The second Nintendo Direct of the week has sparked a lively debate among GameCentral readers, with opinions split between excitement for titles like Metroid Ravenous and the Ocarina of Time remake, and frustration over the continued absence of major franchises such as Mario, Animal Crossing, and Splatoon.
In the Thursday letters page, one reader, identified as Xane, expressed surprise at the September showcase, noting that while the Direct was better than expected for the time of year, the lack of big-name announcements remains a concern. "I was surprised by Metroid Ravenous and the new Kirby game," Xane wrote, adding that Metroid Ravenous looked promising and could "take away the bad taste of Metroid Prime 4."
Readers Question Nintendo's Priorities
Xane highlighted a recurring issue for the Switch 2 generation: the absence of flagship titles. "We've had two Kirby games before we've had even a hint at a new Mario," they noted, pointing out that Mario was absent from two consecutive Directs. The reader also mentioned the lack of news on Animal Crossing, Super Smash Bros., Luigi's Mansion, and Splatoon 4, calling Nintendo's priorities "absolutely baffling."
Another reader, Rob Taylor, commented on the sheer volume of games shown, joking that it was "almost too many." Taylor suggested the Switch 2 could become "the indie machine," citing his Switch 1's full library and the appeal of portable play. He also speculated that "if you don't mind waiting, then most games are going to end up on here," even mentioning GTA 6 as a possibility.
Zelda Remake Draws Praise and Nostalgia
The Ocarina of Time remake was a major talking point, with several readers expressing nostalgia. One reader, writing under the name Portable Legend, described the update as a "nostalgia bomb," recalling the awe of first entering Hyrule Field. "It felt unreal. Up there with Super Mario 64 for the sense of awe for the first time," they wrote, adding that the portability of the Switch 2 made it a compelling purchase.
Another reader, GG, offered a detailed analysis of the remake's visuals, comparing the art direction to a blend of the N64 original, the Space World 2000 tech demo, and the 2011 Wii U HD Zelda demo. "It's like Star Fox 64 remake all over again," GG said, referencing the polarising character art. They defended the new look, stating that "new Ocarina Of Time's art direction is like an amalgamation of organically evolved assets." GG also praised the remake's fidelity, saying it impressed them "almost as much as GTA 6's proper reveal."
Onimusha and Other Highlights
One reader, Rob, shared his experience with Onimusha: Way Of The Sword, which he pre-ordered after trying the demo. "Playing the final release has been a real eye-opener," he wrote, praising the game's graphics, gameplay, and mythology. "It has become an instant classic, sitting amongst the best games I have ever played," Rob added, recommending it to others.
Other readers mentioned interest in Metroid Ravenous, Danganronpa 2×2, Fright Night, and Onyx: The Dark Grip. One reader, Focus, expressed cautious optimism about Onyx: The Dark Grip, noting the developer Bloober Team's track record, but hoped the game's unique premise of the character becoming aware of the player would be executed well.
Simon, another reader, voiced disappointment after the Zelda-focused Direct, saying the only games he was interested in were Metroid Ravenous and Danganronpa 2×2, both slated for next year. He also wished for a hint of a new Mario, speculating that Nintendo might be prioritising Zelda first.
The letters also included a request from Bobwallett for 3DS game recommendations for his seven-year-old nephew. GameCentral suggested a list including Super Mario 3D Land, Metroid: Samus Returns, Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, and Kirby: Planet Robobot, among others.
As the Switch 2 continues to build its library, readers remain divided on Nintendo's strategy, with many hoping for announcements of core franchises in future Directs. The next major showcase is expected to provide more clarity on the company's roadmap.
