Nintendo Direct presentations have become one of the most exciting moments in the gaming calendar. Every time Nintendo announces one, fans around the world drop everything to tune in. And if the latest reports are to be believed, another major Nintendo Direct is scheduled for September 2025.
Why does this matter? Well, not only could we finally get long-awaited updates on Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, but this September also marks a milestone year for the world’s most famous plumber—Super Mario Bros.’ 40th anniversary. Add to that the Nintendo Switch 2’s ongoing momentum, and we could be looking at one of the biggest Directs in recent memory.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything we know (and speculate) about the upcoming Direct: from historical trends to game announcements, anniversary celebrations, and fan expectations.
A Tradition of September Nintendo Directs
Nintendo has made September its go-to month for major announcements. Since 2016, the company has consistently aired big September Directs—except in 2024, when it saved announcements to highlight the unveiling of the Nintendo Switch 2 in October.
This pattern builds anticipation. Fans know September often brings new trailers, release dates, and reveals that set the tone for the holiday season and beyond.
Some of the most iconic announcements from past September Directs include:
- The reveal of Super Mario Odyssey’s major updates (2017).
- Fresh looks at Pokémon Sword and Shield (2019).
- The unveiling of Monster Hunter Rise (2020).
- Key updates about Breath of the Wild 2 (later named Tears of the Kingdom) in 2022.
With this history, a September 2025 Direct feels almost guaranteed. The big question is—what will Nintendo show this year?
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Finally Ready?
Perhaps the most anticipated reveal of all is Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.
This game has been in development limbo for years. Originally announced in 2017, Metroid Prime 4 faced delays, a developer change to Retro Studios in 2019, and long stretches of silence. Fans feared cancellation at points, but Nintendo has repeatedly assured them the project is alive.
Now, with the Switch 2 officially released in April 2025, Metroid Prime 4 feels like it’s positioned as a system-defining blockbuster. Nintendo has previously promised a 2025 release window, but no official date has been locked in.
The upcoming September Direct could finally confirm:
- The official release date (late 2025 or early 2026).
- A new gameplay trailer showcasing Switch 2’s graphical capabilities.
- Details about story and mechanics, possibly introducing new bounty hunters, planets, or gameplay innovations.
If Nintendo can deliver, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond could become the Switch 2’s equivalent of what Breath of the Wild was for the original Switch—a launch-defining masterpiece.
Super Mario Bros. 40th Anniversary Celebration
2025 marks a monumental milestone: 40 years of Super Mario Bros.
The franchise that began in 1985 with the NES classic has grown into one of the most recognizable brands in global entertainment. From video games to movies, theme parks, toys, and even orchestral concerts, Mario is bigger than ever.
Nintendo has a history of celebrating Mario anniversaries in creative ways. For the 35th anniversary in 2020, we saw:
- Super Mario 3D All-Stars – a collection of Mario 64, Sunshine, and Galaxy.
- Super Mario Bros. 35 – a limited-time battle royale game.
- Special hardware editions, like Mario-themed Switch consoles.
So, what could Nintendo do for the 40th anniversary? Speculation includes:
- A new 3D Mario game for Switch 2 (possibly teased or revealed).
- A remastered collection of Super Mario Galaxy 2, 3D World, and Odyssey.
- Special anniversary events within games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate 2 (rumored for Switch 2).
- New themed hardware or accessories.
Additionally, the Super Mario Bros. Movie sequel, in collaboration with Universal and Illumination, is set to launch next year. Nintendo could use this Direct to tease connections between the film and upcoming games, ensuring Mario dominates pop culture in both cinema and gaming.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Line-up
While Mario and Metroid might dominate headlines, Nintendo also has a strong Switch 2 line-up for late 2025:
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Switch 2 Edition (August 28, 2025).
- Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Switch 2 Edition (October 16, 2025).
- Kirby Air Riders (November 20, 2025).
These titles will carry Nintendo through the holiday season, but the Direct could expand on them with:
- New gameplay trailers.
- DLC announcements.
- Special Switch 2-exclusive features (enhanced graphics, performance, or online modes).
Beyond these, fans are hungry for surprises. Rumors suggest new Zelda spin-offs, Donkey Kong reboots, or even Fire Emblem projects could be unveiled.
Fan Speculation: What Else Could Be Announced?
Nintendo Directs are famous for their “one more thing” surprises. For this September, speculation is running wild. Potential announcements include:
- A New Zelda Project – possibly a remake (Wind Waker or Twilight Princess) or even a brand-new adventure for Switch 2.
- Donkey Kong 40th Anniversary Tease – The ape’s own milestone could bring a new platformer or tie-in with Super Nintendo World’s Donkey Kong Country expansion.
- Third-Party Partnerships – Big collaborations with Square Enix, Capcom, or Bandai Namco could see titles like Final Fantasy remasters or Monster Hunter exclusives.
- Nintendo Switch Online Updates – Expansion of the virtual console library, maybe even GameCube titles for the first time.
Each possibility adds fuel to the hype train, ensuring fans tune in with sky-high expectations.
Why Nintendo Directs Matter So Much
Nintendo Directs have evolved from simple presentations to cultural gaming events. Unlike traditional press conferences, they:
- Stream online directly to fans worldwide.
- Offer fast-paced, content-packed showcases.
- Mix AAA blockbusters with charming indie highlights.
For Nintendo, Directs are a way to control the narrative—keeping fans engaged, silencing rumors, and building excitement. For fans, they’re a chance to dream, speculate, and rally around a shared moment of hype.
The September 2025 Direct could be especially impactful, since it comes during:
- The first year of the Switch 2, a crucial period for building momentum.
- A milestone anniversary for Mario.
- The longest wait in history for a Metroid Prime sequel.
Industry Impact and Market Expectations
Beyond fan excitement, the September Direct carries weight in the broader gaming industry. Nintendo’s announcements affect:
- Stock prices – major reveals can drive Nintendo shares upward.
- Third-party developers – eager to align their own releases with Nintendo’s spotlight.
- Holiday sales – the lineup revealed could determine whether Nintendo dominates the 2025 holiday shopping season.
If Nintendo confirms Metroid Prime 4 and teases a new Mario game, it could instantly boost Switch 2’s popularity worldwide, ensuring record-breaking sales into 2026.
Conclusion – A September to Remember?
As reports suggest, the September 2025 Nintendo Direct is shaping up to be one of the most important in recent years.
Fans are eagerly waiting for:
- A Metroid Prime 4: Beyond release date and fresh gameplay.
- Major announcements for Super Mario Bros.’ 40th anniversary.
- Updates on the Switch 2’s holiday lineup.
- Potential surprises like Zelda, Donkey Kong, or third-party exclusives.
If Nintendo delivers on even half of these expectations, the Direct could be remembered as a legendary showcase, setting the tone for the Switch 2’s success and solidifying 2025 as a landmark year for gaming.
For now, all eyes remain on September. Get ready—Nintendo could be about to blow the doors wide open.
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