Nintendo fans are looking ahead to the company’s first major Nintendo Direct broadcast of 2026, following new insights shared by a trusted industry insider.
Known for its highly anticipated digital presentations, Nintendo’s Direct events have become essential viewing for gamers eager to learn about upcoming Nintendo Switch releases, first-party titles, and surprises for beloved franchises.
According to established commentator Nate, from the reputable Nate the Hate Podcast, Nintendo is planning to air its first Nintendo Direct of 2026 during the opening week of February.
This aligns with the company’s tradition of holding a key announcement early in the year.
While Nate clarified that he has yet to confirm the exact timing with his closest sources, he stated that current information points to a likely broadcast on Thursday, February 5th, 2026.
He noted, however, that if additional details become available, he will update his audience via social media channels like Twitter and BlueSky. "February is usually the month when Nintendo hosts some form of Direct, whether it's a general presentation or a Partner Showcase," Nate explained.
He added that there's ‘a consensus building around that first week of February’ for the 2026 broadcast, but he emphasized time zone differences could result in the actual date falling on a Wednesday or Thursday depending on region. While specifics about the format remain unclear, Nate cautioned that he has not verified whether the February event will be a standard Nintendo Direct or a Partner Showcase focusing on third-party titles.
"I would hope for a general Direct so Nintendo can kickstart the year with momentum and showcase upcoming first-party games, including potential highlights for The Legend of Zelda’s 40th anniversary," he remarked.
Still, he acknowledged the possibility that the presentation may take another form, promising updates once additional confirmation is available. This rumor surfaces following a series of shorter, game-focused Nintendo Directs that marked the start of 2026.
Last weekend, fans were treated to a new trailer for the highly anticipated Super Mario Galaxy Movie, featuring iconic characters such as Yoshi and Birdo.
Later this week, attention will turn to a dedicated presentation for Tomodachi Life: Living The Dream, illustrating Nintendo’s commitment to supporting both new projects and fan-favorite franchises. Looking ahead, the release schedule for the Nintendo Switch 2 is already heating up.
Noteworthy titles include Mario Tennis Fever, set to launch on February 12, 2026, Pokémon Pokopia arriving March 5, and the Super Mario Bros.
Wonder Nintendo Switch 2 Edition plus a special Meetup in Bellabel Park scheduled for March 26.
Additionally, Yoshi and the Mysterious Book is slated for a Spring 2026 release, reinforcing Nintendo’s robust pipeline of exclusive software. As anticipation for the next Nintendo Direct mounts, the gaming community awaits official confirmation and the unveiling of new titles that will define the year ahead for Nintendo Switch 2 and beyond.
Known for its highly anticipated digital presentations, Nintendo’s Direct events have become essential viewing for gamers eager to learn about upcoming Nintendo Switch releases, first-party titles, and surprises for beloved franchises.
According to established commentator Nate, from the reputable Nate the Hate Podcast, Nintendo is planning to air its first Nintendo Direct of 2026 during the opening week of February.
This aligns with the company’s tradition of holding a key announcement early in the year.
While Nate clarified that he has yet to confirm the exact timing with his closest sources, he stated that current information points to a likely broadcast on Thursday, February 5th, 2026.
He noted, however, that if additional details become available, he will update his audience via social media channels like Twitter and BlueSky. "February is usually the month when Nintendo hosts some form of Direct, whether it's a general presentation or a Partner Showcase," Nate explained.
He added that there's ‘a consensus building around that first week of February’ for the 2026 broadcast, but he emphasized time zone differences could result in the actual date falling on a Wednesday or Thursday depending on region. While specifics about the format remain unclear, Nate cautioned that he has not verified whether the February event will be a standard Nintendo Direct or a Partner Showcase focusing on third-party titles.
"I would hope for a general Direct so Nintendo can kickstart the year with momentum and showcase upcoming first-party games, including potential highlights for The Legend of Zelda’s 40th anniversary," he remarked.
Still, he acknowledged the possibility that the presentation may take another form, promising updates once additional confirmation is available. This rumor surfaces following a series of shorter, game-focused Nintendo Directs that marked the start of 2026.
Last weekend, fans were treated to a new trailer for the highly anticipated Super Mario Galaxy Movie, featuring iconic characters such as Yoshi and Birdo.
Later this week, attention will turn to a dedicated presentation for Tomodachi Life: Living The Dream, illustrating Nintendo’s commitment to supporting both new projects and fan-favorite franchises. Looking ahead, the release schedule for the Nintendo Switch 2 is already heating up.
Noteworthy titles include Mario Tennis Fever, set to launch on February 12, 2026, Pokémon Pokopia arriving March 5, and the Super Mario Bros.
Wonder Nintendo Switch 2 Edition plus a special Meetup in Bellabel Park scheduled for March 26.
Additionally, Yoshi and the Mysterious Book is slated for a Spring 2026 release, reinforcing Nintendo’s robust pipeline of exclusive software. As anticipation for the next Nintendo Direct mounts, the gaming community awaits official confirmation and the unveiling of new titles that will define the year ahead for Nintendo Switch 2 and beyond.
