After a lengthy hiatus, the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase made a triumphant return in July 2025, unveiling a slew of new game announcements that thrilled fans worldwide. The event, which took place online, featured updates on highly anticipated titles such as Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, Borderlands 4, and Star Wars Outlaws. However, it was the unexpected reveals like Once Upon A Katamari, Octopath Traveler 0, and The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales that truly captured the audience’s imagination.
The showcase highlighted the diverse and expansive lineup coming to the Nintendo Switch and the new Switch 2, promising a rich gaming experience for both casual and hardcore gamers. Here’s a detailed look at the major announcements from the event.
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection
The event kicked off with the announcement of Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, set to launch on the Switch 2 in 2026. This sequel continues the beloved series’ tradition of combining monster companionship with epic battles against world-ending threats. The popularity of Wings of Ruin has set high expectations for this new installment, with fans eager to see how Capcom will expand the Monster Hunter universe.
New Titles and Surprises
Once Upon A Katamari
Once Upon A Katamari was another standout announcement, bringing a fresh entry to the quirky Katamari series. Scheduled for release on October 24, 2025, this game invites players to roll up objects in environments inspired by history and the real world, including a Wild West-themed setting and a land of dinosaurs.
Just Dance 2026 Edition
Ubisoft confirmed the arrival of Just Dance 2026 Edition, featuring new songs and a co-op mode. This latest iteration of the popular dance game will be available on October 14, 2025, ensuring that the franchise continues to be a staple for party-goers and dance enthusiasts alike.
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, the latest addition to the Budokai Tenkaichi series, will be available on November 14, 2025, for both the Nintendo Switch and the Switch 2. Known for its explosive combat and faithful adaptation of the Dragon Ball universe, this game is expected to be a hit among fans of the series.
Remasters and Re-Releases
Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted
Fans of the classic Plants vs. Zombies can look forward to Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted, an HD remaster featuring new co-op and PvP modes. This updated version is set to launch on October 23, 2025, offering a fresh take on the beloved tower defense game.
Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac
Following the success of the Pac-Man World Re-Pac, Bandai Namco announced Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac, a modern remaster of the classic platformer. With enhanced graphics and new challenges, this title will be available on September 26, 2025.
Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles
The remastered Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles will arrive on September 30, 2025, bringing the strategic depth and engaging story of the original game to a new generation of players on the Switch and Switch 2.
New Adventures and Expansions
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales
Square Enix unveiled The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales, a new 2D-3D action RPG set in the world of Philabieldia. This game promises a captivating journey filled with magic and mystery, launching in 2026 with a demo available now.
Octopath Traveler 0
Continuing the beloved series, Octopath Traveler 0 offers a new story of restoration and retribution. Set in the realm of Orsterra, this game allows players to create their own protagonist and embark on a journey of revenge and rebuilding. It will be available on December 4, 2025.
Upcoming Releases
The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase also featured rapid-fire announcements of upcoming games:
- Goodnight Universe – A game about a telekinetic baby, available on November 11, 2025.
- NBA Bounce – A cutesy basketball adaptation, launching on September 26, 2025.
- Hello Kitty Island Adventure: Wheatflour Wonderland – A new DLC, arriving in Autumn 2025.
- Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven – A remake, available now.
- Borderlands 4 – The shooter sequel, releasing on October 3, 2025.
- Shinobi: Art of Vengeance – A side-scrolling platformer, out on August 29, 2025.
With a robust lineup of new games, remasters, and expansions, the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase has set the stage for an exciting year for Nintendo fans. As these titles roll out, gamers can look forward to a diverse array of experiences on both the Nintendo Switch and the new Switch 2.
For those who missed the live event, the entire Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase is available for viewing on YouTube. Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth reviews on upcoming releases.
