New video game hardware announcements can feel predictable, with each new console generation promising better graphics, faster load times, and fresh takes on iconic franchises like those featuring a certain plumber battling turtles. Nintendo, with its history of innovative leaps from the N64’s analog stick to the Switch’s hybrid design, has consistently delivered these advancements. The Switch 2 is no exception, yet true to form, Nintendo unveiled some unexpected surprises during the Switch 2 Direct.
It's 2025, and Nintendo has finally embraced online play in a significant way.
-----------------------------------------As a lifelong Nintendo enthusiast since I was four years old in 1983, playing a makeshift version of Donkey Kong with my babysitter, I approach this reveal with a mix of excitement and long-held frustrations. Nintendo's track record with online play has been lackluster, with efforts like Satellaview and Metroid Prime: Hunters barely scratching the surface compared to the robust platforms from Sony and Xbox. The Switch's requirement for a separate app for voice chat has been a particular sore point.
However, the Direct introduced GameChat, a feature that promises to change the game. This four-player chat system boasts noise suppression, video camera support for showing friends' faces, and screen sharing across consoles. You can monitor up to four different displays within one screen. Moreover, the new Switch 2 accessibility features include text-to-voice and voice-to-text options, enhancing communication for all players. While we await details on a unified matchmaking system, GameChat represents a significant leap forward, potentially signaling the end of the cumbersome friend code system.
Miyazaki is bringing new blood exclusively to Nintendo
------------------------------------------------------The first glimpse of the trailer for "The Duskbloods" initially fooled me into thinking it was a sequel to Bloodborne, given its unmistakable FROM Software style. Thanks to Eric Van Allen at IGN, I learned it's a new multiplayer PvPvE game directed by the master of challenging gameplay, Hidetaka Miyazaki. It's astonishing that Miyazaki found time to create a Nintendo-exclusive title, perhaps never leaving his office, much like his own tormented characters. Yet, 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 move, Masahiro Sakurai, renowned for directing Super Smash Bros., is now steering a new Kirby game. After the underwhelming Kirby's Air Ride on GameCube, Sakurai's passion for Nintendo's pink hero bodes well for a more polished and enjoyable experience in this new title.
Control issues
--------------The announcement of the Pro Controller 2 might have been brief, but it's packed with welcome enhancements. The addition of an audio jack and two mappable extra buttons are features that, though overdue, are greatly appreciated by fans like myself who value customization.
No Mario?!
----------The absence of a new Mario title was a genuine shock. It seems the team behind Odyssey has been secretly crafting "Donkey Kong Bananza," a 3D platformer with destructible environments. Nintendo's decision to focus on Donkey Kong over Mario for the Switch 2 launch defies expectations but reflects their confidence in their fanbase's loyalty. The console will also launch with robust third-party support and "Mario Kart World," which, despite its potential as a system-seller, was surprisingly not positioned for the holiday season. Instead, Nintendo is banking on Mario Kart 8's success and the appeal of "Bananza" to drive sales.
Forza Horizon x Nintendo was not on my bingo card
-------------------------------------------------The introduction of an open-world Mario Kart game was unexpected but exciting. The blend of Mario Kart's zany physics, unique vehicles, and combat within a continuous, expansive world akin to Bowser's Fury promises a thrilling new experience.
It’s very expensive
-------------------The Switch 2's price of $449.99 USD is steep, especially considering the current economic climate with rising tariffs, a declining yen, and American inflation. This price marks the highest launch cost in Nintendo's history in the US, $150 more than the original Switch and $100 more than the Wii U. Historically, Nintendo has leveraged lower prices to differentiate its products, but the Switch 2 will need to prove its value at this elevated price point.
