Nintendo Direct September 2026: Our Top Picks

Last year, we were treated to a Super Mario Bros. bonanza to celebrate its 40th anniversary. This year, we had a first: a special Direct celebrating 40 years of The Legend of Zelda, followed the next day by a standard Nintendo Direct. This allowed more time to showcase over 55 games, updates, and Switch 2 editions, and plenty caught our attention!

Exciting New Games Announced in the Nintendo Direct

Scheduled for release on 22nd October, we saw an extended trailer for Nintendo Switch Sports Resort, showcasing the free exploration and secrets to discover around Wuhu Island. It’s more than just sports!

2027 will see the 35th anniversary of Kirby, and to help celebrate, there’s a new adventure awaiting our pink hero in Kirby and the World Beyond. Using Kirby‘s copying abilities, you’ll be able to freely explore this 3D open world. We’ll hear more about the 35th anniversary and the new game in the coming months.

With the slogan “It’s Eat or Be Eaten”, Samus will be coming for dinner in Metroid Ravenous on 28th January 2027. As well as the standard edition, there will be a special edition consisting of a Steelbook case and an Amiibo.

With only a few days before its release, get ready to save the Dagdan Empire in Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave. Compete in strategic battles and immerse yourself in a story of strength and conviction. The game weaves its way onto the Nintendo Switch 2 on 17th September.

Nintendo Switch 2 Editions and Updates

A game that scored our highest rating, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is getting a Definitive Edition for the Nintendo Switch 2 in February 2027. This new version will have higher resolution and smoother performance, and, along with more enemies on screen, you’ll be able to share the adventure via GameShare. The Definitive Edition will include the base game and the Expansion Pass DLC, as well as a new, harder ‘Calamity Mode’. Unfortunately, although save data will be transferred, there is no upgrade path, though there will be a discount for those who own the Nintendo Switch version.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will launch on 3rd December, together with an upgrade pack for existing Switch players. There will be a new battle mode and hero, as well as improved visuals.

Although we never did a full review, Yvonne shared her thoughts on Pikmin 4, and on 12th November this cute exploration game will be getting a Switch 2 version and upgrade pack. Pikmin 4 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Dandori Academy will have improved graphics and allow you to challenge friends to Dandori Battles via GameShare (meaning they don’t need to own the game). In addition, there will be a new Dandori Academy, where you can practise and then take exams in various Dandori challenges, but the most adorable feature (which makes full use of the Switch 2 built-in microphone) is the ability to give Oatchi voice commands-Good Boy!

Star Fox and Mario Kart World are both receiving free updates. The Mario Kart World update is already out, and includes two new Knockout Tours and the classic courses from Super Mario Kart scattered across the world can now be played. The Star Fox update is coming later this month, and adds three new Battle Mode stages and will support four players on a single system.

Part 2 of the Pokémon Pokopia Expansion Pass will be available later this year, and it’s an accessory cornucopia! With sunglasses, ribbons, and bow ties, you’ll be able to coordinate your look with various Pokémon, or create matching attire for group photos. Yvonne reviewed Part 1 of the Pokémon Pokopia Expansion Pass in August.

With more information to come about a new in-game event, Kirby Air Riders will get two Amiibo launching 12th November: Sword Kirby & Dragoon and Noir Dedede & Hydra.

It Takes Two gets enhanced graphics and a GameShare option with its Nintendo Switch 2 version, releasing 15th October. James gave the game a ‘Two Thumbs Up’ when he reviewed it in 2021. There will be a free upgrade for the Nintendo Switch version.

Cairn will ascend onto the Switch 2 next year, but you can test your climbing skills now with the free demo.

Mina was sold on House Flipper 2, and on 15th October, Switch 2 owners will be able to renovate and decorate as well. The release includes the Sakura DLC, with its Japanese-inspired vibe.

With over 20 million copies sold on Steam, Meccha Chameleon sneaked its way onto Switch 2 immediately following the Nintendo Direct. Based on the classic hide-and-seek game, players become either a hider, blending into their background with poses and paint, or a seeker, searching for those hidden players against the clock.

If you want to catch up on all the announcements from the Nintendo Direct, visit your regional Nintendo YouTube channel, or check out the comprehensive breakdown with trailers on the US Nintendo website.

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