TOKYO
Speculation surrounding an upcoming Nintendo Direct event is mounting after a well-known Sega/Atlus leaker hinted that Persona 3 Reload could soon arrive on Nintendo Switch. The rumors, coupled with planned Nintendo eShop maintenance, have coincided with a slight dip in Nintendo’s U.S.-traded shares.
According to a report from My Nintendo News, a reliable leaker with a track record for accurate Sega and Atlus announcements suggested that Persona 3 Reload will be featured in the next Nintendo Direct. While Nintendo has not officially confirmed a presentation, insiders say the rumored showcase could be announced in the coming days.
Adding to speculation, DualShockers reported that Nintendo has scheduled extended maintenance for its eShop, a move historically aligned with major digital announcements. Analysts believe this timing may signal preparations for revealing new game releases or major updates during a potential broadcast.
Market Reaction and Investor Watch
Nintendo’s U.S.-listed shares (NTDOF) saw a slight decline as speculation around an upcoming showcase intensified, according to TipRanks. Market watchers note that Nintendo Direct presentations frequently influence stock performance due to their history of unveiling major first- and third-party titles. If Persona 3 Reload is officially confirmed for Nintendo Switch, analysts say it could significantly broaden the company’s third-party lineup and potentially boost both console and software sales ahead of the holiday season.
Nintendo has not issued an official statement on the timing or lineup of its next digital presentation. Historically, the company has used these showcases to reveal major first- and third-party titles, including Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda installments.
Industry analysts say that, given the recent leak and planned eShop downtime, the likelihood of a Nintendo Direct is high. “When you see coordinated maintenance windows and credible third-party leaks aligning, it often precedes a broadcast,” said one market analyst familiar with Nintendo’s event patterns.
Nintendo’s next moves could prove pivotal as it faces increasing competition in the console and handheld market. Fans and investors alike now await confirmation, with expectations that an announcement could drop without warning, as has been the company’s past practice.
