Following today’s extraordinary Nintendo Direct, it’s clear that the Nintendo Switch stands as a notable successor to the 3DS. The event, held on March 27, 2025, brought forth a plethora of thrilling game announcements. While there was little to unveil regarding the highly anticipated Switch 2, fans were treated to a remake of Devil Summoner, an intriguing Tamagotchi-themed clone of Animal Crossing, and fresh trailers for the eagerly awaited Metroid Prime 4 and Pokémon Legends Z-A.
Amid the excitement, two new additions to some of Nintendo’s cherished yet often overlooked franchises were announced. Although these particular series have remained dormant since the 3DS era, both managed to secure confirmations for their upcoming titles in quick succession. The introduction of these titles, along with other revivals of long-forgotten franchises, serves as a reassuring signal that Nintendo hasn’t neglected its lesser-known properties, igniting optimism for the library of the anticipated Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch Is Finally Reviving 3DS Favorites
Exciting Sequels for Tomodachi Life & Rhythm Heaven
During today’s Nintendo Direct, the announcements of Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream and Rhythm Heaven Groove thrilled many fans. These franchises have not seen new entries since the 3DS, with the original Tomodachi Life launching in 2014 and Rhythm Heaven Megamix following in 2016.
The charm of these games has achieved cult classic status over the years. Tomodachi Life features a whimsical life simulation experience characterized by humorous and philosophical interactions between Miis, showcasing Nintendo’s unique brand of creativity. In contrast, Rhythm Heaven is an engaging arcade rhythm game filled with a variety of microgames, each presenting a mix of uncomplicated beats and intricate rhythms. Both titles are praised for their imaginative gameplay and the creative freedom they offer players.
There’s even more in store for fans of Nintendo’s lesser-known series. Following the March Direct, it was revealed that Fantasy Life, originally released on the 3DS, will receive a sequel next month. Additionally, a remake of Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar, first seen on the DS, was announced. Professor Layton and the New World of Steam, the latest in the beloved Professor Layton puzzle-adventure series, is also slated for release later this year, assuming no delays. Notably, even the lesser-known Patapon from Sony has re-emerged with a bundle of remasters.
Supporting Nintendo’s Smaller Franchises
Let’s Keep the Momentum Going!
While Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon certainly hold prominence, Nintendo’s catalog boasts a myriad of exceptional franchises that often receive minimal attention. Excitement for sequels to Rhythm Heaven, Tomodachi Life, and Professor Layton is palpable; however, we must ask: why not continue beyond these? There are countless other series primed for revival on the Switch (or its successor) that could significantly enrich its library, cementing its status as a worthy successor to the 3DS.
Imagine a fresh installment of Kid Icarus in the vein of Uprising, or a thrilling revival of Mega Man Battle Network. Enthusiastic fans have long desired a sequel for Starfy or a brand-new Advance Wars adventure. Even indie games like Ghost Trick could find their place within the Switch library. The prospect of a new Miitopia adventure is also tantalizing. The potential is endless, and while many titles have received remasters on the Switch, original games have been absent for far too long.
Historically, Nintendo kept its handheld and home console titles distinct, associating each with signature franchises. However, with the advent of the Switch, melding these lines has created a new landscape for opportunities. This merging has been pivotal to the console’s success, allowing previously overlooked franchises to resurface.
Since its release, flagship series have been readily available on the Switch, with Breath of the Wild launching alongside the console, followed by Mario Odyssey and consistent releases from Pokémon. Yet, this focus on prominent titles has inadvertently sidelined other beloved games traditionally linked to handheld devices, until now. Nintendo’s renewed interest in its extensive library of IP is a development that fans eagerly anticipate.
The Switch 2: An Opportunity for Timely Sequels
Ideal Strategies for Launch Library Expansion
While the Switch took considerable time to embrace cult classics, the Switch 2 must act swiftly. Reports indicate that its game releases will unfold in three phases — initial first-party titles upon launch, followed by third-party releases shortly after, and significant titles arriving for the holiday season. Thus, the launch library requires bolstering.
Reviving Nintendo’s forgotten franchises presents an ideal solution, filling the library while attracting established fans and welcoming new players eager to explore these treasured series. In summary, I am genuinely excited about the resurgence of Rhythm Heaven and Tomodachi Life on the Nintendo Switch, and I anticipate even more thrilling developments.