Cloudabouts
Did you catch the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase on July 31, 2025? If not, don’t sweat it! It was a whirlwind of announcements, trailers, and release dates, so it’s easy to miss something. Luckily, I’ve got you covered with a comprehensive rundown of all the juicy details. Trust me, there were some real bangers in there, from RPGs that’ll steal your heart to indie titles with that special something. Let’s dive in!
RPG Powerhouses Steal the Show
Kingdom Hearts IV Gameplay Reveal
Okay, Kingdom Hearts fans, brace yourselves! We finally got a good look at Kingdom Hearts IV gameplay, and boy, does it look incredible. The combat seems to have taken a more action-oriented approach, but still retains that classic KH feel. The story is…well, it’s Kingdom Hearts, so expect some wild twists and turns. We also got a potential release window, though Square Enix is keeping tight-lipped. Summer 2026? That’s my guess, anyway. What do you think?
Octopath Traveler III Announced
Square Enix just keeps giving, huh? Octopath Traveler III is officially a thing! Can you believe it? This time, we’re heading to a brand new continent with (of course) eight new travelers, each with their own unique stories and abilities. The HD-2D style is back, looking as gorgeous as ever. Honestly, I’m already hooked. I’m expecting a deep, engaging story with strategic turn-based combat – the same magic that made the first two so addictive. It’s coming winter 2026, so we still have a bit to wait. But, patience is a virtue, right?
Persona 6: Switch Release Confirmed
Alright, this is HUGE! Persona 6 is coming to the Nintendo Switch! I was so worried it would be another cloud version situation, but thankfully, it’s a full release. We don’t know yet if there will be any unique Switch features, but I’m hoping for some cool touchscreen integration, maybe? Either way, having Persona 6 on the go is a dream come true. Fingers crossed for no performance issues!
Indie Gems Spark Excitement
Hollow Knight: Silksong Finally Gets a Release Date
Is this real life? After what feels like an eternity, Hollow Knight: Silksong finally has a release date! Mark your calendars: it’s dropping on March 7th, 2026! The gameplay looks even smoother and more refined than the original, with Hornet boasting a whole new moveset and a stunning new kingdom to explore. Honestly, I can’t wait to get lost in this world. Did someone say GOTY?
Axiom Verge 3 Unveiled
Talk about a surprise! I never saw this coming. Axiom Verge 3 was unveiled, and it looks absolutely bonkers. If you’re a fan of Metroidvanias, this is one to keep an eye on. The trailer showcased some really cool new environments and abilities, and the pixel art is just chef’s kiss. No release date yet, but hopefully, it won’t be too long.
Stardew Valley 2 Officially Confirmed
Clear your schedules, folks! Eric Barone (aka ConcernedApe) officially confirmed Stardew Valley 2. What?! I know, I gasped, too. While details are still scarce, we do know that it will feature new biomes and a revamped crafting system. Honestly, I didn’t think the original could be improved upon, but I trust ConcernedApe to deliver another masterpiece. Maybe I’ll finally achieve my dream of owning a virtual alpaca farm. One can dream, right?
Surprise Announcements and Updates
Bayonetta 4 Teased
Um, did you see that? A brief teaser for Bayonetta 4?! While it didn’t show much, it definitely got the hype train rolling. Where will Bayonetta’s story go next? Will we see new weapons, new demons? Maybe even a new art style? I have so many questions! I think there will be more details at the Tokyo Games Show, but who knows!
Monster Hunter Wilds Update
We got a deeper dive into Monster Hunter Wilds, and it’s shaping up to be incredible. They showed off some truly terrifying new monsters, vast and varied environments, and some exciting new gameplay mechanics. The scale of the world seems bigger than ever, and the monster designs are just phenomenal. I can’t wait to team up with my friends and take on these behemoths!
New IP from PlatinumGames Revealed
PlatinumGames never fails to surprise. They revealed a brand new, action-packed IP called “Project Chimera”. The trailer was full of high-octane combat, stylish visuals, and a very intriguing premise involving a group of super-powered individuals fighting to protect humanity from…well, something monstrous. The gameplay looks fast-paced and fluid, and the art style is distinctly PlatinumGames. I’m definitely intrigued!
Cloud Versions and Remasters
Final Fantasy IX Remake Coming to Switch
The rumors were true! The Final Fantasy IX Remake is coming to the Switch! This is fantastic news for fans of the original, including me, offering a modern take on a beloved classic. I just hope they stay true to the spirit of the original. I wonder how they’ll handle the Trance system? I suppose we will find out soon enough.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance Cloud Version Announced
Okay, this is a bit of a bummer. Kingdom Come: Deliverance is coming to Switch… as a cloud version. While it’s great that more people will get to experience this fantastic open-world RPG, the cloud version comes with the usual caveats: reliance on a stable internet connection and potential latency issues. Still, if you don’t have any other way to play it, it might be worth checking out. I just wish it could run natively!
NieR: Automata – The End of YoRHa Edition Runs Natively!
Wait, what? A surprise to be sure, but a welcome one! NieR: Automata – The End of YoRHa Edition is running natively on the Switch, and it looks fantastic! Apparently, they’ve even improved the graphics since its initial release. That’s amazing. I thought it was going to be another cloud port, but I’m pleasantly surprised. This is the perfect opportunity to experience this masterpiece if you haven’t already!
So, there you have it: a recap of everything that was announced at the July 31st Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase. Pretty amazing, huh? Honestly, I’m still reeling from all the announcements. I’m super excited about everything from Persona 6 and Stardew Valley 2 to that Axiom Verge 3. What are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments!
