Is a Nintendo Direct releasing tomorrow? Key dates, leaks in July for major game announcements revealed
Nintendo typically spaces its announcements carefully across the year, and the mid-year Direct has historically served as a strategic platform to unveil release dates and gameplay footage for upcoming titles. With multiple high-profile games such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond , Kirby Air Riders , and the rumored Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment all slated for 2025, the absence of fixed release dates makes a late-July Direct not only probable but necessary for planning the remainder of Nintendo's calendar.Among the most awaited updates are the release timelines for flagship titles. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond , long in development, has generated considerable excitement. Similarly, Kirby Air Riders , helmed by celebrated director Masahiro Sakurai, is expected to further expand the franchise's popularity.
The Hyrule Warriors sequel, tentatively subtitled Age of Imprisonment , was earlier tagged for a "winter" release—leaving open the question of whether it will land in December or early January. Without confirmed launch windows, fans are left guessing, making the upcoming Direct crucial.
In addition to new titles, Nintendo's retro catalog may be about to grow. Clues embedded in a recent Nintendo 64 promotional trailer have fans speculating that classics like Super Smash Bros. (N64), Donkey Kong 64 , and others might soon arrive on Nintendo Switch Online. With no new Smash Bros. installment on the docket—owing to Sakurai's involvement in Kirby Air Riders —a re-release of the original version could satisfy long-time fans.Further intrigue surrounds the potential launch of GameCube titles on the platform, which could arrive via a surprise drop or a timed announcement. These expansions continue to form a critical part of Nintendo's strategy to offer nostalgia-fueled content on modern hardware.Another likely update centers around Mario Kart World , a key Nintendo Switch 2 title. Despite offering costume variants for many racers, characters like Donkey Kong and Pauline are curiously limited to a single outfit each.
This has led to speculation about an incoming update that might introduce alternate looks, or even new racers altogether from the Donkey Kong universe, such as Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong, or Cranky Kong. Though King K. Rool remains a long shot, his inclusion could coincide with another major Donkey Kong announcement.
The Nintendo Switch 2 slate is already brimming with blockbuster titles including Pokemon Legends: Z-A , Drag x Drive , and Donkey Kong Bananza . However, Nintendo is known for staggering its releases to avoid cannibalizing sales, with most games spaced roughly a month apart. Still, speculation persists about titles likely scheduled for 2026, as mentioned in a report by Nintendo Switch.
These could include a return of Tomodachi Life in its new iteration Living the Dream , or rhythm-based entries like Rhythm Heaven Groove .
Camelot Software Planning, Nintendo's sports game developer, has not released a title since Mario Golf: Super Rush in 2021. This adds weight to theories that a new Mario Sports title—or possibly a Golden Sun remake—could be in the works and ripe for a Direct announcement. To keep up momentum without overwhelming the calendar with fresh titles, Nintendo may turn to performance-enhanced re-releases for the Switch 2 platform. These "Switch 2 Editions" could offer better resolution and frame rates for existing fan favorites. Titles such as Xenoblade Chronicles , Bayonetta 3 , Pokemon Legends: Arceus , Kirby Star Allies , and Animal Crossing: New Horizons are prime candidates for such treatment.Such upgrades would not only rejuvenate the playing experience for long-time fans but also offer an incentive for Switch 2 adoption among undecided players.While much of the Direct may focus on new content and Switch 2 exclusives, Nintendo has historically invested in ports of previous generation titles. Rumors are gaining traction around a potential re-release of Kirby: Planet Robobot —originally for the 3DS—retooled for the Switch ecosystem. If announced, this could pair well with a remastered edition of Kirby and the Forgotten Land , offering Kirby fans both legacy and new-generation experiences.This strategy of low-investment ports has proven commercially effective given the continued strength of the Nintendo Switch's install base, despite the newer console's arrival.The third-party landscape remains one of the most tantalizing areas for speculation. While the launch period for Switch 2 brought marquee games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Street Fighter 6 , the months since have been relatively quiet. Industry insiders suggest this lull may end soon, with a surge of announcements expected during the next Nintendo Direct.Microsoft's rumored collaboration on Switch 2 projects, alongside further Ubisoft support, could form a significant part of the showcase. With Xbox's internal shakeups and layoffs earlier in the year, questions linger about whether original plans remain intact—but any Direct in July could provide needed clarity.While Nintendo has yet to officially confirm a Direct for July 2025, the conditions are primed. The need for clarity around major game releases, the promise of online platform expansions, and the potential unveiling of new games or remasters make this an announcement cycle fans won't want to miss. Whether via traditional livestream or through more modern channels like the Nintendo Today app, gamers are watching closely—and waiting eagerly.No, as of now, Nintendo has not officially announced a Direct for July 2025. However, industry speculation strongly suggests it could take place on July 23, 24, 30, or 31, based on historical patterns and media reports, including from Nintendo Everything .Nintendo typically holds a mid-year Direct to announce release dates, show gameplay, and preview upcoming titles. With several major games still lacking confirmed timelines, a July Direct is seen as both likely and strategically necessary.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Economic Times
a day ago
- Economic Times
Is a Nintendo Direct releasing tomorrow? Key dates, leaks in July for major game announcements revealed
As July draws to a close, anticipation brews in the global gaming community amid swirling speculation of an imminent Nintendo Direct presentation. While official confirmation remains elusive, industry watchers and gaming enthusiasts are eyeing the end of the month—July 23, 24, 30, or 31—as potential dates for the next showcase, as mentioned in a report by Nintendo Everything. Based on industry cues and prior announcements, a range of new titles, updates, and surprises could be on the horizon. Nintendo typically spaces its announcements carefully across the year, and the mid-year Direct has historically served as a strategic platform to unveil release dates and gameplay footage for upcoming titles. With multiple high-profile games such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond , Kirby Air Riders , and the rumored Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment all slated for 2025, the absence of fixed release dates makes a late-July Direct not only probable but necessary for planning the remainder of Nintendo's the most awaited updates are the release timelines for flagship titles. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond , long in development, has generated considerable excitement. Similarly, Kirby Air Riders , helmed by celebrated director Masahiro Sakurai, is expected to further expand the franchise's popularity. The Hyrule Warriors sequel, tentatively subtitled Age of Imprisonment , was earlier tagged for a "winter" release—leaving open the question of whether it will land in December or early January. Without confirmed launch windows, fans are left guessing, making the upcoming Direct crucial. In addition to new titles, Nintendo's retro catalog may be about to grow. Clues embedded in a recent Nintendo 64 promotional trailer have fans speculating that classics like Super Smash Bros. (N64), Donkey Kong 64 , and others might soon arrive on Nintendo Switch Online. With no new Smash Bros. installment on the docket—owing to Sakurai's involvement in Kirby Air Riders —a re-release of the original version could satisfy long-time intrigue surrounds the potential launch of GameCube titles on the platform, which could arrive via a surprise drop or a timed announcement. These expansions continue to form a critical part of Nintendo's strategy to offer nostalgia-fueled content on modern likely update centers around Mario Kart World , a key Nintendo Switch 2 title. Despite offering costume variants for many racers, characters like Donkey Kong and Pauline are curiously limited to a single outfit each. This has led to speculation about an incoming update that might introduce alternate looks, or even new racers altogether from the Donkey Kong universe, such as Diddy Kong, Dixie Kong, or Cranky Kong. Though King K. Rool remains a long shot, his inclusion could coincide with another major Donkey Kong announcement. The Nintendo Switch 2 slate is already brimming with blockbuster titles including Pokemon Legends: Z-A , Drag x Drive , and Donkey Kong Bananza . However, Nintendo is known for staggering its releases to avoid cannibalizing sales, with most games spaced roughly a month apart. Still, speculation persists about titles likely scheduled for 2026, as mentioned in a report by Nintendo Switch. These could include a return of Tomodachi Life in its new iteration Living the Dream , or rhythm-based entries like Rhythm Heaven Groove . Camelot Software Planning, Nintendo's sports game developer, has not released a title since Mario Golf: Super Rush in 2021. This adds weight to theories that a new Mario Sports title—or possibly a Golden Sun remake—could be in the works and ripe for a Direct announcement. To keep up momentum without overwhelming the calendar with fresh titles, Nintendo may turn to performance-enhanced re-releases for the Switch 2 platform. These "Switch 2 Editions" could offer better resolution and frame rates for existing fan favorites. Titles such as Xenoblade Chronicles , Bayonetta 3 , Pokemon Legends: Arceus , Kirby Star Allies , and Animal Crossing: New Horizons are prime candidates for such upgrades would not only rejuvenate the playing experience for long-time fans but also offer an incentive for Switch 2 adoption among undecided much of the Direct may focus on new content and Switch 2 exclusives, Nintendo has historically invested in ports of previous generation titles. Rumors are gaining traction around a potential re-release of Kirby: Planet Robobot —originally for the 3DS—retooled for the Switch ecosystem. If announced, this could pair well with a remastered edition of Kirby and the Forgotten Land , offering Kirby fans both legacy and new-generation strategy of low-investment ports has proven commercially effective given the continued strength of the Nintendo Switch's install base, despite the newer console's third-party landscape remains one of the most tantalizing areas for speculation. While the launch period for Switch 2 brought marquee games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Street Fighter 6 , the months since have been relatively quiet. Industry insiders suggest this lull may end soon, with a surge of announcements expected during the next Nintendo rumored collaboration on Switch 2 projects, alongside further Ubisoft support, could form a significant part of the showcase. With Xbox's internal shakeups and layoffs earlier in the year, questions linger about whether original plans remain intact—but any Direct in July could provide needed Nintendo has yet to officially confirm a Direct for July 2025, the conditions are primed. The need for clarity around major game releases, the promise of online platform expansions, and the potential unveiling of new games or remasters make this an announcement cycle fans won't want to miss. Whether via traditional livestream or through more modern channels like the Nintendo Today app, gamers are watching closely—and waiting as of now, Nintendo has not officially announced a Direct for July 2025. However, industry speculation strongly suggests it could take place on July 23, 24, 30, or 31, based on historical patterns and media reports, including from Nintendo Everything .Nintendo typically holds a mid-year Direct to announce release dates, show gameplay, and preview upcoming titles. With several major games still lacking confirmed timelines, a July Direct is seen as both likely and strategically necessary.
Mint
5 days ago
- Mint
Nintendo and Lego bring back 1989's Game Boy with lenticular display and brick cartridges: Launch on Oct 1
Lego has officially unveiled its brick-built version of the 1989 Nintendo Game Boy, with preorders now open ahead of its 1 October release, reportedThe Verge. Priced at $60 in the United States, the set offers a near full-scale model of the original handheld console, measuring approximately 9cm in height and 14cm in width. This announcement follows Lego's confirmation earlier in January that it would take on the challenge of recreating the Game Boy. The design includes several intricate features designed to echo the look and feel of the iconic gaming device, from its rounded contours to its recognisable button layout. Unlike some previous builds, the A and B buttons on this model are crafted using custom Lego pieces that appear to depress into the unit's frame, rather than relying on standard parts. The build also incorporates printed tiles rather than stickers for detailing, which include familiar labels such as the 'Dot Matrix With Stereo Sound' tagline, the speaker grille, the battery compartment, and the on-off switch. A serial number is also visible on the rear, which reportedly includes a small easter egg. A standout element of the set is the addition of lenticular screens that simulate gameplay. Users can insert brick-built cartridges representing classic Game Boy titles, including Super Mario Land and The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, and tilt the display to see animated scenes from the games appear. One such screen recreates the iconic Nintendo logo animation that would typically appear on startup. The cartridge for Link's Awakening also includes a second lenticular screen depicting a well-known moment from the game featuring characters Link and Marin. While Tetris, the original Game Boy pack-in title, is not included, Lego has promoted the set with a partial re-creation of the original US commercial for the console, shared on its Instagram account. This official release follows years of fan-made Lego Game Boy tributes, including a popular design by artist Nick Lever. Despite being a non-functional model, the Lego set has already attracted interest from collectors and enthusiasts drawn to its display-oriented details and nostalgic appeal.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Time of India
Nintendo Game Boy Preorder begins: Price, design and when you can expect shipment from Lego
For fans of retro gaming and high-quality Lego sets, the official Nintendo Game Boy offers a faithful and interactive tribute to one of the most beloved consoles in history. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads A Tribute to 1989's Gaming Icon Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Lenticular Lens Display Brings Games to Life Lego's Continued Collaboration with Nintendo Accessibility and Collector Appeal From Fan Conception to Official Product Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Global Availability and Preorders FAQs What is the NYT Strands puzzle? What was the theme for the July 24, 2025, NYT Strands puzzle? In a move that has excited both vintage gaming aficionados and Lego enthusiasts, the Danish brickmaker has officially unveiled a Lego version of the iconic Nintendo Game Boy, complete with tactile detailing and a unique lenticular display that simulates classic gameplay visuals. The model, priced at $60 in the United States, is now available for pre-order and is expected to ship beginning October 1, as per a report by The Lego Nintendo Game Boy is designed to replicate the look and feel of the original 1989 handheld device, which revolutionised portable gaming. Measuring approximately 3.5 inches wide and 5.5 inches tall, the model captures the dimensions and aesthetics of the classic console with remarkable design features include meticulously shaped fuchsia A and B buttons, a recessed D-pad, and curved edges that echo the feel of the original designers have replaced traditional stickers with printed tiles, providing a durable and authentic look for elements such as the power switch, volume dial, and speaker inclusion of details like the battery latch and serial number engraving, the latter hiding a subtle easter egg, adds a layer of nostalgia for longtime fans of the Game Boy, as per a report by The the standout features of the Lego Game Boy is its lenticular lens display, which enables users to swap scenes from classic games and view them from varying innovation allows the illusion of movement, such as the drop of the Nintendo logo, reminiscent of the console's original start-up screen, and in-game scenes from The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening and Super Mario these interactive lenses, builders can insert brick-built cartridges into the top of the Lego Game Boy and simulate turning it on, offering a new level of immersion not commonly seen in Lego launch of this product is the latest in a series of collaborations between Lego and Nintendo, who previously joined hands on the interactive Super Mario sets and the buildable NES console. This latest release reflects their shared commitment to preserving gaming history through creative brick-based promote the set, Lego and Nintendo have even recreated part of the original U.S. Game Boy commercial and released it on Instagram, offering fans a throwback to the 1990s and a clever nod to the handheld's cultural modestly compared to other collectible sets, the Lego Nintendo Game Boy offers accessibility for younger fans and a dose of nostalgia for seasoned collectors. It appeals to a growing demographic of adults who enjoy Lego not only as a toy but as a medium for pop culture many fans praised the inclusion of Zelda and Mario, some expressed hope that a future expansion might include the iconic puzzle game Tetris, which helped propel the original Game Boy to commercial this year, Lego had hinted at the development of a Game Boy-inspired model after fan demand reached fever pitch. One fan design by Nick Lever had even gone viral, showcasing a buildable Game Boy that could house real cartridges. Lego's official model borrows some aesthetic cues while introducing refinements like more detailed prints and better ergonomic who have built fan versions say the official release tempts them for its superior finishes and potential moving parts — including the hope that the A and B buttons actually depress when of now, the Lego Nintendo Game Boy set is available for preorder via Lego's official website, with global shipping expected to begin on October 1. While demand is already rising, it remains unclear whether this set will be a limited edition or enter Lego's permanent lineup under its 'Icons' or 'Nintendo' product analysts suggest the release could coincide with upcoming anniversaries of both the Game Boy and key Nintendo franchises, a strategy that has previously led to spikes in sales and collector is a daily word puzzle game developed by The New York Times that challenges players to find multiple theme-based words in a 6x8 letter grid. A central feature is the Spangram—a single word that spans across the puzzle and encapsulates the puzzle's theme was 'Back away slowly', suggesting animal defense mechanisms or warning behaviors typically triggered by threats in the wild.
