New video game hardware announcements can often seem predictable. With each new generation of consoles, you can expect to see familiar improvements like enhanced graphics, faster load times, and fresh iterations of beloved franchises, such as those featuring a certain plumber and his turtle adversaries. Even Nintendo, known for its innovative approach across multiple console generations—from the N64's analog controller to the tiny GameCube discs, the Wii's motion controls and Virtual Console, the Wii U's tablet screen, and the Switch's built-in portability—has continued this trend with the Switch 2.
However, true to form, Nintendo managed to surprise fans with several unexpected announcements during the Switch 2 Direct.
It's 2025 and We Finally Get Online Play
As a long-time Nintendo enthusiast, I've been eagerly awaiting improvements in their online capabilities. From my early days of playing pretend Donkey Kong with footballs at the age of four in 1983, my love for Nintendo has been a journey of both joy and frustration. Nintendo's online services have traditionally lagged behind those of competitors like Sony and Xbox, often requiring additional apps for basic functions like voice chat.
However, the Direct introduced GameChat, a promising new feature. This four-player chat system supports noise suppression, video calls, and screen sharing across consoles, allowing players to monitor up to four different displays within one screen. Additionally, GameChat includes text-to-voice and voice-to-text options, enhancing accessibility. While a unified matchmaking interface remains to be seen, this development marks a significant step forward and hopefully signals the end of the cumbersome 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. The dark ambiance and distinctive character designs were unmistakably the work of FROM Software, led by the visionary Hidetaka Miyazaki. The Duskbloods is a multiplayer PvPvE game exclusive to Nintendo, showcasing Miyazaki's unique blend of challenge and artistry. It's astounding to think he found the time to direct this amidst his other commitments, and I'm eagerly anticipating what promises to be another masterpiece from FROM Software.
A Surprise to be Sure, but a Welcome One
In a surprising shift, Masahiro Sakurai, the renowned director of Super Smash Bros., is now helming a new Kirby game. After the less-than-stellar reception of Kirby's Air Ride on the GameCube, fans can look forward to a more refined and enjoyable experience under Sakurai's guidance, given his deep affection for Nintendo's iconic pink character.
Control Issues
The announcement of the Pro Controller 2 was almost overlooked, but it brings notable enhancements. The addition of an audio jack and two mappable extra buttons are welcome updates, arriving somewhat belatedly but certainly appreciated, especially for those who value customizable controls.
No Mario?!
The absence of a new Mario game at the Switch 2 launch was a genuine surprise. It turns out the team behind Super Mario Odyssey is instead focusing on Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer with destructible environments. This move highlights Nintendo's willingness to defy expectations, betting on the appeal of Donkey Kong to draw in fans. Meanwhile, the Switch 2 will launch with robust third-party support and Mario Kart World, which seems poised to be a system-seller, albeit perhaps aimed at a later holiday release.
Forza Horizon x Nintendo Was Not on My Bingo Card
The announcement of an open-world Mario Kart game, reminiscent of Bowser's Fury but on a grander scale, was another unexpected reveal. The combination of Mario Kart's zany physics, unique vehicles, and combat mechanics should translate well to an expansive world, promising a thrilling experience for players.
It's Very Expensive
The Switch 2's price tag of $449.99 USD is a significant jump, marking it as the most expensive launch in Nintendo's 40-year history in the US. With a $150 increase over the original Switch and $100 more than the Wii U, this pricing strategy departs from Nintendo's traditional reliance on affordability. In a time of economic pressures, this bold move will test whether the Switch 2 can succeed without the usual price advantage.
