 |
| The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time returns on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. |
By Jon Scarr
The Nintendo Direct for June 2026 was packed. Nintendo shared news about new Nintendo Switch 2 exclusives, returning series, major Square Enix news, RPGs, family-friendly updates, and one huge Zelda surprise.
This was one of those Directs where you almost needed a notepad beside you. Star Fox is back in June, Splatoon Raiders is coming in July, Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave arrives in September, Nintendo Switch Sports Resort returns to Wuhu Island in October, Xenoblade Genesis is set for 2027, Pokémon Pokopia has new content on the way, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. I like when a Nintendo Direct throws in a few curveballs instead of only safe follow-ups, and this one had a lot to talk about.
Star Fox Gets A Demo Before Launch
Star Fox is set to launch on June 25, but Nintendo gave Fox McCloud another push during today's Nintendo Direct. A free demo is now live on the Nintendo eShop.
Star Fox on Nintendo Switch 2 isn't just a straight rerelease of Star Fox 64. The Lylat System mission is still at the centre, but the game has new character art, reworked stages, voiced dialogue, detailed cutscenes, and an orchestral soundtrack. Optional Joy-Con 2 controller mouse targeting also lets you aim differently in the Nintendo Switch 2 version.
Star Fox works when the flying, aiming, and dodging all feel sharp, so the new targeting option is the part I want to try first. GameChat support is part of the package too, along with new modes and online multiplayer. With launch only a couple of weeks away, the demo is a great way to go hands on before launch.
Splatoon Raiders Turns July Into A Full Series Push
Splatoon Raiders launches for Nintendo Switch 2 on July 23, 2026, and it is taking the series in a more focused single-player direction. The game sends you to the Spirhalite Islands with Deep Cut, and the treasure hunt gives Nintendo room to explore Splatoon outside the usual turf-war structure.
You can customize your look, use weapons and upgradeable gadgets, and take on Salmonid enemies with a Deep Cut member riding beside you in an Exploration Bot. Nintendo is also building the month around more than the game itself. Daily comics start on the Nintendo Today! app on June 23, the Splatoon 3 North American League 2026 Playoffs run June 20 and June 21, and a Splatoon Raiders-themed Splatfest runs from July 10 through July 12.
A dedicated Splatoon Raiders Direct is set for June 30. New Joy-Con 2 controller colours inspired by Deep Cut will also release the same day as the game. July now looks like a full Splatoon month on Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch Sports Resort Returns To Wuhu Island
Nintendo Switch Sports Resort launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 on October 22, 2026, and yes, Wuhu Island is back. That alone will get people talking. Wii Sports Resort gave that location a lot of personality, so bringing it back for a new sports game is a smart nostalgia play.
The game uses Joy-Con 2 controllers across 12 sports. Boxing, Archery, Table Tennis, Basketball, Golf, Bowling, Volleyball, Tennis, Thumb Wrestling, Power Cruising, Skateboarding, and Prop Plane are all confirmed. Skateboarding uses Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, and the lineup mixes returning sports with a few choices that fit Wuhu Island well.
Jump Rope warm-ups, Mii characters, Sportsmates, local multiplayer, and single-person play are also included. This is exactly the kind of game that is perfect for family and friends to play together. Motion-control sports are easy to understand, and Wuhu Island gives the sports lineup a stronger identity.
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave Starts A New Battle On September 17
Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave launches for Nintendo Switch 2 on September 17, 2026. The new Fire Emblem game centres on the Heroic Games and four heroes named Cai, Dietrich, Theodora, and Leda.
The structure is clear already. Between matches in the Heroic Games, you can explore the capital city of Dagsion, train, strengthen bonds, recruit allies, and travel outside the city walls to gain more experience. That gives the game room for the usual Fire Emblem relationship-building and tactical growth outside battle.
Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave Dagdan Collection is coming too. The special edition includes a steel game case, character art cards, a map of Dagda, and an artbook. Fire Emblem has been one of Nintendo’s most dependable strategy series for years, and this one already has a strong tournament angle with four new leads.
Xenoblade Genesis Arrives In 2027 After Three Nintendo Switch 2 Editions
Xenoblade had one of the bigger surprises of the June 2026 Nintendo Direct. Xenoblade Genesis was announced for Nintendo Switch 2 and is coming in 2027, with more details planned later. Nintendo didn’t show much yet, but a new Xenoblade game is the kind of reveal that gets RPG fans talking right away.
Nintendo also announced Nintendo Switch 2 Editions for the three Xenoblade Chronicles games. Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition launches today digitally on June 9, 2026. Xenoblade Chronicles 2 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition arrives July 30, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition arrives December 3.
The first Xenoblade Chronicles gets the largest upgrade of the three, with 60 fps, 4K TV support on compatible displays, full HD handheld play, a high-speed vehicle, racing modes, equipment designs, and added Heart-to-Heart voiceover. Physical versions are also planned across July 30, October 1, and December 3. If you already own Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition on Nintendo Switch, an upgrade pack is available. Nintendo is making sure the full Xenoblade run has a place on Nintendo Switch 2 before Genesis arrives.
FromSoftware Sets A Summer Network Test For The Duskbloods
The Duskbloods remains one of the more unusual Nintendo Switch 2 exclusives coming in 2026. FromSoftware’s multiplayer action game launches in 2026, and a closed network test is coming in summer 2026.
You play as one of the Bloodsworn, fighting against and alongside up to seven others. The game uses unique weapons, abilities, and blood-based powers that change your character and combat style. That is a very different pitch from the usual Nintendo first-party lineup, which is part of why it sticks out.
The big question is how FromSoftware’s multiplayer-first structure will work on Nintendo Switch 2. A closed network test is the right next step because a game like this needs real online stress before release. The Duskbloods already has curiosity on its side. Now Nintendo Switch 2 owners will get a better look at how it plays before the full game arrives.
Orbitals Launches September 3 On Nintendo Switch 2
Orbitals was already on my radar before today's Nintendo Direct. Now we know when it’s coming. Shapefarm and Kepler Interactive’s retro anime-inspired two-player co-op adventure launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 on September 3, 2026.
The game follows Maki and Omura as they head beyond the Storm Wall to save their home. Orbitals is an asymmetric two-player co-op adventure, so each person should handle a different role instead of both of you doing the same thing. Local split-screen is confirmed, and the game also supports local or online GameShare.
Preorders are available today, June 9. A Deluxe Edition includes a digital soundtrack, two ship skins, a digital artbook, and two character costumes. Multi-language voiceover support is also included at launch. Smaller Nintendo Switch 2 exclusives can get lost in a Direct this packed, but Orbitals has the kind of two-person co-op idea I always want to see more of.
Final Fantasy Resonance Takes The Series Into HD-2D
Final Fantasy Resonance was one of Square Enix’s biggest announcements during the Nintendo Direct. It is the first HD-2D game in the Final Fantasy series, and it launches on October 22, 2026.
The game is based on the first story arc of Final Fantasy Brave Exvius, but this is not a direct mobile port. It has been rebuilt as a console RPG with chocobo and airship travel, strategic turn-based battles, voiced characters, an overworld, and appearances from classic Final Fantasy characters.
Final Fantasy Resonance is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch. The game will have a standard edition, Digital Deluxe Edition, and Collector’s Edition. Cloud, Tidus, the Warrior of Light, Terra, and Clive are among the familiar names connected to the game through recruitable visions. For a series with this much history, seeing Final Fantasy finally get a dedicated HD-2D entry is a strong move.
Kingdom Hearts IV And The Collection Make A Nintendo Switch 2 Push
Square Enix had more than Final Fantasy Resonance ready for this Nintendo Direct. Kingdom Hearts IV returned with a new trailer, and the big Nintendo-side news is that it’s coming to Nintendo Switch 2.
The new trailer focuses on Sora, Quadratum, familiar characters, new figures, and new powers. Square Enix didn't announce a release date yet, but the game coming to Nintendo Switch 2 is big news for Nintendo fans.
Kingdom Hearts Collection [I~III] launches on October 8, 2026. The collection includes Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5+2.5 ReMIX, Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue, and Kingdom Hearts III + Re Mind on Nintendo Switch 2 natively. That native release is a big deal because the earlier Nintendo Switch versions were cloud versions. Nintendo Switch Cloud version owners can get a discount on the Nintendo Switch 2 version, and save data from the Nintendo Switch Cloud versions can transfer to Nintendo Switch 2. A free Kingdom Hearts III + Re Mind demo also launched today, June 9, on Nintendo eShop.
Dragon Quest Monsters, Onimusha, And More Head To Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Direct for June 2026 had no shortage of RPGs and action games. Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World launches December 3, 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch. It includes more than 500 monsters, synthesis, and dual protagonists Bianca and Nera. Metaphor: ReFantazio comes to Nintendo Switch 2 on November 12 with a limited Steelbook Edition at release.
Onimusha: Way of the Sword arrives on Nintendo Switch 2 on September 25, with Miyamoto Musashi, Joy-Con 2 controller motion support, and sword combat set in a dark fantasy Kyoto. Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen follows on October 9 with the icy land of Norgan added to the adventure. Stellar Blade is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026, and Devil May Cry 5 Devil Hunter Edition arrives on June 23 with Vergil and 60 fps support in TV and handheld modes.
Lies of P: Complete Edition arrives August 6 with the base game and Lies of P: Overture. RuneScape: Dragonwilds launches on Nintendo Switch 2 on September 15, marking the RuneScape franchise’s first appearance on a Nintendo console. Lords of the Fallen II arrives on Nintendo Switch 2 in fall 2026. Muramasa: Revenant Blades revives Vanillaware’s 2D action RPG in early 2027 with six protagonists, English voiceover, new modes, and 4K art.
Pokémon Pokopia Hello Kitty And One Piece Keep Things Playful
Not everything in the Direct was aimed at action and RPG fans. Pokémon Pokopia gets a free Version 2.0 update in August with Dive, underwater exploration, and the ability to build underwater towns with Pokémon. The paid Pokémon Pokopia Expansion Pass also launches in August with Part 1, Bubbly Basin, adding furniture, outfits, and Pokémon friends.
Rhythm Heaven Groove launches July 2 for Nintendo Switch and is playable on Nintendo Switch 2. It includes more than 80 solo rhythm games, more than 30 co-op and competitive rhythm games, and an unlockable Beatspell mode. Big Walk, from the creators of Untitled Goose Game, launches August 4 for Nintendo Switch 2 with co-op exploration and communication challenges.
Hello Kitty Party Land launches October 29 for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch with more than 140 Sanrio characters, more than 40 minigames, custom avatars, and local and online multiplayer. One Piece: Grand Gourmet arrives October 23 for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch, turning the Straw Hat Crew into the staff of a floating restaurant with more than 400 characters. Everbloom heads to Nintendo Switch 2 in spring 2027, and Fitness Boxing 3: Your Personal Trainer – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition launches July 16 with CameraPlay and four-person local multiplayer.
Minecraft, Rayman, Deltarune, And Donkey Kong Bananza DLC Get Release Dates And Updates
Today's Nintendo Direct also packed in a lot of returning games, updates, and smaller announcements. Minecraft is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 later in 2026 with the Vibrant Visuals graphics upgrade, the Super Mario Mash-Up Pack, 15 tracks, 40 Super Mario-inspired skins, and save-data carryover from Nintendo Switch.
Rayman Legends Retold launches October 1 for Nintendo Switch 2 with 3D visuals, a new story path, a sixth realm, a new villain, local co-op for up to four people, and a revised Kung Foot mode with GameShare. Pikuniku 2 comes to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2027, and Ninjala 2: The Uncharted Planet launches exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 in spring 2027. Jujutsu Kaisen Rumble: Survivaton arrives in 2026 with survivors-style online action and more than 20 characters.
Deltarune Chapter 5 launches as a free update on June 24 for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch. DK Challenge begins today, June 9, through Nintendo Switch Online and runs until September 1, with digital Challenge Cards tied to classic Donkey Kong games. Donkey Kong Bananza: DK Island & Emerald Rush DLC also gets a limited Super Mario Bros. collaboration event with outfits for Donkey Kong and Pauline.
Near the end of the Nintendo Direct, Nintendo ran through several more release dates and launch updates. Tales of Eternia Remastered launches October 16. Atelier Karia: The Night Kingdom & The Guide of Memories comes in early 2027. Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration and SnowRunner launch today, June 9, for Nintendo Switch 2. Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 arrives August 27, Observer: System Redux arrives June 18, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 arrives during holiday 2026, and DayZ Cool Edition comes to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Was Nintendo’s Big Final Surprise
Nintendo saved The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for the end of the Nintendo Direct, and it was the right place for it. The Nintendo 64 classic returns later in 2026, exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2.Nintendo hasn’t said exactly what it’s doing with Ocarina of Time yet. It could be a remake, a remaster, or something else entirely. Either way, bringing back Ocarina of Time during The Legend of Zelda’s 40th anniversary year is one heck of a way to get people talking.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is one of the most important games Nintendo has ever made. Ending with it made the Nintendo Direct feel like Nintendo had one last surprise saved. Even after Star Fox, Splatoon Raiders, Fire Emblem, Xenoblade, Square Enix, and Nintendo Switch Sports Resort, Ocarina of Time felt like the reveal people would be talking about for days and weeks to come.
A Packed Nintendo Direct For Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Direct for June 2026 made one thing clear. Nintendo Switch 2 has a lot of games coming between now and 2027. Star Fox is back first, Splatoon Raiders follows in July, Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave and Orbitals arrive in September, Nintendo Switch Sports Resort and Final Fantasy Resonance arrive in October, Pokémon Pokopia has more content on the way, The Duskbloods remains set for 2026, Xenoblade Genesis is coming in 2027, and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time stands as the huge surprise later this year.
There was a lot to take in, but that is a good problem to have. Between returning Nintendo franchises, new exclusives, huge third-party support, family-friendly party games, RPGs, ports, and updates, today's Nintendo Direct gave Nintendo fans a whole lot to be excited about.
Which Nintendo Direct announcement are you looking forward to most?
Comments
Post a Comment
Comments are moderated. Please stay respectful and on topic.