As the confetti settles and resolutions are (briefly) made, Nintendo is ensuring that 2026 starts with a bang for gamers worldwide.

This week’s Nintendo Download isn’t just a list of new releases; it’s a clear statement: the Nintendo Switch 2 era is officially here, packed with blockbuster games, enticing sales, and even a tempting “open-access” period for its online service.

But is this the smooth, revolutionary start we expected from the new console generation?

The “Digital Spotlight” for the New Year is blindingly bright. For the competitive spirits, the Kirby Air Riders game on Nintendo Switch 2 promises frenetic, vehicular action, while EA Madden NFL 26 offers immersive gameplay and a light show in Baltimore – perfect for settling those post-holiday family rivalries.

For the RPG enthusiasts, a free demo for FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE (with its breathtaking visuals) and the highly anticipated Pokémon Legends: Z-A (kicking off a grand adventure in Lumiose City with your choice of Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile) are poised to consume countless hours.

Even Animal Crossing: New Horizons players get a reason to check in, with a free update and a paid Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade pack arriving in January.

It’s a powerhouse lineup, ensuring the Switch 2 has no shortage of major titles.

The good news extends to the wallet, for a few more days at least. The Hits for the Holidays Sale is still running on the Nintendo eShop for both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, offering discounts on titles like Princess Peach: Showtime! and The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom.

This dual-console approach is clever, ensuring that whether you’ve upgraded or are sticking with your original Switch, there’s still plenty of content to enjoy before the sale ends on January 4th.

Also new this week on Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch:

• Eradicator Genesis – Available Jan. 3
• FAIRY TAIL: DUNGEONS – Available Jan. 7
• Gridz Keeper – Available Jan. 7
• M.A.U.S – Available Jan. 2
• SnapCat: Mia’s Cozy Adventure – Available Jan. 6

Beyond the games, Nintendo is sweetening the deal on its online ecosystem. The Nintendo Switch Online service, which provides online play and access to classic NES, Super NES, and Game Boy games, is currently offering an Open-Access Period until March 31, 2026. This means users can enjoy online features, including GameChat for Switch 2 players, without a paid membership.

Is this a genuine gesture of goodwill, or a strategic move to get new Switch 2 owners hooked on the online experience before they have to pay up? It’s hard to tell, but a free trial is a free trial.

For those truly committed to the Nintendo experience, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers even more. Switch 2 players gain access to a library of classic Nintendo GameCube games, enhanced features for compatible Nintendo 64 games, and upgrade packs for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. This tiered approach ensures there’s a compelling reason for every type of player, from casual party gamers to hardcore adventure seekers, to jump into the new generation.

Ultimately, this “Happy New Year!” download from Nintendo isn’t just about celebrating; it’s about showcasing a robust, evolving ecosystem.

With major launches, enticing deals, and a temporary free pass to online play, Nintendo is pulling out all the stops to position the Nintendo Switch 2 as the must-have console for the year ahead, while still acknowledging its loyal existing fanbase. The countdown to more gaming fun has definitely begun.

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