Nintendo Direct E3 2021: Major Announcements Include Metroid Dread, Advance Wars Reboot, and More

Nintendo Direct E3 2021 delivered an impressive lineup of announcements, delighting fans with the revival of classic franchises and long-awaited titles for the Nintendo Switch.

Nintendo's presentation, held on June 15, 2021, offered a comprehensive look at upcoming first-party and third-party games, underscoring the company's continued focus on software innovation and rich gaming experiences. One of the most notable reveals was the announcement of 'Metroid Dread,' a new entry in the beloved Metroid series.

The game, developed by MercurySteam and Nintendo, marks the franchise's return to its 2D roots after a 15-year hiatus.

Fans had consistently requested the revival of this series, and Nintendo surprised audiences by unveiling its release date set for October 8, 2021.

The initial trailer showcased modern visuals, fresh gameplay mechanics, and underscored the game's dramatic story, honoring the legacy of Samus Aran on the Nintendo Switch. Another highlight from the E3 Direct was the return of 'Advance Wars' through 'Advance Wars 1+2 Re-Boot Camp.' This remastered collection, developed by WayForward in collaboration with Nintendo, breathes new life into the original Game Boy Advance classics.

Updated graphics, improved animations, and enhanced controls aim to appeal to both returning fans and newcomers.

Scheduled for release later in 2021, this strategic turn-based title is an important addition to the Switch library, ending years of anticipation for a return to the series. Nintendo also generated excitement with the announcement of 'WarioWare: Get It Together!'—a zany microgame compilation featuring new co-op mechanics and creative gameplay that the series is known for.

The game's arrival on September 10, 2021, addresses long-standing fan requests for a new entry tailored to the Nintendo Switch’s capabilities. The presentation devoted significant attention to 'The Legend of Zelda' series.

Beyond updates on franchise celebrations, Nintendo offered a closer look at the eagerly awaited sequel to 'The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.' A new trailer teased expanded exploration and innovative mechanics, building anticipation for the next chapter of Link’s adventure.

Additionally, Nintendo revealed a special edition Game & Watch handheld featuring classic Zelda titles, set to commemorate the franchise’s anniversary. Throughout the Nintendo Direct, the company remained focused exclusively on software, as executive leadership previously confirmed, avoiding discussions of new hardware or hardware-related rumors.

In addition to first-party titles, the showcase featured a robust selection of third-party games from independent and leading developers, signaling a packed release schedule for the remainder of 2021 on the Nintendo eShop. Nintendo’s E3 2021 Direct stands as a testament to its commitment to both innovation and honoring its storied gaming legacy.

By bringing fan-favorite series such as Metroid, Advance Wars, WarioWare, and The Legend of Zelda back into the spotlight, Nintendo continues to solidify the Nintendo Switch as one of the most diverse and content-rich platforms in gaming today.

Zelda Metroid Breath of the Wild Metroid Dread Nintendo Nintendo Direct Legend of Zelda Switch E3 Breath of the Wild 2 E3 2021 Advance Wars WarioWare Nintendo Switch The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild The Legend of Zelda Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Zelda: Breath of the Wild The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2