Nintendo's Expansive Gaming Landscape: Switch and Switch 2 Release Updates
Nintendo's Switch and Switch 2 release schedules are becoming increasingly robust. During the comprehensive Nintendo Direct livestream on Friday, the company disclosed on - sale dates for multiple games and the revival of the Virtual Boy, the pioneering VR headset originally introduced by Nintendo in the mid - 1990s.
High - Profile Game Releases
Hades II
One of the most significant announcements on Friday was the revelation of the release date for Supergiant's highly anticipated sequel, Hades II. This game will be available on Switch, Switch 2, and PC on September 25. Since last year, Hades II has been accessible on PC in early access, allowing players to test an unfinished version and provide feedback. However, the version arriving on Switch at the end of the month will be the complete "1.0" launch edition. Steam owners of the game will be eligible for a free update. The game centers around Melinoë, the sister of the original game's protagonist Zagreus, as she embarks on a quest to vanquish the Titan of Time, Chronos.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
The long - awaited Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will finally make its debut on December 4 for both Switch and Switch 2. This installment features Samus once again engaging in high - octane running and gunning battles against alien adversaries. Alongside the confirmed release date, the trailer shown on Friday introduced a new tool for the heroine: Vi - O - La, a technological motorbike that Samus can utilize in conjunction with her psychic powers.
Upcoming Holiday Season Significance
These announcements precede the approaching holiday season, which will mark the first such season for the Switch 2 since its launch this summer.
Expanding Game Offerings with DLC
Nintendo is enhancing some of its existing games through downloadable content. The new DLC for Donkey Kong Banaza, which launched on July 17, is now available for $20. Titled DK Island & Emerald Rush, this pack adds additional missions and levels for players to explore (and likely engage in some punches). Pokémon Legends: Z - A, set to launch on October 16, will come with a Mega Dimension DLC that introduces extra Mega Evolutions.
Teaser for 2026 Releases
Pokémon Pokopia
Nintendo also teased several games slated for 2026. One surprise announcement was for a new Pokémon game, Pokémon Pokopia. In this game, players assume the role of a human - shaped Ditto (an admittedly eerie concept) and befriend other Pokémon, construct homes, and gather food to create a miniature paradise. It is set to launch for Switch 2 next year.
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave
A new entry in the turn - based tactical Fire Emblem series, Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave, is destined for Switch 2 in 2026. The trailer shown during the event teased heroes engaged in an arena - style battle. A familiar face at the trailer's conclusion indicates that the game is set after 2019's Fire Emblem: Three Houses.
Resident Evil Requiem
A new Resident Evil game, Resident Evil Requiem, will be released for Switch 2 on February 27, 2026.
