The holiday season is almost here, and Nintendo is bringing plenty of cheer with an exciting lineup of games, consoles, and accessories for every gamer on your list. I attended Nintendo’s Holiday Event in Toronto to get an early look at what’s coming this season. I went hands-on with some of the biggest upcoming titles of 2025 and more. From the action-packed Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment to the gorgeous Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and even a sneak peek at Pokémon Legends: Z-A, it’s clear Nintendo is going all out this season. Here’s a closer look at the event, what’s in store for players and what’s sure to top wish lists this holiday.
A sneak peek at exciting upcoming Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 titles
Nintendo’s got plenty in store for gamers this holiday season, with new adventures for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. From epic battles in Hyrule to sci-fi adventures in deep space, and even a return to the world of Pokémon, there are a lot of upcoming Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 titles to get excited about. Let’s take a closer look at all the upcoming games:
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
Release Date: November 6th, 2025
An upcoming title I was able to go hands-on with was Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment on the Nintendo Switch 2. The timed demo allowed me to play as three distinct characters. Zelda, Rauru, and his sister Mineru, each bringing their own unique combat style to the battlefield. Zelda excels as a strategic spellcaster, using magical runes and gadgets to control crowds and support allies. Rauru channels telekinetic power through his staff for wide-reaching, devastating attacks. Mineru rounds out the trio as a mechanical mastermind, deploying Zonai machines and turrets to dominate the field from afar.
The game looked and ran great, maintaining smooth framerates even with dozens of enemies on screen. Zonai items were a big highlight, offering creative ways to tackle each battle. I used the new Zonai Flame Emitter to unleash a flamethrower-style attack that cleared out enemy hordes in seconds. With new abilities and that signature Musou chaos, Age of Imprisonment is shaping up to be a must-play.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
Release Date: October 16th, 2025
I was extremely excited to go hands-on with Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. We were able to play through two scenarios. One involved entering a Wild Zone to catch and battle Pokémon in a city area. While the other took place in the Battle Zone, where we challenged NPC trainers. The gameplay feels fast and kinetic, allowing for quick Pokémon swaps mid-battle and fluid transitions between exploration and combat. The new streamlined menu system is a big upgrade, and it makes managing items and Pokémon a breeze.
Performance-wise, the game looks great and runs smoothly, featuring a vibrant and colourful art style. With its improvements to presentation, refined gameplay, and solid performance, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is shaping up to be something special.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
Release Date: December 4th, 2025
I got to try out Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition with mouse mode, and it is a blast. Thanks to the Joy-Con 2 Controller’s advanced sensors, aiming feels as precise as using a PC mouse, especially in combat. Switching between analog and mouse controls is instant; simply turn the Joy-Con 2 Controller on its side and glide it on a surface. It’s intuitive, responsive, and really elevates the first-person experience. If you are curious about mouse mode and other games that support it, check my full article detailing the feature here.
Visually, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is stunning on the Nintendo Switch 2. The demo I played offers richly detailed environments, dynamic lighting, and atmospheric effects that make every corridor feel alive. With tight controls and gorgeous presentation, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is shaping up to be a true showpiece for the Switch 2 this holiday season.
New Nintendo Game Releases
Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2
Release Date: Available Now
The interstellar Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 return remastered for the Nintendo Switch family of consoles. Both titles feature enhanced visuals, smoother performance, and refined motion controls, making this the best way to experience Mario’s galactic adventures in their most dazzling form yet.
Hades II – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
Release Date: Available Now
The roguelike sequel arrives in style on the Nintendo Switch 2. With new gods, weapons, and a darker mythological twist, Hades II offers plenty of replayability and challenges for the hardcore gamer on your list.
Hollow Knight: Silksong – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
Release Date: Available Today
The long-awaited indie sequel delivers fluid movement, precise combat, and a stunning world filled with secrets. If you have a gamer on your gift-giving list who loves a challenge Hollow Knight: Silksong is a great choice.
EA Sports FC 26
Release Date: Available Now
The beautiful game arrives on the Nintendo Switch 2 with realistic animations and new control schemes tailored for the Joy-Con 2 controllers. Whether you’re managing your dream team or playing co-op locally, FC 26 shines on the new hardware.
Family Holiday Fun on the Nintendo Switch 2
Mario Kart World
The Mario Kart experience takes the checkered flag on the Nintendo Switch 2 with expanded tracks, karts, and open-world fun. You can team up locally with up to three others on a single system, engaging in modes like Grand Prix, Knockout Tour, and Battle. With new modes, real-time weather effects, and online play, Mario Kart World is pure racing fun for the whole family.
Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV
If you are looking for family fun this holiday season on the Nintendo Switch 2, this is one of my family’s favourites this year. The new Jamboree TV mode takes advantage of the Joy-Con 2 Controller’s sensors for interactive party games, while the Nintendo Switch 2 USB-C Camera brings everyone into the fun.
Donkey Kong Bananza
The king of the jungle is back in Donkey Kong Bananza, a critically acclaimed platformer that’s equal parts smashing and exploring. With lush levels, hidden treasures, and challenging boss fights, it’s one of my personal favourites of the year, and a fun experience for gamers of all ages.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World
Kirby returns in a brand-new expansion that adds Star-Crossed World, a dreamy realm filled with gravity-bending puzzles and cosmic foes. Enhanced graphics, improved performance, and new copy abilities make this the definitive way to experience Kirby’s latest adventure.
Nintendo Switch Family of Hardware on Display
There was also a wide selection of Nintendo Switch consoles on display, including exclusive bundles perfect for the holidays. Here’s a look at what’s available for the gamer on your list:
Nintendo Switch 2 Console
The latest and greatest in Nintendo gaming is here! The Nintendo Switch 2 delivers faster performance, sharper visuals, and upgraded Joy-Con 2 controllers featuring enhanced motion sensors, mouse mode, and haptic feedback. It’s the best way to experience Nintendo’s newest titles with friends and family.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Bundle
This special edition bundle includes the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware, Joy-Con 2 controllers, and a digital copy of Pokémon Legends: Z-A Bundle. A perfect gift for Pokémon fans looking to “Catch Em’ All” on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Release Date: October 16th, 2025
Nintendo Switch + Nintendo Switch Sports + Leg Strap Bundle
The ideal entry point for new players, this bundle includes the Nintendo Switch console, Nintendo Switch Sports, and a leg strap accessory for motion-based soccer and fitness fun. It’s a great family bundle at a great price and will get everyone moving!
Wrapping Up the Nintendo Holiday Event
The Nintendo Holiday Event in Toronto was a blast, offering a look at exciting games and holiday bundles all wrapped in festive spirit. From going hands-on with some of the most anticipated upcoming titles like Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, to exploring the new hardware and family-friendly releases, there’s truly something for everyone this season. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or ready to expand your own collection, Nintendo’s 2025 lineup promises to make this holiday one of the most exciting yet for gamers of all ages.
See the full line of Nintendo Switch video games available at Bestbuy.ca
