If you’re a Nintendo enthusiast, you’ll be delighted with the September 2023 Nintendo Direct, a 40-minute extravaganza packed with news about upcoming games slated for release on Nintendo’s versatile console this winter. Here is a snapshot of the most significant reveals and announcements for those who could not tune in to the live broadcast.
Remastered Edition of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door Unveiled
Nintendo is set to rework another fan favorite, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, with revamped visuals. However, the company stayed tight-lipped about other details, revealing only that the game will debut on Nintendo Switch next year.
Mario vs. Donkey Kong Remake Scheduled for February 16, 2024
The company’s Direct also featured the announcement of a refreshed version of the 2004 Game Boy Advance classic, Mario vs. Donkey Kong. Besides offering players a taste of the gameplay, the announcement trailer also confirmed support for local multiplayer mode.
F-Zero 99 Now Exclusively Available to Switch Online Members
In an unexpected move, Nintendo brought back F-Zero in the form of F-Zero 99, a racing battle royale game that is compatible with the SNES wireless controller. The game is now available, but it is exclusive for active Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.
Princess Peach: Showtime Slated for March 2024 Launch
After earlier news of a forthcoming Princess Peach game, Nintendo Direct finally pulled the curtain back on the gameplay and official title. Princess Peach: Showtime is the moniker of Peach’s solo adventure, and the gameplay changes according to Peach’s transformations. The release date is set for March 22, 2024.
Revamped Versions of Tomb Raider 1, 2, and 3 Coming Soon
Nintendo’s versatile console is set to receive remastered versions of the iconic Tomb Raider series, including the first three games. Expected to release on February 14, 2024, the remastered series will allow players to switch between the newly enhanced graphics and the original polygon aesthetics. Moreover, the remastered versions will come with bonus features including game expansions and secret levels.
Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD Due for Release in summer
The remastered version of Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD for Nintendo Switch has been confirmed for a summer release. The recent Nintendo Direct event provided a sneak peek at the updated game.
Splatoon 3’s Side Order Slated for Spring 2024 Release
The second wave DLC expansion for Splatoon 3, aptly named Side Order, was previewed at the latest Nintendo Direct. The DLC expansion is due for release in Spring 2024, and will be available as part of the game’s expansion pass or as a standalone purchase.
A Fresh Preview of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Ubisoft offered another glimpse at the upcoming release of the next installment in the Prince of Persia series, The Lost Crown. The game was first announced in June during the Summer Game Fest, and Ubisoft Montpellier, known for their work on Rayman Legends, is developing the 2D action platformer.
Super Mario RPG Remake Unveils New Gameplay Trailer
A new gameplay trailer of the remade Super Mario RPG was revealed during the recent Nintendo Direct showcase. This revamped version of the beloved Super Nintendo classic is still expected to hit the shelves on November 17, 2023.
Trombone Champ to Debut on Nintendo Switch
The unique rhythm-based game, Trombone Champ, which originally launched solely on PC, is making its way to the Nintendo Switch. The game, praised for its innovative approach to the rhythm genre, will be adapted to take full advantage of the Switch’s gyro controls or the Joy-Cons IR motion sensor for an immersive gaming experience.
Dave the Diver Makes Its Way to Switch Next Month
The much-awaited PC game, Dave the Diver, is soon to make its debut on the Nintendo Switch. Fans can look forward to exploring this title on their hybrid console starting October 26, nearly a year after its initial launch.
Sneak Peek into the Sixth Wave of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s Booster Course Pass
Nintendo has offered a sneak peek into the upcoming DLC for Mario Kart 8. Hitting the store this holiday season, the sixth wave of the Booster Course Pass unveils a fresh racing track, Daisy Circuit, from Mario Kart Wii. Plus, it introduces four new racers to the lineup: Diddy Kong, Funky Kong, Pauline, and Peachette.
Detective Pikachu Returns Showcases a Fresh Cinematic Trailer
Just before its launch on October 6, Nintendo has rolled out a new cinematic trailer for Detective Pikachu Returns. The latest showcase reveals how supporting Pokemon characters like Darmanitan will assist Detective Pikachu and Tim in their quest by performing tasks such as smashing rocks.
Amiibo Informs for Tears of the Kingdom, Smash Ultimate,
Nintendo paused to reveal updates concerning the upcoming batch of Amiibos. For Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Kingdom Hearts’ protagonist, Sora, who was the last DLC character, will finally have his own Amiibo, expected to drop sometime next year. Also, Zelda and Ganondorf Amiibos themed around Tears of the Kingdom are due for release on November 3. Meanwhile, Noah and Miuo from Xenoblade Chronicles 3 are scheduled to receive their Amiibos on January 19, 2024.
Announcement of another Code: Recollection
A new compilation titled Another Code: Recollection has been announced, which includes Another Code: Two Memories (also known as Trace Memory) and its sequel, Another Code R. Notably, this will be the first-ever release of Another Code R in North America. The two games, originally launched in 2005 on Nintendo DS and 2009 on Nintendo Wii respectively, will be upgraded for the Nintendo Switch, with the release date set for January 19, 2024.
SaGa Emerald Beyond Set to Launch Next Year
During today’s event, Square Enix announced the upcoming addition to its science fiction RPG series, SaGa, dubbed Emerald Beyond. Slated for release on Nintendo Switch next year, the announcement was accompanied by a trailer featuring a sneak peek into the playable characters, including exciting choices like a witch, a songstress mech, and a puppetmaster.
