Nintendo’s latest Direct presentation delivered a packed lineup of surprises, blending nostalgic revivals with bold new projects. As part of the ongoing celebration of Super Mario Bros.’ 40th anniversary, three major announcements stood out: Mario Tennis Fever, the remastered Super Mario Galaxy 1+2 collection, and new downloadable content for Donkey Kong Bananza.
Mario Tennis Fever: A Bold New Smash for Switch 2
The sports spin-off series is returning in style with Mario Tennis Fever, arriving exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 in February 2026. This is the most ambitious entry yet, boasting 38 playable characters — the largest roster in the series.
Nintendo is introducing a new mechanic called Fever Rackets, with each racket offering its own wild power-ups, from freezing opponents with ice blasts to shrinking them with mini-mushroom effects. The game isn’t just about flashy moves; it offers diverse play modes, including a story-driven Adventure where characters are transformed into baby versions of themselves, traditional tournaments, online ranked matches, and experimental challenge towers.
This title is more than just a sequel; it feels like a showcase for the Switch 2’s capabilities and Nintendo’s intent to push multiplayer experiences into new territory.
Super Mario Galaxy 1+2: A Return to the Stars
Long-awaited by fans, both Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are finally being bundled together for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, launching October 2025. The collection is available as both a combined physical release and digital standalone titles.
While Galaxy 1 was previously re-released in Super Mario 3D All-Stars, its sequel never got the same treatment. This new edition remedies that, and Switch 2 owners can enjoy the cosmic adventures in 4K resolution with updated visuals. Nintendo is also adding assist features and amiibo support, making the collection more approachable for newcomers while offering a polished experience for veterans.
This release not only celebrates one of Mario’s most beloved eras but also helps fill the Switch 2 library with modernized classics that deserve to be re-experienced.
Donkey Kong Bananza DLC: Expanding the Jungle
Fans of Donkey Kong Bananza were treated to a surprise announcement: the DK Island & Emerald Rush DLC, available immediately. The update elevates the base game to Version 2.0.0 and adds a variety of fresh content.
The DLC lets players explore new islands inspired by past Donkey Kong adventures, while also introducing Emerald Rush, a challenging new gameplay mode with roguelike elements. Collectible enemy statues add another layer of progression, rewarding exploration and replayability.
This expansion demonstrates Nintendo’s commitment to supporting Bananza beyond its launch, and it gives players plenty of reasons to return to the jungle.
More Surprises Beyond the Big Three
The Direct wasn’t limited to these announcements. Nintendo also teased Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, a brand-new title arriving in 2026, and confirmed enhanced Switch 2 editions of Super Mario Bros. Wonder. To top it off, fans can look forward to The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, hitting theaters in April 2026.
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