Nintendo's September Direct presentation was a whirlwind of exciting announcements, showcasing a robust lineup of titles for the upcoming Switch 2 console and beyond. The showcase, timed to coincide with Super Mario Bros.' 40th anniversary in Japan, delivered on its hour-long promise, leaving fans buzzing with anticipation.
Headlining the event was a plethora of Mario-related news. While a new 3D Mario game remained elusive, fans were treated to announcements like the upcoming *Super Mario Galaxy Movie*, slated for a US release on April 3rd. The beloved *Super Mario Galaxy* and *Super Mario Galaxy 2* are making their Switch debut on October 2nd, available individually or as a bundle, boasting stunning 4K visuals on the Switch 2. To further celebrate the franchise, new Mario-themed Amiibo figures and a collectible Talking Flower from *Super Mario Bros. Wonder* are also on the horizon.
Beyond Mario, the Direct unveiled a strong slate of diverse titles. *Mario Tennis Fever* will serve as the first new installment since 2018, launching on the Switch 2 in February. Yoshi fans can look forward to *Yoshi and the Mysterious Book*, another platforming adventure set for release next spring. This spring will also see the arrival of *Super Mario Bros. Wonder* on the Switch 2, enhanced with new multiplayer modes.
Other notable game releases include *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond*, set to launch on December 4th, and *Hades 2*, arriving on September 25th, both for Switch and Switch 2, supporting cross-save functionality between PC and Switch platforms. *Hades 2*'s Switch 2 version will also boast a smooth 120fps gameplay experience when docked. The much-anticipated *Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment* is scheduled to launch on November 6th, taking players on a journey through Hyrule's past, featuring two-player co-op and a roster of exciting playable characters.
The Direct also provided updates on several other highly-anticipated games. *Donkey Kong Bananza* received a paid expansion, *DK Island & Emerald Rush*, released alongside a demo for the main game. *Pokémon Pokopia*, a life-simulation game starring a Ditto-transformed human, is slated for a 2026 release, offering a charming blend of Pokémon and life-simulation gameplay. *Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave*, the latest entry in the tactical RPG series, was also announced, showcasing a captivating story and diverse cast of characters.
In a surprise announcement that delighted many, Nintendo is bringing Virtual Boy games to its Switch Online + Expansion Pack service, requiring a new $100 plastic or $25 cardboard accessory to recreate the experience.
Finally, several indie titles are making their way to the Switch 2, including *Overcooked 2*, *Stardew Valley*, *Human Fall Flat*, and *Powerwash Simulator 2*, showcasing enhanced features and cross-platform play capabilities. The inclusion of these titles underlines Nintendo's continued commitment to supporting the indie gaming community.
In conclusion, Nintendo's Direct has solidified the Switch 2's position as a significant player in the gaming market, promising a diverse and compelling library of titles for years to come.
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Originally published at: https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/mario-metroid-virtual-boy-and-more-all-the-biggest-announcements-from-todays-nintendo-direct-165722897.html
