Nintendo has officially set the release date for its newest IP, Drag x Drive. The cyberpunk-themed wheelchair basketball game will launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 eShop on August 14, 2025.
This announcement marks a significant moment for Nintendo, as Drag x Drive represents one of the first new IPs introduced for the Nintendo Switch 2, alongside Welcome Tour, although it’s hard to call that a game.
It showcases the company’s commitment to expanding its portfolio beyond its well-known franchises. The game’s release date aligns with Nintendo‘s strategy of maintaining a steady flow of content for its latest console, ensuring players have access to multiple titles throughout the year.
Nintendo’s Variable Pricing Strategy At Work
Priced at $19.99, Drag x Drive reflects Nintendo’s variable pricing strategy, which allows the company to adjust costs based on the scale and scope of each game. This approach is particularly evident with digital-only releases, where production and distribution expenses are lower than physical copies.
The $20 price tag is notably reasonable, especially compared to the $79.99 price point set for Mario Kart World. The affordability makes Drag x Drive a great impulse buy and could attract casual gamers.
The decision to release Drag x Drive digitally only is likely influenced by the game’s smaller scale and attributed to the lower price. The game’s file size, listed at 1.8 GB, further supports this notion, indicating a more compact experience, unlike the expansive worlds of games like Donkey Kong Bananza.
No Nintendo Magic In Sight
Despite the intrigue surrounding Drag x Drive, there’s palpable skepticism among fans, including myself, about the game lacking traditional “Nintendo charm”. Nintendo is renowned for its whimsical, family-friendly aesthetics and gameplay that often exude a sense of joy. Even their darker, more mature franchises like Metroid have a certain vividness.
Drag x Drive has a drab color scheme, dull character designs, and devoid environments. This deviates significantly from the typical Nintendo norm. The game’s visual style, characterized by identical robot-like players and a more edgy atmosphere, might not resonate with players who expect the lighthearted, colorful worlds typically associated with Nintendo titles. It’s such a stark contrast to ARMS, the first big new IP for the original Switch.
Wheeling Around – Gameplay of Drag X Drive
However, the unique gameplay mechanics of Drag x Drive are where the Nintendo Magic resides. The game leverages the Joy-Con 2’s mouse controls, allowing players to mimic the motions of using a wheelchair by sliding the controllers forward to move and pivoting with the controllers to turn.
This innovative control scheme promises an immersive experience, but could make or break the game. The ability to perform tricks, dunks, and precise shots using motion controls could set Drag x Drive apart from other sports titles. As a basketball fan, engaging in 3-on-3 matches with this novel control system is appealing, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved sport.
Nintendo Switch 2’s Release Cadence for 2025
Drag x Drive fits nicely into Nintendo‘s effective release strategy for 2025. Much like the Switch 1’s release, they’re seemingly launching a first-party game each month until the end of the year. June saw the launch of Mario Kart World, a title that has already captured the attention of Nintendo Switch 2 owners. July will feature Donkey Kong Bananza, a platformer that promises to deliver one of the most ambitious experiences of the year.
Knowing the rest of the releases planned for this year, the cadence matches perfectly. We could see Metroid Prime 4 in September, Pokémon Legends Z-A, which is confirmed for October 16th, Kirby Air Riders in November, and Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment in December.
This consistent output maintains player engagement on the Nintendo Switch 2 through experiences that can please every type of Nintendo fan.
Final Thoughts
Drag x Drive represents a somewhat unfamiliar Nintendo that diverges from their iconic style while delivering the innovative gameplay fans expect. The $20 price tag and digital-only release make it an intriguing release that’s hard to tell if it will be a slam dunk or an airball. As a basketball fan, I am particularly drawn to its potential, as Nintendo Switch Sports‘ basketball mode did not match my expectations.
Whether Drag x Drive will blow away my skepticism remains. However, the new IP undeniably marks an important moment in the Nintendo Switch 2 era.
