The Secret to Understanding Nintendo Might Lie in Rhythm Heaven’s Groove

After a long hiatus, fans of the Rhythm Heaven series have a reason to rejoice. Nintendo recently announced at their latest Direct showcase that Rhythm Heaven is making a return to the spotlight with a new title, Rhythm Heaven Groove, set to launch on the Nintendo Switch in 2026. This will mark the first new installment since 2015’s Rhythm Heaven Megamix, and it seems poised to give this often-overlooked series a chance to shine.

With its distinctive zany style and engaging rhythm-based gameplay, Rhythm Heaven is set to capture the imagination of a new generation. Moreover, the game will be playable on both the current Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, thanks to the latter’s backward compatibility. This revival is not just a win for Rhythm Heaven fans but also hints at an exciting opportunity for crossover potential, especially with another beloved Nintendo series.

Speaking of crossovers, this could finally be the moment for Rhythm Heaven to make its mark in Super Smash Bros. Enthusiasts of the fighting game franchise have long awaited the inclusion of a character from Rhythm Heaven. Although the series has seen representation—like the appearance of the Sneaky Spirits in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS’s Smash Run Mode—an actual playable character has thus far eluded it. However, with Rhythm Heaven Groove on the horizon, there’s fresh hope that Masahiro Sakurai and his team will finally bring this quirky series to the fore in the next Smash Bros. installment.

There have been whispers in the gaming community about the potential addition of the Chorus Kids, a trio from the series, to Super Smash Bros. Data mining from previous games suggested plans were in place for a character from Rhythm Heaven, and despite some rumors being debunked, it’s clear that the idea was, at least, entertained. The resurgence of the Rhythm Heaven series could reignite these possibilities, especially with Nintendo’s history of capitalizing on new releases to expand Smash Bros.’s delightful roster.

Bringing the Chorus Kids into the Smash universe would also introduce a unique gameplay mechanic where players might control all three characters simultaneously, much like Ice Climbers. This concept might have been shelved previously due to technical limitations associated with the Nintendo 3DS, but with the Switch 2’s enhanced capabilities, it’s an idea whose time may have come. This could differentiate them from other fighters and bring a refreshing dynamic to battles.

Overall, the news of Rhythm Heaven Groove offers plenty to get excited about, not just for its own fans but for the wider Nintendo community. It stands as a testament to Nintendo’s ability to breathe life into its lesser-known IPs. And for those longing for the Chorus Kids’ playful antics in Super Smash Bros., there’s a glimmer of hope that their arrival might be just around the corner. The stage is set for Rhythm Heaven to step into the mainstream and finally enjoy some much-deserved spotlight.