Nintendo to launch Rhythm Heaven Groove on Switch July 2

Nintendo is preparing to release "Rhythm Heaven Groove," the first new main entry in its quirky rhythm game series in over a decade, on July 2, 2026, for the original Nintendo Switch. The game was previewed by journalists at recent Nintendo events, where it was described as a charming and eccentric collection of rhythm-based minigames that also introduces new multiplayer and role-playing modes.

The core gameplay remains familiar to series veterans, focusing on simple, one- or two-button inputs timed to musical beats across dozens of short, bizarre scenarios. Previewed minigames included tasks like making a dog jump to catch a frisbee, chopping flying vegetables while fending off a cat, opening umbrellas in a rainstorm, and guiding a dinosaur to chomp flowers. The presentation features a bold cartoon style and synthesized narration, with music produced by Japanese artist Tsunku. A key challenge comes from "Remix" stages, which combine several minigames into a single, faster-paced sequence.

Beyond the traditional solo challenges, "Rhythm Heaven Groove" expands the formula with new features. A competitive multiplayer mode includes games like "Cake Wait," where players vie to press...