New video game hardware announcements can become somewhat predictable. With each new generation of consoles, you can expect to see near-certain staples like improved graphics, faster load times, and new iterations of beloved franchises, such as those featuring a famous plumber and his turtle adversaries.
Even Nintendo, known for its innovative approach across several generations—from the N64's analog controller, the tiny GameCube discs, the Wii's motion controls and Virtual Console, the Wii U's tablet screen, to the Switch's built-in portability—has delivered these enhancements with the Switch 2.
However, true to its nature, Nintendo once again unveiled some genuine surprises during the Switch 2 Direct.
It's 2025, and we finally have online play.
As a lifelong Nintendo fan since my childhood days of playing Donkey Kong-inspired games in 1983, I feel a mix of excitement and long-suffering anticipation about this reveal. Nintendo has historically struggled with online multiplayer, often falling short compared to the unified platforms offered by Sony and Xbox. Even the original Switch required a separate app for voice chat.
The unveiling of GameChat during the Direct was a pleasant surprise. This four-player chat system supports noise suppression, video integration for seeing friends' faces, and screen sharing across consoles, allowing you to monitor up to four different displays on a single screen. According to the new Switch 2 accessibility features, GameChat also includes text-to-voice and voice-to-text functionalities, enhancing communication options for players.
While we haven't seen details on a unified matchmaking interface yet, this is a significant step forward. I'm hopeful it marks the end of the cumbersome friend code system.
Miyazaki is bringing new blood exclusively to Nintendo
The first trailer frames had me thinking I was seeing Bloodborne 2, given the unmistakable style of FROM Software. However, thanks to Eric Van Allen at IGN, I learned it was footage from The Duskbloods, a new multiplayer PvPvE game directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki himself.
It's astonishing how Miyazaki found the time to direct a Nintendo-exclusive game amidst his busy schedule. His dedication reminds me of his own game characters, tirelessly working in their high towers. Yet, I'm grateful for his efforts, as FROM Software rarely disappoints.
A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one
In another unexpected move, Masahiro Sakurai, the director of Super Smash Bros., is now working on a new Kirby game. After the less-than-stellar Kirby's Air Ride on GameCube, a Sakurai-led project promises a refined and enjoyable experience, given his deep connection to Nintendo's beloved pink character.
Control issues
A seemingly minor announcement about the Pro Controller 2 turned out to be a delightful surprise. The addition of an audio jack, a feature that's been long overdue, and two mappable extra buttons cater to fans like me who appreciate customization.
No Mario?!
The absence of a new Mario game was a genuine shock. Instead, the team behind Odyssey is crafting Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer with a focus on destructible environments. Nintendo continues to defy expectations, trusting its core fans to embrace Donkey Kong's biggest game in generations while saving Mario for a future reveal.
The Switch 2 will launch with robust third-party support and Mario Kart World. Although World seems like a system-seller, I expected it to be a holiday family game. Nintendo's confidence in Mario Kart 8's record-breaking sales suggests that, along with Bananza, it will drive Switch 2's launch success.
Forza Horizon x Nintendo was not on my bingo card
Open-world Mario Kart is now a reality. The chaotic physics, quirky vehicles, and combat mechanics should translate well to an expansive world reminiscent of Bowser's Fury, but much larger and accommodating numerous drivers.
It's very expensive
The Switch 2's price of $449.99 USD is steep, especially given current economic conditions like rising tariffs, a weakening yen, and American inflation. This marks the most expensive launch in Nintendo's 40-plus year history in the US, $150 more than the original Switch and $100 more than the Wii U. Historically, Nintendo has relied on competitive pricing to differentiate its consoles, but the Switch 2 will need to succeed without this advantage.
