Nintendo Switch 2 Direct: Top 7 Surprises Revealed

New video game hardware announcements can become somewhat predictable. With each new generation of consoles, you can expect to see near-certain staples like better graphics, faster load times, and new takes on beloved, plumber-and-turtle-oriented franchises. Even Nintendo, which has consistently delivered these improvements across several generations, from the N64 analog controller to the Switch's built-in portability, has continued this trend with the Switch 2. However, being Nintendo, the company once again unveiled a few genuine shockers during the Switch 2 Direct.

It's 2025, and we finally get online play. As a long-time Nintendo fan since the age of four in 1983, when my babysitter rolled footballs at me like Donkey Kong rolling barrels at Mario, I speak from a place of loving bitterness. Nintendo's online play has historically been a weak point, but change is here. During the Direct, Nintendo unveiled GameChat, a four-player chat that supports noise suppression, video cameras for showing friends' faces, and screen sharing across consoles. This feature also includes text-to-voice and voice-to-text support, allowing for versatile communication. While a unified matchmaking interface has yet to be revealed, GameChat is a significant step forward and may signal the end of the cumbersome friend code system.

Another surprise is Hidetaka Miyazaki bringing new blood exclusively to Nintendo with The Duskbloods, a multiplayer PvPvE game. The trailer's ambiance, character design, and environments echoed the FROM Software house style, initially making me think it was Bloodborne 2. Miyazaki, known for his challenging games, seems to be pouring his heart into this Nintendo-exclusive title, and I'm eagerly anticipating this new addition to his impressive portfolio.

In a surprising move, Super Smash Bros. director Masahiro Sakurai has shifted his focus from Smash to a new Kirby game. The original Kirby's Air Ride was visually appealing but lacked fun gameplay. However, with Sakurai's deep affinity for Kirby and his track record, this new game promises to be a refined and enjoyable experience.

The Switch 2 Direct also introduced the Pro Controller 2, which now features an audio jack and two mappable extra buttons. These additions, though seemingly minor, are welcome enhancements that should improve the gaming experience.

Perhaps the most shocking revelation was the absence of a new Mario game at launch. Instead, the team behind Super Mario Odyssey is working on Donkey Kong Bananza, a captivating 3D platformer with destructible environments. Nintendo's decision to focus on Donkey Kong rather than Mario for the Switch 2's launch is a bold move, trusting hardcore fans to embrace this new title. The Switch 2 will also launch with extensive third-party support and Mario Kart World, which seems poised to be a system-seller.

Another unexpected announcement was the collaboration between Forza Horizon and Nintendo, resulting in an open-world Mario Kart experience. The zany physics, unique vehicles, and combat mechanics of Mario Kart should translate well to this larger, continuous world, promising chaotic fun and excitement.

However, the Switch 2 comes with a hefty price tag of $449.99 USD, making it the most expensive launch in Nintendo's 40-plus years of US sales history. This price is $150 more than the original Switch and $100 more than the Wii U. With current economic pressures, this high cost could pose a challenge for Nintendo, which has traditionally relied on lower prices to differentiate its products.