Nintendo Switch 2 Direct: Top 7 Shocking Reveals

New video game hardware announcements can often seem predictable. With each new console generation, we anticipate improvements such as enhanced graphics, quicker load times, and fresh iterations of iconic franchises, including those featuring our favorite plumber and his turtle adversaries. Nintendo, known for its innovative approach across generations—from the N64's analog controller to the GameCube's tiny discs, the Wii's motion controls and Virtual Console, the Wii U's tablet screen, and the Switch's portability—has once again raised the bar with the Switch 2. Yet, true to form, Nintendo unveiled some unexpected surprises during the Switch 2 Direct.

It's 2025 and We Finally Get Online Play

As a lifelong Nintendo fan since my childhood in 1983, when my babysitter introduced me to the world of Mario and Donkey Kong through playful mimicry, I approach this news with a mix of excitement and seasoned skepticism. Nintendo has historically struggled with online gaming, with limited successes like Satellaview and Metroid Prime: Hunters. The Switch's voice chat through a separate app exemplified these challenges. However, the Switch 2 Direct introduced GameChat, a promising four-player chat system with noise suppression, video capabilities, and screen sharing. It also supports text-to-voice and voice-to-text, offering versatile communication options. While a unified matchmaking interface remains unconfirmed, GameChat marks significant progress and might finally end the era of cumbersome friend codes.

Miyazaki is Bringing New Blood Exclusively to Nintendo

The reveal of The Duskbloods initially fooled me into thinking it was Bloodborne 2. Thanks to Eric Van Allen at IGN, I learned that this multiplayer PvPvE game is the brainchild of Hidetaka Miyazaki, the visionary behind FROM Software's challenging games. It's astonishing that Miyazaki found time to create a Nintendo-exclusive title, and I eagerly anticipate this addition to Nintendo's lineup, confident in FROM Software's track record of delivering exceptional gaming experiences.

A Surprise to be Sure, but a Welcome One

Another unexpected announcement was Masuhiro Sakurai's transition from Super Smash Bros. to a new Kirby game. After the underwhelming Kirby's Air Ride on the GameCube, Sakurai's deep connection to Kirby suggests a more refined and enjoyable experience this time around. This shift is a delightful surprise and a well-deserved break for Sakurai.

Control Issues

The Switch 2's Pro Controller 2 was almost an afterthought, but it boasts significant upgrades. The inclusion of an audio jack and two mappable buttons are welcome additions, albeit a decade late. As a fan of customizable controls, these enhancements are a pleasant surprise.

No Mario?!

The absence of a new Mario game was the biggest shock. It appears the team behind Odyssey has been working on Donkey Kong Bananza, a 3D platformer with destructible environments. This move against expectations showcases Nintendo's confidence in its fanbase's loyalty to Donkey Kong and their strategy to save Mario for a later release. The Switch 2 will launch with robust third-party support and Mario Kart World, betting on the success of Mario Kart 8 to drive sales.

Forza Horizon x Nintendo Was Not on My Bingo Card

An open-world Mario Kart game was an unexpected reveal. The game's physics, unique vehicles, and combat mechanics seem well-suited for a seamless world reminiscent of Bowser's Fury but on a grander scale, promising exciting races and chaotic battles.

It's Very Expensive

The Switch 2's price tag of $449.99 USD is notably high, reflecting current economic pressures such as rising tariffs, a weakening yen, and U.S. inflation. This makes the Switch 2 the most expensive launch in Nintendo's history, surpassing the Wii U's price by $100 and the original Switch's by $150. Historically, Nintendo has used lower prices to differentiate its products, but the Switch 2 will need to prove its worth without this advantage.