The unexpected launch of Crisis Core on Switch 2, new Mario Kart content, and a strong 2027 lineup are highlights from the latest Nintendo Direct.
The latest batch of Nintendo news is headlined by a surprise release announcement from Square Enix during the recent Nintendo Direct. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII – Reunion has landed on the Nintendo Switch 2. This surprise drop includes exciting news for fans who have been following the build-up to the upcoming Final Fantasy VII Revelation. However, existing owners of the game may be disappointed as there is no upgrade path for them; instead, the game is available for $34.99 USD for new buyers, down from its regular price of $49.99 USD. This move may encourage some new purchases but also signals the Switch 2’s growing library of major titles.
Expansion of Mario Kart World and Resident Evil Classic Remakes
Nintendo also announced a significant update for Mario Kart World. A free update introduces classic tracks from Super Mario Kart alongside new knockout modes. This move aligns with Nintendo’s ongoing strategy to refurbish older titles with fresh content, keeping their legacy games relevant and engaging for veteran and new players alike.
Further expanding the Switch 2 library, Capcom confirmed the upcoming availability of classic Resident Evil titles. Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3, and Resident Evil 4 will launch on October 16, 2026, with all content previously included on other platforms intact. This represents another instance of major third-party franchises making their way onto Nintendo’s newest console, potentially drawing more gamers into the Switch ecosystem.
Looking Ahead to 2027: Metroid and Fitness Boxing
For those looking towards future releases, Nintendo shared details about the next major Metroid title. Metroid: Ravenous arrives on January 28, 2027, bringing new amiibo figures and special editions for collectors. This announcement continues Nintendo’s pattern of revitalizing beloved franchises with new entries, leveraging nostalgia while offering new content.
In addition, Imagineer is bringing a new iteration of their popular fitness game. Fitness Boxing: Touken Ranbu hits both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 on January 15, 2027, suggesting a push towards broadening the appeal of the platform with fitness-oriented and casual gaming options.
Other Announcements
NIS America announced Prinny Party: Going Overboard will arrive on both the Switch and Switch 2 on November 11, 2026, with a demo available now to give players a taste of the forthcoming content.
Retro gaming fans will be pleased to see Sunsoft’s upcoming compilation, Retro Game Selection 2, which will bring classic Famicom titles to the Switch, releasing on December 17, 2026, in Japan with Western release details pending.
Lastly, Nintendo has officially thanked its fans for participating in the Super Mario 40th Anniversary celebrations, marking the conclusion of a year-long event as they move on to commemorating The Legend of Zelda’s anniversary.
