Nintendo Switch 2 Direct: Top 7 Surprises Revealed

New video game hardware announcements can feel like they follow a familiar pattern. Each new generation of consoles typically brings better graphics, faster load times, and fresh spins on iconic franchises, such as those featuring a certain plumber and his turtle nemeses.

Nintendo, renowned for its innovative approach across various console generations—from the N64's analog controller, the GameCube's miniature discs, the Wii's motion controls and Virtual Console, the Wii U's tablet screen, to the Switch's portable design—continues this trend with the Switch 2. Yet, true to form, Nintendo unveiled several surprising features during the Switch 2 Direct.

It's 2025 and we finally get online play

My journey as a Nintendo fan began at the tender age of four in 1983, dodging footballs thrown by my babysitter like Mario dodging Donkey Kong's barrels. Over the years, my love for Nintendo has been tinged with a bit of frustration, particularly when it comes to their online capabilities. Historically, Nintendo's online features have lagged behind those of Sony and Xbox, with experiences like Satellaview and Metroid Prime: Hunters being notable exceptions.

However, the Switch 2 Direct introduced GameChat, which promises to revolutionize Nintendo's online play. This four-player chat system boasts features such as noise suppression, video support for seeing friends' faces, and screen sharing across consoles. This allows players to monitor up to four different displays within one screen. Additionally, GameChat supports text-to-voice and voice-to-text options, enhancing accessibility and communication. While we await details on a unified matchmaking interface, GameChat marks a significant advancement and could signal the end of the cumbersome friend code system.

Miyazaki is bringing new blood exclusively to Nintendo

The first glimpse of the trailer for The Duskbloods initially tricked me into thinking it was Bloodborne 2. The distinctive ambiance, character design, and environments are unmistakably FROM Software's signature style. Thanks to Eric Van Allen at IGN, it was revealed that this is a new multiplayer PvPvE game directed by the legendary Hidetaka Miyazaki, exclusively for Nintendo. Given Miyazaki's track record, The Duskbloods is poised to be another exceptional addition to Nintendo's library.

A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one

In an unexpected move, Masahiro Sakurai, the mastermind behind Super Smash Bros., is now directing a new Kirby game. The original Kirby's Air Ride on the GameCube was visually appealing but lacked excitement. With Sakurai's deep-rooted passion for the pink puffball, fans can anticipate a more polished and engaging Kirby experience.

Control issues

A seemingly minor announcement about the Pro Controller 2 actually piqued my interest significantly. The addition of an audio jack and two mappable extra buttons demonstrates Nintendo's commitment to enhancing user experience and customization, even if these improvements are arriving somewhat late.

No Mario?!

The absence of a new Mario game at the Switch 2 launch was surprising. It appears that the team behind Super Mario Odyssey has shifted focus to Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer with destructible environments. This move showcases Nintendo's willingness to defy expectations and rely on the strength of other franchises like Donkey Kong to drive sales. The Switch 2 will also launch with robust third-party support and Mario Kart World, betting on the enduring popularity of Mario Kart to boost console sales.

Forza Horizon x Nintendo was not on my bingo card

The introduction of an open-world Mario Kart experience is an unexpected but promising development. The chaotic physics, eclectic vehicles, and combat mechanics of Mario Kart should translate well into an expansive world similar to Bowser's Fury, allowing for dynamic races and battles across a continuous landscape.

It's very expensive

The Switch 2's price tag of $449.99 USD is steep, especially when compared to previous Nintendo launches. With global economic factors like tariffs, currency fluctuations, and inflation at play, this pricing strategy marks a significant departure from Nintendo's traditional approach of leveraging affordability. The Switch 2's success will hinge on its ability to justify its cost without the usual price advantage.