After an unusually quiet summer in 2024, marked by its absence from one of the world’s biggest gaming expos, Nintendo is officially returning to Gamescom in 2025. And this time, it’s coming back stronger than ever, with a brand-new console already generating buzz across the globe — the long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2.
While last year’s decision to skip the event might have disappointed fans, it was a strategic move. At the time, Nintendo was preparing to enter a new generation of gaming hardware, and showcasing the aging Switch platform amid mounting anticipation for its successor just didn’t align with the company’s plans. Fast forward to 2025, and the situation has completely changed. The Switch 2 is out in the wild, and the timing for Nintendo’s grand return to Gamescom couldn’t be more perfect.
A Comeback That Was Only a Matter of Time
The announcement came via Nintendo Germany’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, and although industry insiders had already speculated on the company’s return, the confirmation still sparked excitement among fans. With Gamescom set to take place from August 20 to 24 in Cologne, Germany, Nintendo is preparing to showcase its latest innovations just two months after the official release of the Switch 2.
This return isn’t just about presence; it’s about momentum. Nintendo skipped the 2024 event for a reason — it had little new to present without prematurely revealing the Switch 2. At that time, the gaming giant was operating under the radar, carefully managing leaks and fine-tuning the successor to one of the most successful consoles in history. Now that the console is officially out, the company is ready to make a splash in front of European audiences.
Spotlight on the Switch 2: A New Era Begins
The Nintendo Switch 2 marks a significant leap for the company — both in terms of performance and vision. While the original Switch broke ground with its hybrid design, the second iteration is expected to push boundaries with improved graphics, a more powerful chipset, and deeper third-party support.
At Gamescom 2025, the Switch 2 will undoubtedly take center stage. Not only is it still new and fresh on the market, but it also represents a pivotal moment in Nintendo’s journey as it attempts to extend its influence into a new console generation without compromising the innovation that defines its brand.
The Switch 2 is more than just hardware. It’s a platform that will usher in a new wave of first-party titles, cross-platform opportunities, and perhaps even features Nintendo fans have long dreamed of — improved online infrastructure, expanded backwards compatibility, and robust multiplayer support.
What Can We Expect at Gamescom? Big Titles and Bigger Expectations
The big question that remains on everyone’s mind is this: What will Nintendo show at Gamescom 2025?
According to current release timelines, Donkey Kong Bananza will already be out by the time the convention begins. The game, which marks the beloved character’s return to center stage, has already garnered solid anticipation and is expected to be one of the Switch 2’s early success stories.
But the real intrigue lies in what’s next. Two of the most anticipated games in Nintendo’s current lineup — Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4 — are confirmed for release in 2025 but are not expected to launch before Gamescom. This places them in the perfect window for in-depth previews, exclusive gameplay demos, or possibly playable builds at Nintendo’s booth.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Set to expand on the open-world model of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, Z-A is rumored to take players to a futuristic urban landscape — possibly a reimagined Lumiose City. With the Switch 2’s upgraded hardware, fans are expecting smoother gameplay, richer environments, and a world more alive than ever before. Nintendo might use Gamescom as a major stage to highlight how the Switch 2 is redefining what a Pokémon game can be.
Metroid Prime 4
Then there’s Metroid Prime 4, a game with almost an mythical status. Initially announced in 2017 and restarted from scratch in 2019, this title has been a long time coming. At Gamescom, Nintendo could finally pull back the curtain and deliver an extended look at Samus Aran’s next adventure. If any single title could define the early success of the Switch 2, Metroid Prime 4 might just be it.
Surprises? Always with Nintendo
Nintendo has a long history of saving a few surprises for its biggest events — and Gamescom 2025 might be no different. While the announced titles will draw attention, there’s every possibility that Nintendo could use the event to announce a new Mario platformer, a Zelda spin-off, or a completely new IP that takes full advantage of the Switch 2’s features.
Furthermore, industry whispers suggest that Nintendo could also unveil new Joy-Con designs, themed Switch 2 editions, or experimental hardware accessories. With the European market being a crucial part of its global sales strategy, a bold announcement on such a stage would make perfect sense.
Gamescom 2025: Why It Matters More Than Ever
Nintendo’s return to Gamescom isn’t just about showing off a few games or making up for last year’s absence. It’s a reflection of a broader strategy — one that positions the company as a key player in the next phase of gaming, where cross-generational expectations, mobile integration, and global fandom collide.
Gamescom, often overshadowed by U.S.-based events like E3 (which has since declined), has become the most important European gaming expo, attracting hundreds of thousands of fans and global media coverage. By returning to Cologne, Nintendo is making it clear: Europe matters, and the Switch 2 is its global focus.
The Business Angle: Nintendo’s Calculated Move
Let’s not overlook the business implications. The original Nintendo Switch, released in 2017, has sold over 130 million units globally. But after seven years on the market, even the most innovative hardware begins to show its age. The launch of the Switch 2 signals not just a fresh start for gamers, but also a new revenue stream for Nintendo as it looks to reignite its sales momentum and attract third-party developers eager to work on more capable hardware.
Gamescom provides an international platform to push this message. By engaging directly with European fans, developers, and media, Nintendo is hoping to build a stronger global foothold from day one of the Switch 2 era.
Final Thoughts: A New Chapter Begins for Nintendo
Nintendo’s confirmation for Gamescom 2025 is much more than a press release — it’s a statement of intent. With a powerful new console already in players’ hands and a solid lineup of upcoming releases, the company is clearly ready to dominate headlines again.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, this August’s Gamescom promises to be an unforgettable showcase for Nintendo. With the Switch 2 now a reality, the excitement isn’t just about what’s coming next — it’s about being part of a brand-new chapter in gaming history.
TL;DR – What You Should Know
Nintendo is officially returning to Gamescom 2025 after skipping the event in 2024.
The Nintendo Switch 2 will be the centerpiece, having launched just two months prior.
Fans can expect news, previews, or playable demos of major titles like:
Donkey Kong Bananza (already released by August)
Pokémon Legends: Z-A
Metroid Prime 4
Surprise announcements and new IPs are very likely.
Nintendo’s participation reflects a larger global strategy focused on growth in Europe.
