Nintendo Direct Showcases New Switch Games, Virtual Game Cards, and a Smart Device App

by Greg Martin

Nintendo’s latest Direct presentation showcased an extensive lineup of upcoming titles for the Nintendo Switch, along with the announcement of a new smart device app called Nintendo Today! and the introduction of Virtual Game Cards. The event provided fresh details on anticipated games such as Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, while also revealing new titles, including Rhythm Heaven Groove and Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream. Additionally, the showcase highlighted a variety of third-party titles and surprise game launches.

Major Announcements and Game Reveals

Among the most notable announcements was the Nintendo Today! app, which will serve as a hub for Nintendo-related news, videos, and updates. The app is set to launch later today on iOS and Android.

The presentation also offered a deeper look at Pokémon Legends: Z-A, an upcoming Pokémon adventure set in Lumiose City, where players can participate in the Z-A Royale tournament. The game is scheduled for release in late 2025.

Meanwhile, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond received a new trailer, confirming that Samus Aran will explore the mysterious planet Viewros, gaining psychic abilities in the process. The game is set to launch this year.

Additionally, the Virtual Game Cards feature was introduced, allowing digital games to be shared between Nintendo Account family group members. This new system, which mimics the experience of swapping physical cartridges, will be available via a system update in late April.

Other Highlights and Upcoming Releases

Nintendo also confirmed several other upcoming titles:

  • MARVEL Cosmic Invasion – A 2D beat ’em up featuring iconic heroes such as Spider-Man, Wolverine, and Captain America, launching this winter.
  • Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar – A remake of the classic Nintendo DS farming game, arriving August 27.
  • Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream – A follow-up to the beloved social simulation title, set to release in 2026.
  • Rhythm Heaven Groove – A new entry in the Rhythm Heaven series, launching in 2026.
  • Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake – A modern reimagining of the first two Dragon Quest games, arriving later this year.

Nintendo also surprised fans with immediate game releases, including SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered, Rift of the NecroDancer, and Disney Villains Cursed Café, all available on the Nintendo eShop today.

Nintendo Switch 2 Presentation Confirmed

At the end of the Direct, Nintendo announced that a special presentation dedicated to the Nintendo Switch 2 will be held on April 2 at 6 a.m. PT. More details on the upcoming console will be shared during this event.

You may also like