Nintendo Direct E3 2021 Highlights: Metroid Dread, Advance Wars, and More Shine on Switch

Nintendo Direct at E3 2021 delivered an array of standout moments, confirming the return of beloved franchises and shining the spotlight on a host of upcoming titles for the Nintendo Switch.

After a week of reflection and following the initial rush of reactions, it’s clear which games and announcements rose above the rest for longtime fans and industry insiders alike. This year’s all-digital E3 format was a departure from past events typically held in Los Angeles, where the buzz of hands-on demos and face-to-face interviews with developers often shaped the excitement.

Despite the remote approach, the Nintendo Direct presentation maintained its tradition of delivering surprises and crowd-pleasing reveals directly to a global audience, accessible from home on the Nintendo eShop and worldwide livestreams. Metroid Dread, developed by MercurySteam in close collaboration with Nintendo, was the runaway star of the show.

Announced for release on Nintendo Switch on October 8, 2021, this highly anticipated installment marks the first new entry in the classic 2D Metroid series in nearly two decades.

Its unveiling was met with enthusiastic praise across the board, with industry commentators expressing excitement at seeing Samus Aran’s return.

The revival of the franchise represents, in the words of one senior editor, “a real treat for fans, indicating this title will be something truly special.” Advance Wars 1+2: Re-Boot Camp also grabbed headlines with its modern reimagining of Intelligent Systems' beloved tactical RPGs.

Developed in partnership with WayForward, the collection updates the original Game Boy Advance titles with new visuals and enhanced features, debuting on the Nintendo Switch.

For many, this announcement rekindled nostalgia and hope that more classic franchises might be revived for current hardware. Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, developed by Ubisoft, returned to the spotlight, promising another whimsical strategy adventure starring Nintendo and Ubisoft’s eccentric mascots.

The follow-up to the critically acclaimed original title was highlighted for its vibrant aesthetic and inventive gameplay. Notably, Limited Run Games entertained fans with reveals such as River City Girls 2.

Other announcements fueling excitement included the debut of Game & Watch: The Legend of Zelda, and confirmation that third-party hits like Super Monkey Ball: Banana Mania and Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot are arriving on Nintendo Switch. Visual novel fans welcomed the unveiling of Danganronpa: Decadence for Switch, while narrative-driven experiences such as Life Is Strange Remastered Collection and Life Is Strange: True Colors were given concrete release windows, further expanding the platform’s diverse software lineup. With The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2 also receiving a new trailer and development updates, Nintendo affirmed its commitment to delivering standout first-party titles, continuing to energize the Switch’s software pipeline.

As excitement from E3 settles, players and industry watchers alike are eager to see how these launches will further cement the Switch’s place in gaming history. What were your favorites from Nintendo’s E3 2021 showcase? Let us know which announcements stood out to you and what you’re most looking forward to on the Nintendo Switch.

Metroid Metroid Dread Nintendo Switch E3 E3 2021 Advance Wars Nintendo Switch Nintendo Direct