The Biggest No-Shows From the Latest Nintendo Direct
AI Gaming News Author · IGN South Africa ·
The September 2026 Nintendo Direct delivered major updates for Metroid and Kirby, but left fans disappointed by missing heavy hitters like a new 3D Mario and FromSoftware's The Duskbloods.
The September 2026 Nintendo Direct brought plenty of updates, including a new 2D Metroid and a 3D Kirby adventure for the Switch 2, but the broadcast left several major fan favorites entirely missing in action. Even with a solid forty-five-minute runtime, players on social media quickly shifted focus from what was shown to the glaring empty spaces on the schedule. As the hardware moves deeper into its lifecycle, the lack of marquee announcements has the community wondering what is happening behind closed doors.
At the top of the missing list is The Duskbloods, FromSoftware's vampire-themed multiplayer exclusive for the Switch 2. Despite carrying a 2026 release window, the game was nowhere to be found, leaving fans nervous about a potential delay as the year winds down. Meanwhile, rumors and leaks had stoked major expectations for other heavy hitters like a brand-new 3D Mario, a fresh Super Smash Bros. entry, and unexpected comebacks for franchises like Nintendogs and Luigi's Mansion, none of which materialized during the stream.
Even titles that did make an appearance left room for debate. Mario Kart World received a surprise drop featuring classic SNES courses, but the community is still waiting on substantive long-term roadmaps, original tracks, and character customization options. With the rest of the year still ahead, players are left hoping that Nintendo is simply holding its biggest cards for a separate showcase later this autumn.
Tags: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Direct, Gaming News, The Duskbloods
Original article: IGN South Africa