After a prolonged hiatus, the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase made a triumphant return in July 2025, unveiling a slew of exciting new game announcements. The showcase, which has become a staple for Nintendo enthusiasts, featured updates on previously announced titles such as Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, Borderlands 4, and Star Wars Outlaws. However, it was the fresh revelations, including Once Upon A Katamari, Octopath Traveler 0, and The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales, that truly captured the audience’s attention.
The event, held virtually, offered a glimpse into the future of gaming on the Nintendo Switch and the newly anticipated Switch 2. Here’s a comprehensive look at the major announcements from the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase of July 2025.
Major Game Announcements
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection
The showcase kicked off with the announcement of Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, a sequel set to release on the Switch 2 in 2026. Building on its predecessors, the game promises an engaging narrative where players team up with monsters to avert a global catastrophe. Following the success of Wings of Ruin, this installment is poised to solidify the series’ place in Capcom’s lineup.
Once Upon A Katamari
Next, Once Upon A Katamari was introduced, marking a new chapter in the beloved Katamari series. Players will embark on a whimsical journey, rolling up objects into a giant katamari across various historically inspired landscapes, including a Wild West-themed plain and a prehistoric dinosaur land. This title is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch on 24 October 2025.
Just Dance 2026 Edition
Ubisoft confirmed the arrival of Just Dance 2026 Edition, featuring new songs, a co-op mode, and the signature dance gameplay fans love. Scheduled for release on 14 October 2025, this edition promises to keep the dance party going strong.
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero
Bandai Namco revealed Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero, the latest addition to the Budokai Tenkaichi series, launching on both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 on 14 November 2025. Known for its explosive combat, the game is eagerly anticipated by fans of the franchise.
Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted
For those nostalgic for the classic Plants vs. Zombies, the HD remaster Replanted is set to hit the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 on 23 October 2025. This version includes new co-op and PvP modes, enhancing the original’s strategic gameplay.
Sports and Remasters
EA Sports FC 26 and Madden NFL 26
EA announced the upcoming launch of EA Sports FC 26 and Madden NFL 26 for both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. These sports titles, known for their realistic gameplay, will be available on 26 September 2025 and 14 August 2025, respectively.
Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac
The success of Pac-Man World Re-Pac has paved the way for Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac, a modern remaster with enhanced graphics and platforming challenges. This title is set to release on 26 September 2025.
Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles
Square Enix confirmed the remaster of Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles for the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, available on 30 September 2025. This classic tactical RPG will allow fans to revisit the strategic battles that defined the original.
New Adventures and RPGs
Persona 3 Reload
Persona 3 Reload is coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, offering a remastered experience of one of the most acclaimed JRPGs. This title, with its updated graphics, will be available on 23 October 2025.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
The showcase also featured a new trailer for Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, a prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. This game, set in a historical version of Hyrule, is expected to launch next winter on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Chillin’ by the Fire
For those seeking a more relaxed gaming experience, Chillin’ by the Fire offers a cozy campfire simulation. Available now for the Nintendo Switch 2, this game allows players to unwind by the fire, either solo or with friends.
Apex Legends
The popular online shooter Apex Legends is set to arrive on the Nintendo Switch 2 on 5 August 2025, giving players the chance to engage in battle royale action on the go.
Hela
Hela, a charming adventure game starring a tiny mouse, is coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. With its puzzle-solving elements and cooperative gameplay, it promises a delightful experience for players.
Star Wars Outlaws
Ubisoft announced that Star Wars Outlaws will launch on 4 September 2025 for the Nintendo Switch. This game offers a spacefaring adventure with Kay Vess, exploring new worlds in the Star Wars universe.
Cronos: The New Dawn
Bloober Team’s Cronos: The New Dawn, a survival horror game, will release on 5 September 2025 for the Nintendo Switch 2. Players will navigate multiple timelines to prevent a global disaster, adding a thrilling twist to the horror genre.
Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2
RGG announced the arrival of Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2 on the Nintendo Switch 2, available on 13 November 2025. These games chronicle the origins of Kazuma Kiryu, offering a deep dive into Japan’s underworld.
Rapid Headlines and Final Announcements
The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase concluded with rapid headlines, highlighting upcoming games:
- Goodnight Universe, featuring a telekinetic baby, launches on 11 November 2025.
- NBA Bounce, a playful take on basketball, arrives on 26 September 2025.
- Hello Kitty Island Adventure: Wheatflour Wonderland, a new DLC, launches in Autumn 2025.
- Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven, a JRPG remake, is available now.
- Borderlands 4 hits the Nintendo Switch 2 on 3 October 2025.
- Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, a side-scrolling platformer, releases on 29 August 2025.
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales
Square Enix concluded the showcase with The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales, a 2D-3D RPG from the creators of Bravely Default and Octopath Traveler. Set in the world of Philabieldia, this game follows Elliot and his fairy companion Faie on a grand adventure. A demo is currently available, with the full release slated for 2026.
Octopath Traveler 0
Lastly, Octopath Traveler 0 was unveiled, continuing the beloved series with a new storyline set in Orsterra. Players will craft their own protagonist and embark on a journey of revenge and restoration. This game will launch on 4 December 2025.
The full Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase can be viewed on YouTube. Stay tuned to ScreenHub and ArtsHub for more gaming news and reviews, and consider signing up for their newsletters for the latest updates.
