New video game hardware announcements often follow a predictable pattern. Each new generation of consoles brings better graphics, faster load times, and fresh iterations of iconic franchises like those featuring a certain plumber and his turtle adversaries. Even Nintendo, known for its innovation across generations from the N64's analog controller to the Switch's portability, continues this tradition with the Switch 2.
Yet, true to form, Nintendo surprised fans with some unexpected reveals during the Switch 2 Direct. In 2025, Nintendo finally embraced online play, a feature long awaited by its community.
It's 2025 and We Finally Get Online Play
As a lifelong Nintendo fan since my childhood days of mimicking Mario and Donkey Kong with my babysitter, I approach this announcement with both excitement and a hint of seasoned skepticism. Historically, Nintendo has struggled with online play, with limited successes like Satellaview and Metroid Prime: Hunters. The Switch itself required a separate app for voice chat, making it cumbersome to connect with friends.
However, the Switch 2 Direct showcased GameChat, a promising new feature. This four-player chat system not only supports noise suppression and video calls but also enables screen sharing across consoles. You can monitor up to four different displays on a single screen, enhancing the multiplayer experience. GameChat also includes text-to-voice and voice-to-text options, catering to diverse communication needs. While a unified matchmaking interface remains unseen, this step forward could mark the end of the notorious friend code system.
Miyazaki is Bringing New Blood Exclusively to Nintendo
The trailer for The Duskbloods initially fooled me into thinking it was Bloodborne 2, given its unmistakable FROM Software aesthetic. Thanks to Eric Van Allen at IGN, I learned this is a new multiplayer PvPvE game directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, the mastermind behind challenging yet rewarding titles. It's astonishing that Miyazaki found time to create a Nintendo-exclusive title, but fans can expect another exceptional game from this prolific developer.
A Surprise to be Sure, but a Welcome One
In another unexpected move, Super Smash Bros. director Masahiro Sakurai is shifting gears to helm a new Kirby game. Given the underwhelming reception of Kirby's Air Ride on the GameCube, fans are eager to see how Sakurai's passion for Nintendo's beloved pink character will transform the franchise into a more engaging experience.
Control Issues
The announcement of the Pro Controller 2 included some welcome updates. Now equipped with an audio jack and two mappable extra buttons, it offers improved customization and functionality, a decade overdue but appreciated nonetheless.
No Mario?!
The absence of a new Mario game was a shock. It turns out the team behind Super Mario Odyssey is working on Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer with destructible environments. Nintendo's decision to focus on Donkey Kong instead of Mario for the Switch 2 launch is a bold move, banking on the loyalty of hardcore fans. Alongside extensive third-party support and Mario Kart World, Nintendo aims to leverage the success of Mario Kart 8 to drive sales of the Switch 2.
Forza Horizon x Nintendo Was Not on My Bingo Card
An open-world Mario Kart game, inspired by Forza Horizon, promises chaotic fun with zany physics and combat. The glimpse we got suggests a vast, continuous world reminiscent of Bowser's Fury, designed for multiple players to race and battle across expansive tracks.
It's Very Expensive
Priced at $449.99 USD, the Switch 2 is the most expensive console launch in Nintendo's history in the US. This price point, $150 more than the original Switch and $100 more than the Wii U, reflects current economic conditions but challenges Nintendo's traditional strategy of using lower prices to attract consumers. The Switch 2 will need to prove its worth without the advantage of a competitive price.
