Nintendo’s latest showcase put the spotlight on third-party titles coming to both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025 featured more than 30 games, with a mix of new reveals, release dates, demos, and updated looks at previously announced titles.
One of the biggest surprises was Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, a brand-new RPG set in Capcom’s monster-taming universe. Square Enix also made a strong showing with multiple reveals, including Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, Octopath Traveler 0, and the HD-2D action-RPG The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales. Fighting fans weren’t left out either, with DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO confirming its November release date on Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch. And, the first Nintendo Switch 2 appearance of Persona 3 Reload.
Sports, horror, and rhythm games also shared the stage. EA SPORTS FC 26, Madden NFL 26, Cronos: The New Dawn, and Just Dance 2026 all received spotlight time. Nintendo also confirmed a new wave of ports and remasters, from PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC to Yakuza Kiwami 2.
With so many titles coming this fall and into 2026, there’s a lot to keep track of. Here’s a breakdown of the biggest announcements from the showcase.
Monster Hunter Stories 3 Twisted Reflection roars to life on Nintendo Switch 2
Capcom kicked off the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025 with a major announcement, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection. This marks the third entry in the turn-based RPG spin-off series, and it’s coming to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026.
The trailer introduced a new story set during an environmental crisis, where a mysterious monster bearing a symbol of misfortune is born. Its arrival triggers conflict between two kingdoms, with the heirs of both nations setting off on a journey into forbidden territory to uncover the truth. The game promises to blend narrative, exploration, and turn-based combat familiar to fans of the first two games.
Capcom confirmed that this new entry continues the series’ Rider-based gameplay, where you befriend and battle alongside monsters. The art style keeps the colorful look of previous titles, with enhanced visuals tailored to the Nintendo Switch 2. The footage also teased a few returning Monsties and showcased a new region filled with wide open fields, mountain paths, and war-torn ruins. Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is currently set to launch sometime in 2026.
Square Enix Reveals Final Fantasy Tactics, Octopath Traveler 0, and more
Square Enix had a major presence during the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025, revealing a mix of remakes, sequels, and brand-new projects. Three of the biggest RPGs shown were Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, Octopath Traveler 0, and The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales. All three are on the way, with some also coming to the original Nintendo Switch.
The return of Final Fantasy Tactics is a big announcement for long-time fans. This updated version features fully voiced dialogue, enhanced visuals, and gameplay improvements. Strategic turn-based battles return, where unit placement and terrain matter just as much as class skills. It launches on both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch on September 30.
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is a brand-new action RPG created by the developers behind Octopath Traveler and Bravely Default. Unlike the other Square Enix titles, this game is only releasing on Nintendo Switch 2 as far as Nintendo platforms go. It combines HD-2D visuals with real-time action and exploration, set in a world shaped by time and mystery. A playable demo is available now on Nintendo eShop, ahead of its full release in 2026.
Octopath Traveler 0 is a prequel to the original game and puts you in control of a custom protagonist. You’ll build your party from over 30 recruitable characters and restore your hometown across a branching campaign. It keeps the series’ HD-2D visuals and familiar turn-based combat while introducing new story features. It launches for both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch on December 4.
EA SPORTS brings Football and Futbol to Nintendo Switch and Switch 2
EA showed up to the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025 with two big updates for sports fans. Madden NFL 26 and EA SPORTS FC 26 are coming to Nintendo consoles.
Madden NFL 26 is launching August 14 on Nintendo Switch 2. This version includes several features pulled from EA’s mainline football engine, including QB DNA, realistic weather effects, and updated player-specific traits. EA says the gameplay will reflect real-world coaching strategies and play styles. Madden NFL 26 on Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders are available now at Best Buy Canada.
EA SPORTS FC 26 will be available on both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 starting September 26. The latest entry brings refined gameplay based on community feedback, including new Archetypes inspired by iconic players. The game also introduces Manager Live Challenges, letting you guide your club through season-long storylines. Whether you’re playing casually or building your dream squad, EA says there’s something for everyone this year. EA Sports FC 26 pre-orders are available now at Best Buy Canada.
Both games mark a clear commitment from EA to support Nintendo’s next-gen hardware, while still including fans on Nintendo Switch. With launch dates set and pre-orders already available, sports season is almost here for Nintendo fans.
Cozy vibes and party games light up the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase
Not everything in the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025 was about epic battles or high-stakes drama. A few games focused on lighter, more social experiences for families and casual players.
Just Dance 2026 Edition returns to Nintendo Switch on October 14 with 40 new tracks ranging from pop hits to timeless favourites. Songs include “APT.” by ROSÉ & Bruno Mars, “Houdini” by Dua Lipa, and “Hung Up” by Madonna. It also features new game modes like Party Mode and Workout Mode, along with support for up to six local players. Whether you’re dancing solo or getting everyone involved, the latest Just Dance is built for easy pick-up-and-play fun.
Chillin’ by the Fire takes a completely different approach. This cozy campfire simulator is available today for Nintendo Switch 2. You can build and grow campfires across peaceful environments like beaches, forests, and mountaintops. It supports up to four people online or locally using GameShare, and a compatible USB-C camera lets you appear in-game with CameraPlay. It’s a laid-back, creative experience that focuses on relaxation instead of competition.
Rounding out the group, Hello Kitty Island Adventure – Wheatflour Wonderland adds new content to the main game with a DLC pack launching this fall. This update introduces Cogimyun, a new Sanrio character, and a brand-new area where you can craft wands, explore, and unlock story content. It’s coming to Nintendo Switch later this year.
Whether you’re looking to dance, chill, or explore cute worlds, the showcase had a little something for everyone in the family.
Action and RPG Fans have plenty to look forward to
The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025 also had a strong showing for action and RPG fans, with several well-known franchises making their way to Nintendo Switch 2.
DRAGON BALL: Sparking! ZERO launches November 14 for both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch. The game features 360-degree movement, fast-paced combat, and the largest character roster in Dragon Ball history. With over 180 playable fighters, you can battle solo or team up in Versus modes, and use Sparking! Mode to unleash signature attacks. Custom Battle mode also lets you build your own matchups and scenarios.
Persona 3 Reload is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on October 23. This updated version of the classic RPG reimagines the original game with modern visuals and mechanics. You’ll explore the mysterious Dark Hour and fight alongside your team to uncover its secrets. The Nintendo Switch 2 version brings the full experience with no compromises.
Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2 are both arriving on Nintendo Switch 2 on November 13. These remastered beat-’em-up action games follow Kazuma Kiryu’s story through the criminal underworld of Kamurocho. Kiwami 2 was newly announced for the platform, while Kiwami gets a visual and performance upgrade. If you already own the original Kiwami on Nintendo Switch, a discounted upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 version will be available.
Also shown was PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC, a modern remaster of the 3D platformer. It includes updated graphics and smoother controls while keeping the same colorful worlds and arcade-style action. It’s coming to both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch on September 26.
Hyrule Warriors Age of Imprisonment launches this Winter on Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo shared a new look at Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment during the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025. The game is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 this winter and expands on a previously revealed story set during the Imprisoning War.
This spinoff takes place before the events of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, focusing on large-scale battles tied to Hyrule’s distant past. Characters like Princess Zelda, King Rauru, and others take the front lines in Musou-style combat across familiar and new regions of the kingdom. The footage shown builds on what was previously teased, highlighting key characters and large-scale battles. As with earlier Hyrule Warriors games, the action focuses on defeating waves of enemies while progressing through a story connected to the broader Zelda timeline.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is set to release this winter on Nintendo Switch 2.
Horror and adventure take the spotlight
The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025 also featured a few darker and more atmospheric titles. Whether you’re into survival horror, sci-fi exploration, or storybook adventures, this group of games stood out for different reasons.
Star Wars Outlaws arrives on Nintendo Switch 2 on September 4. Set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, you play as Kay Vess, a scoundrel looking for freedom while navigating a galaxy of crime syndicates. The game supports motion controls, gyroscope-assisted aiming, and touch input. Star Wars Outlaws pre-orders are available now at Best Buy Canada.
Hela is a non-linear adventure game inspired by Scandinavian folklore. You play as a small mouse exploring handcrafted forests, lakes, and hidden ruins. The game can be played solo or in two-player co-op, both online and locally. It features puzzle-solving and light combat in a relaxing, open-ended format. Hela launches on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026.
Cronos: The New Dawn launches September 5 on Nintendo Switch 2. From the team behind the Silent Hill 2 remake, this third-person survival horror game spans two timelines, 1980s Poland and a brutal future. You’ll need to stop creatures from fusing into stronger abominations while using time as both a tool and a threat. The trailer hinted at tense stealth, combat, and shifting environments.
This group of games showed how diverse the upcoming library is on Nintendo hardware, balancing high-profile franchises with quieter, more atmospheric experiences.
More Games on the way for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase July 2025 closed with a rapid-fire montage of additional titles confirmed for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. These games span a variety of genres and release windows, rounding out an already packed slate.
Borderlands 4 is set for October 3 on Nintendo Switch 2. The latest entry takes the loot-heavy shooter to a new planet called Kairos, with chaotic action and stylized visuals the series is known for. Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is available now. This non-linear RPG lets you shape your story across generations in a battle for survival and power.
Apex Legends launches on Nintendo Switch 2 August 5. A free Legendary Pathfinder skin, “P.A.T.H,” is available starting today for those logging in on Nintendo Switch. SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance arrives August 29 on Nintendo Switch. This 2D action-platformer revives the classic ninja series with hand-drawn visuals and a free demo on eShop today.
NBA BOUNCE offers an arcade-style basketball experience with a rise-from-rookie story mode. It’s coming to Nintendo Switch on September 26. Goodnight Universe is a narrative adventure starring a six-month-old baby developing psychic powers. It launches November 11 for both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted arrives October 23 for both Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch. This HD remaster brings back the original strategy hit with upscaled visuals, new levels, and hidden secrets from across the series’ 15-year history. Once Upon a KATAMARI arrives October 24 on Nintendo Switch, with all-new stages and four-player multiplayer.
Together, these announcements show that third-party support remains strong, with both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 set for a packed second half of 2025 and beyond. Which announcement caught your eye? Let us know what you’re most excited to play in the comments below.
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