Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025: Every Major Game Announced for Switch 2

The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025 brought a wave of new game announcements and updates that reaffirm Nintendo’s robust partnerships and the exciting future of Switch 2. While the reaction was mixed, especially among early adopters expecting more groundbreaking reveals, the event still offered a solid slate of titles from across genres and studios. Let’s break down the most notable nintendo direct partner showcase games from the event.

Top Highlights from the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase Games

The showcase featured a diverse collection of third-party titles for both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. Notable entries included:

• Octopath Traveler 0: Set for December 4, 2025, this HD-2D RPG by Square Enix introduces town-building and a customizable protagonist in a prequel storyline. With over 30 recruitable characters, it’s a clear evolution of the beloved franchise.

• The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales: An action RPG from Square Enix, it brings co-op play, seven weapon types, and a narrative set in mysterious ruins outside the Kingdom of Huther. It’s a fresh take on HD-2D beyond remakes.

• Persona 3 Reload: Arriving October 23, this definitive remake lands on a Nintendo platform for the first time. Whether you’re a longtime fan or newcomer, this enhanced version of the cult classic is worth checking out.

• Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection: Kicking off the Direct, this new chapter places players amidst a brewing war and mysterious environmental calamity. Expect new monsters, eggs, and emotional stakes.

• Once Upon a Katamari: Rolling onto Switch on October 24, this installment combines wacky rolling gameplay with cosmic restoration, customization, and new online modes like KatamariBall.

Fresh Ports and Enhanced Editions

This showcase also focused on updating existing franchises with enhanced experiences for the Switch 2 platform. Key entries include:

• Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac: Launching September 26, this remake modernizes a classic with improved visuals and gameplay tweaks.

• Yakuza Kiwami 1 & 2: The remakes of the PS2 classics arrive on November 13, and existing owners on the original Switch get a discount upgrade offer.

• Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles: Out September 30, it includes fully voiced dialogue, updated graphics, and gameplay enhancements for tactical fans.

Games Expanding the Switch 2 Ecosystem

Several titles were positioned to demonstrate the growing capabilities of the Switch 2:

• Star Wars: Outlaws: Releasing September 4, this game showcases cinematic action in the galaxy’s underworld, optimized for Switch 2.

• Cronos: The New Dawn: A horror game from Bloober Team launching September 5, featuring time travel and dual-era storytelling.

• EA Sports FC 26 and Madden NFL 26: With enhanced visuals and new game modes, these sports staples are finally feature-complete on Nintendo hardware.

Indie Surprises and Co-op Adventures

Not all the gems came from major publishers. A few standouts included:

• Chillin’ by the Fire: A relaxing simulation available now, blending GameShare features and cozy visuals, ideal for social play.

• Hela: Starring a mouse and their magical frog backpack, this folklore-inspired title offers online/local co-op and charming storytelling. Expected in 2026.

Mixed Reactions and What’s Next

Some fans, especially new Switch 2 owners, felt underwhelmed by the lack of exact release dates for key titles like Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment and Silksong. Though trailers and confirmations were appreciated, the absence of firm timelines left viewers wanting more.

The next few months will be pivotal in how the Switch 2 defines itself, and this Partner Showcase—while not groundbreaking—offered a solid foundation of titles to build excitement for what’s coming next.

You Must Know:

What were the top Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase games?

Highlights included Octopath Traveler 0, The Adventures of Elliot, Persona 3 Reload, Monster Hunter Stories 3, and Once Upon a Katamari.

When will Octopath Traveler 0 be released?

Octopath Traveler 0 is set for release on December 4, 2025, exclusively for Switch 2.

Which games are coming to Switch 2 with enhanced features?

Titles like Madden NFL 26, EA Sports FC 26, Cronos: The New Dawn, and Star Wars: Outlaws are optimized for Switch 2.

What ports were announced during the showcase?

Remakes and ports include Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac, Yakuza Kiwami 1 & 2, and Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles.

Why were some fans disappointed?

Lack of release dates for anticipated titles like Hyrule Warriors and Silksong left fans feeling underwhelmed despite a solid game lineup.

Which game launched immediately after the Direct?

Chillin’ by the Fire became available immediately, offering a cozy, relaxing gameplay experience.