Nintendo is set to host a new Nintendo Direct on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 7 a.m. Pacific Time (10 a.m. Eastern Time), focusing exclusively on upcoming releases for the original Nintendo Switch console. This presentation, lasting approximately 30 minutes, will not feature any updates regarding the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, which is scheduled for a separate showcase on April 2, 2025.
The March 27 Direct is expected to showcase a variety of games slated for release on the original Nintendo Switch. While specific titles have not been confirmed, there is a strong anticipation for updates on major upcoming games, including Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A. These two titles are among the last first-party games confirmed for release on the current console before Nintendo shifts its focus entirely to the new system.
According to Nintendo, the March 27 presentation will highlight games that are still on the way to the original Switch, with the company stating clearly that "there will be no updates about Nintendo Switch 2 during this presentation." This has led to speculation about how Nintendo plans to fill out the remaining months of the Switch’s lifecycle, especially as it appears to be winding down its first-party game releases.
Industry analysts suggest that this strategy of holding two separate Directs—one for the current console and another for the upcoming Switch 2—allows Nintendo to maintain a clear communication strategy. As one analyst noted, "Not everyone will be early adopters of Switch 2," which underscores the importance of keeping the original Nintendo Switch's library alive and relevant.
The upcoming Direct is expected to include trailers and updates for several third-party titles as well. Games like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4, Capcom Fighting Collection 2, Lunar Remastered Collection, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, and Rusty Rabbit are all set to release on the Switch in the coming months. Additionally, fans are curious about whether long-awaited titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong will finally receive a release date announcement, although rumors suggest that a Switch 2 version of the game may also be in the works.
As for the Nintendo Switch 2, the excitement continues to build ahead of its formal reveal on April 2, 2025. This event is expected to confirm the console's release window, which insiders suggest could be as early as June 2025. The release strategy for the new system is rumored to be divided into three phases, with the first phase focusing on launching several first-party games, including a new Mario Kart title.
The second phase is anticipated to bring various third-party games between October and November 2025, although developers outside of Nintendo have yet to receive access to the development kit. Finally, the third phase is expected to coincide with the Christmas campaign, featuring some of the most anticipated titles for the new console.
While the details surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 remain largely under wraps, fans are eager to learn more about potential new features, technical specifications, and how the new console will integrate with existing Switch titles. Backward compatibility has been confirmed, allowing current Switch games to be played on the new system, which adds an extra layer of excitement for those who may not upgrade immediately.
The March 27 Nintendo Direct will be available to stream live on Nintendo's official YouTube channel, and it will be accessible to viewers in various regions. For those in Mexico, the event will air at 8 a.m. Central Time. As always, the presentation will be available in both English and Japanese, with summaries and recaps to follow across social media and gaming news platforms.
In conclusion, the upcoming Nintendo Direct on March 27 promises to be a significant event for fans of the original Switch, offering a glimpse into the final games for the beloved console. While the focus will not be on the new Nintendo Switch 2, the anticipation surrounding both presentations highlights Nintendo's strategic approach to transitioning from one generation of gaming to another. As the company prepares to unveil its next-generation console, the gaming community eagerly awaits the final announcements for the current system that has captured the hearts of millions.
