The Ultimate Recap of the June 2024 Nintendo Direct Event!
Did NINTENDO Just Saved Gaming in 2024?
The latest Nintendo Direct has just wrapped up, leaving the gaming community buzzing with excitement and debate. With a mix of thrilling new announcements and some unexpected surprises, there’s a lot to unpack. This Direct had something for everyone.
Mario and Luigi Are Back!
Kicking things off, Mario and Luigi are returning with their classic action RPG gameplay in a new title called Mario and Luigi: Brothership. Set to release on November 7th, this game features a cell-shaded graphical style.
While opinions on the visuals may vary, the gameplay promises to deliver with its signature timed attack mechanics, requiring players to press the button at the right moment for maximum damage.
This marks the first time a Mario and Luigi RPG will be available on a home console, transitioning from their usual handheld formats.
Despite the excitement, it feels like we’re getting a lot of Mario RPG content in a short span, following the recent releases of Super Mario RPG and Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door remake.
Nintendo World Championships NES Edition
Next up, we got a trailer for the Nintendo World Championships NES Edition, launching on July 18th.
This game introduces “Legend Challenges” designed for hardcore players, offering intense difficulty but also providing an instructional guide if you get stuck.
Additionally, players can race against online ghost data, reminiscent of Mario 35. The game looks to capture the competitive spirit of the original championships, blending nostalgia with modern gameplay mechanics.
Fairy Tale 2
For anime fans, Fairy Tale 2 by Koi Tecmo is on the horizon. This action RPG, set to release this winter, continues the story from its predecessor with epic battles and a cell-shaded graphical style.
It’s based on the popular anime series, and while the big attacks and vibrant visuals are appealing, it may not attract those who aren’t into anime. Nevertheless, it promises to be a faithful adaptation for fans of the franchise.
Fantasian
Fantasian, from the creator of Final Fantasy, is confirmed for the Nintendo Switch. This turn-based RPG blends classic elements with modern twists, featuring a fixed camera style reminiscent of old-school games like Resident Evil.
The game boasts a unique diorama aesthetic, with hand-crafted environments that add a tangible feel to the gameplay. Set to launch in the holiday season of 2024, this title looks promising for RPG enthusiasts and fans of classic game design.
Nintendo Switch Sports Update
Basketball fans rejoice! Nintendo Switch Sports is getting a free update this summer, adding two-on-two matches and a three-point contest. While it’s not the new Mario Hoops game many were hoping for, this update adds fresh content to the existing game, enhancing the multiplayer experience.
It’s always great to see free updates that keep the community engaged and the gameplay fresh.
Disney Illusion Island
Disney Illusion Island is receiving a free update today, adding a detective-themed story mode.
This platformer, originally a fun yet average game, now has extra content to keep players engaged. The new mode involves solving mysteries and finding clues, adding depth and replayability to the game.
Hello Kitty Island Adventure
For fans of cute and cuddly adventures, Hello Kitty Island Adventure is coming to the Switch as a timed exclusive in 2025.
This open-world adventure game allows players to explore the charming world of Hello Kitty, engaging in various activities and quests.
It’s a delightful addition for younger audiences and fans of the iconic character.
Looney Tunes Wacky World of Sports
Looney Tunes Wacky World of Sports is bringing classic characters back into the sports genre. Featuring games like soccer, basketball, tennis, and one undisclosed sport, it’s set to release this fall. However, the art style looks a bit off, leaving some fans skeptical.
It aims to capture the zaniness of Looney Tunes but needs to ensure the visuals meet modern standards.
Among Us Update
Among Us fans are in for a treat with a new update dropping today. The update promises to bring fresh content to keep the game interesting, including new roles and tasks.
This will undoubtedly revitalize the game, encouraging both new and returning players to dive back into the world of impostors and crewmates.
Farmagia
Farmagia is a Rune Factory-style game where your crops turn into battle monsters. Launching on November 1st, it offers a unique twist on the farming sim genre.
Players can grow and nurture their crops, which then transform into creatures used in battles.
It’s an interesting concept that blends farming with RPG elements, though it may not appeal to everyone.
Donkey Kong Country Returns HD
The classic Donkey Kong Country Returns is getting an HD makeover, including levels from the 3DS version. Set to release on January 16th, 2025, fans are still clamoring for a brand new Donkey Kong game rather than another remake.
While the updated visuals and additional levels are a nice touch, many are hoping for fresh content in the beloved series.
Dragon Quest 3 HD 2D
The beautifully styled Dragon Quest 3 HD 2D is set for a November 14th release, with the first two Dragon Quest games following in 2025. The vibrant colors and classic turn-based combat make this a standout title.
The HD-2D graphics bring a modern touch to the beloved classic, appealing to both old fans and newcomers.
Funko Fusion
Funko Fusion for me was a bit of a letdown. With big-headed Funko Pop characters, the game didn’t impress much visually. It’s slated for a September 13th release and features locations based on popular franchises like Back to the Future.
However, the visual style and gameplay didn’t seem to resonate well with me.
Luigi’s Mansion 2, The Denpamen, and Metal Slug Attack Reloaded
A trio of smaller announcements included Luigi’s Mansion 2, a new DPA Man game, and Metal Slug Attack Reloaded, a tower defense title, all adding variety to the lineup.
Luigi’s Mansion 2 is set to bring back the ghost-busting fun, while DPA Man and Metal Slug offer niche gameplay experiences for fans of those series.
Darkest Dungeon 2
Darkest Dungeon 2 will be out on July 15th. Fans of the first game will likely appreciate this dark and challenging sequel.
The game continues to explore the themes of psychological horror and tactical combat, promising a grueling yet rewarding experience.
Nintendo Switch Online Update
Nintendo Switch Online is getting a major boost with Four Swords: Legend of Zelda, Metroid Zero Mission, and several N64 games including Turok and Perfect Dark with online multiplayer.
These updates drop today, adding significant value to the online service and bringing beloved classics to a new audience.
Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero
Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero brings a tactical turn-based RPG with a distinctive art style, scheduled for 2025. It features strategic gameplay where positioning and planning are key.
While it may not appeal to everyone, it adds to the diverse lineup of games coming to the Switch.
Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection
A huge announcement for fighting game fans: the Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection is coming in 2024, featuring classic arcade titles with online gameplay and a comprehensive museum.
This collection includes beloved titles like Marvel vs. Capcom 2 and X-Men vs. Street Fighter, offering a nostalgia trip with modern online capabilities.
Super Mario Party Jamboree
Super Mario Party Jamber introduces five new boards, two retro boards, and 110 mini-games. A new mode allows up to 20 players to compete online.
This comprehensive update hits on October 17th, promising a fresh take on the party game genre.
It’s a significant expansion that adds variety and excitement to the Mario Party series.
Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
The standout announcement was Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, where you play as Zelda rescuing Link. With a unique “Echoes” mechanic for solving puzzles and battling, it releases on September 16th.
Zelda can create echoes of objects and creatures to aid in her journey, adding a new layer of strategy and creativity to the gameplay.
This title looks to offer a fresh perspective on the Zelda franchise, much to the delight of fans.
Just Dance 2025 Edition
The Just Dance series continues with its 2025 edition, set for an October release. Love it or hate it, the series persists, offering new songs and dance routines to keep players moving.
It remains a popular choice for parties and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Lego Horizon Adventure
Surprisingly, Lego Horizon Adventure brings Aloy to the Nintendo Direct. The holiday 2024 release promises a unique crossover experience, blending the adventurous world of Horizon with the playful creativity of Lego.
This collaboration aims to offer a fresh and exciting gameplay experience for fans of both franchises.
Stray
Stray, the cat adventure game, is coming to Switch in the holiday of 2024. If you missed it on PlayStation, now’s your chance. Players can explore a futuristic city from a cat’s perspective, solving puzzles and uncovering secrets.
It’s a unique and charming game that has captured the hearts of many.
Tales of the Shrine: Lord of the Rings
Lord of the Rings: Tales of the Shrine lets you live as a hobbit. Though the game doesn’t look great, it’s set to launch in the holiday of 2024.
Players can garden, explore, and engage in everyday hobbit life, offering a cozy and immersive experience for fans of the franchise.
Ace Attorney Investigations Collection
The Ace Attorney Investigations Collection includes two games, one previously unreleased in the West, launching on September 6th. Players can choose between pixel art and modern art styles, offering a classic Capcom compilation experience with added flexibility.
The collection promises to deliver the iconic courtroom drama and investigation gameplay that fans love.
Metroid Prime 4 Beyond
Closing the show, Metroid Prime 4 Beyond is confirmed for 2025. While the teaser was brief, it reassures fans that the game is still in development. The title suggests an expansion of the beloved Metroid universe, promising new adventures and challenges for Samus Aran.
Overall, this Nintendo Direct had its highs and lows. The new Zelda game, Metroid Prime 4, and the Nintendo Switch Online update were definite highlights. I was actually somewhat surprised at the amount of big announcements.
With Nintendo in a transitional period, it’s understandable, but the excitement wasn’t quite there for every announcement.
What were your thoughts on the Nintendo Direct? Share your opinions in the comments below. Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you in the next article!
