In June, Nintendo Direct presented its annual forecast for the Nintendo Switch family, laying out upcoming exclusives and multiplatform releases. The briefing gave fans a clear sense of what to expect in the months ahead across the platform. The following sections recap the most notable announcements from the event.
The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero add-on for Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet
Pokemon Scarlet and Pokemon Violet will expand with The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, a DLC bundle that introduces a new location for players to explore. The expansion for Scarlet is planned for release in the fall, followed by the Violet portion slated for Winter 2024. This update expands the ninth generation’s open-world approach, enriching the narrative and exploration options for trainers.
Sonic Superstars
The showcase featured a gameplay trailer for Sonic Superstars, a platformer that nods to the classic Genesis/Mega Drive era while delivering modern visuals. The title is scheduled to launch in the upcoming fall season, bringing the blue hedgehog back to the home console with new mechanics and cooperative play.
Historically, a long-running console rivalry existed between SEGA and Nintendo in the 1990s. Today, Sonic titles return to Nintendo platforms alongside other major publishers, continuing a tradition of cross‑console adventures.
Palia
Palia is described as a shareware MMORPG set in a whimsical fantasy world. Its art direction carries a light, Genshin-inspired vibe rather than a purely anime aesthetics. The game targets a late-2024 release window, aiming to blend social play with cooperative progression in a cozy online world.
Persona 5 Tactics
Persona 5 Tactics marks a tactical spin-off featuring familiar characters from the Persona 5 universe, including the Joker and Ann Takamaki. The strategy-focused title is scheduled to arrive on November 17, bringing turn-based combat and character-driven storytelling to Nintendo Switch and other platforms.
Familiar with the Persona series?
MythForce
MythForce presents a team-based action experience inspired by 1980s animated adventures. Its visual style channels classic arcade and animated features, while gameplay emphasizes cooperative boss battles and resourceful combat. The game is slated for a late-2024 release on Switch.
Detective Pikachu Returns
Detective Pikachu Returns serves as the direct sequel to the 2018 detective adventure. Both titles plunge players into investigative mysteries set within the Pokemon world, combining puzzle-solving with action elements. The sequel is planned for an October release, expanding the detective storyline for fans of the series.
Super Mario RPG
The Super Mario RPG project on Switch revisits the beloved 1996 SNES classic, offering a role‑playing experience with turn-based combat. The revised entry aims to recapture the charm of the original while introducing modern refinements, with a release date in mid‑November 2024.
Batman: Arkham Trilogy
The Batman: Arkham trilogy lands on Nintendo Switch, bringing Arkham Asylum, Arkham City and Arkham Knight to the platform. This fall, players can revisit or discover these three acclaimed titles in a single collection, experiencing Batman’s investigative and combat-heavy adventures on the portable console.
The Batman Arkham games have aged gracefully, offering deeper storytelling and tighter gameplay than some newer entries in the broader Gotham universe.
Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven, a PC favorite, is headed to Nintendo Switch as a tactical, dungeon-crawling strategy game. Known for its rich tactical depth and cooperative play, the Switch version is set to release in late 2024, expanding the console’s library of strategic, long-form campaigns.
Just Dance 2024 Edition
Just Dance 2024 Edition makes its way to Switch, utilizing the Joy-Con controllers for motion tracking. Players can expect a vibrant, music-driven party game arriving in October, perfect for social gaming with friends and family.
Fae Farm
Fae Farm, a farming sim steeped in a whimsical fantasy setting, lands on Switch in October. The game blends resource management, crafting, and social elements, inviting players to build their magical farm and community in a cozy, inviting world.
Manic Mechanics
Manic Mechanics gathers friends for a series of cooperative brain-teasing puzzles. It’s pitched as a lively option for social gatherings and game nights, with a release planned for July.
Vampire Survivors
Vampire Survivors, a pixel‑style, fast-paced action title, is coming to Switch this year in August. Its straightforward controls and escalating difficulty have helped it become a fan favorite on other platforms, now expanding to Nintendo’s hybrid console.
Picmin 4
The latest Pikmin adventure was showcased with fresh footage, emphasizing new mechanics such as freezing water to create temporary bridges. Pikmin 4 is scheduled to release in July, continuing the franchise’s signature blend of strategy and exploration.
Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol 1
The Master Collection Vol 1 bundles the first three Metal Gear Solid installments, along with Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2. These are direct ports rather than remakes, allowing players to experience classic stealth action on Switch starting October 24.
Are you interested in the first parts of the Metal Gear Solid series?
Super Mario Bros. Miracle
Super Mario Bros. Miracle is a new 2D platformer that echoes the look and feel of the early NES era, delivering a nostalgic yet fresh experience. The title lands in October 2024.
Which games from the presentation stood out to you? Share thoughts in the comments to join the conversation. The event summary reflects highlights from the Nintendo Direct showcase.