Nintendo fans, mark your calendars: the gaming giant’s recent September 2025 Direct event delivered a flurry of announcements, preorders, and tantalizing leaks that have the gaming community abuzz. From the long-awaited release date for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond to a slew of new amiibo figures and an avalanche of Switch 2 bundles, Nintendo is gearing up for one of its biggest holiday seasons ever. But it’s not just official news that’s grabbing headlines—unexpected story leaks and surprising price shifts are keeping even the most seasoned fans on their toes.
The centerpiece of last week’s Nintendo Direct was, without a doubt, the confirmation that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will launch on December 4, 2025, for both the original Nintendo Switch and the new Switch 2. According to GameSpot and other outlets, preorders for the game went live immediately following the announcement, with prices set at $59.99 for the original Switch and $69.99 for the upgraded Switch 2 version. Retro Studios, the developer behind the beloved Prime series, promises a blend of shooting action, exploration, and puzzle-solving that fans have come to expect—but with some fresh twists for the latest installment.
The Direct event wasn’t just about Metroid. Nintendo also celebrated Mario’s 40th anniversary with the reveal of the Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 package, set to release on October 2 for $70. This collection includes a free Switch 2 upgrade, ensuring that both current and next-gen players can enjoy the classic platformers in style. Other major titles getting the spotlight included Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment (November 6), Kirby Air Riders (November 20), and the highly anticipated Hades II (November 20), which is a timed Switch 2 exclusive but will also be available on PC at launch. Preorders for these games are already open, with prices ranging from $50 to $70 depending on the title and edition.
But let’s get back to Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, which has been in development limbo for years. The new trailer shown at the Direct event gave fans their first real taste of gameplay, featuring series protagonist Samus Aran racing across alien landscapes on a futuristic motorcycle—later revealed to be called the Vi-O-La. The excitement only grew when, days after the showcase, a leak from a Japanese promotional copy surfaced online, spilling key story details that Nintendo had kept tightly under wraps. According to the leak, Samus crash-lands on the mysterious planet Viewros after a fierce battle with the Space Pirates, her longtime adversaries who are once again scheming for galactic domination.
Stranded and alone, Samus must rely on her wits, combat skills, and—here’s the twist—newly acquired psychic powers. The leaked promo copy explains that while exploring ancient ruins on Viewros, Samus stumbles upon a hidden artifact that links with her iconic suit, granting her the ability to move objects with her mind and guide her arm cannon shots with remarkable precision. These new powers aren’t just for show; they’re woven into the core gameplay, helping Samus solve intricate puzzles and defeat formidable enemies as she uncovers secrets about the planet’s past and confronts a looming threat.
Longtime fans will be pleased (or perhaps a bit anxious) to hear that Sylux, a rival bounty hunter who’s been a thorn in Samus’s side since earlier games, is back in action. This time, Sylux teams up with the Space Pirates and even the notorious Metroids, forging uneasy alliances that promise to shake up the story’s dynamics. Expect high-octane battles and tense motorcycle chases across Viewros’s deserts and forests, as Samus races to outmaneuver her foes and find a way home. Classic moves like rolling into a ball to slip through tight spaces and scanning objects for clues will also make a return, ensuring that the series’ signature blend of action and exploration remains intact.
Of course, Nintendo is sweetening the deal with a fresh wave of amiibo figures. According to GameSpot and official Nintendo listings, three new amiibo will launch alongside Metroid Prime 4: Beyond: Samus ($30, November 6), the large Samus & Vi-O-La motorcycle figure ($40, November 6), and Sylux ($30, December 4). Super Mario Galaxy fans can look forward to the Mario and Luma and Rosalina and Lumas amiibo, both priced at $40 and set for release on April 2, 2026. Kirby Air Riders is also getting in on the action with two double-pack amiibo—Kirby & Warp Star and Banana Waddle Dee & Winged Star—each retailing for $50 and launching November 20.
Beyond games and collectibles, Nintendo’s latest hardware is making waves. The Switch 2, which debuted earlier this year, is available in several bundles: the Mario Kart World bundle ($499, available now), the Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundle ($500, launching October 16), and the standalone console ($449). Amazon and other retailers have removed invitation-only systems, allowing anyone to preorder or purchase the new hardware. Accessories have seen price hikes too—Nintendo raised prices for the Pro Controller to $89 and Joy-Con 2 packs to $99 in August. Third-party accessories like Samsung’s 256GB microSD Express Card ($59) and Hori’s quirky Piranha Plant Camera ($40) are also proving popular among new Switch 2 owners.
For those looking for deals, the eShop is bursting with discounts on classic and recent hits. The original Hades is currently available for just $6.24, down from $25—a perfect primer for those eager to jump into Hades II later this year. Other deals include Sonic X Shadow Generations Switch 2 at $40 (regular $50), Civilization VII Switch 2 at $60 (regular $70), Madden NFL 26 Switch 2 at $50 (regular $70), and a host of Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, and Donkey Kong titles with steep markdowns.
Nintendo’s strategy this holiday season is clear: offer something for every kind of gamer, from nostalgic fans eager for Mario and Metroid anniversaries to newcomers looking for the latest hardware and accessories. But the company is also navigating the tricky waters of leaks and fan expectations. While some worry that early story reveals might spoil the magic, others are thrilled to have a sneak peek at Samus’s next adventure. As the December 4 launch of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond approaches, the anticipation is palpable—and with so many games, figures, and bundles on the horizon, Nintendo’s momentum doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.
With a packed release calendar, major hardware upgrades, and a few surprises still under wraps, Nintendo is poised to make the 2025 holiday season one for the record books. For fans, the only challenge might be deciding what to play—and what to buy—first.
