Nintendo Direct Showcases Major Switch 2 Game Lineup

Nintendo announced a lot about the Switch 2 during its last Direct, including first-party projects, third-party support, and additional downloadable content. Some of the announcements were more intriguing than others, but overall the expo proved that Nintendo’s software catalog for its next-generation hybrid system is growing.

The event was off to a new start with a peek at Rhythm Heaven Groove, giving fans a clearer idea of what the upcoming rhythm game will be like. The new trailer offered more gameplay footage and gave users a sense of how the game operates ahead of its July 2 launch. Old-school Nintendo fans still adore the series, but the surprise might have resonated more with current fans than with newcomers who don't know it.

The presentation was on a different level, with greater immediate attention to third-party support.

One of the more interesting games revealed was Capcom’s Onimusha: Way of the Sword, which was announced to be coming to the Switch 2 on the same day. People assumed the Nintendo version wouldn't be as technically advanced as versions that employ more powerful technology. But the latest video revealed fast-paced combat and gorgeous samurai action, making it look terrific.

It received attention for its action-RPG elements and fighting inspired by the Souls series. Players would need to have very good reflexes and be quick on the draw. The game is now scheduled to drop on September 25. Capcom’s commitment to Nintendo’s new hardware was made even more obvious with the announcement that Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen will also be coming to the Switch 2.

The critically acclaimed action RPG will be launching October 9, adding to Capcom’s huge library of games on Nintendo devices. The publisher has proved itself increasingly willing to bring large franchises to Nintendo's platform, and Dragon's Dogma 2 is another indication that this trend is unlikely to abate. One of the best parts of this large RPG for many people is that you can play it on the go.

Stellar Blade, which was formerly exclusive to PlayStation 5, is now officially headed to Switch 2. Another major announcement. Shift Up developed the action game, which received good reviews for its fighting and presentation on Sony's system. One of the biggest surprises of the showcase when it came out on Nintendo devices.

While no specific release date was provided, Stellar Blade: Blood Rain is now targeting sometime in 2026.

The development also follows Shift Up's confirmation that it retains ownership of the Stellar Blade IP. That could mean more platforms will be able to run the game in the future. Nintendo also announced a Switch 2-only game, Orbitals, which launches September 3. The shared adventure game just keeps getting better, thanks to its distinctive graphic style and gameplay that blends 2D platforming with 3D combat.

If you like team games like It Takes Two and Split Fiction, you might appreciate Orbitals. Its cartoonish style and emphasis on teamwork made it a standout among the day's news. Meanwhile, Rayman Legends Retold had another showing before its October 1 release. Nintendo said the Switch 2 version would be available in physical form, but as a game key card. Buyers will also receive a remastered version of Rayman Origins, making the $40 bargain a steal.

The remake still looks fantastic, and many gamers have already made up their minds that Switch 2 is the greatest way to play the renowned platforming series. Another revealed game is Big Walk, a multiplayer group game coming on August 4. There aren't many specifics available, but the game looks to be about teamwork and having fun with other players.

More strangely, they showed off One Piece: Grand Gourmet, a cooking game set in the popular anime and manga universe.

The game is scheduled to be released on October 23 and is mainly for die-hard One Piece fans, but its niche focus might prevent it from appealing to a broader audience. Nintendo also unveiled significant ambitions for Pokopia following its release. A free update planned for August 26 will add underwater adventuring, expanding the game’s environments. Plus, a premium Expansion Pass will bring multiple waves of fresh content through 2027.

There will be a future update, and the timeline indicates that a completely new town will be added in the third content wave in 2027. Nintendo’s full support plan for Pootopia states the company views it as a long-term platform pillar and a key motivation for players to continue playing on Switch 2.

As the presentation came to a close, all eyes were on Fire Emblem Fortunes Weave, which finally got a release date. We didn’t know much about the strategic RPG yet, but the news added another much-anticipated title to an already full list of Switch 2 releases.

The last Nintendo Direct proved the Switch 2’s software slate is coming together quickly, with strong backing from publishers like Capcom, unexpected drops like Stellar Blade, and Nintendo’s commitment to building out its existing brands with plenty of content after launch. The presentation made it clear to Nintendo fans that the platform's future will be filled with old favorites and large new games.