Nintendo released its latest Direct Mini episode, and it looks like it’s going to be an exciting year for the Switch. Aside from all the games that have already been launched, there are also new ones set to arrive by the end of the year. Today we look at some of the highlights. If you want to watch the full Direct Mini, you can view it below:
In a statement released, Nintendo of America’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing Nick Chavez shared that the Switch has a lot to offer and it has the type of experiences you want. He went on to say that aside from the Nintendo franchises, this year is going to “see the Nintendo Switch library grow even more with strong support from a diverse field of publishing partners like 2K, Electronic Arts and Square Enix.”
Upcoming Games
The 2K Trio
So what are the biggest reveals of the video? Well, it looks like quite a number games from 2K are arriving to the Switch. You read that right. There’s the XCOM 2 Collection for example, which brings with it not only the base game but also four DLC packs as well as the War of the Chosen expansion.
Making its way to the Switch as well is the Borderlands Legendary Collection. It comes with the original Borderlands plus Borderlands 2 along with Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel. If that’s not enough, BioShock: The Collection is making an appearance as well. This one has BioShock Remastered, BioShock 2 Remastered, and BioShock Infinite: The Complete Edition.
Even better news, all of these are ready to be released on May 29.
Welcome to the Clubhouse
Those looking for casual gaming should be happy to know that there’s a bunch of them coming to the Switch with the Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics. This package offers 51 games that many of you may be familiar with or, at the very least, have heard about them. We can’t list them all but this bundle includes Texas Hold’em, Dice, Mahjong Solitaire, Backgammon, and Air Hockey among many others.
The Island’s First Event
It’s been a week since Animal Crossing: New Horizons was released and there’s already a new event starting soon. The Bunny Day event begins on April 1 and has players look for hidden eggs that can then be used to craft special items. While this event only lasts until April 12, there’s going to be new update arriving in late April which adds the Earth Day event.
Something New for Everyone
There’s also big new for players of Pokémon Sword and Shield as a new Expansion Pass is going to be released. Part 1 is set to be released in June and introduces the Isle of Armor. Here Trainers can go to a new dojo where they can have Pokémon Battles to increase their skills. During their time at the dojo, Trainers are going to get the chance to take on the Towers of Two Fists. The dojo also gives them access to the Legendary Pokémon Kubfu, which evolves to Urshifu once the tower challenge is completed.
Part 2 introduces the new frozen landscape called Crown Tundra, though no date has been revealed for when this expansion pass will release. Both Expansions passes are available for $29.99 each.
New Character and Free Play
Over at Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, the Fighters Pass Vol. 2 is going to have a fighter from ARMS join the battle. The official reveal of the fighter is scheduled for June.
Speaking of ARMS, those who have a Nintendo Switch Online account get to download and try this game for free. It’s already out and is available until April 7 at 2:59 a.m. ET.
Already Here
May the Force be With You
Be the Jedi Master that you’ve always wanted to be learn more about the Force in Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy. Get to play the solo campaign or battle online with other players. Read more about that here.
Are you up to the task?
Good Job! has officially been launched to the Switch and is available in the Nintendo eShop for $19.99. In this action-puzzle game, the goal is simple. Complete the tasks given to you in any way necessary.
New Voice and New Mode
Ring Fit Adventure may have already been released, but a free update is available which adds the Rhythm Game mode. Think Dance Dance Revolution but with Ring Fit. Enjoy moving to the beat of tracks from many of the popular Nintendo games like Splatoon 2, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Super Mario Odyssey.
The update also gives players the option to change to a female voice and even use a different language. These are just some of the new features arriving to the game.
There’s no question that it’s going to be a good year for Switch players out there. What are you most excited for?
