Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase reveals 25 third-party games, but fans criticize the lack of big surprises and clarity on Switch 1 vs Switch 2 titles.
Reactions have been varied on yesterday’s Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase, which ran 27 minutes. Though the presentation showcased 25 new titles, the general internet buzz leaned toward disappointment. It tuned in and posted my first impressions just after the event. Really? It seemed normal; perhaps a C grade at best.
Although some interesting games were showing up, nothing really blew fans away—no big surprises or memorable moments. Still, let’s go over the main news announcements. Starting the series was Capcom’s Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, planned for 2026. Following Stories 2’s popularity, it’s great to note the progress of this series.
Once Upon a Katamari, a lighthearted new name for Katamari enthusiasts, is arriving October 24, 2025, followed next. With these two titles, the show began strongly. Following Ubisoft, Just Dance 2026 (October 14) maintained its annual series for mainstream consumers. Another major event was Dragon Ball: Sparking Zero.
However, Nintendo tried to clarify which version goes where by showing logos for each; it is coming to both Switch 1 and Switch 2. Cross-gen messaging remained somewhat sloppy, nonetheless. For long-time fans, movement controls come back too—a sentimental tribute. Release date? November 14, 2025.
Next up: Replanted, a reimagining of the original with co-op, will launch on October 23, 2025. Though I never became interested in the series, followers look thrilled. FC26 arrives on September 26; Pac-Man World 2 Re-pack keeps the vintage movement going.
Though the number of games shown was considerable, the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase missed an absolutely notable highlight. It seemed more like a list than a party. Given that most of the titles are third-party and several come as game key cards, supporters are justified in feeling somewhat dissatisfied. Cross-gen releases might have been made much clearer, too, especially with the Switch 2 looming large.
