Nintendo Switch 2 Direct: Top 7 Revelations

New video game hardware announcements can often feel like a predictable cycle. With each new generation of consoles, we anticipate familiar upgrades like enhanced graphics, quicker load times, and innovative spins on iconic franchises featuring everyone's favorite plumber and his nemesis turtles.

Nintendo has consistently delivered these enhancements across multiple console generations, from the N64's analog stick to the GameCube's mini-discs, the Wii's motion controls and Virtual Console, the Wii U's tablet screen, and the Switch's portability. The Switch 2 continues this trend, bringing these expected improvements to the table.

Yet, true to its nature, Nintendo also introduced some surprising features during the Switch 2 Direct.

It's 2025 and we finally get online play.

As a lifelong Nintendo fan since 1983, when my babysitter playfully tossed footballs at me in a Donkey Kong-inspired game, I'm thrilled yet slightly bitter about the latest reveal. Nintendo has historically struggled with online play, with only a few exceptions like the Satellaview and Metroid Prime: Hunters. The Switch required a separate app for voice chat, making it challenging to connect with friends compared to the unified multiplayer platforms of Sony and Xbox.

However, the Switch 2 Direct unveiled GameChat, a promising feature that supports four-player chat with noise suppression, video integration, and screen sharing across consoles. This allows players to monitor up to four different displays within one screen. GameChat also includes text-to-voice and voice-to-text options, enhancing accessibility. While a unified matchmaking interface remains to be seen, GameChat marks a significant step forward and could potentially end the era of the cumbersome friend code system.

Miyazaki is bringing new blood exclusively to Nintendo

The trailer for The Duskbloods initially fooled me into thinking it was Bloodborne 2. The atmosphere, character designs, and environments are unmistakably FROM Software's style, crafted by the visionary Hidetaka Miyazaki. It's surprising that Miyazaki found time to direct a Nintendo-exclusive game, and I'm excited about this collaboration. Given FROM Software's track record, The Duskbloods promises to be an exceptional multiplayer PvPvE experience.

A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one

Masuhiro Sakurai, the director of Super Smash Bros., is reportedly shifting his focus to a new Kirby game. This unexpected move suggests a much-needed break for Sakurai. While the original Kirby's Air Ride on the GameCube was visually appealing but lacked fun, Sakurai's deep connection with the Kirby franchise bodes well for a more refined and enjoyable game.

Control issues

The announcement of the Pro Controller 2 was almost overlooked, but it boasts significant upgrades. The inclusion of an audio jack and two mappable extra buttons is a welcome change, albeit a decade late. As a fan of customizable controls, these additions are genuinely exciting.

No Mario?!

The absence of a new Mario game was a shock. It appears the team behind Super Mario Odyssey has been working on Donkey Kong Bananza, a captivating 3D platformer with destructible environments. Nintendo's decision to focus on Donkey Kong for the Switch 2 launch, instead of relying on Mario, showcases their willingness to defy expectations. Alongside Donkey Kong Bananza, the Switch 2 will launch with extensive third-party support and Mario Kart World. While Mario Kart World looks like a system-seller, Nintendo's confidence in Mario Kart 8's sales history suggests they believe it, along with Bananza, will drive Switch 2 sales.

Forza Horizon x Nintendo was not on my bingo card

The introduction of an open-world Mario Kart game was unexpected but intriguing. The chaotic physics, unique vehicles, and combat elements of Mario Kart should translate well into an expansive world similar to Bowser's Fury, accommodating numerous players and fostering competitive fun.

It’s very expensive

The Switch 2's price of $449.99 USD is notably high, especially given current economic conditions like tariffs, a declining yen, and rising inflation in the US. This makes it the most expensive launch in Nintendo's 40-plus years in the US market, $150 more than the original Switch and $100 more than the Wii U. Historically, Nintendo has differentiated its consoles with lower prices, but the Switch 2 will need to succeed without this advantage.