Whenever a new Nintendo Direct drops, fans know to expect surprises—and this time was no exception. On September 12, 2025, Nintendo hosted one of its most jam-packed presentations yet, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. with huge reveals for both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
From long-awaited remasters like Super Mario Galaxy to bold new projects like Pokémon Pokopia, the event proved once again why the Nintendo Direct format has become the ultimate stage for the company to showcase what’s next.
Here’s a breakdown of the 12 biggest announcements you don’t want to miss.
The biggest spotlight of the Nintendo Direct was the announcement of remasters for Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2. Both arrive on October 2, 2025, for Switch and Switch 2.
Available as a $70 physical double-pack or separately on the eShop.
Enhanced UI, updated controls, and 4K support on Switch 2.
Includes a Rosalina Storybook with new pages and an in-game music player.
Collectors can also look forward to new Galaxy-themed amiibo in April 2026.
2. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which will be released on April 3, 2026, was another unexpected announcement made at the Nintendo Direct. Fans can anticipate that the ensemble will return for another cosmic adventure on the big screen, as the trailer teases Peach’s castle, the stars, and Lumas.
3. Mario Tennis Fever
The long-running sports spin-off is back! Mario Tennis Fever will launch on February 12, 2026, exclusively on Switch 2.
Highlights shown during the Nintendo Direct include:
38 playable characters.
30 Fever Rackets with unique abilities.
Adventure Mode where characters turn into babies.
Ranked online matches, Trial Towers, and motion control Swing Mode.
4. Super Mario Bros. Wonder — Switch 2 Edition
The Nintendo Direct has confirmed that an enhanced edition of Super Mario Bros. Wonder for the Switch 2 will be available in Spring 2026.
This upgraded version introduces a new hub named Meetup located in Bellabel Park, which will include both cooperative and competitive activities such as coin races, Phanto Tag, and Bob-omb hot potato. Additionally, Nintendo revealed the launch of a talking flower toy that will accompany this update.
5. Yoshi and the Mysterious Book
Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, a Switch 2-only platformer that will launch in the spring of 2026, was another noteworthy announcement made during the Nintendo Direct. The narrative centers on Yoshi’s assistance to Mr. E, a magical book that gains knowledge about the world through player discoveries.
6. Donkey Kong Bananza DLC
The Nintendo Direct also dropped a surprise release—new DLC for Donkey Kong Bananza. Available now, it adds:
A nostalgic DK Island stage.
Emerald Rush timed exploration mode.
Collectibles like fossils, Banandium Gems, and unlockable cosmetics.
7. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
After years of anticipation, the Nintendo Direct finally confirmed that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will release on December 4, 2025.
New footage showed:
Samus riding a futuristic motorcycle called Vi-O-La.
Psychic abilities mixed with classic exploration.
Amiibo for Samus, Vi-O-La, and Sylux.
8. Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave
The Nintendo Direct concluded with a thrilling announcement—Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave, set to release in 2026. This game features new characters such as Cai and Queen Theodora, and its narrative revolves around a magnificent coliseum and a Divine Sovereign that grants wishes.
9. Pokémon Pokopia
Fans of cozy life sims got a treat during the Nintendo Direct: Pokémon Pokopia, a farming game starring a Ditto disguised as a human.
Learn moves from Pokémon to grow crops, craft, and build.
Interact with Pokémon like Squirtle, Bulbasaur, and Hitmonchan.
Launches in 2026 for Switch 2.
10. Virtual Boy Remake
In one of the most unexpected Nintendo Direct announcements, Nintendo revealed a working Virtual Boy remake.
Priced at $99.99, with a $24.99 cardboard version.
Compatible with Switch and Switch 2.
Launches February 17, 2026 with 14 supported games, including Mario’s Tennis and Galactic Pinball.
11. Hades 2
On September 25, 2025, Hades 2 will be removed from Early Access, according to the Nintendo Direct.
When docked, Switch 2 operates at 120 frames per second and supports cross-saving with a PC.
12. Other Key Announcements
The September 2025 Nintendo Direct also packed in several other highlights:
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment launches November 6, 2025.
Resident Evil Requiem arrives on Switch 2 on February 27, 2026.
Kirby Air Riders introduces new rider-swapping amiibo.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade comes to Switch in January 2026.
Final Thoughts
The September 2025 Nintendo Direct proved to be one of the most exciting showcases in years. From honoring Mario’s 40th anniversary with Galaxy remasters to expanding beloved franchises like Metroid and Fire Emblem, Nintendo continues to deliver surprises that span generations of fans.
Whether you’re excited about retro revivals like the Virtual Boy, experimental ideas like Pokémon Pokopia, or blockbuster sequels like Metroid Prime 4, this Nintendo Direct made one thing clear: the future of Nintendo gaming is as bright as ever.
FAQs
It took place on September 12, 2025, one day before Mario’s 40th anniversary.
The Mario Galaxy remasters, Mario Tennis Fever, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Pokémon Pokopia stood out.
Yes, the Switch 2 version will receive a free 4K resolution update.