Nintendo Reveals Major Switch Updates Ahead of Switch 2 Launch
Nintendo’s March Direct delivers major updates, new games, and features ahead of the Switch 2 reveal, with key announcements including Metroid Prime 4.
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In a surprise-packed March Direct, Nintendo showcased new features and game announcements for the current-generation Switch, reinforcing the console’s longevity ahead of the anticipated Switch 2 launch. The presentation highlighted game transfers via Virtual Game Cards and multiple high-profile game reveals, signaling ongoing support for the existing platform.
Nintendo revived several beloved franchises with fresh entries. Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream returns after more than a decade, introducing new life simulation mechanics and ocean-based environments. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond provided an in-depth look at protagonist Samus Aran’s latest journey, featuring psychic abilities and an upgraded suit while exploring the planet Viewros.
The highly anticipated Pokémon Legends: Z-A transported players to Lumiose City, shifting gameplay from traditional wild encounters to an urban setting, with the Z-A Royale tournament offering new battle experiences.
Classic gaming made a comeback with Gradius Origins, marking the 40th anniversary of the arcade shooter, and Marvel Cosmic Invasion, a beat 'em up from the developers of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge.
Nintendo expanded its retro lineup with the Dragon Quest I + II HD-2D Remake, preserving classic RPG gameplay with updated visuals. SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered modernized another PlayStation-era RPG, while Patapon 1+2 Replay revived the rhythm-based strategy series.
The Direct introduced an array of original titles. Witchbrook offered a cooperative life-simulation experience centered around a magic academy. Disney Villains Cursed Cafe put players in charge of serving iconic Disney antagonists. Shadow Labyrinth combined Pac-Man mechanics with a dark, Metroidvania-inspired twist, while The Eternal Life of Goldman presented an action-adventure in a treacherous island setting.
Additional titles included Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar, expanding farming simulations, and Rift of the Necrodancer, merging rhythm mechanics with combat. Everybody Golf Hot Shots blended traditional tournaments with unconventional golf gameplay.
The showcase provided firm release dates for multiple titles, including High on Life (May 6), Star Overdrive (April 10), and Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time (May 21, 2025).
A notable new feature, Virtual Game Cards, enables digital game transfers between Switch consoles, allowing players to seamlessly switch devices without redownloading games. Additionally, Nintendo announced Nintendo Today, a news and content app delivering updates, comics, and information on upcoming releases.
With anticipation growing for the next-generation console, Nintendo confirmed a dedicated Switch 2 Direct set for April 2. Speculation suggests pre-orders could open immediately following the event.
