Nintendo Direct September 2021: What We Think!

What's up, gamers! We're still buzzing from the latest Nintendo Direct that dropped in September 2021, and guys, it was a wild ride. Nintendo really pulled out all the stops, and we've got so much to unpack. From unexpected sequels to exciting new IPs, this Direct had something for everyone, and we're here to give you our unfiltered, honest reaction. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's dive deep into the biggest announcements that have us all hyped for the future of Nintendo gaming. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Mario, Zelda, or just love discovering new adventures, this showcase definitely delivered the goods. We saw a fantastic mix of games that are coming soon and some that are available right now, which is always a treat. Plus, the way they structured the presentation kept us on the edge of our seats, making each reveal feel even more impactful. Get ready, because we're about to break down all the juicy details and share our immediate thoughts on what might just be one of the most memorable Nintendo Directs in recent history. It's time to talk games, people!

The Big Ticket Items: What Stole the Show?

Alright, let's get straight to the point: what were the absolute headliners from the September 2021 Nintendo Direct? For many of us, the biggest jaw-dropper was undoubtedly the reveal of Splatoon 3's release window. Seriously, the sneak peeks we got of the new single-player mode, "Return of the Mammalians," and the chaotic multiplayer action looked phenomenal. The aesthetic is darker, the gameplay seems more refined, and the introduction of new weapons and abilities has us itching to ink up the competition. Splatoon is already a fan-favorite for its unique blend of shooter mechanics and turf-war strategy, and seeing it evolve with such a compelling narrative element for the single-player campaign is a massive win. We're talking about a story that seems to delve into the lore of the Splatoon universe in a way we haven't seen before, which is super exciting for fans who love to dive deep into game worlds. The visuals looked crisp, the music was as catchy as ever, and the sheer energy radiating from the trailer was infectious. This is a game that just screams "Nintendo fun," and we can't wait to get our tentacles on it. Another massive announcement that had everyone talking was the Bayonetta 3 update. While we didn't get a full trailer showcasing gameplay, the confirmation that it's still on track and looks as stylish and over-the-top as ever was enough to send ripples of excitement through the action game community. Bayonetta is a series known for its demanding combat, incredible boss battles, and unforgettable protagonist, and the anticipation for the third installment has been building for years. Hearing that development is progressing well and seeing even a glimpse of what's to come, with those signature visual flourishes and the promise of even more demonic delights, is a huge relief and a massive hype-builder. It confirms that PlatinumGames is still crafting something truly special, and the wait, while long, is shaping up to be absolutely worth it. The sheer gravitas of these two announcements alone would have made this Direct a success, but Nintendo wasn't done there. We also got a significant look at Kirby and the Forgotten Land. Kirby's first full 3D adventure looks absolutely adorable and surprisingly robust. The Mouthful Mode mechanic, where Kirby inhales larger objects like cars and vending machines, is pure genius and opens up a whole new world of puzzle-solving and exploration possibilities. It's a brilliant way to keep the Kirby formula fresh while embracing the leap into 3D. The vibrant environments and the promise of classic Kirby charm in a new dimension have us incredibly excited to explore this world. The gameplay demos looked fluid, the enemies were quirky, and the overall impression was one of pure, unadulterated joy – exactly what we expect from a Kirby title. These were the titans of the show, the announcements that immediately grabbed our attention and set the tone for the entire presentation. They represent major franchises getting exciting new entries and innovative new directions, and that's exactly the kind of news that gets us pumped for what's next.

Surprise Additions and Indie Darlings

Beyond the colossal reveals, the September 2021 Nintendo Direct also sprinkled in some fantastic surprises and gave much-deserved spotlight to some incredible indie titles. It's these kinds of additions that really round out a Nintendo showcase, proving that they're not just about their flagship franchises. One of the most heartwarming surprises was the announcement of Mario Party Superstars receiving online play for all of its boards and minigames. This was a huge request from the community, addressing a major limitation of previous entries. Now, you can finally enjoy classic Mario Party chaos with friends from anywhere in the world, which is a massive upgrade for the series and opens up the game to a whole new audience who might not have local multiplayer options. The inclusion of beloved boards from the N64 era alongside fan-favorite minigames promises a nostalgia trip like no other, combined with the convenience of modern online functionality. This is the Mario Party experience many have been dreaming of, and it's fantastic to see Nintendo listening to player feedback so directly. It’s a move that shows they understand the value of community and want to make their games as accessible and enjoyable as possible for everyone. Another pleasant surprise was the reveal of Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak, the first major expansion for the critically acclaimed Monster Hunter Rise. While we expected something Monster Hunter related, the scope and ambition of Sunbreak looked impressive. It’s bringing new monsters, new story elements, and a whole new Master Rank, promising dozens of hours of new content for the legions of Monster Hunter fans. The expansion's gothic, more mature aesthetic also hints at a darker, more challenging experience, which is always welcome in the Monster Hunter universe. This is precisely the kind of substantial update that keeps a game alive and thriving, and the Monster Hunter community is notoriously passionate about these expansions, so this was a big win. But Nintendo didn't just focus on their established hits; they also shined a bright light on the indie scene. We got a look at Disco Elysium – The Final Cut coming to Switch, a game that has garnered massive critical acclaim for its deep narrative, unique RPG mechanics, and unparalleled player choice. Bringing such a narrative-heavy, critically adored indie gem to the Switch is a fantastic move, offering portable access to an experience that many might have missed. Its inclusion highlights Nintendo's commitment to diversifying its library and catering to players who appreciate mature, thought-provoking games. Furthermore, the surprise announcement of Undertale creator Toby Fox’s new game, Deltarune Chapter 2, being available immediately after the Direct was a masterstroke. This kind of surprise drop is incredibly exciting and rewards viewers who tuned in live. Deltarune has already garnered a cult following, and the continuation of its enigmatic story and charming characters is something many fans have been eagerly awaiting. Releasing it right after the announcement creates immediate buzz and allows players to jump right in, fostering a sense of community and shared excitement. These kinds of unexpected gems and indie spotlights truly elevate a Nintendo Direct, showcasing the breadth of talent and creativity available on the platform and reminding us why we love gaming beyond just the AAA blockbusters. They represent innovation, passion, and often, a more intimate and personal connection with the games we play.

Nostalgia and Familiar Faces: What Else Was Cooking?

The September 2021 Nintendo Direct wasn't just about looking forward; it was also a glorious trip down memory lane, bringing back beloved franchises and characters that have a special place in our hearts. Nintendo has always been masterful at tapping into nostalgia, and this Direct was no exception. The announcement that Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania would feature guest characters like Sonic the Hedgehog, Tails, and even Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong was a delightful surprise for fans of classic arcade-style fun. Super Monkey Ball is already a celebration of classic Sega gameplay, and adding these iconic Nintendo characters to the mix just amplifies the fun and the celebratory spirit. It’s a fantastic crossover that appeals to fans of both franchises and promises some truly unique and hilarious gameplay moments as these beloved characters roll their way through the challenging stages. It’s a testament to Nintendo's willingness to collaborate and bring joy through unexpected partnerships. Another significant nod to the past came with the reveal of new DLC characters for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. While the exact characters weren't shown, the confirmation that more fighters are on the way sent waves of excitement through the Smash community. The anticipation for who the final DLC characters will be is always immense, and Nintendo knows how to keep us guessing and talking. Each new fighter added to Smash Ultimate feels like a celebration of gaming history, bringing iconic characters from various eras and genres into one ultimate battleground. The ongoing support for Smash Ultimate, even years after its release, is a major selling point for the Nintendo Switch and a clear indication of Nintendo's commitment to its flagship fighting game. It keeps the game fresh, relevant, and continues to attract new players while delighting long-time fans. We also saw updates and new content for existing Nintendo Switch Online services, like the addition of new Nintendo 64 and SEGA Genesis games. This is pure gold for retro gaming enthusiasts. Access to a curated library of classic titles through a subscription service is an incredible value proposition, allowing players to experience the games that shaped the industry on their modern consoles. It’s a fantastic way to preserve gaming history and make these timeless classics accessible to a new generation. The inclusion of these specific consoles’ libraries offers a deep dive into two of the most influential gaming eras, providing hours upon hours of nostalgic gameplay. Seeing titles from these consoles made available directly on the Switch feels like a dream come true for many who grew up with these systems. Finally, the brief glimpses and mentions of other upcoming titles, like Metroid Dread and its release date, added to the overall excitement. While Metroid Dread wasn't the main focus, its impending arrival is a massive deal for fans of the series, promising a return to classic 2D Metroid gameplay with a modern, terrifying twist. The anticipation for Samus Aran's next solo adventure has been palpable, and seeing it prominently featured, even if briefly, reassured fans that one of Nintendo's most iconic and beloved franchises is in good hands and heading our way soon. These nods to nostalgia, combined with exciting new additions and ongoing support for beloved games, made this Direct a truly comprehensive package for gamers of all ages and preferences. It demonstrated a keen understanding of what fans love, both past and present.

Our Final Verdict: A Solid Direct with Plenty to Anticipate!

So, wrapping it all up, what’s the final verdict on the September 2021 Nintendo Direct? Honestly, guys, we thought it was a huge success. Nintendo really delivered a presentation packed with exciting announcements that cater to a wide range of players. We got the long-awaited confirmations and gameplay reveals for major titles like Splatoon 3 and Bayonetta 3, which were undoubtedly the stars of the show. The leap into 3D for Kirby and the Forgotten Land looks incredibly promising and full of that signature Kirby charm we all adore. Beyond those giants, the inclusion of online play for Mario Party Superstars, the substantial Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak expansion, and the thoughtful curation of indie gems like Disco Elysium and the surprise drop of Deltarune Chapter 2 showed Nintendo's commitment to variety and player satisfaction. The nods to nostalgia, with classic Super Monkey Ball crossovers and continued support for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and retro games via Nintendo Switch Online, further cemented this Direct as a well-rounded package. It wasn't just a showcase of what's coming; it felt like a celebration of gaming itself, honoring both the past and the future. We left feeling genuinely excited about the slate of games heading to the Nintendo Switch. There's a strong mix of established franchises evolving in new and interesting ways, alongside fresh experiences that promise to challenge and delight us. If you're a Nintendo fan, this Direct gave you plenty of reasons to be optimistic and to start saving up for the holiday season and beyond. It demonstrated that Nintendo continues to be a powerhouse of creativity and a vital platform for diverse gaming experiences. We can't wait to see these games in action and get our hands on them. What were your favorite announcements? Let us know in the comments below! Happy gaming, everyone!