Nintendo Switch 2 Direct: Top 7 Surprises Revealed

New video game hardware announcements can often feel predictable. With each new console generation, we anticipate staples like enhanced graphics, quicker load times, and fresh iterations of beloved franchises, including those centered around iconic plumbers and turtles. Nintendo, a company known for its consistent innovation across generations—from the N64's analog controller to the GameCube's mini discs, the Wii's motion controls and Virtual Console, the Wii U's tablet screen, and the Switch's built-in portability—has continued this trend with the Switch 2. Yet, true to form, Nintendo managed to surprise us with the Switch 2 Direct.

It's 2025 and We Finally Get Online Play

As a lifelong Nintendo fan since 1983, when I was four years old and dodging footballs like Mario dodging Donkey Kong's barrels, I've experienced the ups and downs of Nintendo's online ventures with a mix of love and frustration. Historically, Nintendo's approach to online play has been less robust compared to the unified multiplayer platforms of Sony and Xbox, often requiring separate apps for features like voice chat on the original Switch.

However, the Switch 2 Direct brought a surprising change with the introduction of GameChat. This feature promises a seamless four-player chat with noise suppression, video capabilities, and screen sharing across consoles, allowing players to monitor multiple displays within one screen. Additionally, GameChat supports text-to-voice and voice-to-text, enhancing accessibility. While we haven't seen details on a unified matchmaking system yet, this is a significant step forward and could spell the end for the cumbersome friend code system.

Miyazaki is Bringing New Blood Exclusively to Nintendo

The trailer for The Duskbloods initially fooled me into thinking it was Bloodborne 2. The atmosphere, character designs, and settings were unmistakably FROM Software's style. Thanks to Eric Van Allen at IGN, I learned that this is a new multiplayer PvPvE game directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, exclusively for Nintendo. Given FROM Software's track record, expectations are high for this challenging and immersive experience.

A Surprise to be Sure, but a Welcome One

In another unexpected turn, Masuhiro Sakurai, renowned for directing Super Smash Bros., is shifting his focus to a new Kirby game. While the original Kirby's Air Ride for the GameCube was visually appealing but lacked in gameplay, Sakurai's deep connection to the Kirby franchise suggests a more refined and enjoyable experience this time around.

Control Issues

The Switch 2 Direct also unveiled the Pro Controller 2, which now includes an audio jack and two additional mappable buttons. These enhancements, while seemingly minor, are significant improvements that cater to gamers looking for more personalized control options.

No Mario?!

One of the biggest shocks was the absence of a new Mario game. Instead, the team behind Super Mario Odyssey is working on Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer that emphasizes destructible environments. This move showcases Nintendo's willingness to defy expectations, relying on the allure of a major Donkey Kong title to captivate fans. The Switch 2 launch will also feature robust third-party support and Mario Kart World, which seems poised to be a system-seller despite its unconventional timing.

Forza Horizon x Nintendo Was Not on My Bingo Card

The announcement of an open-world Mario Kart game was another delightful surprise. The game promises to blend Mario Kart's zany physics, unique vehicles, and combat into a continuous world reminiscent of Bowser's Fury, but on a much larger scale with support for multiple drivers.

It's Very Expensive

Despite all the exciting announcements, the Switch 2's price tag of $449.99 USD is a significant concern. In today's economic climate, with rising tariffs, a weakening yen, and persistent inflation in the U.S., this represents the most expensive launch in Nintendo's history in the U.S. The Switch 2 is priced $150 higher than its predecessor and $100 more than the Wii U. Historically, Nintendo has leveraged lower prices to differentiate its products, but the Switch 2 will need to succeed without this advantage.