, and its uber-popular open-world title, Elden Ring, is being ported.
I would love a fresh look at The Duskbloods, though I wouldn't be putting any money on it popping up. It's not launching until 2026, so it might be a little too early for its next marketing push. However, Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition was playable at Gamescom last month and is reportedly set to launch in 2025.
I've already played Elden Ring three times, including portability via my Steam Deck OLED, but you better believe I'll be jumping into The Lands Between all over again on Nintendo Switch 2. So a 2025 release date would be very welcome!
Returning to the Mario Galaxy
Mario is an ever-present at any Nintendo showcase, but with the red-capped plumber set to celebrate his 40th anniversary later this year, we're expecting this new Direct to be dominated ever more than usual by the iconic mascot.
Back in September 2020, Nintendo released Super Mario 3D All-Stars for the original Switch, this nostalgia-stuffed collection included Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine and Super Mario Galaxy. But one title that was curiously lacking was Super Mario Galaxy 2. There was much online speculation that it would be added down the road in the form of DLC, but such a release never came.
Perhaps now is the time to Nintendo to either port Super Mario Galaxy 2 to its newest hardware, or perhaps release an upgraded version of the Mario 3D All-Stars package which includes Galaxy 2. As somebody who missed Mario Galaxy 2 on Nintendo Wii, I'd certainly welcome the chance to circle back and enjoy it.
Pokemon is safe prediction for the Direct
Pokemon Legends: Z-A is set to launch on Switch and Switch 2 on October 16, making it an extremely safe bet for inclusion in the Nintendo Direct.
This will almost certainly be the last showcase before it's launch next month, so Nintendo will surely want to give it a big final push, and Pokemon is always uber-popular so I'm sure another insight into this new RPG experience will be warmly received.
Could we perhaps see some extras confirmed, like say a limited-edition Switch 2 console or Pro controller, or maybe even a set of Amiibo? We'll have to find out.
Hyrule Warriors is another likely inclusion
We know that the next installment in the Hyrule Warriors series, subtitled Age of Imprisonment, is on the way, and there's a good chance it'll feature in the Direct.
This sequel to 2020's Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is set in the The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom canon (though it includes time travel and alternate dimensions, so the timeline is a bit messy), and is a spin-off from Koei Tecmo's Dynasty Warriors series. We don't have a firm release date, but it's apparently set to launch between late 2025 and early 2026, so perhaps we'll get a date today!
This is your 30 minute warning!
There's just 30 minutes to go until the Nintendo Direct for September 2025 begins. Remember, it's set to be supersized showcase with 60 minutes of Nintendo gaming goodness. You won't want to miss this first event since the Switch 2 launched, so get prepared, as the stream will be kicking off very soon.
Will we see the next mainline Zelda game?
Okay, so while I feel pretty confident that Zelda universe will make an appearance via Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, could we also see the next mainline Zelda game?
I'm not convinced, Tears of the Kingdom only launched in 2023, and we saw a six year gap between Breath of the Wild and its follow-up, so it feels too early for the next flagship title. However, perhaps Nintendo will look to fill the void between mainline entires with a smaller title like last year's The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom. Or, just maybe, the long rumored Switch ports of Wind Walker HD and Twilight Princess HD (released originally for the Wii U) will finally surface.
Here's hoping there's at least one surprise for the passionate Zelda fans out there.
The Nintendo Direct feed is LIVE
With just 20 minutes to go unless the Nintendo Direct, the YouTube feed is live. Right now it's playing some calming music and a nifty animation of bouncing boxes. The comment section is also scrolling faster than I can read! There's already 75,000 people watching live, so the interest in this Nintendo Direct is BIG.
Just 10 minutes to go!
This is you 10 minute warning! The Nintendo Direct is about to begin, so now is the time to boot up your live stream (or you can just follow along here as I bring you all the updates). Remember this will be a bumper 60-minutes showcase, so you might want to grab yourself some snacks and a drink while you still can.
And here we go! Nintendo Direct is LIVE!
It's go-time, the Nintendo Direct for September 2025 is starting RIGHT NOW.
If you can't watch, fear not, as I'm bringing you all the latest updates and covering all the game announcements. Now let's see what Nintendo opts to open with...
Mario kicks off the Nintendo Direct
Nintendo isn't making us wait for the good stuff, as we're beginning with a Mario montage to celebrate his 30th Anniversary! And Shigeru Miyamoto has taken to the screen to discuss what we can expect from this celebration of Mario's history!
First look at Super Mario Bros. Movie 2
Our first trailer isn't for a game, it's a movie, specifically the "Super Mario Bros. Movie" sequel, and the rumors were correct, it's called "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie".
It's arriving in theatres in April 2026, and has just been described as "the main event of the Mario 40th Anniversary celebration."
Does that mean no new Mario games during the anniversary period?
The gangs all back for the Super Mario Galaxy Movie
It's been confirmed the original voice cast of the "Super Mario Bros. Movie" will be returning, but there's no details on new cast members.
Mario Galaxy 2 is heading to Nintendo Switch
Yup, the announcement Mario fans wanted has been confirmed, Super Mario Galaxy 2 is heading to Switch platforms, and it looks like it'll be in bundle with the original Super Mario Galaxy (no word yet if you can buy them individually as well).
Mario Galaxy bundle launches this October
The Super Mario Galaxy bundle launches on Nintendo Switch on October 2, 2025, the games will also be available individually on the digital eShop. Plus, there are two new Mario Galaxy-themed Amiibo on the way, showing Mario and Rosalina.
Mario Tennis Fever is taking to the court on Switch 2
Here's our first new game of the Direct, and it's the return of the fan-favorite Mario Tennis series. This one is called Mario Tennis Fever to mark the new "Fever" rackets, which appear to let you unleash special abilities like a freeze shot.
It launches February 12, 2026. And long-time fans will be pleased to know there is a story mode, and it offers the most playable characters in franchise history at 36!
Mario Wonder is getting a Switch 2 Edition
This one felt pretty likely, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is getting a Switch 2 Edition, and it comes with new content set in Bellabel Park. I'm not a huge 2D Mario fan (hot take, I know), but Wonder was a seriously fun platformer, and I'm sure the new Switch 2 content will be a hit with new and returning players.
Mario Wonder Switch 2 Edition launches in Spring 2026.
The final Mario game for the 40th Anniversary stars... Yoshi
Everybody's favorite green dinosaur is taking the spotlight next, as we're getting a brand new Yoshi game for the Mario 40th Anniversary celebration.
As per the Yoshi game franchise tradition, it boasts a charming and unique art style. The woolly yarn-look of his previous two adventures has been swapped for a watercolor-inspired visual style, and it looks pretty striking.
It's called Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, and it launches in Spring 2026
Some rapid fire announcements up next
Time for some quick-fire announcements via the Direct's familiar news bulletin format.
First up is Storm Lancers, launching today exclusively on Nintendo Switch. Dinkum is coming as a timed exclusive on November 5, with a demo available today. Next is a multiplayer-only shooter called Popucom, arriving this holiday.
Now we're getting an update on Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream...
Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream coming next spring
Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream is set to launch in Spring 2026. It looks suitably quirky, and I'm sure fans of the original will be delighted to see the oddball franchise make its return on the Nintendo Switch platforms.
Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection and Final Fantasy VII Remake next up
We're getting some quick updates on previously announced Switch 2 ports now. Final Fantasy VII Remake lands on Switch 2 on January 26, 2026, while Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection is arriving October 30, 2025.
Hades 2 is Switch 2 bound
No great surprise here because the first Hades was a Switch smash hit, but its sequel, Hades 2 ,is gearing up for a Switch 2 launch. It's been in early access on PC since May 2024, but it'll jump over to Nintendo's platform on September 25, 2025.
It'll also be on Switch 1, and this will be the first time it hits consoles; you'll have to wait, PlayStation and Xbox gamers!
Kirby Air Riders is getting Amiibos
New Amiibos are speeding into town on November 20 alongside the Kirby Air Riders game. These figures have swappable vehicles, which is a nifty little feature.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment shown off
We knew this one was coming but now attention turns to Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment. It looks like another hectic Warriors experience, but I'm just hoping the Switch 2 can offer improved performance over Age of Calamity on Switch 1.
It's also got a release date, November 6, 2025.
Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined is bring the classic back to life
February 5, 2026, will see the launch of Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined on Switch 2, which looks like a charming way to experience a truly beloved JRPG classic.
Nintendo Classics is adding Virtual Boy games
No, this isn't an out-of-season April Fool's joke; the (in)famous Virtual Boy titles are coming to Nintendo Switch Online, with a new dedicated Virtual Boy accessory for Switch 2. No, seriously, this is real and coming February 17, 2026.
If you don't want to stump up for a full Virtual Boy accessory, there will also be a cardboard alternative, which I suspect will be significantly cheaper.
Fatal Frame 2 Remake launches in early 2026
If you love your horror, you'll be pleased to know the remake of Fatal Frame 2 has been showcased, and while the trailer was brief, we did learn it'll launch in early 2026.
More Switch 2 Editions announced
Overcooked 2, Stardew Valley, Human Fall Flat and One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4 are getting Nintendo Switch 2 Editions. No word yet on whether these will be free upgrades for owners of the Switch 1 versions.
Power Wash Sim 2 will clean up on Switch 2
One of the best podcast-games is heading to Switch 2 this winter, Power Wash Simulator 2. It looks like more of the same zen Power Sim fun we all enjoyed in the original, well, if it's no broke, don't fix it.
Metroid Prime 4 time!
They've kept us waiting, but Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is taking the (digital) stage, and just announced a new motorbike feature that looks suitably sci-fi!
Metroid Prime 4 has a release date (finally)
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond launches December 4, 2025!
DK Bananza is getting DLC set on DK Island
If you want more Donkey Kong Bananza, you're in luck, as the acclaimed Switch 2 exclusive is getting some DLC, and it's set on DK Island! It'll add more shiny collectibles, a new Emerald Rush mode, and new skills to unlock.
It's a paid DLC, but it's available today, and the base game is getting a free demo.
Is that a Pokemon?
Looks like we're getting into the big hitters now, as I just spotted a Ditto, that can transforms into a human?
Pokemon mixed with Stardew Valley
This new Pokemon experience looks heavily inspired by the likes of Stardew Valley, it's not about battling monsters, it's about building a charming village and caring for your creature pals, and it's called Pokemon Pokopia!
Pokemon Legends has arrived at the Direct
Another expected one, it's time to take a fresh look at the upcoming Pokemon Legends Z-A, it looks like a fun spin on the classic Pokemon formula, though I still don't love that it's reportedly all set in a single city. It'll launch on October 16, 2025.
One last Pokemon trailer is just DLC for Legends A-Z
Our final Pokémon-themed announcement is upcoming paid DLC for Pokémon Legends Z-A. Considering the base game isn't even out yet, I can't say that hearing about future DLC generates much hype in my book.
Dynasty Warriors Origins is galloping onto Switch 2
Dynasty Warriors Origins is coming to Switch 2 on January 22, 2026, and with paid DLC. Before that, we got a glimpse at Danganronpa 2x2 coming to Switch in 2026.
Monster Hunter Stories 3 gets a release date
March 13, 2026 is a date Monster Hunter fans will want in their calendar, as that's the release date for Monster Hunter Stories 3.
Resident Evil 9 on Switch 2?
After a quick sizzle reel showing games like Persona 3 Reload and EA Sports FC 26, we're getting confirmation that Resident Evil 9 is heading to Switch 2. The game does look downgraded from what we've seen of its PS5 and Xbox Series X version, but it's impressive that such a blockbuster title is Switch 2-bound.
Resi 9 comes to Switch 2 in February and that's not all
Resi 9 will launch on Switch 2 on the same date as other platforms, February 27, 2026, and on that same date, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard and Resident Evil 8: Village will arrive on Nintendo's hybrid console. Resi fans are eating very good.
One final announcement...
The Direct is almost over, but there's one more reveal left for us.
Fire Emblem fans your time has come
The final reveal is a new game in the popular Fire Emblem series, I'll confess I'm not super familiar with the series, but it looks suitably epic. It's called Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, and it will launch sometime in 2026.
And that's the Nintendo Direct in the can
And with the reveal of a brand new Fire Emblem title, Nintendo has brought the Direct to a close. Plenty to be excited about there, but for me, the show-stealer was actually the first game showcased, Super Mario Galaxy 2. I never got to play the original on Nintendo Wii, so I've been begging for a Switch port for years!
A solid but not quite super Switch 2 showcase
The dust is now settling on the Nintendo Direct, and I think that was a decent Direct, but it wasn't quite the showstopper I was hoping for. As a Mario fan, I was very pleased to see Super Mario Galaxy 2 finally get it's Switch port, and Mario Tennis Fever is a great first (of likely many) Mario sports game for Switch 2.
Getting a release date for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond was also much needed, and Fire Emblem and Donkey Kong Bananza DLC reveals are sure to generate plenty of interest. However, I wish there was at least one real surprise moment like a new Zelda, or even the rumored new Super Smash Bros. title. Also what is going on what Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition if that is to launch 2025, I'm surprised we didn't get a release date today. Perhaps, it'll be delayed to improve performance.
Give us your thoughts!
Super Mario 2 movie teaser
Here's the Super Mario Galaxy sequel trailer in case you missed it at the start of the Direct.
It doesn't do much beyond show Mario napping before traveling up to Peach's castle though it does tease a perhaps World connection with the theme song.
Nintendo's real-life talking flower
During the segment on the Switch 2 version of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, Nintendo also revealed that it was releasing a real life talking flower based on the ones from Wonder.
These flowers don't feature AI chatbots instead cycling through lines.
Nintendo says the talking flowers will go on sale in Spring 2026, though the price was not revealed today.
Missing games
Nintendo announced a surprising number of games, DLCs and strange real-life products.
The biggest one that I'm curious about is the new Professor Layton game from Level5. Reportedly, Professor Layton and the New World of Steam is coming out this year, but we haven't seen much from Level5 in sometime. Though, Nintendo Wire claims it will make an appearance at the Tokyo Game Show at the end of September.
Additionally, Arc System Works is supposed to be working on a fighting game currently dubbed Project Watari. We haven't seen anything regarding that game since May. Though perhaps they're busy with the Marvel Tokon which just wrapped up a closed beta.
