Nintendo Direct September 2025 just wrapped up, and wow – what a ride. This wasn’t your typical 40-minute showcase. Nintendo went all out with a massive 60-minute presentation that had more surprises than a Mario Kart item box. If you missed the livestream, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered with all the biggest announcements that have the gaming community going absolutely wild.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Finally Gets Its Release Date
After eight years of development drama, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond finally has a concrete release date – December 2025. The new trailer showed off some seriously impressive visuals that make the wait almost worth it. Almost. The footage revealed a mysterious new antagonist facing off against Samus, and the atmosphere looks absolutely stunning on Switch 2.
This has been Nintendo’s most troubled project in recent memory. Originally announced in 2017, the game got completely restarted in 2019. Now it’s transitioning from a Switch exclusive to a key Switch 2 title, which honestly makes more sense given the technical ambitions on display.
Mario’s 40th Anniversary Brings Nostalgic Surprises
Saturday marks 40 years since Super Mario Bros first hit the scene, and Nintendo didn’t forget. While they kept most details under wraps, we did get confirmation of several Mario-related projects coming soon. The biggest tease? A first look at the second Super Mario movie, now officially titled “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” – not “Super Mario World” like those earlier leaks suggested.
Nintendo also hinted at new Mario games in development, though they’re being tight-lipped about specifics. Given their track record with anniversary celebrations (remember the 35th anniversary collection?), expect some major announcements in the coming weeks.
Pokemon Chronicles Delivers Fresh Take on Familiar Formula
Pokemon fans got a pleasant surprise with the announcement of Pokemon Chronicles, a narrative-driven spin-off focusing on untold trainer stories across different regions. This isn’t your standard gym-battle formula – instead, it emphasizes exploration and storytelling. The 2026 release window gives Game Freak plenty of time to polish what looks like an ambitious project.
Building on recent Mega Evolution reveals for Legends: Z-A, including Mega Dragonite and Mega Malamar, Pokemon is clearly doubling down on fan-favorite features while experimenting with new gameplay approaches.
Switch 2 Games Steal the Spotlight
This Nintendo Direct September 2025 showcase really highlighted the transition to Switch 2. Several titles got confirmed for simultaneous release on both platforms, including:
- Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment – A prequel to Tears of the Kingdom
- Kirby Air Riders – November 2025 release confirmed
- Rhythm Heaven Groove – Coming 2026 with enhanced features
- Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream – The life sim sequel fans have been requesting
The emphasis on Switch 2 compatibility shows Nintendo is serious about making the transition smooth for players who upgrade their hardware.
Animal Crossing Fans Finally Get Good News
After months of fan campaigns and “summoning circles” on social media, Nintendo finally confirmed a new Animal Crossing title is in development. Details remain scarce, but just the announcement alone sent waves of excitement through the community that’s been waiting since New Horizons launched in 2020.
Given how massive New Horizons became during the pandemic, expectations are sky-high for whatever comes next in the cozy life simulation series.
Red Dead Redemption 2 Rumors Heat Up
While not officially confirmed, industry chatter about Red Dead Redemption 2 coming to Switch 2 reached fever pitch after the Direct. Voice actor slip-ups and mixed publisher signals have fans convinced an announcement is imminent. A decade-old game finally riding onto Nintendo platforms would be quite the surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Nintendo Direct September 2025 air?
The Nintendo Direct aired on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 6 AM PT / 9 AM ET / 2 PM BST. It lasted approximately 60 minutes, making it the longest general Nintendo Direct presentation ever.
What was the biggest announcement from Nintendo Direct September 2025?
Most fans consider Metroid Prime 4: Beyond getting a December 2025 release date as the biggest news, given the game’s troubled development history spanning eight years.
Will these games work on original Nintendo Switch?
Many titles announced will release simultaneously on both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, including Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A. Some games are exclusive to Switch 2.
When is the new Animal Crossing game coming out?
Nintendo only confirmed that a new Animal Crossing title is in development but didn’t provide any release window or specific details about gameplay features.
Are there more Mario 40th anniversary announcements coming?
Nintendo hinted at additional Mario-related projects beyond what was shown in the Direct, with more announcements expected in the coming weeks leading up to the actual anniversary date.
What Switch 2 games were announced?
Several Switch 2 titles were highlighted, including enhanced editions of existing games and new exclusives. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, Rhythm Heaven Groove, and Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream all got confirmed for the new platform.
Will Pokemon Chronicles replace the main Pokemon games?
No, Pokemon Chronicles is positioned as a spin-off title focusing on narrative exploration rather than traditional gym battles. The main Pokemon series will continue separately.
Final Thoughts
This Nintendo Direct September 2025 presentation proved that Nintendo still knows how to surprise us. From finally dating Metroid Prime 4 to teasing Mario’s 40th anniversary celebrations, they packed more excitement into 60 minutes than most companies manage in an entire year. The strong focus on Switch 2 compatibility shows they’re committed to making the hardware transition seamless while still supporting original Switch owners.
Whether you’re a longtime Nintendo fan or just getting into gaming, these announcements signal an exciting period ahead. December can’t come fast enough for Metroid fans, and 2026 is shaping up to be a massive year for first-party Nintendo titles. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to start saving up for that Switch 2.