Nintendo Switch 2 Direct Unveils Top 7 Surprises

New video game hardware announcements can often feel predictable. Each new console generation typically brings better graphics, faster load times, and fresh iterations of beloved franchises, such as those featuring everyone's favorite plumber and his turtle adversaries. Nintendo has consistently delivered these enhancements across generations, from the N64's analog stick to the GameCube's mini-discs, the Wii's innovative motion controls and Virtual Console, the Wii U's tablet screen, and the Switch's unparalleled portability. Now, with the Switch 2, Nintendo continues this trend of evolution and improvement.

But true to form, Nintendo managed to throw in a few surprises during the Switch 2 Direct. The year is 2025, and finally, we're getting online play that feels like it belongs in the modern era.

It's 2025 and We Finally Get Online Play

As a lifelong Nintendo fan since playing pretend Donkey Kong with footballs and toy hammers in 1983, I can say with a mix of excitement and long-standing frustration that discussing this groundbreaking reveal without some affectionate bitterness is near impossible. Nintendo's track record with online play has been less than stellar, with exceptions like Satellaview and Metroid Prime: Hunters. Historically, finding and communicating with friends on Nintendo platforms has been cumbersome, often requiring separate apps for voice chat.

However, the Switch 2 Direct introduced GameChat, which looks promising. It supports four-player chat with noise suppression, video integration, and screen sharing across consoles, allowing players to monitor up to four different screens simultaneously. According to the new Switch 2 accessibility features page, GameChat also includes text-to-voice and voice-to-text options, enhancing communication versatility. While we await details on any unified matchmaking system, this is a significant leap forward, potentially marking the end of the dreaded friend code system.

Miyazaki is Bringing New Blood Exclusively to Nintendo

The first trailer glimpses had me thinking it was Bloodborne 2, with its unmistakable FROM Software aesthetic. Thanks to Eric Van Allen at IGN, I learned I was actually witnessing The Duskbloods, a new multiplayer PvPvE game directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki. It's astonishing that the mastermind behind such challenging games found time to create a Nintendo-exclusive title. Miyazaki's track record suggests we're in for another exceptional gaming experience.

A Surprise to Be Sure, But a Welcome One

In another unexpected move, Super Smash Bros. director Masuhiro Sakurai is stepping away from the franchise to helm a new Kirby game. Given Kirby's Air Ride's lackluster reception on the GameCube, fans can look forward to a more refined and enjoyable experience under Sakurai's direction, considering his deep affection for the pink puffball.

Control Issues

The Pro Controller 2's announcement might have seemed minor, but it's genuinely improved. It now includes an audio jack and two mappable extra buttons, a feature I'm particularly excited about as a fan of customizable controls.

No Mario?!

Perhaps the biggest shock was the absence of a new Mario game at the launch. Instead, the team behind Odyssey is focusing on Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer with destructible environments. This move highlights Nintendo's willingness to defy expectations, relying on loyal fans to embrace Donkey Kong's return while saving Mario for another time.

The Switch 2 will launch with robust third-party support and Mario Kart World, which seems poised to be a system-seller. Nintendo is betting on the continued success of Mario Kart 8, alongside Bananza, to drive sales of the new console.

Forza Horizon x Nintendo Was Not on My Bingo Card

An open-world Mario Kart is now a reality, blending the series' zany physics, unique vehicles, and combat into a seamless, expansive world reminiscent of Bowser's Fury but on a grander scale, supporting numerous drivers.

It's Very Expensive

However, the Switch 2's price is a significant concern. At $449.99 USD, it's the most expensive launch console in Nintendo's history in the US, $150 more than the original Switch and $100 more than the Wii U. Amid rising costs and inflation, Nintendo is aiming to succeed without the price advantage that has historically set its consoles apart.