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Nintendo Switch 2 Unveils 7 Major Surprises in Direct

By AdamOct 13,2025

New gaming console launches tend to follow predictable patterns. With each generation upgrade, we anticipate staples like enhanced graphics, quicker load speeds, and fresh iterations of classic mascot-driven franchises.

Nintendo's approach hasn't deviated much across generations - from the N64's analog stick to GameCube's mini-discs, Wii's motion controls and Virtual Console, Wii U's tablet controller, and Switch's hybrid design. Yet somehow, Nintendo continues refining these concepts, as evidenced by their Switch 2 reveal.

True to form, Nintendo managed to deliver several genuine surprises during their Switch 2 Direct presentation.

Online gaming arrives - in 2025

As someone who's been jumping over makeshift Donkey Kong barrels since childhood, my excitement about this announcement comes with decades of Nintendo-induced frustration. Finally, proper online functionality appears imminent.

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Nintendo's online infrastructure has historically lagged behind competitors. Outside rare exceptions like Satellaview or Metroid Prime: Hunters, multiplayer features often feel archaic compared to PlayStation and Xbox offerings. The Switch's reliance on a separate voice chat app epitomized this gap.

The GameChat system showcased during the Direct represents a quantum leap forward. Supporting four-way communication with noise cancellation, video feeds, screen sharing, and accessibility features like text/voice conversion, it appears Nintendo is finally embracing modern online standards.

While matchmaking integration remains unclear, this marks significant progress toward retiring the antiquated friend code system.

Miyazaki brings exclusive dark fantasy to Nintendo

The initial trailer footage could've been mistaken for Bloodborne 2, featuring FROM Software's signature grim aesthetic. As Eric Van Allen at IGN confirmed, this was actually The Duskbloods - a multiplayer PvPvE title personally helmed by Hidetaka Miyazaki exclusively for Switch 2.

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Considering Miyazaki's relentless workload, his personal involvement signals strong commitment to Nintendo's platform. Given FROM's consistent track record, this exclusive promises to be another standout atmospheric masterpiece.

Unexpected franchise revival

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In perhaps the biggest career pivot since Smash Bros., Masuhiro Sakurai has reportedly shifted focus to reinventing Kirby's Air Ride. The original GameCube entry showed promise but fell short on execution.

Given Sakurai's deep affection for Nintendo's spherical mascot and his proven creative brilliance, his involvement virtually guarantees a vastly improved experience this time around.

Controller upgrades that matter

The Pro Controller 2 finally includes standard features like an audio jack and, more importantly, additional programmable buttons. These long-overdue refinements demonstrate Nintendo's willingness to enhance core gaming functionality.

Mario takes unexpected hiatus

Surprisingly absent was Nintendo's flagship plumber. Instead, the Odyssey team unveiled Donkey Kong Bananza, transforming Kong's platforming into destructible 3D environments.

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This strategic shift showcases Nintendo's confidence in their stable of franchises, positioning Bananza alongside Mario Kart World as launch window system-sellers while presumably saving Mario's next adventure for later.

Open-world Mario Kart defies expectations

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The radical evolution of Mario Kart into continuous open-world racing could prove transformative. Early footage suggests exhilarating potential for emergent multiplayer chaos across sprawling environments.

Premium pricing strategy

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At $449.99, Switch 2 becomes Nintendo's most expensive hardware launch ever, abandoning their traditional price advantage. Whether consumers embrace this premium positioning amidst economic challenges remains Nintendo's biggest gamble.

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