Wednesday, 9 September 2026
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Nintendo

Nintendo is actively expanding its Switch 2 ecosystem with new releases, classic game re-releases, and music additions, while managing price increases and regulatory-driven hardware changes in Europe.

Synthesized from 30 Yomimono stories · updated 7h ago

Nintendo's recent activity centers on the Nintendo Switch 2, which has become the second best-selling home console in US history in its first year, with 5.9 million units sold. The platform's library is growing through both new titles and re-releases. Splatoon Raiders, the first spin-off in the Splatoon series, launched on July 23 and debuted at number one in Japan with 474,684 first-week sales. Star Fox, a remake of Star Fox 64, released on June 25 with an 81 Metascore, and Super Mario Sunshine joined the GameCube Nintendo Classics lineup on August 13. The company also added two previously unreleased Virtual Boy games, ZERO RACERS and Dragon Hopper, to the Virtual Boy Nintendo Classics service on August 4.

Nintendo has been pairing game releases with soundtrack additions on its Nintendo Music service. The Rhythm Heaven Miracle Stars soundtrack arrived on the game's launch day, July 2, and the Super Mario Sunshine soundtrack followed on August 13. The service also added the full Super Famicom SimCity soundtrack on August 21, the first complete version of that score. The Nintendo Music development team won the Sound Best Award at CEDEC Awards 2026, part of a sweep that saw Donkey Kong Bananza take three other categories.

Nintendo has also faced price increases and regulatory changes. Nintendo Switch Online subscription prices rose on July 1, with 12-month individual plans going from 2,400 yen to 3,000 yen. The Switch 2 console itself rose from 49,980 yen to 59,980 yen in May, and microSD Express cards for the system were quietly raised from 6,980 yen to 8,980 yen in August. In Europe, Nintendo will release a revised Switch 2 with a user-replaceable battery in fall 2026 to comply with EU regulations, and original Switch models will be discontinued there after February 2027.

Key facts

Switch 2 US first-year sales
5.9 million units, second-highest for any home console in US history ↗
Splatoon Raiders first-week sales in Japan
474,684 copies, debuting at number one ↗
Star Fox remake release
Released June 25, 2026, for Switch 2, with an 81 Metascore ↗
Super Mario Sunshine on GameCube Nintendo Classics
Added August 13, 2026, for Switch 2 via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack ↗
Virtual Boy unreleased games
ZERO RACERS and Dragon Hopper added to Virtual Boy Nintendo Classics on August 4, 2026 ↗
Nintendo Switch Online price increase
12-month individual plan rose from 2,400 yen to 3,000 yen on July 1, 2026 ↗
Switch 2 console price increase
Rose from 49,980 yen to 59,980 yen in May 2026 ↗
EU battery regulation
Revised Switch 2 with user-replaceable battery launches in Europe in fall 2026; original Switch sales end there after February 2027 ↗
Nintendo Music day-one soundtrack
Rhythm Heaven Miracle Stars soundtrack added on the game's launch day, July 2, 2026 ↗
CEDEC Awards 2026 sweep
Donkey Kong Bananza won three Best Awards; Nintendo Music team won Sound, giving Nintendo all four categories ↗

Timeline

Synthesized by Yomimono from the cited Yomimono stories below, each itself sourced, then editorially reviewed. Every fact links the story it came from.

Facts

Noted
Pro Controller with display stand and a carrying case with screen protection sheet opened for reservation · 2026-09-09
Noted
console is already sold out at the Nintendo Store · 2026-09-09
Noted
aired The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct · 2026-09-08
Noted
has not issued a statement about the use of its assets · 2026-09-07
Noted
Nintendo Direct 2026.9.9 will air on September 9 at 11:00 PM for roughly 45 minutes. · 2026-09-04
Noted
Nintendo released its Halloween Super Mario merchandise on September 4 at Nintendo TOKYO, OSAKA, KYOTO, and FUKUOKA, plus the Nintendo Store online shop. · 2026-09-04
Noted
distributed a free update for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe · 2026-09-02
Noted
released version 1.2.0 of Pikmin 3 Deluxe on September 1, 2026 · 2026-09-01
Noted
Improved versions of Joy-Con 2, Joy-Con, and Pro Controller are also planned. · 2026-07-07
Noted
The original Switch and Switch Lite will not get improved versions and will be discontinued in Europe after February 2027. · 2026-07-07
Noted
submitted seven DMCA takedown notices to GitHub in a single day, removing more than 400 Nintendo Switch emulator repositories · 2026-08-29
Noted
The sweep targeted forks of the defunct Yuzu emulator, copies of the successor Suyu, and repositories tied to other emulators · 2026-08-29
Noted
cited unauthorized use of cryptographic keys and referenced two court rulings, including its 2024 lawsuit against Yuzu's developers · 2026-08-29
Noted
The single-day sweep shows Nintendo still enforcing against Switch emulators years after Yuzu's shutdown · 2026-08-29
Noted
the takedown notice processing entire fork networks, including 311 Suyu repositories at once · 2026-08-29
Announced
Nintendo Switch 2 The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition console · 2026-09-08
Announced
details on the Nintendo Switch 2 version of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct 2026.9.8) · 2026-09-07
Announced
The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct will stream on September 8 at 11:00 PM Japan time, and Nintendo Direct 2026.9.9 will air on September 9 at 11:00 PM · 2026-09-04
Announced
PET Shooter Replica weapon will be added to Splatoon 3 (August 14) · 2026-08-14
Release
music_video · 2026-08-21 · 2026-08-21

Connections

Produces
paper mario, pictonico, nintendo switch 2, nintendo switch online, star fox, super mario sunshine, splatoon raiders, zero racers, dragon hopper, virtual boy nintendo classics, donkey kong bananza, rhythm heaven miracle stars, the legend of zelda, super family restaurant, the legend of zelda ocarina of time, nintendo switch sports resort, donkey kong 64, nintendo music, mario kart world, pikmin bloom
Staff change
shigeru miyamoto

Structured graph also available as JSON at /public/entities/nintendo. CC BY 4.0.

Claim activity

When a claim about Nintendo was confirmed, debunked, or disputed against open-web sources. The record stays even after a claim drops off the facts list.

  • Confirmed Nintendo produces Donkey Kong Bananza 5d ago · source
  • Confirmed Nintendo produces Nintendo Switch Online Sep 2 · source
  • Debunked Nintendo produces Nintendo Switch 2 Sep 1 · source
  • Confirmed Nintendo produces The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Aug 31 · source
  • Confirmed Nintendo produces Nintendo Switch Sports Resort Aug 31 · source
  • Confirmed Nintendo produces Pictonico! Jun 21 · source
  • Confirmed Nintendo produces Mario Kart World Jun 18 · source
  • Confirmed Nintendo produces Nintendo Music Jun 18 · source
  • Confirmed Nintendo produces Pikmin Bloom Jun 3 · source

All coverage

7h ago

Zelda 40th Anniversary Switch 2 Console Opens Reservations at Nojima and Yodobashi

Reservations for the Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Nintendo Switch 2 opened at Nojima Online and Yodobashi.com on September 9. The console, priced at 62,980 yen, is scheduled to ship October 29 and carries Zelda design work on the Joy-Con 2 controllers and the dock, including Triforce motifs. Nojima Online is taking orders with a limit of one per household. The same day, Nintendo's Pro Controller with display stand and a carrying case with screen protection sheet, both in the anniversary design, also opened for reservation. Separately, PowerA announced two Switch 2 accessories in a Tears of the Kingdom design: a wireless controller modeled on the decayed Master Sword at 8,900 yen and a protection case with the Hyrule and Zonai crests at 3,530 yen, both releasing October 9. The Tears of the Kingdom design is PowerA's first release of that design in Japan.

21h ago

Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct Reveals Ocarina of Time Remake and Switch 2 Hardware

Nintendo aired The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct on September 8, 2026 at 23:00 JST, a roughly 30-minute special edition of Nintendo Direct that detailed the Ocarina of Time remake for Nintendo Switch 2 and a slate of anniversary initiatives. The remake, announced for a 2026 release, now has a November 5 launch date. Nintendo also confirmed the Nintendo Switch 2 The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition console, which ships October 29 with a Triforce-themed design, alongside a matching Pro Controller and Carrying Case. Two Ocarina of Time amiibo, Child Link and Child Zelda, arrive in 2027 and grant a special mask when read in-game. Outside the games, the smartphone app Nintendo Today! updates its Zelda theme on September 9 and starts The Legend of Zelda Collection Cards, over 300 types distributed one per day with a quiz. The Nintendo Museum distributes a special design admission pass for about one year from September 9, adds a series history board, and opens a Super Family Restaurant featuring a Link figure this autumn.

2d ago

Tetris Company Disavows White House Arcade Game as Site Uses Console IP

The White House promoted its new Arcade website with videos using boot-up music and visuals from the Sega Genesis, Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 2, Xbox 360, and Nintendo DS. The site hosts five games, including Build the Wall, which resembles Tetris. The Tetris Company said it was not involved in the game's creation and takes copyright infringement seriously. Sega, Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft have not issued statements about the use of their assets.

4d ago

Nintendo Direct Set for September 9, Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct Lands September 8

Nintendo announced on September 4 via its Nintendo Today app that two presentations will air on consecutive nights in September. The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct will stream on September 8 at 11:00 PM Japan time, running about 30 minutes. The following evening, September 9 at 11:00 PM, Nintendo Direct 2026.9.9 will air for roughly 45 minutes. Both broadcasts come ahead of the Tokyo Game Show, and the Zelda presentation coincides with the franchise's 40th anniversary, which began with the original game in 1986. Nintendo has not detailed what either broadcast will show, but sources expect updates on the recently announced remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. That game was previously confirmed for a 2026 launch. The Zelda Direct is a dedicated anniversary presentation, while the general Nintendo Direct the next day is expected to cover a broader slate of titles.

5d ago

Paper Mario Soundtrack Hits Nintendo Music with 148 Tracks

Nintendo added the Paper Mario soundtrack to Nintendo Music on September 4. The 2000 NINTENDO 64 action RPG's music arrives with 148 tracks spanning 4 hours 29 minutes. The original CD soundtrack, released in 2000, went out of print and its tracks were never included in other soundtracks. Used copies sold for 50,000 to 100,000 yen, and one Amazon.co.jp listing sat at about 170,000 yen when the report was filed. The CD contained only 78 tracks, so the Nintendo Music version nearly doubles the count. Nintendo Music is available to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers on browser, iOS, and Android. The game itself is playable through NINTENDO 64 Nintendo Classics for Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers. Some tracks support the app's length-change feature. The opening "Hajimari da yo" and the save screen "Erande ne" are among the memorable songs in the set.

5d ago

Nintendo Launches Halloween Super Mario Goods at Official Stores

Nintendo released its Halloween Super Mario merchandise on September 4 at Nintendo TOKYO, OSAKA, KYOTO, and FUKUOKA, plus the Nintendo Store online shop. Prices start at 1,265 yen. The lineup includes a drawstring pouch, a mug, and two keychains, one featuring Mario and one featuring Rosetta & Chico. Mario appears in a pumpkin headpiece and cape. Nintendo Store orders placed at the time of writing are scheduled for delivery by September 26.

Sep 2

Nintendo Adds Ikari, Dragon Buster, Ninja Gaiden III to Famicom Classics

Nintendo added three Famicom titles to its Nintendo Classics service on September 2: Ikari, Dragon Buster, and Ninja Gaiden III: The Ancient Ship of Doom. All three are available to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers at no additional cost and run on both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. Ikari is the 1986 SNK action shooter in which players control Ralph and Clark as they infiltrate an enemy base, with limited ammunition that must be replenished from drops. Dragon Buster, released by Namco in 1987, is a side-view action adventure starring swordsman Clovis on a quest to rescue Princess Celia from a dragon. Ninja Gaiden III, Tecmo's 1991 side-scrolling action game, follows Ryu Hayabusa after he is framed for the murder of Irene Lew. The addition completes the Ninja Gaiden trilogy on the service, since the first two games were already available. The lineup drew strong reaction on X, where Dragon Buster trended and players welcomed the return of the three titles.

Sep 2

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Gets Free Switch 2 Update with 8-Player Split Screen

Nintendo distributed a free update for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on September 2, 2026, adding features that use the Nintendo Switch 2's performance. Update version 4.0.0 is the first since May 2025, a gap of about one year and four months. When played on Switch 2, the game now supports up to 8-player split screen on a single console, provided each player has a controller. Camera play is also supported, using a separately sold USB camera such as the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera. Players' faces appear above their characters during races, showing who is nearby and who overtook them, and the feature works with game chat. The update also supports the Switch 2's display and high-resolution televisions, and shortens load times for races and battles. Balance changes make race speed faster by the equivalent of one coin, and using the Boo item to become transparent no longer slows the player on dirt. Owners of the Booster Course Pass can now select 96 races in VS Race rule settings.

Sep 2

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Update Adds 8-Player Local Play on Switch 2

Nintendo released update Ver.4.0.0 for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on September 2. On Switch 2, the racer supports clearer display on the internal screen and high-resolution TVs, up to 8 players on one console with enough controllers, and camera play via USB camera. Load times before races and battles are shorter. Race speed is up by one coin's worth, and Boo no longer slows on dirt while transparent. Booster Course Pass owners can select 96 races in VS mode.

Sep 1

Pikmin 3 Deluxe Gets First Update in a Year with Switch 2 Resolution Boost

Nintendo released version 1.2.0 of Pikmin 3 Deluxe on September 1, 2026, the game's first update since June 2025. The patch is aimed at the Nintendo Switch 2. It raises the game's supported resolution to full HD on the Switch 2, and adds local wireless support to the Bingo Battle mode, letting two players with one Switch 2 and one copy of the software play on their own screens. Local wireless play can be received on the original Switch as well, but game chat is limited to the Switch 2 and requires an internet connection and a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. Pikmin 3 Deluxe is the definitive version of Pikmin 3, originally a Wii U title, and includes all paid downloadable content, side stories featuring the previous game's protagonist Olimar, new mission modes, difficulty options, and hint functions. The story mode supports two-player cooperative play. The game is available for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, and is currently on sale at the Nintendo Store for 6,578 yen.

Aug 29

Nintendo Removes Over 400 Switch Emulator Repositories From GitHub in One Day

Nintendo submitted seven DMCA takedown notices to GitHub in a single day, removing more than 400 Nintendo Switch emulator repositories. The sweep targeted forks of the defunct Yuzu emulator, copies of the successor Suyu, and repositories tied to other emulators. Nintendo cited unauthorized use of cryptographic keys and referenced two court rulings, including its 2024 lawsuit against Yuzu's developers.

Aug 28

Pioneer Unveils SOUND TECTOR Portable Gaming Speakers for Switch 2

Pioneer will release two SOUND TECTOR portable gaming speakers, the TQ-PG400K in black and the TQ-PG400WB in white, in mid-September. They work with Nintendo Switch 2, Switch, and USB Type-C smartphones. The battery-less units draw power directly from the connected device and include a charging-only port so the console can charge while in use. The price is open, estimated around 12,000 yen including tax.

Aug 21

Nintendo Music Adds Full SimCity Super Famicom Soundtrack

On August 21, Nintendo began distributing the soundtrack for the Super Famicom version of SimCity on its Nintendo Music service. The 1991 game, ported by Nintendo and Intelligent Systems from Maxis's 1989 PC original, features continuous BGM composed by Motoyo Oka. This release is the first complete version, covering tracks omitted from the 1992 Toshiba EMI album, which is now out of print.

Aug 18

Pictonico! Free Mini-Games Rise to 10 Until September 15

Nintendo will increase the number of free mini-games in its smartphone app Pictonico! to 10 for a limited time until September 15. The app turns player photos into mini-games. The free lineup now includes Oshizuka ni, Straw, Gardening, Seiza, Kumi Taiso, Jigsaw Puzzle, Hanage, Shampoo, Pero Pero Candy, and Kamu. Coins earned in free games can be used for the Photo Lottery fortune feature.

Aug 17

Nintendo Switch 2 microSD Express Cards Rise 2,000 Yen at Nintendo Store

The Nintendo-licensed microSD Express Card 256GB for Nintendo Switch 2, sold by SanDisk and Samsung, has been quietly raised in price at the Nintendo Store and other retailers. The cards, previously priced at 6,980 yen including tax, now sell for 8,980 yen, a 2,000 yen increase. The price revision was applied on August 17 or 18, depending on the source, and no official announcement from Nintendo or the manufacturers has been confirmed. The Nintendo Switch 2 only supports microSD Express cards, a new standard with faster read and write speeds, and standard microSD cards from the original Switch are not compatible. As of the time of writing, the SanDisk version is out of stock at the Nintendo Store, while the Samsung version remains available. This follows a May price increase for the Nintendo Switch 2 console itself, which rose from 49,980 yen to 59,980 yen. Sources attribute the rise to semiconductor and memory shortages, as well as global inflation.

Aug 14

Splatoon 3 Adds PET Shooter Replica With Raiders Clear Save Data

Nintendo announced on August 14 that a new weapon, the PET Shooter Replica, will be added to Splatoon 3 for the Nintendo Switch. The weapon reproduces the PET Shooter that appears in the spin-off title Splatoon Raiders. Its performance matches the Splattershot Collab, with the Splat Bomb as the sub weapon and Triple Tornado as the special weapon. The PET Shooter Replica is scheduled to be implemented ahead of the Summer Nights festival, which runs from August 22 to August 24. To obtain it, players must apply a future update and have save data that has cleared the main story of Splatoon Raiders. The weapon is not tied to the festival, so players who meet the save data condition can receive it from the lobby terminal at any time after implementation. The announcement also noted that gear distributed during past Summer Nights events remains available through the in-game news feature, the Squid Research Lab, by launching Splatoon 3 from the relevant news articles.

Aug 13

Super Mario Sunshine Joins GameCube Nintendo Classics on Switch 2

Nintendo added Super Mario Sunshine to the GameCube Nintendo Classics library on August 13, 2026, making the 2002 action game playable on Nintendo Switch 2 through a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription. The game, originally released for the Nintendo GameCube, follows Mario as he is framed for graffiti crimes on the tropical Isle Delfino and must clean the island while recovering the power of the sun, called Shine. Its signature gameplay involves using a water device known as FLUDD to defeat enemies, fly through the air, and solve puzzles. The addition had been previously announced, and its arrival on the service was anticipated by players. Alongside the game's release, Nintendo also began distributing the Super Mario Sunshine soundtrack on Nintendo Music, a music streaming service available to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. This music addition follows a special distribution of 10 tracks from Fire Emblem: Ban Shikou on August 4. The GameCube Nintendo Classics service is part of Nintendo's ongoing effort to bring older titles to the Switch 2 platform.

Aug 9

This Week's New Game Releases: Oblivion Remastered, Arknights, Hell Let Loose: Vietnam

Game Spark and Inside have published their weekly roundup of new game releases for the week of August 10 through August 16, covering both Japan and North America. The featured titles include The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, scheduled for August 12 on Nintendo Switch 2 in Japan and North America, and Arknights, set for August 13 on Windows PC. Hell Let Loose: Vietnam launches August 14 on Windows PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Other highlighted releases include BLAZBLUE ENTROPY EFFECT X - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on August 13, Wild Blue Skies on August 14, and Panzer Knights: Commander's Edition on August 13. The lists span multiple platforms, including Windows PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2. Notable North American releases include No More Room in Hell 2 on August 11 and EA SPORTS Madden NFL 27 on August 13. The roundup notes that release dates are subject to change at the manufacturer's discretion.

Aug 7

Inti Creates Shows Gunvolt GX Trailer for Switch 2 Edition

Inti Creates released a promotional video for the additional scenario Gunvolt GX, included in Azure Striker Gunvolt Triangle Edition for Nintendo Switch 2, launching October 22. The scenario features Gunvolt and Acura fighting together, with new systems Inspiration and GX Skill shown in the footage.

Aug 4

Splatoon Raiders Debuts at Top of Japan's Game Rankings

Nintendo's Splatoon Raiders, the first spin-off in the Splatoon series, debuted at number one on Japan's video game rankings for the week of July 20-26, according to Famitsu data compiled by Anime News Network. The Nintendo Switch 2 title sold 474,684 copies in its first week, nearly triple the second-place game's weekly total. Rhythm Heaven Groove held steady at number two with 78,355 copies, bringing its cumulative total to 674,592. Tomodachi Life remained in third place with 23,468 copies, pushing its lifetime sales past 1.5 million. The rest of the top five included Powerful Pro Baseball 2026-2027 at number four and Mario Kart World at number five. The chart also saw new entries from Shochiku Games' Yog-Sothoth's Yard at number 12 and MAGES.'s Otonari no Tenshi-sama ni Itsu no Ma ni ka Dame Ningen ni Sareteita Ken Memorial Vacation at number 14, both released on July 23. Long-running titles continued to appear, with Minecraft at number eight and Splatoon 3 at number 11. The list, sourced from Famitsu, covers software sales across all platforms in Japan for the specified week.

Aug 2

Unreleased Virtual Boy Games ZERO RACERS and Dragon Hopper Arrive August 4

Nintendo announced on July 31, 2026 that two previously unreleased Virtual Boy titles, ZERO RACERS and Dragon Hopper, will be added to the Virtual Boy Nintendo Classics service for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers on August 4. ZERO RACERS is a racing game where players pilot a floating machine through courses made of connected square ducts, aiming for high rankings with acceleration, deceleration, and directional movement. Dragon Hopper is a top-down action game starring Prince Dorin, who is ousted by the rebellious minister Lexer and must find four vanished spirits to return to the fairy kingdom. Dorin can transform into a dragon with special abilities. The update also adds a color change feature, letting players switch the game screen from the traditional red to green, Game Boy-style, or Super Game Boy-style schemes. The dedicated Virtual Boy (Paper Model) hardware is on sale from July 31 to August 17 at a discounted price of 1,980 yen, down from 2,980 yen.

Aug 1

Super Mario Sunshine Joins GameCube Nintendo Classics on August 13

Nintendo announced on July 31 that Super Mario Sunshine will be added to the Nintendo GameCube Nintendo Classics lineup on August 13. The 2002 GameCube action game will be available to subscribers of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack on the Nintendo Switch 2. In the game, Mario arrives on vacation at Isle Delfino, a southern paradise, but is mistaken for the graffiti culprit polluting the island. He promises to clean up the island, using the water-spraying device F.L.U.D.D. on his back to defeat enemies, fly, and restore the sun's power, the Shine. The game is known for its water-based actions, which also became one of Mario's special moves in the Super Smash Bros. series. The GameCube Nintendo Classics service is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, offering classic GameCube games with improved resolution and online play support. The announcement was made via Nintendo's official social media and multiple Japanese gaming outlets.

Jul 26

This Week's New Games: Halo Remake, Xenoblade 2 Switch 2 Edition, and More

The week of July 27 to August 2, 2026, sees a slate of major releases across platforms. Leading the lineup is 'Halo: Campaign Evolved', a Unreal Engine 5 remake of the original 2001 campaign, launching July 29 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S at 7,900 yen. It includes 10 original missions plus three new ones, 4-player online co-op with cross-play, and a Campaign Remix mode with randomized modifiers. Early reviews are positive, with Metascores of 81 on PS5 and 84 on Xbox Series X as of July 26, though the lack of competitive multiplayer drew some criticism. Also releasing July 30 is 'Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition', an enhanced version for the new console. The same day sees the extraction shooter 'Mistfall Hunter' on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, along with 'BLUE REFLECTION Quartet: The Miracle of the Girls' (7,480 yen), 'Culdcept the First', 'Volcano Princess', 'TATSUJIN EXTREME', and 'Honoboshi no Niwa'. On July 31, dark fantasy action RPG 'The Relic: First Guardian' arrives on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. The week's releases span genres from FPS and RPG to puzzle and simulation, with several titles also available on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.

Jul 24

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Switch 2 Edition Gets New Costumes, M.O.M.O. Blade

Nintendo released a promotional video on July 24 for Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, detailing new features ahead of its July 30 digital release. The upgrade adds new design costumes for the heroines Homura (Pyra) and Hikari (Mythra), created by character designer Masatsugu Saito. The costumes feature starry sky motifs and are visible in both gameplay and event scenes. A new quest type called Mercenary Group Action expands on the existing idle Mercenary Group system, letting players directly control up to six Blades in real-time combat, switching between them and using special arts. The edition also introduces M.O.M.O. (voiced by Rumi Shishido), a rare Blade from the Xenosaga series. M.O.M.O. can switch between light and dark attributes via Actual Mode and Imaginary Mode, and serves a healing role. The download version and upgrade pass cost 9,778 yen and 1,000 yen respectively, with the physical version following on October 1. The game runs at 4K 60fps in TV mode and 1080p 60fps in handheld mode on Switch 2.

Jul 23

Donkey Kong Bananza Wins Three Best Awards at CEDEC Awards 2026

The Donkey Kong Bananza development team won Best Awards in three of the four categories at the CEDEC Awards 2026, held July 22-24 at Pacifico Yokohama North. The Computer Entertainment Association (CESA) announced the winners on July 23. The team took Engineering, Game Design, and Visual Arts honors. The Sound Best Award went to the Nintendo Music development and operations team, giving Nintendo a sweep of all categories. The Engineering award cited advanced integration of terrain destruction and physics simulation using voxel technology. Game Design recognized an exciting exploration experience through destruction leveraging character appeal. Visual Arts honored voxel technology realizing a fully destructible 3D world. The Sound award noted continuous library building of a vast number of songs and provision of music experiences utilizing the characteristics of game music. Shuhei Yoshida received the Special Award, announced July 1, for his contributions to computer entertainment development, including leadership of the PlayStation brand and support of indie games. The Best Awards were determined by votes from CEDEC2026 attendees and speakers from among the previously announced Excellence Awards.

Jul 22

Nintendo Switch 2 Splatoon Raiders Set Released Today

Nintendo released the "Nintendo Switch 2 (Japanese, Domestic Only) Splatoon Raiders Set" on July 23, 2026, for 64,980 yen. The bundle includes a Switch 2 console with Light Blue and Light Red Joy-Con 2 controllers, a dock, and a download code for the game "Splatoon Raiders." The game itself, the first spin-off in the Splatoon series, is a stage-clearing action shooter with hack-and-slash elements, supporting up to four-player co-op. It is set in the Uzushio Archipelago, where players control a mechanic protagonist alongside the music unit Surimi Union to fight Salmonids and collect treasures. The game features over 100 weapon types, a growth system, and local and online multiplayer. A separate physical version costs 7,480 yen, and a download version costs 6,480 yen. Nine tracks from the game, totaling 30 minutes of music, were added to the Nintendo Music service on the same day. Overseas reviews have been positive, with a Metascore of 81 on Metacritic, and a review by loot shooter expert YouTuber Skill Up compared the game to "DOOM," "Borderlands," and "Destiny."

Jul 22

Tsunku Opens Up About 11-Year Wait for Rhythm Heaven Miracle Stars

Tsunku, the composer and producer behind the Rhythm Heaven series, published a free note on July 22 detailing the 11-year gap between the fourth and fifth entries, Rhythm Heaven Miracle Stars, which launched on July 2 for Nintendo Switch. In the note, he admitted he wondered if the series would continue and that spreading rhythm was harder than he imagined. He revealed that fans who played the games as children grew up to work at game software companies and offered to create a similar but different series. Tsunku declined those offers out of loyalty to Nintendo, believing a proper sequel would eventually come. He also discussed his serious illness during the development period, saying Nintendo continued working on the game without stopping, which became a ray of hope. He mentioned former Nintendo president Satoru Iwata, speculating that Iwata may have been battling illness around the same time, and offered his condolences. The note also covers the so-called "curse of Rhythm Heaven," where new hardware releases have historically coincided with new Rhythm Heaven games. Tsunku noted that Miracle Stars works on both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, which he takes positively.

Jul 16

Minna de Kuuki Yomi. 4 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Packaged Version Launches October 29

G-Mode announced on July 16, 2026, that the packaged version of "Minna de Kuuki Yomi. 4 Nintendo Switch 2 Edition +" will release on October 29, 2026, for 4,700 yen. Pre-orders opened the same day. The package bundles four titles: the base game "Minna de Kuuki Yomi. 4," the enhanced "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition," the DLC "Zettai Zetsumei" hen, and "G-MODE Archives Kuuki Yomi. 2," a re-release of the 2010 feature phone game "Kuuki Yomi. 2." The base game features 100 situations, a cooperative mode for two players, and three mini-games, with a story focusing on the protagonist's childhood. The Switch 2 Edition adds a mode using the Joy-Con 2's mouse operation for 20 questions and a competitive mode with five mini-games. The DLC adds 30 new situations themed on crises like zombie panic and alien encounters. The re-release of "Kuuki Yomi. 2" is the first time the feature phone game has been made available on modern hardware, though it is single-player and Japanese-only. The package is compatible with Nintendo Switch, but the Switch 2 Edition's additional content requires a Nintendo Switch 2 console.

Jul 16

Fit Boxing 3 Switch 2 Edition Launches with Ensemble Stars DLC

Imagina released the Switch 2 version of the boxing exercise game today. It adds Camera Play, Share Play Battle for up to four players, Boost Up Mode with a BPM of 200, and Advanced Judgment Mode. A video featuring KENN and Hikaru Midorikawa introduces the new features. The Ensemble Stars!! Pack DLC offers seven BGM tracks and six T-shirts, with a free trial of two songs until August 17.

Jul 13

LEGO Game Boy Set with Mario and Zelda Cartridges on Sale for Prime Day

A LEGO set that recreates the original Game Boy at nearly life size is on sale during Amazon Prime Day 2026. The 421-piece set includes brick-built cartridges for Super Mario Land and The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, a lenticular screen that can display different game scenes, and a display stand. The set is priced at 7,560 yen, an 8% discount from its regular 8,218 yen.

Jul 7

Improved Nintendo Switch 2 to Launch in Europe in Fall 2026 with Replaceable Battery

Nintendo of Europe will release an improved Nintendo Switch 2 with a user-replaceable battery in fall 2026 to comply with EU battery regulations. The new model has a slightly smaller battery (5,172mAh vs 5,220mAh) and is 10g heavier. Battery replacement kits will be sold separately. Improved versions of Joy-Con 2, Joy-Con, and Pro Controller are also planned. The original Switch and Switch Lite will not get improved versions and will be discontinued in Europe after February 2027.

Jul 6

Nintendo Switch 2 Gets User-Replaceable Battery in EU, Original Switch Sales End in 2027

Nintendo of Europe announced on July 6 that it will gradually release revised versions of the Nintendo Switch 2 and several peripherals with user-replaceable batteries, starting in summer 2026 and continuing into early 2027. The change is in response to the EU Battery Regulation, which will require portable devices sold in Europe to have user-replaceable batteries from mid-February 2027. Nintendo stated there are no functional differences between current and revised versions, though minor spec changes occur: the Switch 2 console's battery capacity drops from 5220mAh to 5172mAh (a 1% reduction) and its weight increases by about 10g. The Switch 2 Pro Controller sees a 16% battery reduction to 897mAh. Revised products include Joy-Con (some colors, summer 2026), Switch 2 (autumn 2026), Joy-Con 2 and Pro Controller (winter 2026), and N64 and GameCube controllers (early 2027). Meanwhile, the original Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, Switch OLED, Switch Pro Controller, Pokémon GO Plus+, and several retro controllers will not receive revised versions. Their sales in Europe will end in mid-February 2027. Already purchased products remain usable, and services like the eShop and Nintendo Switch Online will continue. The changes apply only to the EU region.

Jul 2

Nintendo Music Adds 7 Songs From Rhythm Heaven Miracle Stars

Nintendo has added seven tracks from the newly released Rhythm Heaven Miracle Stars to its Nintendo Music streaming app. The songs are available as a special playlist starting July 2, the same day the game launched. A Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required to use the app.

Jun 30

Splatoon Raiders Direct Previews Enemies, Gadgets, and Multiplayer

Nintendo streamed a Direct video for Splatoon Raiders, a single-player spinoff for Nintendo Switch 2 launching July 23. The preview showed treasure hunting gameplay, enemies including Salmonids, over 100 weapon variations, three tank types, facilities, outfits, stages, and four-player multiplayer. A manga adaptation begins July 15.

Jun 29

Nintendo Switch Online Prices Rise July 1, Current Rate Extensions Available

Nintendo will raise prices for all Nintendo Switch Online plans starting July 1, 2026, at 0:00 JST. The individual plan's 12-month subscription will go from 2,400 yen to 3,000 yen, a 600 yen increase. The family plan's 12-month subscription will rise from 4,500 yen to 5,800 yen, a 1,300 yen increase. For the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, the 12-month individual plan will increase from 4,900 yen to 5,900 yen, and the family plan from 8,900 yen to 9,900 yen, each a 1,000 yen increase. Shorter individual plans also increase: the 30-day plan goes from 306 yen to 400 yen, and the 90-day plan from 815 yen to 1,000 yen. Subscribers whose automatic renewal payment date falls on or after July 1 will be charged the new rates. However, current subscribers can purchase additional vouchers for the same plan at the current price before the revision to extend their subscription period. The maximum extension is 1,095 days, achieved by purchasing up to three 12-month vouchers. This allows users to lock in the lower rate for up to three years. The extension can be done through the Nintendo eShop, the official Nintendo Store, or by redeeming voucher cards from retailers.

Jun 29

Nintendo Switch 2 Game Chat Backend Uses WebRTC SFU and DynamoDB

At AWS Summit Japan 2026, Nintendo Systems engineers detailed the backend architecture for Nintendo Switch 2's Game Chat feature. The system uses WebRTC SFU for real-time audio and video communication, supports up to 12 simultaneous users per group, and employs Amazon DynamoDB for group management. The backend is split into SFU servers deployed across multiple AWS regions, a single-region group server, and a proprietary SFU instance manager.

Jun 28

Nintendo Switch 2 Becomes Second Best-Selling Console in US History in First Year

Circana reports the Nintendo Switch 2 sold 5.9 million units in its first 12 months in the US, the second-highest first-year total for any home console. The Game Boy Advance holds the record at 6.5 million. The Switch 2 was the best-selling console in the US in 2025 and led May 2026 hardware sales, which rose 38% year-over-year to $249 million.

Jun 27

Game Dev Story++ Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Released Today

Kairosoft released Game Dev Story++ Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on June 25, 2026, for 2,000 yen. The Switch 2 version supports 4K resolution in TV mode and Joy-Con 2 mouse controls. An upgrade pass for Switch owners costs 500 yen. The game is also available on PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Xbox One, iOS, and Android.

Jun 24

Star Fox Remake for Switch 2 Earns 81 Metascore on Launch Day

Nintendo released Star Fox for the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 25, 2026. The game is a remake of the 1997 Nintendo 64 title Star Fox 64, updating visuals, audio, and story while preserving the original gameplay. The packaged version costs 6,480 yen and the download version costs 5,480 yen. On Metacritic, the game holds an average score of 81 out of 100 based on 76 reviews, with 86 percent of critics posting positive reviews. IGN gave it an 80, praising the new Challenge Mode. Eurogamer also gave an 80, calling it one of the most beautiful Nintendo remakes. The remake adds new story scenes, including a prologue depicting Fox McCloud's father James, and expands character interactions. New features include a Mouse Mode using the Joy-Con 2's mouse function, a Cosplay Filter that transforms the player's face into a character via USB camera, and a 4-on-4 online Battle Mode. A demo version is available on the Nintendo eShop. The game supports both rail shooting and all-range mode stages, and includes vehicles like the Arwing, Landmaster, and Blue Marine.

Jun 24

Star Fox, a Remake of Star Fox 64, Released on Switch 2

Nintendo released Star Fox for the Switch 2 on June 25, 2026. The title is a full remake of the 1997 Nintendo 64 shooter Star Fox 64, with completely renewed graphics and character designs. New features include a Story Mode with branching routes across 16 stages, a Challenge Mode for cleared stages, and a Battle Mode supporting 4 vs. 4 team battles online or locally. Players can choose from three vehicle types: the Arwing, Landmaster, and Blue Marine. Three difficulty levels (Easy, Normal, Expert) are available, and Joy-Con 2 share play allows two-player co-op in Story Mode. A demo is live on the Nintendo Store and eShop, offering the prologue, tutorial, and the early stage Meteo. The package version costs 6,480 yen; the download version is 5,480 yen. An orchestral soundtrack of 10 rearranged songs is available on the Nintendo Music app for Switch Online subscribers. Early player reactions, reported by ASCII.jp, include comments such as "It was many times better than I imagined" and "I bought a Switch 2 just for this." A day-one update (Ver. 1.1.0) fixes a bug where repeated boosting in certain stages could prevent stage completion.

Jun 24

Azure Striker Gunvolt Triangle Edition Switch 2 Edition Launches October 22

Inti Creates announced on June 24 that Azure Striker Gunvolt Triangle Edition Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will release on October 22, 2026. The compilation includes all three main series games-Azure Striker Gunvolt (2014), Azure Striker Gunvolt 2 (Sou) (2016), and Azure Striker Gunvolt 3 (Gibus) (2022)-plus all downloadable content. A new scenario, Azure Striker Gunvolt GX, features a team-up between series protagonist Gunvolt and Acura, the hero of spin-off White Steel X 2. It introduces new weapons and an Inspiration system that leverages synergy between the two characters. The standard package costs 7,590 yen, the download version 6,480 yen, and a limited edition priced at 16,280 yen includes an A4 setting material collection, a seven-disc complete soundtrack, and a bonus song CD. Owners of the Nintendo Switch version can upgrade via a 1,500 yen pass. The Switch 2 Edition supports 4K television output and improved frame rates. Store-specific pre-order bonuses include tapestries, acrylic stands, and other items.

Jun 23

Splatoon Raiders 4-Panel Manga Launches on Nintendo Today! App

Nintendo has begun serializing a 4-panel manga titled 'Surimi Alliance Chakapoco Distress Log' for the upcoming Switch 2 game 'Splatoon Raiders' on the official Nintendo Today! app. The manga will be updated daily for one month from June 23 to July 22, depicting the survival life of the Surimi Alliance and the Mechanic after crash-landing on the Uzushio Islands.

Jun 23

Nintendo Switch Online Price Increase Set for July 1

Nintendo has issued a reminder that its Nintendo Switch Online service will see price increases starting July 1, 2026. The revised pricing applies to all plans. For the standard Individual Plan, one month will cost ¥400 (up from ¥306), three months ¥1,000, and 12 months ¥3,000 (up from ¥2,400). The Family Plan for 12 months will be ¥5,800. For the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack tier, the Individual 12-month plan rises to ¥5,900 from ¥4,900, and the Family 12-month plan to ¥8,900. Nintendo also warned that automatic renewal payments scheduled on or after July 1 at 0:00 will be charged at the new rates. Subscribers can still extend their current subscription at the existing prices by purchasing additional tickets, up to a maximum extension of 1,095 days. The next scheduled payment date can be checked on the Nintendo Account website. The price revision was first announced earlier and is now being reiterated ahead of the implementation date.

Jun 22

Nintendo 64 Reaches 30th Anniversary Milestone

The Nintendo 64, released on June 23, 1996, marks its 30th anniversary in 2026. A retrospective article highlights how the console's three-pronged controller and analog 3D stick established the basic grammar of modern 3D action games, and looks back at launch titles Super Mario 64 and Pilotwings 64.

Jun 20

Nintendo's Pictonico! Turns Phone Photos Into Surreal Mini-Games

Nintendo released Pictonico! for iOS and Android on May 28, 2026. The free app uses photos from the user's phone to power a series of surreal, WarioWare-style mini-games. Players can buy Game Packs to expand the library: Vol. 1 offers 50 games for 800 yen, Vol. 2 offers 30 games for 600 yen. Three modes are available: Stage, Score Attack, and Random 10.

Jun 19

Nintendo Museum to Open Super Family Restaurant This Fall

Nintendo announced a new dining facility called SUPER FAMILY RESTAURANT will open at the Nintendo Museum in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, in fall 2026. The restaurant will serve food and desserts, with details on the opening date and menu to be announced later. Interior photos hint at decorations themed around Nintendo characters like Link and Samus.