There’s big excitement for this year’s not-E3 season, because a fresh Nintendo Direct has appeared! Packed with new reveals — from first-time game announcements to concrete release dates — the broadcast lays out what’s coming next for Nintendo Switch 2 over the course of this year. Whether you missed the stream entirely or just want a quick rundown of everything shown, you can review all the featured games and their trailers right here.
Rhythm Paradise Groove
Are you into rhythm games? If so, Rhythm Paradise Groove should hit the right beat. Expect more than 80 brand-new rhythm challenges plus additional modes, including a whimsical adventure where you sync your movements to the rhythm to take on enemies. Up to four players can jump in together at the same time. Rhythm Paradise Groove looks set to deliver an offbeat, memorable spin, complete with a peculiar onion-like character.
Rhythm Paradise Groove arrives on Nintendo Switch on 2nd July 2026. You’ll also be able to play it on the Switch 2.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword
Step back into the Onimusha universe and cut down monsters, the Genma, using your blade. During combat, you can make use of Oni weapons, and if you’d rather, Joy-Con motion controls are also available.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword will be released on 25th September 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen
Did you enjoy Dragon’s Dogma 2 as much as I did? If so, you’re in luck — it’s now headed to the Nintendo Switch 2. Re-enter the Arisen’s role and explore the newly added region of Norgan in this expanded version of the game. (Just a heads-up: your Pawns may end up repeating the same lines quite often.)
Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen launches on 9th October 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Stellar Blade
Stellar Blade is the next new arrival for Nintendo Switch 2. If you missed this action-adventure during 2024, now’s the time to step into the shoes of Eve as she fights to defend Earth from the Naytibas.
Stellar Blade launches on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. It’s already available on PC and PlayStation 5.
Orbitals
Orbitals is a two-player cooperative space adventure with striking anime-style visuals. You’ll control either Maki or Omura as you work to protect your home from a puzzling cosmic storm.
Orbitals is scheduled to release on 3rd September 2026 for the Nintendo Switch 2.
Rayman Legends Retold
Rayman Legends Retold was first revealed during last week’s State of Play, but it’s now back in the spotlight thanks to the Xbox Games Showcase. This remake takes a slightly unexpected route by moving away from the original 2D look and opting for a 3D presentation. (That said, it doesn’t look bad at all — it’s visually fantastic.) The game will also bring four new musical stages and an all-new world, plus the Cave of Trails for ongoing challenges. Even better, Rayman Oranges: Enhanced Edition is included with every copy of Legends Retold at no extra charge.
Rayman Legends Retold is set to release on 1st October 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.
Big Walk
Fancy taking a digital walk with your friends? Big Walk could be exactly what you’re after. Of course, this won’t be a typical stroll, because it also includes a variety of puzzles for you to tackle. If you get stuck, don’t worry — you’ll have several ways to communicate with your friends as you play.
Big Walk launches on 4th August 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2. It will also be available on PlayStation 5, PC, and Mac.
One Piece: Grand Gourmet
Hooray! A One Piece game! At least one person is genuinely excited about it — and that person is me. With the Strawhats’ help, you’ll craft your own version of the Baratie, the floating restaurant where Luffy and his crew meet Sanji during the East Blue arc. Then, you’ll cook meals and serve more than 400 characters from across the One Piece universe.
One Piece: Grand Gourmet is expected to launch on 23rd October 2026 for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, iOS, and Android.
Pokémon Pokopia
We’re heading underwater in Pokémon Pokopia thanks to the rollout of a free software update! (I’m definitely going to try making a Pokémon version of Atlantis.) The trailer also confirmed that an Expansion Pass (paid DLC) is on the way. This DLC will introduce a new town — Bubbly Basin (maybe Cerulean City?) — along with new Pokémon, furniture, and outfits.
This free update is set to arrive in August 2026. Pokémon Pokopia is now available for Nintendo Switch 2.
The Expansion Pass is split into three sections: Bubbly Basin launches in August 2026, with more content planned for late 2026, and a new town arriving in 2027.
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave is the newest entry in this well-loved fantasy tactical RPG series. This time, you’ll take part in the Heroic Games, where the top prize is a wish granted by a figure called the Divine Sovereign. (Let’s hope it doesn’t end up as the kind of wish that backfires like a monkey’s paw.)
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s
Weave launches on 17th September 2026 for the Nintendo Switch 2.
Ninjala 2 The Uncharted Planet
After being left stranded on a far-off planet, you’ll need to lean on your ninja skills—and… bubble gum (odd, yet workable)—to get around the massive landscape. Along the way, you’ll battle enemies and track down clues that could help you find your way back home.
Ninjala 2 The Uncharted Planet is scheduled to launch in Spring 2027 for the Nintendo Switch 2.
DK Challenge
DK Challenge is a limited-time offering available via Nintendo Switch Online on the Switch 2. In it, you can take on challenges inspired by a range of Donkey Kong games featured in Nintendo Classic. Complete them successfully and you’ll receive digital challenge cards. There are also a set of challenges tailored specifically for Donkey Kong Bananza.
DK Challenge will run from 10th June 2026 at 2am (UK time) until 1st September 2026 at 8:59am (UK time).
Donkey Kong Bananza DLC: Super Mario Bros 40th Collaboration
Next, the Direct highlighted the limited-time Super Mario Bros 40th anniversary collaboration, arriving as part of the Donkey Kong Bananza DLC. Expect Mario and Luigi outfits for Donkey Kong and Pauline. You’ll also be able to pick up familiar Mario classics, including mushrooms and Question Blocks.
This celebration is split into four phases, so you’ll have plenty of chances to jump in:
- 9th June to 30th June at 8:59am (UK time)
- 14th July at 9am to 21st July at 8:59am (UK time)
- 4th August at 9am to 11th August at 8:59am (UK time)
- 25th August at 9am to 1st September at 8:59am (UK time)
Jujutsu Kaisen Rumble: Survivaton
A Jujutsu Kaisen title may not match the expectations you might have if you were picturing the creators of Vampire Survivors, but it’s coming all the same! Up to eight players can take part at once in this survival royale. You’ll start by fighting off creatures across your map, and eventually, the two top performers will go head-to-head in a one-on-one showdown.
Jujutsu Kaisen Rumble: Survivaton is expected to release in 2026 for the Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Lords of the Fallen II
Later in the Direct, we got a closer look at Lords of the Fallen II, a game in the soulslike category. You’ll be able to use both close-range and magical attacks to take on a range of dangerous creatures.
Lords of the Fallen II is slated to launch in Autumn 2026 for the Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Lies of P: Complete Edition
Taking cues from Pinocchio, Lies of P is an action RPG created by Neowiz and Round8 Studios. True to that inspiration, you’ll fight mechanical puppets while questioning who you really are. This edition also includes Overture, the prequel expansion.
The digital edition of Lies of P: Complete Edition launches on 6th August 2026 for the Nintendo Switch 2. If you’d prefer a physical copy, you’ll need to wait until 2nd October 2026. Lies of P is already available on PC, Mac, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.
Devil May Cry 5 Devil Hunter Edition
Step back into action with Dante, V, Vergil, and Nero when this game arrives on Nintendo Switch 2. You’ll cut through waves of monsters, chaining combos to deal heavy damage. This edition adds extra battle tracks, new character colors, and Devil Breaker weapons for Nero.
Devil May Cry 5 Devil Hunter Edition is coming on 23rd June 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2. Devil May Cry 5 is already available on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Muramasa Revenant Blades
Looking for an action RPG set in Japan? If that sounds like your kind of game, you’ll probably enjoy Muramasa Revenant Blades. You’ll also have a variety of playable characters at your disposal, including a farmer and what appears to be an oni girl.
Muramasa Revenant Blades is expected to release in early 2027 for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, and PlayStation 5.
Switch 2 Edition of three Xenoblade Chronicles games
I hope it’s okay that I’ve grouped these three together; if I didn’t, I’d just end up repeating myself. In any case, Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition, Xenoblade Chronicles 2, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 are all on the way.
Each game targets 60 FPS, delivers 4K in TV mode, and runs in full HD when played handheld. The cutscenes have also been updated visually. On top of that, every title brings a handy new feature: in Xenoblade Chronicles, you can travel by vehicle. In Xenoblade Chronicles 2, you can command blades for mercenary-style battles, and in XC3, you’ll face waves of foes in what appears to be a new game mode. More fresh additions are also expected!
As for timing, the digital edition of Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition is available for the Switch 2 today! (The upgrade pack is available today, too.) Want a physical copy instead? It’s scheduled to arrive on 30th July 2026.
The digital edition and upgrade pack for Xenoblade Chronicles 2 launch on 30th July 2026, with the physical release following on 1st October 2026.
Finally, the digital edition, upgrade pack, and physical version of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 will all be available on 3rd December 2026.
Xenoblade
Genesis
If you’re craving a new Xenoblade experience, don’t worry—Xenoblade Genesis is coming soon. The trailer offered a peek at the world and the Vesselai, a group that looks set to matter a great deal. It also seems the story will kick off when we arrive in Leukos, the Vesselai school—though I’m fairly sure classroom life won’t be exactly calm. (Especially with the hint of a fallen deity chasing payback; you can be sure it won’t be plain sailing.)
Xenoblade Genesis is planned to launch in 2027 for the Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch Sports Resort
Everyone enjoys Nintendo sports every now and then. Now’s your moment to grab a tennis racket, bow, and jet ski, and jump into some motion-based athletic fun with the Joy-Con controls. The game will include 12 sports overall, mixing fan favorites like boxing and bowling with brand-new additions such as skateboarding and thumb wrestling.
Nintendo Switch Sports Resort releases on 22nd October 2026 for the Nintendo Switch 2.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds
This reveal genuinely caught me off guard, but I’m seriously excited about it! RuneScape on the Nintendo Switch 2 feels like a dream come true for longtime fans. (And no, it may not be RuneScape 3—but I’m not too picky.) RuneScape: Dragonwilds is Jagex’s survival crafting adventure. Here, you’ll push into Ashenfall, a land believed to be lost, where you’ll carve out a new life and take on dragons.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds is scheduled to launch on 15th September 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X/S, and PlayStation 5. For now, it’s available in early access on PC.
Hello Kitty Party Land
We’ve swapped out high-stakes fantasy for pure cuteness with Hello Kitty Party Land. In this title, you’ll play through more than 40 mini-games, with room for up to four players at once.
Hello Kitty Party Land launches on 29th October 2026 for both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
Star Fox
Star Fox, the remake of Star Fox 64, is landing on Nintendo Switch 2 on June 25th, 2026. The update promises to improve both the gameplay feel and the story from the original release, plus introduce fresh character designs—though I’ll admit they look perfectly fine. If you want to test it first, a demo is already available.
Final Fantasy Resonance
This wasn’t the Final Fantasy entry I expected from this Direct, but Final Fantasy Resonance is definitely one worth watching. With its impressive pixel art, it draws from the opening narrative arc of the Final Fantasy Brave Exvius mobile game.
Final Fantasy Resonance is set to launch on 22nd October 2026 for the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Pikuniku 2
Looking for some offbeat puzzle fun? Pikuniku 2 could be exactly what you want. Set off on a strange yet enjoyable adventure with Pikuniku, and help uncover the mystery surrounding those giant vegetables. Like the original, this sequel also brings full 3D gameplay.
Pikuniku 2 will launch in 2027 for the Nintendo Switch 2 and PC.
Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World
In Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World, you’re not only going to fight monsters—you’ll be befriending them. In return, they’ll support you during battles. You can even merge monsters to create stronger allies. I haven’t played a Dragon Quest game yet, but this one has me thinking I should give it a try.
Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World is projected to release on 3rd December 2026 for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
The Duskbloods
The Duskbloods is an upcoming action RPG from FromSoftware, ideal if you’re looking for a fresh soulslike challenge. The game takes place in a world where humanity is on the verge of extinction, and the First Blood has already begun as time and space overlap. That setup means you’ll be up against plenty of dangerous monsters.
Although the release date hasn’t been confirmed yet, a closed network test is planned for Summer 2026.
Splatoon Raiders
Splatoon Raiders is the first spinoff from the Splatoon series, with a single-player storyline instead of focusing only on paint-themed co-op play. (That said, there will still be a co-op option for anyone who prefers it—Raiders just puts the spotlight on its solo narrative.)
More details on Splatoon Raiders will be shared in a dedicated Direct on 30th June at 3 PM (UK time). A special Splatfest for Raiders will also run in Splatoon 3 from 11th July 2026 at 1 AM (UK time) through 13th July at 1 AM (UK time).
Splatoon Raiders launches on 23rd July 2026 for the Nintendo Switch 2.
New Joy-Con controllers
As a quick extra alongside the game announcements, Nintendo has also revealed that a new batch of Joy-Con controllers will be released on 23rd July 2026. These controllers are based on Deep Cut, with the left Joy-Con featuring blue accents and the right one coming in yellow.
Deltarune Chapter 5
Yes! This is the update I’ve been waiting for. If you’re a Deltarune fan too, you’ve probably been watching the calendar for Chapter 5’s release date—just like I have. (Or maybe you were simply hoping for a screenshot or two.)
Good news: the date is finally confirmed. Deltarune Chapter 5 will be released on 24th June 2026 for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5. It will also arrive as a free update.
Metaphor: ReFantazio
Set off for the United Kingdom of Euchronia and fight for the crown in Metaphor: ReFantazio. Along the way, you’ll cross paths with a range of allies, take on a variety of monsters, and gradually uncover the secrets behind this world. If you haven’t yet tried this fantasy RPG from Studio Zero, now’s a great moment to pick up your sword.
Metaphor: ReFantazio launches on 12th November 2026 for the Nintendo Switch 2. It’s already available on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.
Direct 6.9.2026View on YouTube
Minecraft
Do I really need to spell out what Minecraft is? Absolutely not. Minecraft is set to arrive on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. It’s already out on nearly every major platform, including the Wii U.
Atelier Karia: The Night Kingdom and the Guide of Memories
It’s time for the Nintendo Direct rapid-fire round, and we’re starting with a notably long title. Atelier Karia: The Night Kingdom and the Guide of Memories is an upcoming fantasy adventure heading to Nintendo Switch 2 and PC in early 2027.
Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2
Step in as a Space Marine when Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 launches on Nintendo Switch 2 in Winter 2026. The game is already available on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.
Observer: System Redux
Observer: System Redux blends horror with cyberpunk elements in a detective story where you hunt a terrifying killer while confronting your own history. (Prepare for some real crime noir thrills.) Observer: System Redux launches on June 18, 2026, for Nintendo Switch 2. It’s already available on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
DayZ Cool Edition
Head into the new Livonia map, where you can fish—and hopefully avoid crossing paths with local bears—when DayZ Cool Edition arrives on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. It’s already available on PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.
Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2
Join Solid Snake across Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (the HD Collection version) when it launches on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S on August 27, 2026.
Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration
Take up another adventure with Lara Croft as Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration releases for Nintendo Switch 2 later today. Rise of the Tomb Raider is already available on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Tales of Eternia Remastered
Revisit this beloved RPG from Bandai Namco when Tales of Eternia Remastered launches on October 16, 2026, for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
SnowRunner
Climb behind the wheel for the ultimate off-road experience when SnowRunner becomes available for Nintendo Switch 2 later today. It’s already on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.
Fitness Boxing 3: Your Personal Trainer Switch 2 Edition
Use those Joy-Con motion controls to get a great workout when Fitness Boxing 3: Your Personal Trainer (Nintendo Switch 2 Edition) launches on July 16, 2026.
Everbloom
Slip into the role of a fox in Everbloom, a delightful farming simulation coming to Nintendo Switch 2 and PC in Spring 2027.
Final Fantasy XIV Online
Whether you’re already playing Final Fantasy XIV Online or you’re thinking of giving it a shot, you’ll be able to jump in on Nintendo Switch 2 during early access in August 2026. Currently, it’s available on PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Kingdom Hearts Collections
Oh, fantastic… Kingdom Hearts. If you want to feel completely baffled by this mix of Disney and Final Fantasy, go ahead—because I’m not going to make a Disney joke. That’s not happening.
Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 and 2.5 Remix (including the Nintendo Switch version), Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue, and Kingdom Hearts 3 + Re-Mind will all release on Nintendo Switch 2 on October 8, 2026. The Kingdom Hearts Collection [I – III] will also launch that same day. This collection will additionally be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
A demo for Kingdom Hearts 3 + Re-Mind will be available later today.
Kingdom Hearts 4
And yes, there’s more Kingdom Hearts… Next, we got a quick peek at Kingdom Hearts 4 to confirm what we suspected: it’s absolutely moving forward. The presentation included a moment showing Sora taking on some monsters, along with glimpses of future Final Fantasy characters joining the lineup.
Kingdom Hearts 4 will be available on Nintendo Switch 2 at launch. It will also be accessible on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
The reports were spot on! I was hoping, really, that all the talk about an Ocarina of Time remake would come true—and it’s great to see that it did. In my view, Ocarina of Time ranks as the second-best Zelda game (with Majora’s Mask taking the top spot). Before long, you’ll be able to protect Hyrule by traveling through time, all while trying your hardest to dodge that pesky owl on the Switch 2!
What an excellent way to reveal the game, too! If that final moment was a look at the game’s visuals, then we’re definitely in for something special.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is scheduled to launch in 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2.
I hope you enjoyed this Nintendo Direct! Personally, I thought it was outstanding. (Mainly because of the Ocarina of Time reveal at the end.)