Princess Peach: Showtime! Marks Etsunobu Ebisu’s Directorial Return on Nintendo Switch

Nintendo Switch has welcomed the arrival of Princess Peach: Showtime!, a vibrant new platformer that not only gives fans a fresh adventure starring the iconic princess but also signals the directorial return of renowned game developer Etsunobu Ebisu.

Released on March 22, 2024, Princess Peach: Showtime! is developed by Good-Feel in collaboration with Nintendo, and represents a significant milestone in both the franchise and Ebisu’s storied career. Etsunobu Ebisu began his career at Konami as a programmer, where he contributed to classics like The Adventures of Bayou Billy, Kid Dracula, and Batman Returns.

His first experience directing came with the widely acclaimed Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon, released in 1997.

Following his directorial debut, Ebisu stepped into the role of producer for multiple high-profile Konami titles, including Castlevania, Castlevania: Legacy of Darkness, Castlevania: Circle of the Moon, and Konami Krazy Racers. In 2005, Ebisu co-founded Good-Feel after departing from Konami, teaming up with several former colleagues.

Since its inception, Good-Feel has enjoyed a close partnership with Nintendo, producing beloved titles for various Nintendo platforms.

Notably, Good-Feel developed Wario Land: Shake It!, Kirby’s Epic Yarn, Wii Play: Motion, and Yoshi’s Woolly World, with Ebisu serving as producer on each project. With Princess Peach: Showtime!, Ebisu resumes his role as director—a position he hadn’t held since Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon—while also continuing as producer.

This dual responsibility underscores his creative leadership and experienced guidance in game development, bringing a distinct vision to the new Nintendo Switch title. Early reviews have praised the game for its inventive design, engaging progression, and playful mechanics.

Outlets like Nintendo Life highlighted the game’s vibrant style, deft level design, and assortment of secrets to discover.

According to their review, Princess Peach: Showtime! offers creativity and excitement in abundance, with imaginative outfits, memorable boss battles, and a wealth of new gameplay mechanics.

While noting minor performance hiccups, critics recognized the game as a stellar showcase of Nintendo’s enduring ability to craft memorable experiences. Princess Peach: Showtime! is available now on the Nintendo Switch eShop and at retail.

The title stands as both a tribute to Princess Peach’s enduring popularity and a testament to Etsunobu Ebisu’s lasting impact on the industry, marking a triumphant return to the director’s chair for one of game development’s quiet legends.

Nintendo Switch Konami Peach Nintendo Switch Good-Feel Princess Peach Princess Peach: Showtime developer Princess Peach Showtime Etsunobu Ebisu Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon Wario Land Shake It Kirby’s Epic Yarn Wii Play Motion Yoshi’s Woolly World Castlevania