Gaming

Everything you need to know about the long-awaited Nintendo Direct, From Zelda to Splatoon 3

Feb 18 2021
Written by Ed Nightingale

Splatoon 3.(Nintendo)

It’s been almost two years since the last full Nintendo Direct and with the release schedule looking a little light, it’s about time we got some big news.

And while it was overall lacking in big heavy hitting news (and the Zelda sequel we’re all anticipating), there’s still a whole host of new games coming to the Switch very soon.

Here’s the top news we found out…

Splatoon 3 is on the way

Saved for the very end of the video, Splatoon 3 was confirmed for a 2022 release. Taking place in the Splatlands, it seems to have a post-apocalyptic vibe and features new customisation options, a new bow weapon, new movement abilities as players now launch into battle from above, and an adorable chicken-fish-pet-thing. It’s a long way off, but we should get more info soon.

Skyward Sword HD due in July

A remastered version of the 2011 Wii release, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword’s divisive motion controls will be much smoother on the Switch in addition to an enhanced frame rate and graphics. And for worried Switch Lite players, the game will have a new option that allows you to control Link’s sword with the right stick instead. A new set of Joy-Con controllers will also be released. Breath of the Wild 2? Still no news we’re afraid.

**A new Smash character enters the fray, according to Nintendo Direct**

Pyra/Mythra will be the next character to join Smash Bros Ultimate. Originally featured in the fantastic JRPG Xenoblade Chronicles 2, they’re the two-in-one ally of lead character Rex. With a mixture of sword attacks and super speed, this duo will also bring a new themed stage to the game. Their release will be announced soon.

Mario Golf: Super Rush announced

Nintendo are bringing another Mario sports game to the Switch in the form of Mario Golf: Super Rush. It features familiar Mushroom Kingdom folk teeing off in a variety of multiplayer modes, including the brand new Speed Golf mode that sees players racing through each course.

Better yet, there’ll be a single-player story mode starring your Mii character earning experience points as they compete in golfing challenges. Pre-order now before the release on 25 June.

Nintendo Switch Mario edition

Animal Crossing x Mario Bros crossover

For those still tinkering away at their islands, or those looking for a reason to return, Nintendo are bringing Mario themed items to Animal Crossing. There’ll be costumes, decorative items, and even warp pipes so you can fast travel around your island. It’ll all be available on 1 March following a free update on 25 February.

More major third-party releases

Fall Guys and Outer Wilds are both due out in summer, while the brilliant free-to-play shooter Apex Legends will be out on 9 March. These are three massive third-party releases that will be very welcome in the Switch library.

New tactical RPG from Square Enix

One of the most intriguing announcements was a new game, Project TRIANGLE STRATEGY (working title), that features turn-based strategy battles in a stunning retro style similar to RPG Octopath Traveller. The game will be released in 2022, but a free demo is available right now.

And more from Nintendo Direct…

Miitopia

Knockout City

DC Super Hero Girls: Teen Power

Famicom Detective Club

Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville Complete Edition

Legend of Mana

Samurai Warriors 5

World’s End Club

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity Expansion Pass

Ghosts n Goblins Resurrection

Capcom Arcade Stadium

No More Heroes 3

Neon White

Bravely Default II

Tales from the Borderlands

Stubbs the Zombie in Rebel Without a Pulse

Hades (physical release)

Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection

SaGa Frontier Remastered

Still, considering it’s the 35th anniversary of Zelda and Metroid this year, Nintendo Direct left us wanting…

So far it seems like Zelda and Metroid are celebrating their anniversaries and birthdays the same way the rest of us have recently: they aren't.

— Brian Altano 🍕 (@agentbizzle) February 17, 2021