Player2 Vs Nintendo Directs September 2026
Nintendo fans had plenty to enjoy this week, with not just one but two huge Nintendo Direct showcases: the first dedicated to The Legend of Zelda’s 40th Anniversary, and the second a standard Nintendo Direct highlighting the broader upcoming slate. Player 2 editors Paul James and Matt Hewson have combed through both showcases to share their thoughts for this newest Vs feature.
The Legend Of Zelda: 40th Anniversary Direct
Paul: Look, everyone who tuned in was there for one thing only: Ocarina of Time, and Nintendo delivered comprehensively in that regard. A significant chunk of gameplay that hit all the right nostalgia vibes, and a good look at some of the changes, as well as the many similarities that exist in the November 5th title. Trust Nintendo to be the ones brave enough (or foolish enough, it’s all perspective) to back themselves against GTA VI in November, but if there was a game to do it with, it makes sense to be a remake of the best-reviewed game ever made.
Beyond Ocarina, I’m certainly ready to get my tickets for the Orchestral tour hitting our fair shores in May 2027.
Matt: I have no real history with Zelda at all. The last Zelda game I played and finished was Link to the Past, so this whole presentation really wasn’t for me. I don’t know; there is something about the series that has never quite clicked for me, and I can never put my finger on what that is. All that said, the remake trailer looked pretty impressive to me, and as an outsider looking in, it feels like they are keeping the tone and feel of the original intact.
Monster Hunter Wilds
Paul: I need to get back to Monster Hunter Wilds pretty desperately. I’m a long way behind, and while the portability of the Switch 2 version is pretty appealing, I’m in too deep on PS5 to jump into another version of the game now. Glad to see the new version is coming in December, and that Ascendance, the upcoming DLC, is on track too.
Matt: I will be very interested, from a nerdy techie standpoint, to see how this runs on the weaker hardware of the Switch 2. This is a game that has notoriously struggled even on High-End PCs, so it is going to take some technical wizardry to get this one running well. Otherwise, the Switch release is really not my bag.
Final Fantasy VII Revelation
Paul: We’re in full-blown Final Fantasy VII Revelation mode now. Nothing especially new here given that we got the release date last week, but it’s awesome to see that the game is coming day and date for Switch 2. Crisis Core getting a Switch 2 version today is a cool perk though.
Matt: IMO, Crisis Core will be a better Switch 2 game than Revelation. Now before you get the pitchforks out, Revelation will clearly be the better game, but on the Switch 2, its tech requirements will probably make it a compromised product. Crisis Core, on the other hand, is still a banger of a game, and it is built on a PS Vita title, so the Switch 2 should have no problems with that one.
Hyrule Warriors: Age Of Calamity - Definitive Edition
Paul: The Hyrule Warriors games, for as brilliant as they’ve been, have certainly struggled on the Switch, but these Switch 2 editions will be awesome for those games in terms of maxing out everything that the games can offer. Keen.
Matt: These sort of Musou experiences are perfect on handhelds. They really suit pick-up-and-play, so I am glad this one is getting an upgrade, because as Paul said, the original release was chuggier than the post-game boat race after a B-grade footy match.
Meccha Charmeleon
Paul: I’ve had a lot of my students showing me this one. It’s certainly a fun concept, but it isn’t one that I’m necessarily keen on. What is a brilliant decision, though, is getting the game out on Switch 2 ASAP. Strike while the iron is hot
Matt: Yeesh, this looks like the sort of game that obnoxious YouTubers play and yell a lot in the process. Call me a cranky old bugger, but I think I would rather watch a Uwe Boll marathon.
Pokemon Pokopia
Paul: More Pokopia content. This isn’t a big DLC drop, but for those who are soaking up everything they can from this game, it’s nice to see more content on the way again so soon. Get hyped, Pokopia fans.
Matt: I played Pokopia for an hour or so at a preview event, and it feels like the sort of game that once it has its teeth into you, you are never getting out, so this is good news for players that are stuck in the world.
Star Fox
Paul: Star Fox’s multiplayer is great, but provides short-term fun, so it’s nice to see additional maps and features coming to the game. That said, I don’t think this is going to make a huge difference to the sentiment around the game’s multiplayer mode. Cool follow-up update, though, to see Star Fox Adventures is coming to NSO today.
Matt: I have Star Fox sitting in my Switch 2 right now, but time hasn’t been kind to me, and I haven’t had the chance to sink into it. I really need to rectify that.
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Remastered
Paul: My favourite reveal from Gamescom. I’m stoked to see the remaster of The Witcher 3 coming everywhere. Nothing new from this trailer, just nice for Nintendo to be in on the fun.
Matt: Once again, it is going to take some tech wizardry to get this one rolling. Props to the optimisation team on this one.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
Paul: I’ve tried these games, but the sim just runs a bit too deep for my liking, so I struggle to get too far into the experiences of Kingdom Come: Deliverance games. Great for fans, though
Matt: Yeah, I am with Paul; these games are not my bag, not to mention the lead on the game is… well, problematic to say the least.
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave
Paul: I’ve been playing this for preview, so I’ve already shared some thoughts in Patched, but the full game is a little more than a week away. Fans should be feeling hyped. Not much new coming from this trailer, though.
Matt: You would think a turn-based fan such as myself would be all in on this franchise, but once again, it has passed me by. Will this be the one? Only time will tell.
Professor Layton and the New World Of Steam
Paul: I’ve still not played a Layton game, so I’m hopeful that this one could be my gateway. A December release feels appropriate for a game such as this, so I’m keen to see how this game comes together nice and soon.
Matt: Layton fans will be all over this. Looks like another winner in the franchise
Yokai Watch 2: Haunted Domain
Paul: Not much to see here, and I wasn’t interested in the original games, so I’ll happily pass on this one.
Matt: Yeah, pass for me. I think this is one of those “gotta be a fan of the source” type deals.
Pikmin 4: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
Paul: I adored Pikmin 4, so I’m stoked to see the game getting more love and more content. Will I go back? Probably not; there’s not enough time for that, but I’m just saving myself for the next big franchise entry. Nintendo, Pikmin 5 cannot come soon enough for me.
Matt: Pikmin 4 is a banger, so it is no surprise that Ninty are doing their usual “update/re-release” schtick with it.
Onyx: The Dark Grip
Paul: I’ve never heard of this one before today, but this is a really cool suspense/horror title. I’m keen to learn more about Onyx, because it doesn’t look like the type of game that will break my spirits, but rather keep me super hooked.
Matt: This is a really interesting premise blending puzzles and horror in a way I don’t think I have seen before. A very cool showing and a game I am keen to see more of.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
Paul: All three Xenoblade Chronicles core games are getting NS2 editions this year, so I’m stoked to finally push through this franchise properly. I love my JRPGs, but I’ve never been able to give Xenoblade the time it deserves. Keen for more.
Matt: Too big and too much for my available time, I am afraid. The extremely dedicated community will be super happy though.
Stage Fright
Paul: I remember Stage Fright getting announced a while back, but for it to be from the Overcooked team and include a story is something that really fascinates me. I think they’ve locked me in for a purchase when it launches.
Matt: This one is giving me Double Fine vibes in the best of ways. Loving the look, and I suspect this is going to be a winner.
Disney Dreamlight Valley
Paul: I’m not a Dreamlight Valley guy, but I know that game has a low-key huge fanbase. Good on Disney for continuing to support the game; it’s been a worthwhile endeavour.
Matt: Disney Farming is not the thing to get this grumpy old bugger excited, but for those who love it, you have plenty to feast on.
Ondeh Ondeh: Kaya’s Tasty Tale
Paul: This looked pretty cool. I’m keen to learn more about it, because it looks like it’ll play well, and it’s also a game that introduces us to other cultures and experiences. It’s cool! I’m keen!
Matt: A game that looks like it sits somewhere between Little Big Planet and Super Mario 3D World, Ondeh Ondeh could have the sauce. It certainly looks like a big and ambitious adventure, the type of which we don’t see too often.
Lego Batman: Legacy Of The Dark Knight
Paul: I’ve already been pretty glowing about this game, so I’m just glad that Switch 2 players can finally get in on the act. Legacy Of The Dark Knight is out in just over a week, so get on it, Nintendo Switch 2 owners!
Matt: It is madness to me that this wasn’t already on the Switch 2. Like Lego and Switch have been best buddies forever. Anyway, better late than never.
Kirby Air Riders
Paul: New Amiibo are cool, and it’s great to see more content coming to the game. Kirby Air Riders has been a quiet success, and the support has been great.
Matt: Can’t say I have any desire to jump into this one. Something about Kirby puts me off. Must be those beady eyes… can’t trust ‘em
Cairn
Paul: I know Cairn has been very well received; it’s just not a Paul game, so I’m happy for fans of the game to get a chance to play it on Switch 2, but I think I’ll skip it.
Matt: A game that makes sense to hit the Switch 2. It will be interesting to see how it is received from a new fan base. As Paul said, it is a bit of a love-it-or-hate-it type game.
Resident Evil
Paul: Great to see RE2-4 getting Switch 2 versions. I don’t know that they’re going to get me replaying them on another platform, but I’m glad the Switch 2 owners can get in on the act.
Matt: Another one of those “If the Switch 2 is your only option” type releases. Most of these games are on sale for less than $15 regularly, so really if you have another way to play, it may be the financially better option.
Tomb Raider: Legacy Of Atlantis
Paul: I’ve been hearing good things from those who got to play this at Gamescom. Now, if we can just get to February already so I can play it already, that would be great!
Matt: So Switch 2, this is not the system for Lara’s next adventure.
Nintendo Switch Sports Resort
Paul: Nintendo desperately wants to recapture the Wii Sports crew, and this is certainly a good way to go about it. Beyond the sports, the ways with which you can interact with Wuhu Island are cool. If there’s any way that Nintendo can bring those lapsed Wii Sports players back, this might be the best way.
Matt: Minigames are certainly a thing still, it would seem. Fun in a group; I can’t be too down on this because I am of the firm belief that more games should encourage couch play.
Metroid: Ravenous
Paul: Samus is pretty talkative here, which will be divisive, but I think we can all get around a January release date! The leaks around Ravenous had been prevalent before this Direct, which is unfortunate, but that didn’t diminish the excitement that came from the reveal. Ravenous looks excellent, and I’m so down for more.
Matt: In a post-Silksong world, how does a 2D Metroid hold up? It will be interesting to see because I feel like the bar has been raised for the genre and everything has to play catch up, especially if you are focusing on the action elements.
Mario Kart World
Paul: New modes and classic features return to Mario Kart World. I’m still looking for that big update that gives us new tracks, etc, but the support keeps on coming, and I’m here happy to receive that.
Matt: More tracks to race while I swear at my family, bring it on.
Mega Man: Dual Override
Paul: I missed Mega Man as a kid but have been catching up as an adult. I’m keen for Dual Override, and the Amiibos are certainly something that I’m keen to pick up, regardless of where I actually play the games. Well done, Capcom.
Matt: I adored the Mega Man X games as a younger fella, so I am excited to see a modern entry in the franchise. The Switch 2 is the perfect platform for it too.
Eternal Anima
Paul: This is a neat-looking RPG. The game is certainly introducing some cool new ideas into the mix of combat, which then also tie into the narrative, seemingly. I’m going to keep a really close eye on this one ahead of its March release.
Matt: I don’t usually have too much time for JRPGs, and I am still working my way through FF Rebirth, so I probably won’t get to this one. It does, however, have a really cool sense of style that fans of the genre will appreciate.
Danganronpa 2x2
Paul: I’m not really a Danganronpa guy, but the community around these games is kinda huge and certainly hungry for more. I hope that they get what they’re looking for out of this release. It’s coming really soon!
Matt: Holy hell, that trailer made me feel old… really old. No idea what was happening, but hey, if it is your bag, don’t let my ignorance get in your way.
Fatal Fury: City Of Wolves
Paul: I’m not a fighting game guy, so this didn’t really wash with me, but there’s certainly a robust community out there for Fatal Fury. Good on them, have fun!
Matt: A great fighting game with some really cool ideas. Good to see it land on the Switch 2, but you are going to want a Pro Controller for this one at the very least. Your Joy-Cons just won’t cut the mustard.
Metal Slug Ultimate Collection
Paul: I’m sad to confess that I’ve never played a Metal Slug game, but there’s no better time than the present to jump in!
Matt: Another perfect addition to the Switch 2 library. Fantastic arcade games that will suit handheld mode to a T. Play with two players for even more fun.
Yu-Gi-Oh! Tag Force GX
Paul: I loved the Yu-Gi-Oh anime 20 years ago as a kid, but I’ve long since left it behind. This game isn’t going to win me back, I suspect
Matt: Is Yu-Gi-Oh an Aldi Pokemon? I don’t know.
Romancing SaGa 3: Destinies United
Paul: These games keep on coming, and it’s awesome to get the game out there for the likes of me who have never played one. Gotta get started!
Matt: More of that JRPG stuff that I don’t have time for. Looks like a good one, though
Sizzle Reel
Paul: Lots of ports to cash in on the Switch 2, as well as a splash of new releases in there too. I’m certainly keen on a few games in there like Dragon Quest Monsters and Hela, but beyond that, there wasn’t much here for me that I hadn’t already played, or simply didn’t have interest in. If you’ve only been in the Nintendo ecosystem, though, this was a very cool sizzle reel of games.
Matt: Glad to see some underappreciated gems like Guardians of the Galaxy and Blood Dragon getting some love here. Of course, most of these have been out for ages on other systems, so it is once again a case of “if the Switch 2 is your only choice.”
Persona 4: Revival + Persona 6
Paul: I just don’t care for Persona. The world seems to love it, and I keep looking on from the outside wishing I could be in on the fun, but ultimately couldn’t care less. It’s a shame, but I’m glad for the fans that they keep getting more. 4 is beloved by all who’ve played it; maybe I just need to give it another go with this release to try and get into the franchise properly.
Matt: You know how I mentioned a lack of time? Well I sure as shit don’t have the time required for these games. God damn.
Kirby and the World Beyond
Paul: Kirby is literally breaking through barriers in this one. I loved what they did with the last core release, and the World Beyond looks to be building on the foundations of Kirby and the Forgotten Land in really cool ways. Super excited for more, and to see what they have in store for the franchise’s upcoming 35th anniversary
Matt: I’ve seen a few “Kirby in the Truman Show” comments floating around and that seems like a fair description. Once again, I don’t trust Kirby, but it does look like it could be a grand adventure for his fans.
Final Thoughts
Paul: This wasn’t a mind-blowing showcase, but it was very solid, and maintained a good momentum throughout. Metroid has to be the standout, along with Ocarina of Time from the night prior. Those two games are guaranteed to keep my Switch 2 busy for the months to come. Some cool stuff a bit further on the horizon as well, like Kirby, and you can see that beyond Ocarina of Time, all roads will soon be headed towards Mario and his next big platforming adventure. Keen to see what they have in store there when the time comes to reveal it.
Matt: For me, there were too many ports of old games, and as a result it went longer than it should have. It is great that the Switch 2 is getting some classics, but at the same time, that isn’t exciting news. I want to see more from their own properties. I wish they spent more time on Metroid, Mario and even Kirby. I don’t need to know about Metal Slug’s 15th re-release, even if I love the franchise. For me, Nintendo should use these directs to focus on being Nintendo, which is the reason that 90% of us even have a Switch 2.
