Nintendo’s latest Nintendo Direct (March 2025) has wrapped up, revealing a host of exciting game announcements for the Nintendo Switch. While many were eagerly anticipating news about the Nintendo Switch 2, the event did not include any information about the upcoming console. However, Nintendo had already clarified that a dedicated Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is scheduled for April 2, 2025, where full details about the new hardware and upcoming games will be shared.
Despite the absence of Switch 2 news, this Nintendo Direct delivered major reveals, including a new Tomodachi Life game, a fresh Metroid Prime 4: Beyond trailer, Dragon Quest remakes, and much more. Below, we break down every major announcement.
Nintendo Direct March 2025 – Full List of Announcements
Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake
One of the biggest surprises was the announcement of Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake, set to release in 2025. Following the success of the Dragon Quest III HD-2D remake, this game will feature modern visuals while retaining the classic turn-based RPG mechanics that fans love.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (New Trailer)
Nintendo finally revealed a fresh look at Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, confirming new psychic abilities for Samus Aran. The gameplay showcased Samus using telekinetic powers to manipulate objects, adding a new layer to the traditional Metroid Prime gameplay. The game is expected to launch sometime in 2025.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A (New Trailer)
A brand-new trailer for Pokémon Legends: Z-A was showcased, highlighting its open-world gameplay set in Lumiose City. The game will feature a day-night cycle, real-time battles, and expanded Pokémon interactions. Nintendo confirmed that the game will launch in late 2025.
Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream (New Game)
Fans of the Tomodachi Life series have reason to celebrate as Nintendo officially announced “Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream” for 2026. The game will expand on the life simulation formula, allowing players to build relationships, start families, and live unique social experiences with their Mii characters.
Rhythm Heaven Groove (2026)
Nintendo confirmed that a new Rhythm Heaven title, Rhythm Heaven Groove, is in development. The game will feature brand-new rhythm-based challenges and is set to launch in 2026.
Virtual Game Card Feature (April 2025)
A major system update in late April 2025 will introduce the Virtual Game Card feature, allowing players to digitally store and access their physical game library without needing to swap cartridges.
Other Major Announcements from Nintendo Direct March 2025
Alongside the blockbuster reveals, several other exciting games and ports were announced:
New Game Reveals
- Shadow Labyrinth (Pac-Man Spin-off) – A dark, horror-themed Pac-Man adventure, launching July 18, 2025.
- Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar – The beloved farming sim arrives on August 27, 2025.
- Marvel Cosmic Invasion – A Marvel-based action-adventure game, releasing in Holiday 2025.
- Witchbrook – A magical school RPG from Chucklefish, arriving in Holiday 2025.
Remakes & Remasters
- Patapon 1+2 Replay – A remastered version of the classic rhythm strategy game is coming in July 2025.
- Saga Frontier 2 Remastered – Available today on the Nintendo eShop.
- Gradius Origins – A collection of classic Gradius shoot ’em up games.
Surprise Releases
- Disney Villains Cursed Café – A cozy, villain-themed Disney game available later today.
- Rift of the NecroDancer – Features Celeste and Pizza Tower crossovers, available now.
Nintendo Today App – Available Now
One of the biggest non-game announcements was the unveiling of Nintendo Today, a brand-new news and entertainment app for iOS and Android. This app will provide latest Nintendo news, game trailers, and exclusive content to fans worldwide.
No Nintendo Switch 2 News – But April 2 Direct Confirmed
While this Nintendo Direct (March 2025) focused entirely on games, Nintendo Switch 2 details will be shared on April 2, 2025. Fans hoping for new hardware information will have to wait until then.
The March 2025 Nintendo Direct may not have included Switch 2 updates, but it delivered plenty of exciting game announcements. The reveal of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Dragon Quest I & II Remake, Pokémon Legends Z-A, and Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream proves that the Nintendo Switch still has major releases planned for 2025 and beyond.
What’s Next?
- April 2, 2025 – Nintendo Switch 2 Direct
- Late April 2025 – Virtual Game Card Feature Update
- 2025-2026 – Big releases including Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, and Metroid Prime 4