Nintendo Direct 2026 Recap: Zelda Remake, Kingdom Hearts IV, Star Fox, and Major Switch 2 Announcements
Nintendo has wrapped up one of its most exciting presentations in recent years, showcasing a packed lineup of first-party and third-party titles for both Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Switch. From legendary remakes and long-awaited sequels to entirely new adventures, the latest Nintendo Direct offered a glimpse into an ambitious future for Nintendo's ecosystem.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Returns
One of the biggest surprises of the event was the official reveal of a full remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Widely considered one of the greatest games ever made, the beloved classic is set to return on Nintendo Switch 2 later this year with modern visuals and updated gameplay systems.
Kingdom Hearts IV Makes a Major Appearance
Square Enix shared a brand-new look at Kingdom Hearts IV and officially confirmed that the highly anticipated RPG will launch on Nintendo Switch 2, bringing the next chapter of Sora's journey to Nintendo players.
A New Era for Xenoblade
Monolith Soft unveiled Xenoblade Genesis, a completely new entry that appears to begin a fresh chapter for the franchise. The game is currently scheduled for release in 2027.
In addition, Xenoblade Chronicles 1, 2, and 3 will receive Nintendo Switch 2 Editions featuring higher resolutions, 60 FPS gameplay, visual enhancements, and additional content.
Fan-Favorite Nintendo Franchises Return
Nintendo also announced Nintendo Switch Sports Resort, bringing players back to the iconic Wuhu Island with 12 sports activities. The game launches on October 22.
Meanwhile, Star Fox is making its long-awaited return with a brand-new adventure starring Fox McCloud. Players can try a demo immediately, while the full release arrives on June 25.
Another major reveal was Splatoon Raiders, a new single-player adventure set in the Splatoon universe launching July 23 exclusively on Switch 2.
New Fire Emblem and FromSoftware Project
Strategy RPG fans were treated to the reveal of Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, scheduled for release on September 17.
FromSoftware also appeared with The Duskbloods, a new multiplayer action title that will hold a closed beta during Summer 2026.
Strong Third-Party Support for Switch 2
The presentation further highlighted Nintendo's growing third-party support. Among the notable announcements:
• FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE launches October 22.
• Dragon Quest Monsters: The Withered World arrives December 3.
• DELTARUNE Chapter 5 releases as a free update on June 24.
• Devil May Cry 5: Devil Hunter Edition launches June 23.
• Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen arrives October 9.
• Rayman Legends Retold launches October 1.
• Stellar Blade is confirmed for Switch 2 in 2026.
• Lies of P: Complete Edition arrives August 5.
• Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 launches August 27.
• Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration is available immediately.
With an impressive mix of Nintendo exclusives, beloved franchises, RPGs, action games, and major third-party releases, Nintendo Direct 2026 showcased a powerful future for Switch 2 and delivered one of the strongest lineups in recent memory.
