Nintendo Expands Gaming Universe beyond Switch 2 (2025)

Nintendo's 2025 Lineup: Beyond the Switch 2

Nintendo's recent financial report unveils ambitious plans to expand its franchises beyond gaming. This article details these initiatives and their implications for the Nintendo Switch 2.

Upcoming Game Releases

The report confirms several first-party titles for 2025. Donkey Kong Country Returns HD launches January 16th, and Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition arrives March 20th. Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond are also slated for release this year, though specific dates remain unannounced.

Further details are expected during the Nintendo Direct, airing Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025. While the focus may be on the Switch 2, fans anticipate reveals or teases of new Switch 2 exclusives. The exact broadcast time will be announced later via Nintendo's official website and social media channels.

Nintendo Switch 2: Hands-On Experience

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is also launching in 2025, likely in the second half of the year. In-person "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" events will be held in 15 global locations (including New York, Tokyo, and Amsterdam) starting in April. While registration for many locations has closed, waitlists are available. Applications for the Japan events remain open until February 20th JST. See our previous article for event details and locations.

Super Nintendo World Expansion

To further extend its IP reach, Nintendo is opening a new Super Nintendo World theme park at Universal Orlando Resort's Epic Universe in Orlando, Florida, on May 22nd, 2025. This will be the second Super Nintendo World location in the US, following the Universal Studios Hollywood opening in February 2023. The Orlando park will feature iconic landscapes from Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country. A Singapore location is also planned for 2025, but further details are pending.