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Nintendo’s Big 2025: What You Can Look Forward To
December 29, 2024Switch 2, Mario’s 40th, and Metroid Prime!
2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year for Nintendo, blending nostalgia, innovation, and long-awaited reveals. Whether you’re clinging to your Switch 1 or eagerly anticipating the rumoured Switch 2, Nintendo has a lot in store. From the much-anticipated Metroid Prime 4 to the potential unveiling of Mario’s next big adventure, the gaming giant is set to dominate conversations and consoles alike. Let’s explore everything Nintendo has lined up for 2025 and why it’s a year that could redefine the brand’s legacy.
Table of Contents
The Big Releases We Already Know About
Nintendo is kicking off 2025 with some heavy hitters for the current Switch platform. Mark your calendars because these upcoming titles promise to keep gamers entertained even before the arrival of new hardware.
- Donkey Kong Country Returns HD (January 16):
This remaster of the 2010 Wii classic brings Donkey Kong back into the spotlight. Including additional levels from its 3DS port, this game is a nostalgic platforming gem. While fans continue to clamour for a brand-new Donkey Kong title, this release serves as a reminder of the franchise’s enduring charm. - Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition (March 20):
At long last, this Wii U open-world RPG is getting its time to shine. Enhanced visuals, brand-new story content, and the convenience of having the entire Xenoblade series on one platform make this remaster a major highlight for RPG enthusiasts. - Pokémon Legends: Z-A (TBA 2025):
Game Freak is revisiting the Legends subseries, this time in the Kalos region’s Lumiose City. With the return of Mega Evolutions and a focus on urban redevelopment, this title promises to shake up the Pokémon formula yet again. - Professor Layton and the New World of Steam (TBA 2025):
After years of dormancy, the beloved Professor Layton series is making its grand return. Fans are eagerly awaiting this puzzle-packed adventure, which promises to recapture the magic of the original trilogy. - Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (TBA 2025):
Eight years after its initial announcement, Metroid Prime 4 finally landed. With Retro Studios back at the helm, this sequel brings fan-favourite antagonist Sylux into the fold and showcases stunning visuals that will undoubtedly push the Switch to its limits.
The Nintendo Switch 2: What We Know
The long-rumoured successor to the Nintendo Switch is no longer just speculation. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa has confirmed that details about the next console will be unveiled before the fiscal year ends on March 31, 2025. While exact details remain under wraps, here’s what we can reasonably expect:
- Backwards Compatibility: Nintendo has reassured fans that Switch games will work on the new console, ensuring a smooth transition for players upgrading their hardware.
- Hybrid Design: It’s widely anticipated that the Switch 2 will retain the hybrid handheld console approach that made the original Switch a massive success.
- Major Launch Titles: Speculation is rampant, but the new console could debut alongside the next 3D Mario game, marking Mario’s 40th anniversary with a bang.
Nintendo’s strategy for unveiling the console could mirror the Switch’s 2016 rollout, with an initial teaser followed by a full-blown presentation. Details we’re likely to learn include the name, release date, price, and technical specifications, as well as the launch lineup.
Mario’s 40th Anniversary
2025 marks a milestone for everyone’s favourite plumber, and Nintendo is sure to celebrate in style. The 35th anniversary gave us Super Mario 3D All-Stars, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury, and plenty of themed merchandise. For the 40th, fans are expecting even bigger surprises, including:
- A new 3D Mario game, potentially launching alongside the Switch 2.
- Anniversary-themed events across games like Mario Kart Tour or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
- Special editions of classic titles like Super Mario Galaxy or Super Mario Sunshine.
Will Mario Kart Finally Get a New Entry?
It’s been 11 years since Mario Kart 8 debuted, and fans are hungry for a brand-new instalment. While the Booster Course Pass kept players engaged with new tracks, there’s a growing sense that it’s time for the next evolution in kart racing. A Mario Kart 9 reveal could be one of the Switch 2’s marquee announcements, possibly hitting shelves in late 2025.
Could We See a New Smash Bros.?
Masahiro Sakurai, the creator of Super Smash Bros., has hinted at a secret project that’s been in development since 2022. While it’s unclear if it’s related to Smash, the timing aligns with the potential launch window of the Switch 2. Whether it’s a new entry in the series or a completely original game, Sakurai’s involvement guarantees excitement.
Other Big Franchises to Watch
- Zelda: While Tears of the Kingdom set a high bar, rumours suggest a remake or remaster of Ocarina of Time or Breath of the Wild could be in the works for the new hardware.
- F-Zero: After the success of F-Zero 99, a remaster of F-Zero GX or even a new entry seems like a plausible way for Nintendo to flex its technical muscles.
- Kirby: The pink puffball has been a consistent presence on the Switch, and fans are expecting either a remaster or a brand-new title in 2025.
Nintendo’s Entertainment Expansion
Beyond gaming, Nintendo is broadening its reach with major projects:
- Super Nintendo World Florida: Opening in May 2025, this expansion includes the Donkey Kong Country area, offering fans an immersive theme park experience.
- Nintendo San Francisco Store: Joining the flagship New York location, this new retail hub will bring exclusive merchandise and events to the West Coast.
- The Mario Movie Sequel: While scheduled for a 2026 release, the first teaser trailer is expected before the year’s end, keeping fans hyped for Mario’s cinematic return.
What About the Current Switch?
Nintendo isn’t abandoning the original Switch just yet. With over 140 million units sold, the console remains a cornerstone of Nintendo’s strategy. Expect smaller franchises like Rhythm Heaven and Advance Wars to find a home on the Switch in 2025, alongside potential remasters of fan favourites.
While games are fun, it’s highly important to note that there’s more to life than sitting countless hours playing video games – there’s a purpose and more to life; seek out that purpose more often!
