Splatoon 3. (YouTube/Nintendo)
It’s been almost two years since the last full Nintendo Direct and with the release schedule looking a little light, it’s about time we got some big news.
And while it was overall lacking in big heavy hitting news (and the Zelda sequel we’re all anticipating), there’s still a whole host of new games coming to the Switch very soon.
Here’s the top news we found out…
Splatoon 3 is on the way
Saved for the very end of the video, Splatoon 3 was confirmed for a 2022 release. Taking place in the Splatlands, it seems to have a post-apocalyptic vibe and features new customisation options, a new bow weapon, new movement abilities as players now launch into battle from above, and an adorable chicken-fish-pet-thing. It’s a long way off, but we should get more info soon.
Skyward Sword HD due in July
A remastered version of the 2011 Wii release, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword’s divisive motion controls will be much smoother on the Switch in addition to an enhanced frame rate and graphics. And for worried Switch Lite players, the game will have a new option that allows you to control Link’s sword with the right stick instead. A new set of Joy-Con controllers will also be released. Breath of the Wild 2? Still no news we’re afraid.
A new Smash character enters the fray, according to Nintendo Direct
Pyra/Mythra will be the next character to join Smash Bros Ultimate. Originally featured in the fantastic JRPG Xenoblade Chronicles 2, they’re the two-in-one ally of lead character Rex. With a mixture of sword attacks and super speed, this duo will also bring a new themed stage to the game. Their release will be announced soon.
Mario Golf: Super Rush announced
Nintendo are bringing another Mario sports game to the Switch in the form of Mario Golf: Super Rush. It features familiar Mushroom Kingdom folk teeing off in a variety of multiplayer modes, including the brand new Speed Golf mode that sees players racing through each course.
Better yet, there’ll be a single-player story mode starring your Mii character earning experience points as they compete in golfing challenges. Pre-order now before the release on 25 June.
Animal Crossing x Mario Bros crossover
For those still tinkering away at their islands, or those looking for a reason to return, Nintendo are bringing Mario themed items to Animal Crossing. There’ll be costumes, decorative items, and even warp pipes so you can fast travel around your island. It’ll all be available on 1 March following a free update on 25 February.
More major third-party releases
Fall Guys and Outer Wilds are both due out in summer, while the brilliant free-to-play shooter Apex Legends will be out on 9 March. These are three massive third-party releases that will be very welcome in the Switch library.
New tactical RPG from Square Enix
One of the most intriguing announcements was a new game, Project TRIANGLE STRATEGY (working title), that features turn-based strategy battles in a stunning retro style similar to RPG Octopath Traveller. The game will be released in 2022, but a free demo is available right now.
And more from Nintendo Direct…
Miitopia
Knockout City
DC Super Hero Girls: Teen Power
Famicom Detective Club
Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville Complete Edition
Legend of Mana
Samurai Warriors 5
World’s End Club
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity Expansion Pass
Ghosts n Goblins Resurrection
Capcom Arcade Stadium
No More Heroes 3
Neon White
Bravely Default II
Tales from the Borderlands
Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse
Hades (physical release)
Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection
SaGa Frontier Remastered
Still, considering it’s the 35th anniversary of Zelda and Metroid this year, Nintendo Direct left us wanting…
So far it seems like Zelda and Metroid are celebrating their anniversaries and birthdays the same way the rest of us have recently: they aren’t.
— Brian Altano (@agentbizzle) February 17, 2021
I’m so sorry, but this is BotW2 in the #NintendoDirect pic.twitter.com/8Ym2Ji4Si2
— Fuffy (@FuffyArt) February 17, 2021
But not everyone was disappointed
The rest of the Twitter: wow, this direct was bad
Splatoon Twitter: HAVE YOU SEEN HOW MANY PANTS THERE ARE???!!?!? #NintendoDirect #Splatoon3 pic.twitter.com/kWnja7aHqh— pancakeser (@pancakeser) February 17, 2021