Seattle, December 23, 2025 – As the holiday season officially descends, Nintendo is making sure its new flagship, the Nintendo Switch 2, is firmly at the center of the festivities.

This week’s Nintendo Download isn’t just a list; it’s a full-blown declaration of holiday gaming intent, blending brand new blockbusters, irresistible sales, and even a generous (if temporary) “open-access” period for its online service.

But is this the smooth generational transition we’ve been promised, or just a clever way to push both consoles?

For those looking to stir up some friendly competition, the digital spotlight shines brightly on Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV. The “Jamboree TV” aspect hints at an even more integrated, perhaps cross-device, experience beyond the console itself – a smart move for capturing everyone’s attention.

Not to be outdone, Mario Kart World promises to settle family rivalries, while long-awaited single-player adventures like Hollow Knight: Silksong and Hades II – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition finally arrive to consume those precious holiday hours.

The sheer caliber of these releases for the new system is no accident; Nintendo wants to make sure its Switch 2 library is robust from the get-go.

Beyond the headlining acts, the Nintendo eShop is rolling out the Hits for the Holidays Sale, offering discounts on digital versions of popular games. This includes titles like Princess Peach: Showtime! and The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, suggesting a seamless ecosystem where both original Switch and Switch 2 owners can find something to play.

A slew of new indie and smaller titles are also dropping, ensuring a constant stream of fresh content.

But it’s not just about what’s new; it’s about the full Nintendo experience. The Nintendo Music app is adding the Wii Party soundtrack to liven up any shindig. For the competitive crowd, the Kirby Air Riders game on Nintendo Switch 2 is hosting an “Everyone, to the Stadium!” event(Dec 25 through Dec. 28 at 7 p.m. PT), pushing online engagement.

Perhaps most intriguing, a special Open-Access Period for Nintendo Switch Online is running until March 31, 2026. This means players can enjoy online features without a paid membership, at least for a few months. Is this a goodwill gesture, or a strategic move to hook new Switch 2 owners onto the subscription model before the trial ends?

Also new this week on Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch 2:

• PRITTO PRISONER – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

Also new this week on Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch:

• 12 Party Games Collection
• 4 in 1 Sports Bundle
• 6 in 1 Power Bundle Vol 2
• Adventure Reborn – Available Dec. 30
• Agent A & Down in Bermuda Bundle
• Animal Run for Kids – Available Dec. 26
• EGGCONSOLE Carbuncle Pi MSX2
• Gunner-chan!
• Hypercar Racing
• JDM Pixel Street Car Racing – Available Dec. 26
• Juiced Fruit Racing – Available Dec. 26
• MarronRoman
• Nekomimi Days ~365 Days with You~ – Available Dec. 26
• Parcel Push
• PRITTO PRISONER
• ULTIMATE BATTLE SIMULATOR – Available Dec. 30
• Up Bundle
• ZenWash – Available Dec. 27

Nintendo is clearly leveraging its dual-console strategy, ensuring that while the Nintendo Switch 2 gets the flashy new titles and enhanced features like GameChat, the original Switch isn’t entirely forgotten in the holiday rush. The seamless inclusion of both systems in sales and content drops speaks volumes.

This is a carefully orchestrated blend of nostalgia, innovation, and strategic outreach, all designed to keep Nintendo firmly at the top of family entertainment. The question is, are you buying into both generations?