Latest news with #MasahiroSakurai
Economic Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
Nintendo Direct Today: Time, duration, streaming details and updates on Switch 2 and OG titles
Amid weeks of swirling speculation, Nintendo has officially confirmed its next digital event, a Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase , scheduled for July 31. The Japanese gaming giant announced via social media on Monday, noting the presentation will span approximately 25 minutes, highlighting upcoming releases for both the Nintendo Switch and its next-gen successor, the Switch confirmation puts an end to widespread rumors of a July stream. The Direct, focused on third-party publishing partners, will be streamed globally at 6am PT / 9am ET / 2pm BST / 3pm CEST, as mentioned in a report by Games Radar. Fans can stream the event at Nintendo Direct's official website and Youtube channel Nintendo's announcement emphasized that the stream will showcase titles from external developers, meaning fans hoping for major first-party reveals, like a new Super Mario game, might want to temper expectations. Nonetheless, hopes remain high for updates on several highly anticipated games. Hollow Knight: Silksong , which was recently confirmed for a playable demo at Gamescom 2025 and teased for a "holiday" launch by Xbox, could receive a definitive release date during the showcase. With the Nintendo Switch 2 already boasting hits such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring latter recently rated by the ESRB, fans can expect more third-party expansions to the console's growing library. The upcoming Direct is likely to cement third-party support and provide much-needed clarity on projects currently under wraps. Meanwhile, Nintendo is also expected to unveil 'Switch 2 Editions' of popular existing titles such as Animal Crossing: New Horizons , Xenoblade Chronicles , and Kirby Star Allies , promising improved performance and visuals, as per a report by Games Radar online. A resurgence of retro content is anticipated, with fans pointing to clues in a recent Nintendo 64 trailer suggesting potential additions like Donkey Kong 64 , Super Smash Bros. (N64) , and even GameCube titles to the Nintendo Switch Online speculation, the possibility of a re-release of the original Smash Bros. gains traction, especially with director Masahiro Sakurai currently focused on Kirby Air Riders .One title under intense scrutiny is Mario Kart World . Speculation abounds over costume updates and potential new characters such as Diddy Kong , Dixie Kong , and Cranky Kong . Whether these additions will make it into the July 31 showcase remains to be strategy of staggering releases across fiscal quarters means confirmed heavyweights like Pokemon Legends: Z-A , Drag x Drive , and Donkey Kong Bananza will remain spaced out. However, surprises are expected, including potential updates on unannounced titles from Camelot Software Planning and remakes like Golden Sun .As fans await the Nintendo Direct today, expectations are calibrated across nostalgia, performance upgrades, and new content. For Nintendo, the showcase represents not only an opportunity to define its holiday slate but also to set the tone for its evolving hybrid console ecosystem. The Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase will stream globally on July 31 at 6 AM PT / 9 AM ET / 2 PM BST / 3 PM CEST, and will run for approximately 25 minutes. The showcase will focus on third-party titles for both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. While major first-party announcements are unlikely, fans are hoping for updates on titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong, new Switch 2 editions of existing games, and retro additions to Nintendo Switch Online, including rumors of Donkey Kong 64 and the original Super Smash Bros.
Economic Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- 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.
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
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. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category Technology Data Science healthcare Healthcare Public Policy others Leadership Product Management Artificial Intelligence Project Management CXO MCA Cybersecurity Degree MBA Digital Marketing Management Design Thinking Data Science Finance PGDM Data Analytics Others Operations Management Skills you'll gain: Duration: 12 Weeks MIT xPRO CERT-MIT XPRO Building AI Prod India Starts on undefined Get Details Why a Nintendo Direct Feels Imminent 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. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Up to 70% off | Shop Sale Libas Undo High Stakes for Release Date Confirmations 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. Live Events Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Rumors Intensify 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. Mario Kart World: Costumes and Character Theories 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. Switch 2 Lineup Already Packed, But New Game Teases Possible 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. Nintendo Switch 2 Editions: Performance Boosts for Legacy Titles 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. Old Favorites Reimagined for the Present 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. Third-Party Announcements: Xbox, Ubisoft, and Beyond 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. A Direct Worth Waiting For 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. FAQs Is a Nintendo Direct officially confirmed for July 2025? 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 . Why do fans believe a Nintendo Direct is imminent? 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.
Globe and Mail
01-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Nintendo Stock (NTDOF) Jumps as Veteran Warns AAA Development Is ‘Becoming Unsustainable'
Long-time Nintendo (NTDOF) collaborator Masahiro Sakurai, the creator of Kirby and director of the Super Smash Bros. series, warned that AAA game development is 'becoming unsustainable.' He points to the increased size of games and says that there's too much work needed on them. Despite this warning, NTDOF stock was up today. Confident Investing Starts Here: Easily unpack a company's performance with TipRanks' new KPI Data for smart investment decisions Receive undervalued, market resilient stocks right to your inbox with TipRanks' Smart Value Newsletter Sakurai is far from the only video game developer who believes this. Several other prominent figures in the industry, including Sony's (SONY) former PlayStation head Shawn Layden, have warned that the growing cost to develop AAA games is a problem the industry needs to tackle. For Nintendo's part, the company releases several AA games, those with smaller budgets and development times, between its AAA releases. This allows it to have a variety of exclusive titles for its consoles and frequent game releases. This is what partially led to the success of the original Switch and could see lightning strike twice with the Switch 2. Sakurai's Suggestion to Solve the AAA Development Slog Sakurai didn't just complain about growing development costs for AAA games. He also suggested a potential solution. The Nintendo veteran believes that generative artificial intelligence (AI) could be used to make game development more efficient. Sakurai told IGN, 'I think we are getting to the point where (AAA studios) have to change their way of working by using gen AI to improve work efficiency.' He also noted that 'only the companies that successfully respond to these changes will be able to survive.' NTDOF stock was up 2.06% as of Tuesday morning, building on a 49.82% rally year-to-date and a 58.56% increase over the past 12 months. Is Nintendo Stock a Buy, Sell, or Hold? Turning to Wall Street, the analysts' consensus rating for Nintendo is Moderate Buy, based on eight Buy, two Hold, and a single Sell rating over the past three months. With that comes an average NTDOF stock price target of $91.34, representing a potential 4.7% upside for the shares. See more NTDOF stock analyst ratings Disclaimer & Disclosure Report an Issue
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
"We must change our methods": Smash Bros. director Masahiro Sakurai says game development has become "too time consuming and unsustainable"
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Kirby and Super Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai has spoken about the current state of game development and why he believes it is becoming "unsustainable." You rarely hear much about developers when it comes to Nintendo games, but Masahiro Sakurai is well known as a workaholic. From 2012 until 2021, he worked on Super Smash Bros. non-stop between the 3DS, Wii U, and Switch editions, in the midst of suffering from calcific tendonitis. And in the five months he had off in between finishing up with Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and his then-unknown next project – which was revealed to be Kirby Air Riders in the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct – he created two-and-a-half years' worth of content for a YouTube channel. However, even Sakurai is beginning to think large-scale development is getting to be a bit wild, as we're currently in an era where it looks like developers like Naughty Dog will end up going a full console generation without a new game. Speaking to Yahoo Japan (translated via Source Gaming), Sakurai responds to a question asking what he believes the future of the gaming market holds, saying that, "To be honest, it's hard to see what the future holds. I think we've reached a point where creating large-scale games like we do now is too time consuming and unsustainable." He says developers must adapt to new ways of thinking: "I believe we are at a stage where we must change our methods, such as by using generative AI to improve work efficiency." Sakurai adds, "It seems that only companies that can adapt well to these changes will survive in the coming era." While Sakurai presents generative AI as a tool that could be used to ease game development troubles, he doesn't clarify if it's something he himself is particularly interested in using. Given how Sakurai's games typically have a ton of personal touches where you see them and think, "yep, that's a Sakurai thing," I'd be shocked if he started using the plagiarism machine. Super Smash Bros. creator says instead of making more "Americanized works," Japanese devs should "seek the uniqueness and fun of Japanese games."
