Anticipating the Next Wave of Games: Expert Predictions for the Upcoming Nintendo Partner Showcase

07/30/2025

The gaming world is buzzing with anticipation as the next Nintendo Direct, specifically a Partner Showcase, is on the horizon. This 25-minute presentation is poised to spotlight contributions from various third-party developers, offering a glimpse into the diverse array of titles heading to the platform. While Nintendo has previously supported a strong initial lineup, it appears the time has come for a broader release of new content. Expectations are high for announcements of firm release dates for previously teased games and perhaps a few unexpected revelations. The Nintendo Life team has thoughtfully compiled their projections, providing a comprehensive overview of what enthusiasts might encounter during this highly awaited digital event.

Detailed Game Forecasts from Industry Insiders

As the date of the Nintendo Partner Showcase draws near, a panel of seasoned gaming journalists and critics from Nintendo Life have meticulously assembled their insights and predictions for the upcoming event. Their collective foresight offers a tantalizing preview of the potential blockbusters and hidden gems that could grace the gaming landscape.

Alana Hagues, the esteemed deputy editor, casts her discerning eye towards the realm of role-playing games, specifically mentioning the highly sought-after Elden Ring and the much-discussed Final Fantasy VII Remake. Her boldest forecast, however, leans towards the long-rumored Final Fantasy IX Remake, a title that has generated considerable excitement within the community. Beyond these colossal RPGs, Hagues also hopes for updates on indie darlings like Witchbrook and a surprise appearance by UFO 50. Additionally, she speculates on the final release date for Hades 2, given its recent development milestones.

Jim Norman, a diligent staff writer, delves into the realm of game ports, anticipating the arrival of recent major releases such as Metaphor: ReFantazio and Clair Obscur, along with the almost certain debut of Persona 3 Reload. Norman also holds out hope for Marvel's Midnight Suns, a title that faced an uncertain future on the platform, suggesting its potential to invigorate Nintendo's holiday lineup. His personal wish list includes the enigmatic puzzler The Witness and the critically acclaimed Blue Prince. Furthermore, he eagerly awaits a release window for Professor Layton and The New World of Steam, a beloved puzzle series.

PJ O'Reilly, another insightful staff writer, expresses his enthusiasm for a robust holiday season lineup, advocating for the inclusion of major third-party titles like Hades 2, Clair Obscur, Elden Ring, and Blue Prince. He also champions the revival of classic experiences, dreaming of ports for high-caliber games such as Vanquish and Bloodborne. O'Reilly foresees the potential appearance of Red Dead Redemption 2 and native versions of the Resident Evil remake series, moving beyond their current cloud-based offerings. He whimsically concludes with a desire for Metal Gear Delta: Snake Eater, confident in a cascade of significant announcements.

Finally, Gavin Lane, the editor, shifts focus towards Microsoft's potential contributions. He articulates a long-standing desire for Rare Replay to arrive on a Nintendo console, viewing it as a fitting addition. More realistically, he anticipates the rumored Sea of Thieves port, the much-anticipated Nintendo debut of Call of Duty, and possibly a Forza Horizon installment or Indiana Jones and the Great Circle following its PlayStation 5 release. Lane emphasizes the desire for fresh, new cross-platform announcements or even exclusives, signaling a yearning for more than just re-releases of older titles.

The collective predictions paint a vivid picture of a Nintendo Partner Showcase filled with compelling content, spanning various genres and developer origins. From intricate RPGs to action-packed adventures and mind-bending puzzles, the event promises to be a pivotal moment for third-party games on Nintendo's evolving platform.

This impending Nintendo Partner Showcase serves as a significant inflection point for the company and its relationship with external developers. The collective aspirations of the gaming press, encompassing both highly anticipated new releases and the strategic reintroduction of critically acclaimed titles, underscore a hopeful vision for the platform's future. It highlights the importance of fostering diverse partnerships and continually pushing the boundaries of what's possible on Nintendo hardware. For players, this means an increasingly rich and varied gaming library, cementing the platform's place as a vibrant hub for both established franchises and innovative new experiences.