Nintendo continues to power through 2025 with a strong lineup of third-party games showcased during its highly anticipated Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase on July 31. With a runtime of just 25 minutes, the Nintendo Switch Partner Showcase packed a surprising punch, revealing a mix of new titles, remasters, and updates optimized for the new Switch 2.
This Nintendo Direct July 2025 event gave fans a clear look at how third-party studios are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on Nintendo hardware, especially with the upgraded capabilities of the Switch 2.
Highlights from the Nintendo Partner Showcase
One of the standout announcements was Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, a turn-based RPG that diverges from the mainline Monster Hunter series. Capcom is bringing this monster-taming adventure to the Switch 2 in 2026, promising deeper storytelling and engaging combat mechanics.
Octopath Traveler 0, a stunning prequel to the popular HD-2D RPG series from Square Enix, also debuted during the showcase. Set for release on December 4, this new entry is expected to deliver another rich narrative, this time centered around divine rings and the mysterious realm of Orsterra.
Fans of nostalgic tactics games were thrilled by the updated look at the Final Fantasy Tactics Remaster, which now has a confirmed launch date of September 30. The remaster will be available on both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, featuring enhanced graphics and audio.
Big Names and Bold Releases
Persona 3 Reload, already a hit on other platforms, is officially landing on the Nintendo Switch 2 on October 23. Atlus is finally extending the life of this remake by bringing it to Nintendo’s latest console, complete with all the stylish visuals and turn-based combat that made it a fan favorite.
Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted, a polished remaster of the classic strategy title, is also coming to Switch 2. Launching October 23, this version includes both co-op and PvP modes, making it ideal for casual and competitive play alike.
For battle royale fans, Apex Legends: Showdown introduced a new Switch 2-native version set to arrive on August 5. The update promises improved resolution and frame rates, along with a brand-new Wildcard mode for faster, more chaotic matches.
Quirky Surprises and Fresh IPs
Square Enix closed out the event with the bizarrely titled The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales, an action RPG that’s equal parts silly and stylish. Set in the comically named world of “Philabieldia,” the game launches next year, blending Square’s signature HD-2D art style with a whimsical story.
Once Upon a Katamari, the next title in the beloved Katamari series, was another surprise. With a time-travel twist and a confirmed release date of October 24, this Switch original looks to maintain the franchise’s charm while adding fresh mechanics.
While many fans were hoping to see Hades 2 or updates on Silksong, their absence didn’t overshadow the strong third-party lineup. Nintendo made it clear this Nintendo Partner Showcase was about giving smaller studios and trusted partners a platform, especially as the Nintendo Switch Partner Showcase aims to shrink the release gap between Nintendo and other platforms.
Looking Ahead
Nintendo confirmed that more updates are coming soon, with another Nintendo Direct planned for later this year. With the Switch 2 making waves and Nintendo doubling down on partnerships, the future looks bright for fans of the platform.
Whether you’re into RPGs, shooters, or quirky adventures, the Nintendo Direct July 2025 event proved that Nintendo is more committed than ever to delivering a well-rounded library through its trusted partners.
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