Every Game Announced at the July Nintendo Partner Direct: A Comprehensive Guide
This article provides a detailed overview of all games announced during Nintendo’s July Partner Direct, categorized for easy navigation. We’ve included release dates, platform details, and key features where available, ensuring you’re completely up-to-date on the latest Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 titles.
Switch 2 Game Announcements: The Next Generation Arrives
The July Partner Direct heavily focused on upcoming titles for the Nintendo Switch 2, promising a robust launch lineup. Here’s a breakdown of the Switch 2 exclusives and cross-generation titles:
Major AAA Titles Heading to Switch 2
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection
Launching in 2026, Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection continues the popular RPG spin-off series. The narrative centers around two warring nations, with the birth of a legendary Rathalos – and its unexpected twin – triggering a prophecy of civil war. This title boasts cross-platform availability, also releasing on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Dragon Ball Sparking! Zero
Set for release on November 14th, Dragon Ball Sparking! Zero, the newest entry in the Tenkaichi series, features over 180 playable characters. A free update will enable Switch owners (both physical and digital copies) to play on the Switch 2 with enhanced visuals.
Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted
A highly anticipated remaster of the original Plants vs. Zombies, Replanted arrives on October 23rd. Enjoy crisp HD visuals and upgraded gameplay, including new local co-op and competitive modes. This title will also be available on the original Switch.
EA Sports FC 26
Arriving on September 26th, EA Sports FC 26 brings overhauled gameplay, new Manager Live Challenges, and more to the Switch 2. This marks a significant addition to the Switch 2’s sports gaming catalog.
Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac
The modernized Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac launches on September 26th, offering a rebuilt experience with enhanced graphics and gameplay improvements. This remastered classic will also be available on the original Switch.
Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles
Square Enix showcased its upcoming remaster of Final Fantasy Tactics, emphasizing the enhanced story and presentation, including full voice acting. Launching on September 30th, this game will also be available on the original Switch.
Persona 3 Reload
The anticipated remake of Persona 3, a pivotal title in the series, arrives on October 23rd. While the inclusion of existing DLC remains unconfirmed, its arrival on Switch 2 adds significant weight to the console’s launch library.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
Launching in Winter 2024, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment offers a new entry in the popular Hyrule Warriors franchise. Intriguing details regarding the game’s canonicity within the broader Zelda timeline have generated significant fan excitement. The absence of Link in early trailers further fuels speculation about its narrative direction.
Madden NFL 26
The annual football game returns to Nintendo hardware on August 14th exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2. Early gameplay footage has been released, showcasing the game’s performance on the new hardware.
Chillin’ by the Fire
This unique title, launching on July 31st, focuses on building and maintaining a campfire, with the added social feature of inviting friends to join via chat, complete with optional camera integration for face-to-face interaction.
Apex Legends
Respawn Entertainment’s popular battle royale game launches on August 5th, coinciding with a new season. Expect several technical improvements over the original Switch version.
Hela
Hela, a charming co-op adventure game where you play as a mouse creating a cure for a witch, is coming in 2026. While a specific date is unavailable, its unique art style and gameplay have captured attention.
Star Wars Outlaws
Ubisoft’s open-world Star Wars adventure arrives on September 4th. While some graphical downgrades have been implemented to optimize performance on the Switch 2, its release is highly anticipated.
Cronos: The New Dawn
Launching on September 5th, Cronos: The New Dawn promises a compelling adventure.
Yakuza Kiwami and Yakuza Kiwami 2
These remakes of the first two Yakuza games arrive on November 11th, offering enhanced graphics, improved frame rates, and additional language support. A bundle option allows purchasing both titles together.
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales
Square Enix’s new HD-2D action RPG, The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales, will launch on the Switch 2 in 2026. The game features local co-op gameplay.
Octopath Traveler II
Octopath Traveler II, a new entry in the critically acclaimed Octopath Traveler series, launches on December 4th.
Switch and Switch 2 Cross-Platform Releases
Several titles announced will be available on both the original Switch and the new Switch 2, offering a degree of cross-generational compatibility:
Notable Cross-Platform Titles
Plants vs Zombies: Replanted (October 23rd)
Pac-Man World 2 Re-Pac (September 26th)
Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles (September 30th)
Octopath Traveler II (December 4th)
Goodnight Universe (November 11th) - This title, from the creators of Before Your Eyes, follows a telekinetic baby.
Additional Switch Game Announcements
The Partner Direct also showcased several titles launching exclusively on the original Nintendo Switch:
Upcoming Switch Releases
Once Upon a Katamari (October 24th) - This new entry in the Katamari series features time travel and online multiplayer.
Just Dance 2026 Edition (October 14th) - The latest installment of the popular dance game franchise.
NBA Bounce (September 26th) - An arcade-style basketball game with team mascots.
Hello Kitty Island Adventure’s Wheatflour Wonderland DLC (Fall 2024)
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance (August 29th) - A new Shinobi game with a playable demo available.
Rounding Up the Announcements
The July Nintendo Partner Direct provided a comprehensive look at upcoming titles for both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. From major AAA releases to intriguing indie games, the lineup offers diverse experiences across various genres. The emphasis on Switch 2 titles reinforces Nintendo’s commitment to its next-generation platform, setting the stage for a strong launch period. The inclusion of cross-generational titles ensures that both current and future Switch owners have plenty to look forward to.