Nintendo has officially announced its next Nintendo Direct, scheduled for Friday, September 12, 2025, and anticipation is at an all-time high. As the gaming giant’s first major showcase since the launch of the Switch 2, fans and industry insiders alike are speculating what surprises Nintendo has in store for its global audience.
The September Direct is expected to set the tone for the remainder of 2025 and possibly early 2026, especially as the company solidifies its position in the next-generation console war. With the Switch 2 receiving positive reception in its first few months, now is the perfect time for Nintendo to show off its upcoming software lineup and flex its first-party muscle.
Rumors surrounding the event suggest that a major Pokémon spinoff could be making an appearance. While nothing is confirmed, speculation points toward a return to the world of Pokémon Legends, potentially a follow-up to Arceus, but set in a new region with gameplay innovations tailored to the Switch 2’s enhanced capabilities.
Another hot topic is Mario’s 40th anniversary, which many believe will be a central theme of the Direct. Given Nintendo’s history of celebrating franchise milestones—such as Zelda’s 35th and Mario’s 35th anniversaries—it’s likely we’ll see remastered titles, special edition hardware, or even a brand-new mainline Mario game announced. Some leakers suggest a reimagining of Super Mario Galaxy could be in the works, redesigned to take full advantage of the Switch 2’s graphics engine and dual-screen support.
Beyond Pokémon and Mario, fans are hoping for updates on several dormant franchises. Titles like Metroid Prime 4, which has remained largely under wraps for years, could finally resurface. With development having reportedly restarted from scratch back in 2019, a teaser or gameplay reveal now would make sense. Similarly, many are crossing their fingers for news about the Donkey Kong franchise, which has been unusually quiet in recent years.
The Direct is also expected to feature third-party highlights and indie gems. Nintendo has cultivated strong partnerships with developers big and small, and this Direct could be the venue for announcements like Octopath Traveler 3, a new Monster Hunter entry, or a port of a previously PlayStation-exclusive title.
With holiday season approaching, it’s also possible we’ll see updates on accessories, Switch Online features, or new additions to the retro library. GameCube titles have long been requested by fans, and the more powerful Switch 2 hardware could finally make those dreams a reality.
Overall, expectations are sky-high, and for good reason. Nintendo’s Directs are known for balancing surprise announcements with updates on known titles, creating a blend of excitement and reassurance for fans. With major franchises, potential new IPs, and the Switch 2 still in its infancy, this upcoming presentation could be a defining moment in Nintendo’s next chapter.
As the countdown begins, one thing is certain—Nintendo is ready to make headlines once again.
