The general consensus appears to be that “E3 is back”.
After years of inconsistency and uncertainty… https://t.co/1ZhCeHigUm pic.twitter.com/Bs47h7XfVw
— Jaynez 🎮 (@JaynezPlays) June 8, 2026
With its final show in 2019 (yes, it preceded and therefore cannot blame COVID), that one month in every year which gave gamers an excuse to be up at ridiculous hours if you lived outside of the USA, has slowly but steadily built its way back up. And never has it been more apparent than 2026 with strong outings from both PlayStation and XBOX so far. While I’ve shared some feelings on XBOX already over at Yeah Nah Gaming, I’m working to get more thoughts up on both them and PlayStation soon here on XENOJAY.
But for now, Nintendo gets a bit of the limelight.
Suitably taking the 6/9 date in American format, because “haha, funny number”, they begin the show with Rhythm Paradise Groove. Which is part of the Rhythm Heaven series and something I have definitely heard of. But for the most part, I’m going to speedrun the announcements with info from Nintendo AUNZ because we’d be here all day if I didn’t pick favourites!
Starting with the ‘HOLY OPTIMISATION’ Category:
- Onimusha: Way of the Sword: Fight through intense swordplay action and explore a dark fantasy Kyoto overrun by otherworldly invaders in this action game. Take up the sword as Miyamoto Musashi, a fierce young samurai whose legend is etched in Japanese history and drive back the monstrous Genma into the underworld. Enjoy the impressive swordplay combat even more with motion controls made possible by Joy-Con 2 controllers when Onimusha: Way of the Sword launches for Nintendo Switch 2 on 25th September.
- Stellar Blade: Step into the role of EVE, an elite warrior sent to reclaim Earth from mysterious forces. Experience intense combat and a twisting plot as you unravel the mysteries of Earth’s downfall in an immersive sci-fi world. Featuring a blend of cinematic storytelling and gameplay, Stellar Blade offers deep character progression with customisable skills, gear, and combat builds – which you’ll need during epic boss encounters. Further, players can experience Joy-Con 2 motion controls for activities, adding an extra layer of immersion to moments away from combat. Stellar Blade launches on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026.
Honestly, I’ve no idea how they’ve got these titles running, and looking so good, on the Switch 2. Especially the likes of Stellar Blade which looked incredible on the PlayStation 5!
The ‘OOO, THAT’S CUTE’ Category:
- Orbitals: Blast off with Maki and Omura in this intergalactic two-player co-op adventure set in a retro anime-inspired universe. Coming exclusively to Nintendo Switch 2, Orbitals lets players team up to brave the deadly Storm Wall and the perils beyond to save their home. Designed for asymmetric two-player co-op either in local split-screen or locally or online with GameShare*6, Orbitals rewards smart teamwork and clear communication. Save the day together when Orbitals blasts off for Nintendo Switch 2 on 3rd September.
- ONE PIECE: Grand Gourmet: Set sail for a fresh culinary adventure in ONE PIECE: Grand Gourmet, a casual restaurant management sim set in the world of the ONE PIECE series. Begin with a tiny floating ship and work alongside the Straw Hat Crew to cook new dishes, gather ingredients, and grow your restaurant into the greatest dining spot on the seas. Aided by Devil Fruit abilities and Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, create dishes that will have beloved heroes and notorious pirates alike coming back for more, creating unexpected interactions never seen in the anime or manga. With more than 400 characters from the ONE PIECE series, every service brings new surprises and warm moments for fans. ONE PIECE: Grand Gourmet launches for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch on 23rd October.
I’m obsessed with the aesthetic of ONE PIECE: Grand Gourmet. It’s giving Stardew Valley, Cooking Mama and so much more. And I only hope it plays as well as them!
The ‘WH…WHAT IS THAT’ Category:
- FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE: This brand new HD-2D FINAL FANTASY adventure is the first HD-2D game in the franchise, featuring the turn-based battles the franchise has been known for. The game features a strategic battle system, dramatic story and cutscenes, voiced characters, and even the ability to traverse an overworld via chocobo and airship. FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE also pays tribute to all the games in the mainline FINAL FANTASY franchise with recruitable “visions” in the forms of classic characters like Cloud, Terra and Clive who can join battles and unleash special moves. FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE launches for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch on 22nd October.
- The Duskbloods: In this new multiplayer action game, you’ll take on the role of the Bloodsworn and fight against – and alongside – up to seven other players*2 with unique weapons and abilities. Transcend humanity with blood-based powers that transform your character and combat style as you battle to secure the coveted First Blood. The Duskbloods launches exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026 – and as revealed in the presentation, players can learn more about the closed network test for the game, coming in winter 2026.
While The Duskbloods offers nothing more than a closed network test announcement, Final Fantasy Resonance speeds by as a surprise. A new HD-2D entry that calls on popular characters from the franchise, it reeks of part-Tactics and part-Octopath Traveler. Which could work out in its favour!
And finally…
The ‘THEY F**KING DID IT’ Category:
- KINGDOM HEARTS IV: A new instalment in the action role-playing series developed and published by Square Enix, KINGDOM HEARTS IV gives fans a look at some of the characters that protagonist Sora will meet in the mysterious city of Quadratum. Sora will once again journey to realms, where new figures cross his path and new powers awaken his next chapter. KINGDOM HEARTS IV will be available at launch on Nintendo Switch 2.
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: The Nintendo 64 classic returns for a new generation in 2026, reborn exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2.
The rumours have been proven true. While we knw Kingdom Hearts IV was on the way, Ocarina Of Time getting a remake has been a loud voice in every iterative generation since the Nintendo 64. While the GameCube received both an upscale and western release of Master Quest, the next version was for the 3DS where it disappeared back into time after. And now we receive…this Switch 2 version.
I’m hesitant to speak further on it. After all, it’s simply a teaser for a game in development. But there’s a certain something missing. That sort of artistry that makes each adventure Link goes on unique. A quality that fits the Hero’s Timeline: The path on which Zelda, Link and Ganon will always walk. Until then, I wait in anticipation to see how it develops. Because even if I don’t end up enjoying the style too much, I still have my N64 version to fall back on.
So thank you Nintendo. For helping ‘Not E3’ hit this new consistency of gaming delivering for us fans. And it’s crazy to think, that not one of the events mentioned Grand Theft Auto VI.
