If you’re a Nintendo fan, this one’s for you. The latest Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase was packed with surprises, emotion, and a whole lot of gaming goodness. Whether you’re team Switch or counting the days till the launch of the Switch 2, there’s something here that’ll get your heart racing — or at least your thumbs twitching.
Here’s a warm, human recap of what we saw — from monster-sized adventures to cozy campfire chill-outs.
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection — A Kingdom on the Brink
The Nintendo Direct Partner showcase opened on a dramatic note. The world of Azoria is in crisis, and you’re the only Rathalos rider left to stand between peace and all-out war. The voice acting, the haunting score, the emotion — Monster Hunter Stories 3 isn’t just a game; it’s a cinematic journey. Launching on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026, it looks like another gripping tale in the Monster Hunter universe.
Once Upon a Katamari — Rolling Through Time
The Nintendo Direct Partner showcase rolled into something lighter. The Katamari Damacy series is back — and this time, we’re rolling through eras like Edo-period Japan. Customize your Katamari crew, roll with friends in online multiplayer, and enjoy that weirdly catchy soundtrack. This joyful chaos drops October 24 on the Switch, and pre-orders are already live.
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero — Battle Beyond Limits
Over 180 fighters. The Nintendo Direct Partner showcase fully voiced episode battle modes. Motion control combat. Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero is the dream arena brawler for every Z-fan. Whether you’re reenacting classic battles or writing your own, this game’s energy is off the charts. It’s headed to Switch and Switch 2 on November 14.
Persona 3 Reload — When Midnight Strikes
Live the double life of a high school student by day and shadow-slayer by night. Persona 3 Reload looks stylish, strategic, and story-driven — exactly what you’d expect from the beloved series. Coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on October 23, and yes, pre-orders are open now.
Pac-Man World 2: Re-PAC’D — A Classic Comes Back
Nostalgia hit hard when Pac-Man World 2 popped up. Rebuilt from the ground up, it now includes local co-op and sharper visuals. The iconic pellet-eater returns September 26 on both consoles
Final Fantasy Tactics: The Eileles Chronicles — Strategy Reborn
Fully voiced. New difficulty modes. Refreshed character dialogue. This is more than just a remake; it’s a full rebirth of one of the genre’s most respected titles. It’s out September 30, and longtime fans are going to love what they’ve done.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment — The Prequel We Needed
Taking place before Tears of the Kingdom, this is the Legend of Zelda prequel we didn’t know we needed. It’s gritty, emotional, and steeped in Hyrule lore. Expect it this winter, with more info to come.
Madden NFL 26 — Football on the Go
NFL Sundays are coming to the Switch 2 with Madden 26, hitting on August 14. Choose new archetypes in franchise mode, build coaching legacies, and dominate online or couch co-op.
Chillin’ by the Fire — A Cozy Simulation
From the intense to the relaxing: Chillin’ by the Fire lets you chop wood, stoke flames, and roast marshmallows in a cozy, physics-based sim. It even works with a USB camera for added immersion. Out later today.
Apex Legends, Hela, and More
Yes — Apex Legends is coming to Switch 2 on August 5, complete with better resolution and smoother performance.
And for something adorable, Hela sees a mouse with a magical froggy backpack trying to cure a witch — what’s not to love?
Star Wars Outlaws — A Scoundrel’s Journey
We get to explore the Star Wars underworld as Kess, a rogue carving out her future between Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. With ship combat, stealth missions, and a gritty tone, this one’s launching September 4.
Kronos: The New Dawn — Survive Time
A dark sci-fi RPG where you move between past and future, dealing with mutated creatures and your own mental unraveling. Sounds intense? It is. Coming September 5.
Yakuza Kiwami & Kiwami 2 — The Dragons Collide
Yakuza fans, rejoice. Both Kiwami and Kiwami 2 are coming to Switch 2 on November 13, complete with enhanced visuals and frame rates. Karaoke, brawls, and heart — this series never fails.
Quick Hits
Other games teased in a montage include enhanced ports, indie gems, and multiplayer surprises — making it clear that both Switch consoles will have plenty to offer for every type of gamer.
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales
In a new HD-2D RPG from Square Enix, join Elliot and his fairy companion Fay on a thousand-year journey across beast-infested lands. With dual character control and seven weapon types, this one’s bursting with classic JRPG charm. A demo is available today!
Octopath Traveler Zero
Closing out the presentation, we got a first look at Octopath Traveler Zero, launching December 4, 2025. Beautiful, soulful, and rich in lore, this could be one of the Switch 2’s defining RPGs.
Final Thoughts
Nintendo knows how to put on a show, and this Nintendo direct Partner Showcase hit all the right notes — from action to nostalgia, cozy vibes to galactic adventure. With the Switch 2 on the horizon and a deep bench of releases this year, there’s plenty to look forward to whether you’re a long-time fan or just joining the Nintendo family.
Which game are you most excited for? Let the countdown begin. 🎮✨
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