The summer Nintendo Direct has come and gone, and it was a jam-packed presentation filled with exciting reveals for Nintendo fans.
While the much-anticipated Switch 2 wasn’t a part of the show, there was plenty to keep gamers hyped, including brand new titles, long-awaited sequels, and delightful remakes.
Here’s a closer look at some of the biggest announcements from the June 2024 Nintendo Direct:
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom Puts Zelda in the Spotlight
In a surprise move that stole the show, Nintendo announced a brand new Zelda title: The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom. This upcoming adventure, set for a September 26, 2024 release, throws a curveball by making Princess Zelda the playable protagonist. With Link and others mysteriously missing after strange rifts appear in Hyrule, Zelda must take center stage.
Aided by a mysterious fairy named Tri, Zelda will wield the “power of the Tri Rod” to manipulate the environment in unique ways. Players can expect to create makeshift bridges, use water blocks to reach new heights, and utilize their environment in creative problem-solving. To celebrate this momentous occasion, a limited edition gold-colored Nintendo Switch Lite emblazoned with the Hylian Crest will be released alongside the game.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Emerges from the Shadows
After a lengthy wait of over seven years, Metroid fans finally got a glimpse of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. While details about Samus Aran’s newest adventure remain scarce, the brief gameplay footage showcased during the Direct was a welcome sight. Originally announced at E3 2017, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is slated for a 2025 release, giving bounty hunters something to eagerly anticipate.
Mario & Luigi: Brothership Sets Sail for Switch
Get ready for a vibrant island-hopping adventure with Mario & Luigi: Brothership! This upcoming Switch title, arriving on November 7, 2024, boasts a unique and eye-catching art style.
Players will join the iconic Mario and Luigi as they explore the whimsical “Shipshape Island,” a part-ship, part-island location teeming with diverse environments like rainforests and bustling cities. The journey will see them encounter familiar faces like Peach and Bowser, making for a delightful adventure for Mario and Luigi fans.
Dragon Quest Gets the HD-2D Treatment
The highly anticipated Dragon Quest HD-2D remakes finally have release dates for Switch! Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D will be the first to arrive, launching on November 14, 2024. This faithfully recreated version of the classic RPG will let players embark on a quest to vanquish the evil Archfiend Baramos and save the world. Dragon Quest 1-2 HD-2D will follow suit in 2025, giving fans a chance to experience the entire Erdrick Trilogy in a stunning new visual style.
Donkey Kong Country Returns Swings Onto Switch in HD
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is making its way to Switch in January 2025. This remastered version includes everything fans loved about the original Wii title, featuring 2-player local co-op, all 80 levels from the original game, and the additional stages from the 3DS version. It’s time to team up with Diddy Kong and reclaim Donkey Kong’s stolen banana hoard!
Super Mario Party Jamboree Brings the Fun to Switch
The party doesn’t stop with Super Mario Party Jamboree arriving on October 17, 2024. This brand new Mario Party entry takes players to a sprawling “enormous island resort” filled with five all-new game boards, along with two classic boards from previous Mario Party titles.
With over 110 minigames, a massive Koopathlon mode supporting over 20 players, and much more, Super Mario Party Jamboree is set to deliver endless party fun for friends and family.
Beyond the Highlights: A Look at Other Nintendo Direct Announcements
The Nintendo Direct wasn’t limited to just these major titles. Here’s a quick glimpse at some of the other exciting announcements: the Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition, where you can test your retro gaming skills with this upcoming championship focused on classic NES titles.
Fairy Tail 2, the popular anime sequel, arrives on Switch this winter. Fantasian: Neo Dimension, the Apple Arcade hit, comes to Switch with a new subtitle and a later-year release window. Additionally, a Switch Sports Update will bring basketball to the fun as a free update this summer.
Also Read: Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Blasts Onto the Scene, But the Wait Continues Until 2025
