Nintendo’s September 2026 Direct delivered a packed lineup for Nintendo Switch 2, led by a new 2D Metroid game, a fresh 3D Kirby adventure and an immediate free update for Mario Kart World.
The presentation aired on September 9 and ran for about 45 minutes. It combined first-party announcements with major third-party releases, giving Switch 2 owners a clearer view of the console’s schedule into 2027.
Metroid Ravenous brings Samus back to 2D
The biggest surprise was Metroid Ravenous, a new side-scrolling entry scheduled for January 28, 2027. Nintendo described the game as a fight for survival against deadly enemies, while early footage showed a darker setting and the fast, precise movement associated with modern 2D Metroid titles.
It will be the first new 2D installment since Metroid Dread. That makes Ravenous especially significant for players who prefer the series’ exploration-focused side-scrolling format to its first-person Prime branch.
Nintendo has not yet revealed every gameplay system or story detail. The short wait until January, however, suggests that more information should arrive soon rather than through a long multiyear announcement cycle.
Kirby heads into the World Beyond
Nintendo also announced Kirby and the World Beyond, a new 3D adventure planned for spring 2027. The reveal showed Kirby moving through expansive environments, collecting abilities and opening pathways into larger areas.
The footage prompted immediate comparisons with broader exploration games, but Nintendo has not formally described it as a fully open-world title. What is clear is that the game builds on Kirby’s transition into 3D while aiming for a bigger sense of scale.
The timing is notable because 2027 marks Kirby’s 35th anniversary. Nintendo said more information would be shared later, leaving room for additional anniversary plans around the release.
Mario Kart World gets new content now
Not every announcement was for next year. A free update for Mario Kart World was made available with classic courses inspired by the original Super Mario Kart and new routes for Knockout Tour.
The update gives current Switch 2 owners something immediate while the larger 2027 releases remain months away. It also shows Nintendo continuing to treat Mario Kart World as an evolving platform rather than a game whose launch content is fixed.
Pikmin 4 is also receiving a Switch 2 Edition, including performance improvements and additional features such as voice commands and Dandori Academy challenges.
Third-party games broaden the Switch 2 lineup
The Direct included several recognizable third-party franchises. Nintendo highlighted Monster Hunter Wilds, three modern Resident Evil releases, a reimagining of the original Tomb Raider and the conclusion of the Final Fantasy VII remake series.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity – Definitive Edition was also confirmed for Switch 2. Although it uses a major Nintendo property, the release adds to a broader strategy of bringing enhanced or expanded editions to the newer hardware.
Taken together, the announcements address an important question for any new console: whether there will be enough variety between blockbuster first-party launches. Nintendo’s answer was a mixture of new exclusives, upgrades, ports and ongoing updates.
What the Direct means for Switch 2
The showcase did not rely on one single reveal. Instead, it presented a release pipeline extending from an update available immediately to major launches scheduled for early and spring 2027.
Metroid Ravenous serves established players who want a demanding action-adventure, Kirby offers a more accessible flagship release, and Mario Kart World provides continuing value for the existing audience. Third-party additions help fill the spaces between them.
Pricing, exact launch dates for several games and more detailed technical information remain to be announced. For now, the September Direct gives Switch 2 one of its clearest software roadmaps yet.
Sources
- Nintendo: September 9, 2026 Direct
- TechRadar: Nintendo Direct announcement recap
- GamesRadar: Nintendo Direct September 2026 recap
Leon Ramoviq
Primary Author · Editorial Reviewer · Researcher Leon Ramoviq is a digital media researcher, content creator, and primary author at Smashology Media. His work focuses on researching, verifying, and developing stories across entertainment, culture, sports, internet trends, curiosity-driven topics, and viral news. Before publishing, Leon reviews sources, cross-checks key claims, and works to ensure that articles are clear, accurately represented, and based on reliable information rather than unverified social-media speculation. With experience in digital media, graphic design, social media content, and online audience engagement, he brings both an editorial and visual perspective to the stories published on Smashology. Leon is particularly interested in how stories spread online, why certain topics capture public attention, and how complex or trending information can be presented in a simple and engaging format. Role at Smashology As a primary author and researcher, Leon is involved in: • Researching stories and identifying original or reliable sources • Writing and developing articles for Smashology • Reviewing facts, names, dates, quotations, and contextual information • Checking stories for misleading or unsupported claims • Reviewing articles before publication • Following developments and updating stories when meaningful new information becomes available • Maintaining editorial consistency across Smashology content Editorial Approach Leon believes engaging content should not come at the expense of accuracy. His approach is to combine strong storytelling with responsible sourcing, clear attribution, and additional verification when a story originates from social media or rapidly developing online discussions.
