Nintendo Switch 2 Direct April 2025: Every Game Announcement, Hardware Reveal, and Launch Feature

Nintendo has officially unveiled the Nintendo Switch 2 in its highly-anticipated April 2025 Direct, offering fans and industry professionals a comprehensive first look at the new generation of hardware, software, and platform features.

This broadcast, streamed worldwide, revealed key launch titles, notable returning franchises, exclusive Switch 2 enhancements, and several hardware innovations that are set to shape the future of Nintendo’s ecosystem.

Here’s a complete breakdown of every announcement, release date, and hardware detail from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. ## Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World Lead June 2025 Launch Kicking off the presentation was the reveal of "Mario Kart World," launching alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025.

This new Mario Kart entry breaks free from traditional racetracks, letting players roam freely across expansive courses, explore unique locales in Free Roam mode, and snap photos with friends.

The innovative Knockout Tour mode provides competitive, non-stop racing action.

Nintendo confirmed that further details about Mario Kart World will be shared in a dedicated Direct on April 17 at 6am PT. ## Online and Local Innovations: GameChat and GameShare Debut Nintendo showcased GameChat, a feature new to Switch 2 that allows players to voice chat, share screens, and hang out virtually using the right Joy-Con 2’s C Button.

This tool is designed to make online play feel as connected and social as playing together in person. Additionally, GameShare enables local multiplayer experiences where players can temporarily share compatible games with up to three other Switch systems—even across Switch 1 and Switch 2—using a single copy.

Clubhouse Games will debut this feature with future support coming to major first-party titles, including Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury and Super Mario Odyssey. ## Hardware Upgrades: Processing Power, Joy-Con 2, and Storage The Switch 2 features a larger, vibrant display and improved visuals enabled by enhanced processing speeds.

The newly redesigned Joy-Con 2 uses magnetic connectors and doubles as a mouse for select games.

Traditional cartridges have been updated to faster red game carts, and users will require Micro SD Express cards for storage, a departure from past models.

The Switch 2 Pro Controller now includes a built-in headphone jack and new customizable GL and GR buttons, enhancing player comfort and accessibility. ## Enhanced Classics and Switch 2 Editions A variety of hit Nintendo Switch titles are being reissued as Switch 2 Editions with upgraded visuals, special controls, and exclusive enhancements.

Confirmed games include Super Mario Party Jamboree, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, Kirby and the Forgotten Land, Metroid Prime 4, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

Owners of the original games can purchase affordable Upgrade Packs to access these new features on Switch 2. ## Major Third-Party and Indie Game Announcements The Direct highlighted a wide range of third-party and indie games launching for Switch 2 in 2025 and beyond: - "Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition" (including the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion) - "Street Fighter 6," featuring exclusive party modes and amiibo functionality - "Drag x Drive" – a new 3v3 driving game utilizing both Joy-Con 2 controllers - "Daemon x Machina: Titanic Scion" (September 5, 2025) - "Split Fiction,” “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4,” “Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut,” and “Hollow Knight: Silksong” - “Borderlands 4,” “Civilization VII,” “Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition,” “Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade,” and “Star Wars Outlaws” ## Exclusive Services and Expansions Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers will have access to classic GameCube games with enhanced resolution and online play—launching with The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, SOULCALIBUR II, and F-Zero GX, with more to come. ## Upcoming Releases and Launch Pricing Nintendo announced the Switch 2 will be available in two configurations: a standalone system priced at $449.99 / €469.99 / £395.99, and a bundle with a digital copy of Mario Kart World for $499.99 / €509.99 / £429.99. Other titles launching June 5, 2025, include Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster, Deltarune Chapters 3+4, Survival Kids, Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, and more.

Key releases extend into 2026, headed by FromSoftware’s new title "The Duskbloods." ## Conclusion From major hardware innovations to an impressive third-party lineup and classic Nintendo franchises reimagined for the new generation, the April 2025 Nintendo Switch 2 Direct underscores Nintendo’s commitment to blending innovation with fan-favorite experiences.

With robust launch options, new platforms for connectivity, and exclusive Switch 2 features, 2025 is poised to be a landmark year for Nintendo and gamers worldwide.

Stay tuned to the next Mario Kart World Direct and future updates as the Switch 2 era begins.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch 2 Switch 2 Direct Switch