Nintendo Direct Reveals Game Lineup Through 2026 Ahead of Switch 2

REDMOND, Wash. — Nintendo showcased an exciting lineup of upcoming games for the original Switch during a Nintendo Direct event on March 27, 2025, just one week before unveiling the long-awaited Switch 2. The presentation, viewed by thousands, confirmed that despite the looming arrival of its successor, the original console remains vibrant with an extensive audience of over 150 million units sold.

During the event, Nintendo featured a final collection of titles set to be released throughout 2026, including several highly anticipated sequels and remastered classics. The showcase felt like a sendoff for the beloved console, emphasizing both nostalgia and the platform’s continued growth.

Among the highlights was an exclusive look at the forthcoming Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, which will introduce players to new psychic abilities and a sleek updated design for protagonist Samus Aran. While the exact launch date remains under wraps, Nintendo assures fans it is scheduled for 2025.

Nintendo also unveiled Pokémon Legends: Z-A, featuring an innovative Z-A Royale battling tournament that intertwines day and nighttime mechanics. This eagerly awaited title is slated for release in late 2025 and promises to shake up the traditional Pokémon formula.

Bringing back the rhythm game genre, Nintendo announced a continuation of the acclaimed Rhythm Heaven series with Rhythm Heaven Groove, marking its return in 2026. Featuring fresh tracks and quirky challenges, it aims to delight rhythm enthusiasts.

Switch owners will soon enjoy a more convenient way to manage their digital games with the newly introduced Virtual Game Card system. This innovative feature will allow users to lend digital titles to friends and share games across both the original Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, with the rollout planned for April 2025.

The classic life-sim franchise Tomodachi Life will reemerge with a new title, Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, expected in 2026. The game invites players back into its quirky universe filled with lovable Mii characters and unexpected adventures, celebrating its 10-year anniversary since its last major release.

Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary figure at Nintendo, introduced the audience to the Nintendo Today app, which is designed for smart devices and promises to keep fans updated with news, videos, and comics pertaining to their favorite Nintendo franchises. The app launched on March 27, nearly coinciding with the Direct event.

Additionally, fans can anticipate Marvel Cosmic Invasion, a beat-em-up game set to release during the 2025 holiday season. Players will engage with iconic heroes like Spider-Man and Captain America as they navigate a universe filled with thrilling combat and cooperative play options.

As excitement builds toward the next generation of hardware, Nintendo’s March 2025 Direct promises to keep the company’s legacy alive through engaging gameplay and beloved franchises. More revelations are anticipated during the upcoming Switch 2 Direct on April 2, where additional details about the new console will emerge.