 |
| Fairy Tail Dungeons is one of the new releases featured in this week’s Nintendo Download. |
By Jon Scarr
This week’s Nintendo Download feels like a clean way to start the year. It is not trying to do too much, but it gives you a few good reasons to pick up a controller again after the holidays.
There are games you can jump into with other people, a couple of longer adventures if you want something to settle into, a demo that is easy to check out, and a reminder that the holiday eShop sale is almost done. It fits the first week of the year without forcing anything.
Here is everything included in this week’s Nintendo Download.
New Year Game Highlights
If you want to start the year with something fast and a little loud, Kirby Air Riders on Nintendo Switch 2 is the obvious pick. It is the kind of game that works well when people are gathered around and just want to get moving.
EA Madden NFL 26 also gets the spotlight this week. It is positioned as an easy way to set up friendly competition, whether that turns into a quick match or something that lasts the whole afternoon.
If you are in the mood to step away for a bit, the free demo for FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE is available now. It is a good chance to see how it looks and runs before it releases later this month.
You can also begin a new journey in Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Choosing Chikorita, Tepig or Totodile as your first partner sets the tone as you explore Lumiose City and ease into something longer.
And if you are checking back in on familiar ground, Animal Crossing: New Horizons gets a nod as well. It is a reminder to reconnect with your island ahead of the free update and the paid Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade pack arriving later this month.
Nintendo eShop Sale
The Hits for the Holidays Sale is still running on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, but time is running out. This sale includes discounts on a wide range of digital games and wraps up on January 4 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
If you picked up eShop credit over the holidays, this is likely the last chance to use it here.
Also New on Nintendo eShop
Nintendo Switch
- Eradicator Genesis – Available Jan. 3
- FAIRY TAIL: DUNGEONS – Available Jan. 7
- Gridz Keeper – Available Jan. 7
- M.A.U.S – Available Jan. 2
- SnapCat: Mia’s Cozy Adventure – Available Jan. 6
Wrapping Up This Week’s Nintendo Download
This Nintendo Download feels like a clean starting point for 2026. There is enough here to jump back into familiar games, try something new, or just poke around the eShop one more time before the sale ends.
It is not a big update, but it fits the moment. Sometimes starting the year doesn't need fireworks. It just needs a few good places to begin. What are you checking out first?
Comments
Post a Comment
Comments are moderated. Please stay respectful and on topic.