I have zero issue with key cards. For years we expressed concern about the huge cost increase of developing games, and when it comes to a small price increase and key cards, we moan our butts off!
Today I bought Street Fighter 6 on a key card, and it included all the year 1 and 2 extra characters. SF6 in the eshop cost $5 less for the base game. Without the key card, the developer and the retailer get nothing.
I really struggle with the hysteria over key cards. We will buy from the eshop freely and with all the non guarantees of "ownership", yet a key card causes conniptions.
My big fear is the free roam mode is an artificial way to add longevity to a game series that is notoriously way too easy for experienced players. I really hope there's a lot more to it, and also hope the main game offers a challenge. For example, the booster courses for MK8D, I beat most of the Cups at 150cc on the first attempt. Ridiculous.
Not fussed as I rarely played 200cc. Such speed simply doesn't suit the game. I'm more interested in the speculated Reverse Mode. I've hoped for that for decades instead of the stupid Mirror Mode. Cannons and boosts can be added to access track sections that normally would be impossible when racing in reverse direction. I really hope to see it!
@Ogbert Do you mind if I use your comment for a chapter in my book? 😁
I think Metroid games as action discovery games. Before a Metroinia (I like it), Metvania or Castleroid existed, Metroid and Super Metroid were called action adventure. I guess the mapping system and the discovery aspect elevates them into their own genre, which Castlevania later borrowed and others copied or took inspiration.
Incidentally, I refer to roguelike as re-run games. There's sub categories in that like action, shooter, space combat, and puzzle. I'll never use roguelike when its source is so obscure and radically different to most games for which the term gets used.
@Ganner I feel your pain! I sense the Nintendo invitation process was really a second or third line option for those desperate to acquire a Switch 2 and either had all other options exhausted or weren't fussed about getting it early. I would try get to a store on the day, if possible. You never know!
While the demand isn't as severe in my country (Australia), the Switch was "sold out" in advance and I just walked into a store on the day and bought one off the shelf. I had no intention to buy one on day 1 because Zelda has never been my bag. I got seduced by the reviews of it and the device. As for the Switch 2, most retailers are taking orders. EB is the main exception (probably got a significantly smaller allocation) and they already announced a second shipment arrives at the end of June.
Generally not a fan of third person games from behind the shoulder, even if it's a Castleroid (my preferred name for Metvania games 🤭). If there's excessive platform jumping, that makes it even less enticing.
Note: I primarily commented just to say Castleroid and Metvania. The best portmanteaus only use partial words, so I go with Metvania over Metroidvania. Even then, I feel Metroid is cheated because it invented the genre, and if we can call a category "Roguelike" after a game that virtually no one knows, why not Metroidlike? I could write could write a book about videogame naming conventions, and perhaps one day I will. 🤣🤗
@BlueBCA Size is relative! When I say large retailer, I'm talking the likes of Amazon. These behemoths buy by the container load. I only said GAME was smaller, not small, and speculating that their tactic of cancelling pre orders could be because they are initially unaware of their full allocation. Another option is Nintendo don't fulfil the allocation. If there's a supply issue, those large retail chains simply get priority.
Unfortunately, the nature of "pre orders" is they can be cancelled - from either end. I've read often of buyers cancelling their orders because they had them from multiple retailers to ensure one was successful. This practice obviously hurts others that get shut out at the time.
To a retailer, a pre order is more an expression of desire, and while large retailers will know their allocation and can dynamically monitor the ordering process to, in actuality, treat pre orders as a direct purchase, smaller ones like GAME may not know or deliberately game consumers ahead of knowing their allocation. The big chain retailers buy in massive quantities, so obviously get preferential treatment. GAME might only be told a "what we have left" scenario. Who knows! Just be wary not to be gamed by GAME.
@123akis Switch 2 consoles would be definitely shipped to a warehouse first or, more accurately, a distribution centre. Shipping containers would be placed on a truck and driven straight to a DC. From there, the product is dispersed. A company like Walmart would have their own DC and receive containers directly.
Games, given their much smaller size, likely go to a Nintendo warehouse and then dispersed to stores or to a retailer's DC.
Anyway....
On the topic directly, photos have appeared from many places of Switch 2 stock. Amazing that we're just over a week away. I'll pick my order up from the store. Not messing around with shipping given the potential delays.
MK7 was super for its time and remains my fourth favourite behind DS, 8D and GC DD. MK8 on Wii U was supplanted by 8D, and the system was unpopular, so it's low in ratings for me.
DS will always be my favourite because the racing was so pure, it had some of the best tracks ever and the best overall set of tracks, and it introduced online multi player, which was truly a stunning addition. I played so much using the USB dongle on my dialup internet. Those were the days!
DS definitely the best of this trio and still my favourite MK ever. The racing was so pure and it had some of the best tracks ever, and the best overall set. I never liked the Wii version because it was too chaotic with all the extra racers and weapons. GC DD was a stunner and is probably my third favourite overall.
Most fascinating to read was key cards allow the long lead time for a retail launch to actually continue development on the game. Whereas with the entire game on the card, the game must be finished 3 to 4 months before the release date. In that sense, they are good practice. If you don't like such a card, download directly from the eshop.
As for Limited Run Games themselves, am I the only one with zero interest in them? Technically, they are not an official product as per normal releases, so the desirability to own such a product is negligible.
Curiously, I thought Nintendo were up to something sneaky with the MK series so started saying "new Mario Kart" when referring to a potential Switch 2 game, probably for a year now.
Nothing changed for me. I play the Switch as normal, and probably will continue to do once I get the Switch 2. The full transition to playing the Switch 2 exclusively will take many months.
It's all numbers and nonsense. Even Digital Foundary said the true specification is how the games actually run. They also said there's caveats to much of their synopsis, so nothing is entirely accurate until seeing the games running and measuring performance. I don't recall any leaks detailing these specifications, only the basic model of the chip itself and the motherboard. Did that MB compare exactly with the actual one that emerged recently? Forgive me if I missed an article.
Bulk crafting, for sure! I recall a video at the time where someone mocked up solutions for rapid crafting. It was very slick and looked legitimately part of the game. I couldn't find it now, unfortunately.
Even the option to automatically craft and cut the dialogue screens would be nice. Similarly with fossils, it's so laborious taking them to the museum. Just expedite it or even automatic it. Even weeding, perhaps we can employ someone to do it automatically and it costs 1 bell per 10 weeds, or something. The employee should be a venture capitalist of sorts, just to break the mould. Perhaps even Tom Nook himself.
I stuck to the boring black for my original Switch and got white for the OLED. I never liked the blue and red options.
Has anyone noticed in the Discover section of the Switch eshop, you can see the download size for Switch 2 games? Scroll down to the information section of each. Mario Kart World is 23 gb. Cyberpunk is 60 gb. Split Fiction is 73. DK Bonanza just 9. The smallest game is Fast Fusion at 4. The upgrade pack for Zelda BOTW is 9.7, and for TOTK is 3.6. Interesting stuff! 😛
Forgive me if there was an article about this already. I missed it.
From the 10 listed, Animal Crossing because of curiosity. I never played it. The first was New Leaf on 3DS and then New Horizons on Switch. Time Splitters 2 is an outstanding game, so I recommend that to everyone.
My main lack of excitement for most of them is because I own them and played them extensively. Even Rogue Leader! I just think that's a brilliant showcase of the Game Cube and its controller.
Perhaps after a year or so I might consider subscribing for a month to try some. If Nintendo actually would sell them, I'd probably buy a few. Since they don't, boo to them!
Fascinating discussion and some interesting insight into the Switch 2's capabilities. I probably won't buy the game, so am more interested to see the end result and how it's received by others.
Edit:
As to enduring specification comparison of the Switch 2, it's firmly PS4 Pro level. Switch 2 includes 4K and HDR, which were the entire premise for a PS4 Pro in the first place. Switch 2 supposedly runs 4K at 60 FPS, not 30, and includes 120 FPS capabilities, so arguably it's a little higher than PS4 Pro.
AI is a term too liberally used these days. Where we previously used terms like computer generated or digitally altered, now it's all AI. Where my toaster once had a timer, now it's AI! Even if Nintendo had software that could automate the placement of images upon request, that's still computer generated. So, no. It's not AI in any sense of the term. At most, it looks like game footage that was poorly digitally enhanced.
The infamous "make an announcement about the successor to Nintendo Switch within this fiscal year" quote that so many people conflated to a reveal and release, even in 2024. Never happening and, of course, in January 2025, we got the announcement about the successor as Nintendo promised, with the full reveal set for April. Now the Switch 2 is just four weeks away, all the hoaxes can be forgotten. Nintendo are very easy to predict when you just listen to them!
Ultimately, the console is $50 more than anticipated and games are $10 more than their comparative counterparts on the Switch. If that sends you broke, then you have far greater financial concerns. Also, game prices were stagnant for 20 years so the new levels are fair enough. In saying that, I don't waste money and already wait for games to go on sale if my interest priority isn't high. The exceptions when I buy day one, I will be content to pay the higher price.
This generation is the first time I never bought a PS. Too expensive and very few games of interest. Typically, I would wait for the Slim models at a discount price, and PS5 Slim actually increased in price. Even if cheaper, I would skip it.
I'm quite disturbed how Sony set the example to increase, not reduce prices, while the 20% increase for Xbox is ridiculous. I believe these companies are gaming us because we're used to paying more for everything. Technology that is now 5 years old simply should be cheaper.
The eshop simply needs a category for the trash and an option to exclude seeing it. I would assign games into one of four publisher categories: Nintendo, Partners, Indies, Miscellaneous (the trash). Overlay those categories with existing search filters, and most problems disappear. By default, all would apply, or you can disable Miscellaneous or any combination desired.
I wonder how much of the "vitriol" online is from the same people with music and Netflix subscriptions and who long abandoned CDs and movies on disc? 🤣😛
Personally, as someone who loves physical media and still buys CDs and the occasional movie, key cards are fine. No one is seriously whinging about music and movies almost exclusively online, and mourning the lack of personal ownership regarding those. I applaud key cards over download codes any day. They have obvious advantages in terms of sharing and selling. If losing the card is a concern, download purchases are still an option anyway.
Interesting that the old "loophole" still works to play games simultaneously, albeit it's at least disclosed as an option and, as before, only works for the actual owner of the game and not for simultaneous online play. I thought part of the rationale for virtual cards would be to remove this loophole. After all, once you shared the card, you lost access to it, period.
Anyway, I doubt many people knew or bothered exploiting the previous loophole, nor will actively use this new option. I guess it's for situations where Switch B can't, or won't, return the card, not a method meant for simultaneous play.
Clearly a step sideways. Why not an option to sort the chart by sales or quantity? I've bought a few games high in the charts because they were cheap and they weren't necessarily trashy, low budget titles either.
Just hearing that tacky announce voice is giving me nightmares about this game. Sega wrecked so much of F-Zero GX with their gimmick ethos, notably with some horrible track design that included obstacles and weird cambers, while others were simply boring. Even the story mode, some of it was ridiculously hard. In saying that there were classic parts so I would buy it if possible. Sadly, Nintendo would rather force us into their extortionate subscription model.
PS: Before anyone jumps on me, I'm only interested in a few games and want to own them permanently. The supposedly small price actually mounts up over the years and, besides, principle is the issue. There should be an option to buy, just like the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe bonus tracks.
Edit:
Curious to read someone wants to transfer their save file from the Game Cube. Why? If a game is so good, what's wrong with starting all over again?
I should add, GX is the only F-Zero game I never beat on Master difficulty. If I recall, I did the first two cups. While I could have done the rest, sheer boredom and frustration of repeating dud tracks saw me lose interest and I abandoned the game. Conversely, in F-Zero X, no issues repeating tracks over and over again because the design was so good. We really need X to be remade if a new F-Zero isn't possible.
Nice to see a big, juicy update! Normally it's bug fixes or frivolous additions. I'll be eager to check the new features once the automatic update is done.
As to the timing of the update (re Amy above), when Nintendo give a general date like late April (per this update), always treat it as near the end. In May 2024 when they said an announcement about the Switch successor would be by 31 March 2025, that never meant announce and release in 2024 as many were speculating (or pushing). Metroid Prime 4, announced last year for "2025", sadly meant later that year too.
2ArcataThu 1st Jun 2023 "Theres no way its not happening next year [2024]. This is the longest a Nintendo console has ever been on the market before a successor has replaced it by 2 years more than average." Wrong! Just like the Switch Pro fantasy, a 2024 Switch 2 release was something the media pushed hardest despite even contrary evidence like Nintendo, in May 2024, saying "an announcement about the Switch successor" by 31 March 2025. How a 2025 announcement got twisted into a 2024 release is mind boggling.
4HolyGeez03Fri 2nd Jun 2023 "If Switch 2 can play all games at 1080p/60 with the dock upscaling to 2160p, I would be happy." A wish more than fulfilled!
(In late 2024) "MrCarlos46Mon 16th Dec 2024 We’re reaching the end of 2024, and no Switch 2 [release] news. If the Switch 2 is on a similar release timeframe as the Switch, 4-5 months, then it will probably come out near the end of the first half of 2025. For example, if the Switch 2 gets revealed in January, with a showcase in March or April, then it gets released in May or June." The video in January was more a tease and an announcement of the reveal date, otherwise spot on! (Same comment on prices) "Probably somewhere at $399 or $449. But with you-know-who becoming president of the US soon, he also has plans to put tariffs on products imported from countries like China or Vietnam, so this could lead to the Switch 2’s price in the US being somewhere at $499, $549 or $599." Nailed the price. Wrong on tariffs. I would often comment that electronics were never part of discussion with tariffs as there was no American industry to protect. The first major call on tariffs was actually to exempt electronics.
HalBailmanFri 3rd Jan 2025 "To me, the biggest clue is "coming soon" recently added to the original and vague "2025" release of Metroid Prime 4. That suggests Nintendo are priming for a Metroid Prime 4 release around April and that will be the key focus of the usual Direct in mid February. At the end of the Direct will be a tease of the Switch 2 and a "summer 2025" reveal. Release would be around September." Yes, humble old me. 😛 The Direct was a few weeks later and the Switch 2 tease was forced out in January to end the rumour cycle. The reveal and release are a few months earlier. I thought September based on that window for MP4. Its release was soon reverted to "2025", which meant later in the year and now a big hole to fill mid year.
NL Article: "Were there any legit Nintendo Switch 2 leaks? Just a few!" The actual physical evidence were the only correct ones, and even the motherboard is still to be verified. The vast majority, particularly about release dates, were wrong. Most leaks were actually rumours or speculation anyway, which didn't help with credibility and kept fuelling more.
None! Nothing to do with money either. All the Switch controllers work so that cancels the need for Switch 2 ones. A memory card will be a purchase "as needed". No point in rushing out with mad money to buy something that could be years away from needing. I only ever bought a 256gb card for my Switch and it's only 70% full six years later.
I'm not someone that needs to carry around my entire library either. Games get archived if completed or I lost interest. Not that I needed to do that with the Switch's card.
Disappointing to learn! I hoped the Switch 2 dock would accept a Switch for seamless backwards compatibility with the Switch. Now the question is if the Switch 2 AC adapter is compatible with the Switch dock. That would then make connecting the Switch to the TV easier.
PS: Before anyone jumps on me and says to transfer everything from Switch to Switch 2, I often have friends bring their Switches to play games on TV that I don't own.
PPS: No, I'm not fooling around with family groups and setting up primary and secondary Switches.
PPPS: No, not interested in the new virtual card sharing option either. It's so easy and convenient to simply insert their Switch into my dock, and bang. No sexual innuendo intended! 🤣🤭
The d-pad looks like the same horrible, nasty one as per the Switch Pro Controller, so I won't be buying the Switch 2 version. I'll still with the Switch ones since they are compatible with Switch 2.
@easykiel Whether the Switch 2 upgrade pack is "tacked onto the Switch 1 game and it's still Switch 1 emulation", I would say you are right. Strictly speaking, it's not quite emulation. Switch data is converted into Switch 2 data and it's processed like any Switch 2 game. I'm presuming the upgrade pack simply includes higher resolution textures, meaning Switch games without the upgrade should run at higher frame rates on Switch 2.
The Switch 2 Editions of games contain everything on the card. Of course, you could buy the Switch version and the upgrade pack separately. I'm thinking of doing that with Metroid Prime 4 if Switch 2 Editions don't work on Switch. They should because they are Switch games with the upgrade pack included. Yet to be confirmed. We only know dedicated Switch 2 games like Mario Kart World won't work on Switch.
Commenting on the article in general, interesting to read almost universal acceptance of the pricing model for these upgrade packs.
Seriously, Nintendo knew the extra $50 (above the anticipated price) for the console and $10 for comparative games would never dissuade anyone interested in a Switch 2. Again, it's a caution into thinking that internet hysteria correlates to reality.
Even though most people could order without issue, for those that couldn't, retailers only sell on their initial allotment. Nintendo will obviously still be producing the system over the next 6 weeks so periodically check sites or even be prepared to walk into a store on the day and buy off the shelf. In my country, I did the latter for the Switch, and noticed retailers are taking online orders again for the Switch 2 despite selling out on day 1.
@SabreLevant That's it. Xbox has been running a modified form of Windows since the start. Not sure why you're grounded on Xbox One because Xbox Series X/S is currently running a version of Windows 11 and I'm referring to the future. The mooted Xbox handheld will obviously use some form of further optimised Windows, which Microsoft will license to consolidate the Xbox and PC market, if they have a brain. To me (my opinion) that will be the future. Steam OS isn't, as much as I appreciate your detailed information about it!
Not sure about the hyper jumps. Generally, I'm against gimmicks in pure racing games. Otherwise, looking forward to it. I bought Fast RMX on day one for Switch so will likely do likewise with Fast Fusion for Switch 2.
Edit:
I agree with Mommar. This series is closer to Wipeout than F-Zero, and that's due to the sliding nature of the handling. Not a bad comparison either because Wipeout is a great series, and I'd love to see a version on Switch 2.
@wiiware As to $80 for Mario Kart World vs $70, Nintendo clearly think that if you can afford $520 for the console and game, then another $10 won't kill you. Just think about it. As you rightly said, just about everyone would accept $70 for MKW, so all the hysteria is over the extra $10. Nintendo know it will blow over and we will quickly adjust.
Considering Zelda TOTK on Switch was priced at a premium level of $70 a few years ago, and with the vast increase in costs to develop games in recent years, I'm not fussed about the extra $10 for MKW. I'm more fussed about future releases in that bracket. DK Bonanza is actually $70, so I really hope Nintendo is reserving the $80 bracket only for special games.
@SabreLevant @MattmanForever When I say a version of Windows, I'm talking about an optimised one like Xbox uses. A desktop version is clearly nonsense.
No reason to scoff. You're simply providing the facts!
Beyond the weaker tech, no dedicated separate controller and TV connection included, and unable to play Switch 2 games, many games don't run on it. Older ones are not fully compatible or completely incompatible, while newer ones will struggle to run well or be playable at all. You need to mess around in the settings for those, which immediately destroys the friendly user experience of a mainline console.
For first generation technology, the Steam Deck actually has done well and created an exciting new market. I believe they need a version of Windows for these devices to really excel, which might happen quite soon with Microsoft's plans for their own handheld. Then it's true compatibility with almost all PC games. At present, 90% of my (mostly old) Steam library simply won't run on it.
Edit:
(Replying to SabreLevant & MattmanForever below)
When I say a version of Windows, I'm talking about an optimised one like Xbox uses. Steam OS simply isn't the viable solution long term. Microsoft will never use it, for one. It also still needs a lot of work, especially for compatibility with older games.
@NintonicGamer I think with the scalping, Nintendo were referring to Western markets like the USA. Whether they can ensure enough supply, who knows! I know in Australia there's no issue to order a Switch 2 right now.
Furukawa actually said, on 9 May 2024: "We will make an announcement about the successor to Nintendo Switch within this fiscal year." That's a subtle difference in wording to "announcing it", and that announcement came in January. Sorry to say, when companies give broad time lines like this, they generally mean towards the end of them. Metroid Prime 4 got a "2025" release time, which, sadly, always meant second to later half of 2025. Otherwise they would say end of 2024 or first half of 2025 if they intend to release then. Same with the Switch 2, if late 2024 was the plan, they would say it. End of fiscal year, I actually expected February or early March (at the tail of the usual Switch Direct). The leaks, rumours and wild speculation likely forced it out in January.
Pleasing to see Japanese consumers so interested in the Switch 2. Many might have applied for the lottery simply for the sake of it, especially if it's not compulsory to buy a Switch 2 if successful. Perhaps not so many people will be as disappointed. More accurately, it was a small price increase on accessories, not a "price hike". It wasn't quite "all" either.
Rogue Leader, Timesplitters 2 and Wave Race Blue Storm would excite me most. I've no doubt anything made by Nintendo will eventually appear, like Wave Race. Minimal chance for the other two.
Yes, Wave Race 64 had better gameplay than Blue Storm, particularly with the water physics. I still think the N64 is untouchable for water physics. The hovercrafts in Diddy Kong Racing felt great too.
Good to see the Switch 2 praised and analysed on actual usage instead of video footage. Indeed, the Switch 2 is far more powerful and impressive than DF ever imagined, and they raved about Mario Kart World. DK Bonanza didn't impress to the same level because it's not their style of game. Other sites like IGN thought it was really impressive and are looking forward to it the most.
As to the PS4 comparison, DF were clearly referring to ports and that developers simply geared them to PS4 level because that was easiest. With 4K and HDR, the Switch 2 is way beyond PS4. In fact, 4K and HDR were the entire premise of PS4 Pro, and the Switch 2 beats that with frame rate (60 vs 30 locked).
I must be the only person on the planet that thought a new 3D Mario had no chance of a reveal, much less be the star of the show at the Direct a few weeks ago. Glancing through the comments, I didn't note anyone else thinking similarly. Nintendo teased Mario Kart World in January so it would always be the star of the show in April. There's also Metroid Prime 4 loitering about to deliver a powerful 1-2 punch during the early life of the Switch 2, plus the system itself would be a major star.
Nintendo are so predictable. They only launch with one major title, save something for a month or so later, then deliver the next big title after 6 months. We saw that on Switch with Zelda BOTW, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Mario Odyssey. N64 had Mario 64, MK64 and Star Fox. Curiously, the Game Cube had no marquee launch title. Switch 2 will go Mario Kart World, DK Bonanza and MP4. I suspect the usual Direct in September is when we might get a glimpse of the next Mario for a late year release or more likely not until 2026. Nintendo like giving their games room to sell, and suspect MP4 will be the key focus for later this year.
Great letter about the pricing. I don't even think $80 is a "massive sum" for a game. It's just $10 more than most people would accept for Mario Kart World, which should be compared to Zelda TOTK on Switch a few years ago. It was, and still is, $70. We're in a new generation and an era of much higher development costs, so $10 more is justifiable. To think prices should that of games 8 years ago and potentially stay at that level for another 8 years (Nintendo rarely, if ever, raise prices broadly during a cycle) is preposterous. Indeed, if $70 for MKW is seemingly fair, then all the hysteria is really over an extra $10.
The real fault lies with the messaging from Nintendo. With DK Bonanza at $70, clearly they have two price tiers as they did on the Switch. A regular tier and a premium tier. DK is regular; MKW is premium. Both are $10 more compared to their counterparts on the Switch. If $10 is really such a strain, then you have bigger financial concerns than affording the latest Nintendo system.
I always thought there was a buffer in the console price for a 10% tariff or for any "changes in market conditions" despite Nintendo America denying it. A general 10% tariff was telegraphed weeks in advance and might still apply even if all electronics were exempt from the reciprocal ones (I'm not up to date). The $5 increase for most accessories is likely a further buffer against further volatility. Nintendo's attitude is that if you can afford $600 on console, game and controller, then another $5 won't kill you.
As for games, keep dreaming if you think prices might reduce. Again, if you're spending $520 on a console and separate game, you can afford an extra $10. Indeed, games increased by just $10, and that's fair considering the higher costs of game development and a next generation system. Mario Kart World at $80 is actually analogous to Zelda TOTK at $70 on Switch. DK Bonanza at $70 is analogous to the $60 bracket on Switch.
The problem with reducing prices is Nintendo don't want to create consumer resentment for those that bought early. Therefore, prices are locked. Our best hope is not too many games are priced at the premium level like MKW. That Kirby is at that price is clearly ridiculous. For accessories, buy only what's necessary and watch for sales. Big retailers will quickly offer $10 or so off a Pro Controller.
Comments 1,678
Re: Publishers Are "Thanking" Nintendo For Game-Key Cards On Switch 2
I have zero issue with key cards. For years we expressed concern about the huge cost increase of developing games, and when it comes to a small price increase and key cards, we moan our butts off!
Today I bought Street Fighter 6 on a key card, and it included all the year 1 and 2 extra characters. SF6 in the eshop cost $5 less for the base game. Without the key card, the developer and the retailer get nothing.
I really struggle with the hysteria over key cards. We will buy from the eshop freely and with all the non guarantees of "ownership", yet a key card causes conniptions.
Re: Round Up: The Final Previews Are In For Mario Kart World
My big fear is the free roam mode is an artificial way to add longevity to a game series that is notoriously way too easy for experienced players. I really hope there's a lot more to it, and also hope the main game offers a challenge. For example, the booster courses for MK8D, I beat most of the Cups at 150cc on the first attempt. Ridiculous.
PS: No, not interested in 200cc.
Re: Mario Kart World Doesn't Include A 200cc Difficulty Mode
Not fussed as I rarely played 200cc. Such speed simply doesn't suit the game. I'm more interested in the speculated Reverse Mode. I've hoped for that for decades instead of the stupid Mirror Mode. Cannons and boosts can be added to access track sections that normally would be impossible when racing in reverse direction. I really hope to see it!
Re: A New 3D Metroidvania Has Been Confirmed For Switch 2
@Ogbert Do you mind if I use your comment for a chapter in my book? 😁
I think Metroid games as action discovery games. Before a Metroinia (I like it), Metvania or Castleroid existed, Metroid and Super Metroid were called action adventure. I guess the mapping system and the discovery aspect elevates them into their own genre, which Castlevania later borrowed and others copied or took inspiration.
Incidentally, I refer to roguelike as re-run games. There's sub categories in that like action, shooter, space combat, and puzzle. I'll never use roguelike when its source is so obscure and radically different to most games for which the term gets used.
Re: Another US Retailer Will Be Stocking Additional Switch 2 Units Next Week
@Ganner I feel your pain! I sense the Nintendo invitation process was really a second or third line option for those desperate to acquire a Switch 2 and either had all other options exhausted or weren't fussed about getting it early. I would try get to a store on the day, if possible. You never know!
While the demand isn't as severe in my country (Australia), the Switch was "sold out" in advance and I just walked into a store on the day and bought one off the shelf. I had no intention to buy one on day 1 because Zelda has never been my bag. I got seduced by the reviews of it and the device. As for the Switch 2, most retailers are taking orders. EB is the main exception (probably got a significantly smaller allocation) and they already announced a second shipment arrives at the end of June.
Re: A New 3D Metroidvania Has Been Confirmed For Switch 2
Generally not a fan of third person games from behind the shoulder, even if it's a Castleroid (my preferred name for Metvania games 🤭). If there's excessive platform jumping, that makes it even less enticing.
Note: I primarily commented just to say Castleroid and Metvania. The best portmanteaus only use partial words, so I go with Metvania over Metroidvania. Even then, I feel Metroid is cheated because it invented the genre, and if we can call a category "Roguelike" after a game that virtually no one knows, why not Metroidlike? I could write could write a book about videogame naming conventions, and perhaps one day I will. 🤣🤗
Re: UK Retailer GAME Cancels A Bunch Of Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders
@BlueBCA Size is relative! When I say large retailer, I'm talking the likes of Amazon. These behemoths buy by the container load. I only said GAME was smaller, not small, and speculating that their tactic of cancelling pre orders could be because they are initially unaware of their full allocation. Another option is Nintendo don't fulfil the allocation. If there's a supply issue, those large retail chains simply get priority.
Re: UK Retailer GAME Cancels A Bunch Of Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders
Unfortunately, the nature of "pre orders" is they can be cancelled - from either end. I've read often of buyers cancelling their orders because they had them from multiple retailers to ensure one was successful. This practice obviously hurts others that get shut out at the time.
To a retailer, a pre order is more an expression of desire, and while large retailers will know their allocation and can dynamically monitor the ordering process to, in actuality, treat pre orders as a direct purchase, smaller ones like GAME may not know or deliberately game consumers ahead of knowing their allocation. The big chain retailers buy in massive quantities, so obviously get preferential treatment. GAME might only be told a "what we have left" scenario. Who knows! Just be wary not to be gamed by GAME.
Re: US Retailers Are Reportedly Starting To Receive Switch 2 Stock
@123akis Switch 2 consoles would be definitely shipped to a warehouse first or, more accurately, a distribution centre. Shipping containers would be placed on a truck and driven straight to a DC. From there, the product is dispersed. A company like Walmart would have their own DC and receive containers directly.
Games, given their much smaller size, likely go to a Nintendo warehouse and then dispersed to stores or to a retailer's DC.
Anyway....
On the topic directly, photos have appeared from many places of Switch 2 stock. Amazing that we're just over a week away. I'll pick my order up from the store. Not messing around with shipping given the potential delays.
Re: Feature: The Long & Rainbow Road To 'Mario Kart World' Part 3 - Final Lap
MK7 was super for its time and remains my fourth favourite behind DS, 8D and GC DD. MK8 on Wii U was supplanted by 8D, and the system was unpopular, so it's low in ratings for me.
DS will always be my favourite because the racing was so pure, it had some of the best tracks ever and the best overall set of tracks, and it introduced online multi player, which was truly a stunning addition. I played so much using the USB dongle on my dialup internet. Those were the days!
Re: Feature: The Long & Rainbow Road To 'Mario Kart World' Part 2 - Second Lap
DS definitely the best of this trio and still my favourite MK ever. The racing was so pure and it had some of the best tracks ever, and the best overall set. I never liked the Wii version because it was too chaotic with all the extra racers and weapons. GC DD was a stunner and is probably my third favourite overall.
Re: Feature: Limited Run Talks Switch 2 Game-Key Cards, Huge Carts & Difficult Pitches
Most fascinating to read was key cards allow the long lead time for a retail launch to actually continue development on the game. Whereas with the entire game on the card, the game must be finished 3 to 4 months before the release date. In that sense, they are good practice. If you don't like such a card, download directly from the eshop.
As for Limited Run Games themselves, am I the only one with zero interest in them? Technically, they are not an official product as per normal releases, so the desirability to own such a product is negligible.
Re: Nintendo Explains Why Mario Kart World Isn't Called 'Mario Kart 9'
Curiously, I thought Nintendo were up to something sneaky with the MK series so started saying "new Mario Kart" when referring to a potential Switch 2 game, probably for a year now.
Re: Talking Point: Are You Ghosting Switch 1 To Save Yourself For Switch 2?
Nothing changed for me. I play the Switch as normal, and probably will continue to do once I get the Switch 2. The full transition to playing the Switch 2 exclusively will take many months.
Re: Review: Capcom Fighting Collection 2 (Switch) - A Cracking Collection Of Top-Class Arcade Fighters
This was one of the few games of interest in the Switch Direct in March and I'm rapt to see it reviewed so well. A definite purchase.
Re: Nintendo Switch 2 Final Tech Specs Have Been Confirmed
It's all numbers and nonsense. Even Digital Foundary said the true specification is how the games actually run. They also said there's caveats to much of their synopsis, so nothing is entirely accurate until seeing the games running and measuring performance. I don't recall any leaks detailing these specifications, only the basic model of the chip itself and the motherboard. Did that MB compare exactly with the actual one that emerged recently? Forgive me if I missed an article.
Re: Talking Point: How Can The Next Animal Crossing Improve Crafting?
Bulk crafting, for sure! I recall a video at the time where someone mocked up solutions for rapid crafting. It was very slick and looked legitimately part of the game. I couldn't find it now, unfortunately.
Even the option to automatically craft and cut the dialogue screens would be nice. Similarly with fossils, it's so laborious taking them to the museum. Just expedite it or even automatic it. Even weeding, perhaps we can employ someone to do it automatically and it costs 1 bell per 10 weeds, or something. The employee should be a venture capitalist of sorts, just to break the mould. Perhaps even Tom Nook himself.
Re: PSA: Mix And Match Your Switch OLED At Nintendo's New Store (US)
I stuck to the boring black for my original Switch and got white for the OLED. I never liked the blue and red options.
Has anyone noticed in the Discover section of the Switch eshop, you can see the download size for Switch 2 games? Scroll down to the information section of each. Mario Kart World is 23 gb. Cyberpunk is 60 gb. Split Fiction is 73. DK Bonanza just 9. The smallest game is Fast Fusion at 4.
The upgrade pack for Zelda BOTW is 9.7, and for TOTK is 3.6.
Interesting stuff! 😛
Forgive me if there was an article about this already. I missed it.
Re: Video: 10 GameCube Games We Want On Switch 2's Online Expansion Pack
Rogue Leader is the main one.
From the 10 listed, Animal Crossing because of curiosity. I never played it. The first was New Leaf on 3DS and then New Horizons on Switch. Time Splitters 2 is an outstanding game, so I recommend that to everyone.
My main lack of excitement for most of them is because I own them and played them extensively. Even Rogue Leader! I just think that's a brilliant showcase of the Game Cube and its controller.
Perhaps after a year or so I might consider subscribing for a month to try some. If Nintendo actually would sell them, I'd probably buy a few. Since they don't, boo to them!
Re: Feature: "We’re Very Confident" - CD Projekt Red On Delivering The Full Cyberpunk 2077 Experience On Switch 2
Fascinating discussion and some interesting insight into the Switch 2's capabilities. I probably won't buy the game, so am more interested to see the end result and how it's received by others.
Edit:
As to enduring specification comparison of the Switch 2, it's firmly PS4 Pro level. Switch 2 includes 4K and HDR, which were the entire premise for a PS4 Pro in the first place. Switch 2 supposedly runs 4K at 60 FPS, not 30, and includes 120 FPS capabilities, so arguably it's a little higher than PS4 Pro.
Re: Nintendo Says AI-Generated Images "Were Not Used" In Mario Kart World
AI is a term too liberally used these days. Where we previously used terms like computer generated or digitally altered, now it's all AI. Where my toaster once had a timer, now it's AI! Even if Nintendo had software that could automate the placement of images upon request, that's still computer generated. So, no. It's not AI in any sense of the term. At most, it looks like game footage that was poorly digitally enhanced.
Re: Random: It's Been One Year Since Nintendo First Acknowledged Switch 2
The infamous "make an announcement about the successor to Nintendo Switch within this fiscal year" quote that so many people conflated to a reveal and release, even in 2024. Never happening and, of course, in January 2025, we got the announcement about the successor as Nintendo promised, with the full reveal set for April. Now the Switch 2 is just four weeks away, all the hoaxes can be forgotten. Nintendo are very easy to predict when you just listen to them!
Re: Talking Point: With Prices Rising, Are Your Gaming Habits Changing?
Ultimately, the console is $50 more than anticipated and games are $10 more than their comparative counterparts on the Switch. If that sends you broke, then you have far greater financial concerns. Also, game prices were stagnant for 20 years so the new levels are fair enough. In saying that, I don't waste money and already wait for games to go on sale if my interest priority isn't high. The exceptions when I buy day one, I will be content to pay the higher price.
This generation is the first time I never bought a PS. Too expensive and very few games of interest. Typically, I would wait for the Slim models at a discount price, and PS5 Slim actually increased in price. Even if cheaper, I would skip it.
I'm quite disturbed how Sony set the example to increase, not reduce prices, while the 20% increase for Xbox is ridiculous. I believe these companies are gaming us because we're used to paying more for everything. Technology that is now 5 years old simply should be cheaper.
Re: Game Devs Weigh In On Switch 2, And A "Much Better" eShop Is A Must
The eshop simply needs a category for the trash and an option to exclude seeing it. I would assign games into one of four publisher categories: Nintendo, Partners, Indies, Miscellaneous (the trash). Overlay those categories with existing search filters, and most problems disappear. By default, all would apply, or you can disable Miscellaneous or any combination desired.
Re: Opinion: Switch 2 Finally Gives Star Wars Outlaws A Second Chance
As a Star Wars fan, Outlaws looks interesting. I'll probably wait for a discount, especially if the reviews aren't that great.
Re: Talking Point: Will You Be Buying Any Game-Key Card Switch 2 Games?
I wonder how much of the "vitriol" online is from the same people with music and Netflix subscriptions and who long abandoned CDs and movies on disc? 🤣😛
Personally, as someone who loves physical media and still buys CDs and the occasional movie, key cards are fine. No one is seriously whinging about music and movies almost exclusively online, and mourning the lack of personal ownership regarding those. I applaud key cards over download codes any day. They have obvious advantages in terms of sharing and selling. If losing the card is a concern, download purchases are still an option anyway.
Re: Video: Nintendo Shares More Footage Of F-Zero GX For Switch Online
Removed
Re: How Do Nintendo Switch 2 Virtual Game Cards Work? - Game Transfer & Lending Guide
Interesting that the old "loophole" still works to play games simultaneously, albeit it's at least disclosed as an option and, as before, only works for the actual owner of the game and not for simultaneous online play. I thought part of the rationale for virtual cards would be to remove this loophole. After all, once you shared the card, you lost access to it, period.
Anyway, I doubt many people knew or bothered exploiting the previous loophole, nor will actively use this new option. I guess it's for situations where Switch B can't, or won't, return the card, not a method meant for simultaneous play.
Re: You Can Now Hide Those Naughty Hentai Games On Switch
Just stepping away from watching the freely abundant internet p❤️rn on my phone to say hiding games with cartoon b❤️❤️bies is long overdue! 🥳
Re: Switch eShop Update Puts Less Focus On The Terrible 'eSlop'
Clearly a step sideways. Why not an option to sort the chart by sales or quantity? I've bought a few games high in the charts because they were cheap and they weren't necessarily trashy, low budget titles either.
Re: Video: Nintendo Shares More Footage Of F-Zero GX For Switch Online
Just hearing that tacky announce voice is giving me nightmares about this game. Sega wrecked so much of F-Zero GX with their gimmick ethos, notably with some horrible track design that included obstacles and weird cambers, while others were simply boring. Even the story mode, some of it was ridiculously hard. In saying that there were classic parts so I would buy it if possible. Sadly, Nintendo would rather force us into their extortionate subscription model.
PS: Before anyone jumps on me, I'm only interested in a few games and want to own them permanently. The supposedly small price actually mounts up over the years and, besides, principle is the issue. There should be an option to buy, just like the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe bonus tracks.
Edit:
Curious to read someone wants to transfer their save file from the Game Cube. Why? If a game is so good, what's wrong with starting all over again?
I should add, GX is the only F-Zero game I never beat on Master difficulty. If I recall, I did the first two cups. While I could have done the rest, sheer boredom and frustration of repeating dud tracks saw me lose interest and I abandoned the game. Conversely, in F-Zero X, no issues repeating tracks over and over again because the design was so good. We really need X to be remade if a new F-Zero isn't possible.
Re: Nintendo Switch System Update 20.0.0 Is Now Live, Here Are The Full Patch Notes
Nice to see a big, juicy update! Normally it's bug fixes or frivolous additions. I'll be eager to check the new features once the automatic update is done.
As to the timing of the update (re Amy above), when Nintendo give a general date like late April (per this update), always treat it as near the end. In May 2024 when they said an announcement about the Switch successor would be by 31 March 2025, that never meant announce and release in 2024 as many were speculating (or pushing). Metroid Prime 4, announced last year for "2025", sadly meant later that year too.
Re: Nintendo Switch 2: Rumours, Leaks, Announcement History
Interesting reading the comments after 2 years.
2ArcataThu 1st Jun 2023
"Theres no way its not happening next year [2024]. This is the longest a Nintendo console has ever been on the market before a successor has replaced it by 2 years more than average."
Wrong! Just like the Switch Pro fantasy, a 2024 Switch 2 release was something the media pushed hardest despite even contrary evidence like Nintendo, in May 2024, saying "an announcement about the Switch successor" by 31 March 2025. How a 2025 announcement got twisted into a 2024 release is mind boggling.
4HolyGeez03Fri 2nd Jun 2023
"If Switch 2 can play all games at 1080p/60 with the dock upscaling to 2160p, I would be happy."
A wish more than fulfilled!
(In late 2024)
"MrCarlos46Mon 16th Dec 2024
We’re reaching the end of 2024, and no Switch 2 [release] news.
If the Switch 2 is on a similar release timeframe as the Switch, 4-5 months, then it will probably come out near the end of the first half of 2025. For example, if the Switch 2 gets revealed in January, with a showcase in March or April, then it gets released in May or June."
The video in January was more a tease and an announcement of the reveal date, otherwise spot on!
(Same comment on prices)
"Probably somewhere at $399 or $449. But with you-know-who becoming president of the US soon, he also has plans to put tariffs on products imported from countries like China or Vietnam, so this could lead to the Switch 2’s price in the US being somewhere at $499, $549 or $599."
Nailed the price. Wrong on tariffs. I would often comment that electronics were never part of discussion with tariffs as there was no American industry to protect. The first major call on tariffs was actually to exempt electronics.
HalBailmanFri 3rd Jan 2025
"To me, the biggest clue is "coming soon" recently added to the original and vague "2025" release of Metroid Prime 4. That suggests Nintendo are priming for a Metroid Prime 4 release around April and that will be the key focus of the usual Direct in mid February. At the end of the Direct will be a tease of the Switch 2 and a "summer 2025" reveal. Release would be around September."
Yes, humble old me. 😛 The Direct was a few weeks later and the Switch 2 tease was forced out in January to end the rumour cycle. The reveal and release are a few months earlier. I thought September based on that window for MP4. Its release was soon reverted to "2025", which meant later in the year and now a big hole to fill mid year.
NL Article:
"Were there any legit Nintendo Switch 2 leaks?
Just a few!"
The actual physical evidence were the only correct ones, and even the motherboard is still to be verified. The vast majority, particularly about release dates, were wrong. Most leaks were actually rumours or speculation anyway, which didn't help with credibility and kept fuelling more.
Re: Poll: Which Switch 2 Accessories Are You Picking Up At Launch?
None! Nothing to do with money either. All the Switch controllers work so that cancels the need for Switch 2 ones. A memory card will be a purchase "as needed". No point in rushing out with mad money to buy something that could be years away from needing. I only ever bought a 256gb card for my Switch and it's only 70% full six years later.
I'm not someone that needs to carry around my entire library either. Games get archived if completed or I lost interest. Not that I needed to do that with the Switch's card.
Re: Switch 2's Dock Isn't Compatible With The Original Switch, According To Nintendo
Disappointing to learn! I hoped the Switch 2 dock would accept a Switch for seamless backwards compatibility with the Switch. Now the question is if the Switch 2 AC adapter is compatible with the Switch dock. That would then make connecting the Switch to the TV easier.
PS: Before anyone jumps on me and says to transfer everything from Switch to Switch 2, I often have friends bring their Switches to play games on TV that I don't own.
PPS: No, I'm not fooling around with family groups and setting up primary and secondary Switches.
PPPS: No, not interested in the new virtual card sharing option either. It's so easy and convenient to simply insert their Switch into my dock, and bang. No sexual innuendo intended! 🤣🤭
Re: Nintendo Today Video Showcases The New Switch 2 Pro Controller
The d-pad looks like the same horrible, nasty one as per the Switch Pro Controller, so I won't be buying the Switch 2 version. I'll still with the Switch ones since they are compatible with Switch 2.
Re: Nintendo Confirms Upgrade Pack Price For More 'Switch 2 Edition' Titles
@easykiel Whether the Switch 2 upgrade pack is "tacked onto the Switch 1 game and it's still Switch 1 emulation", I would say you are right. Strictly speaking, it's not quite emulation. Switch data is converted into Switch 2 data and it's processed like any Switch 2 game. I'm presuming the upgrade pack simply includes higher resolution textures, meaning Switch games without the upgrade should run at higher frame rates on Switch 2.
The Switch 2 Editions of games contain everything on the card. Of course, you could buy the Switch version and the upgrade pack separately. I'm thinking of doing that with Metroid Prime 4 if Switch 2 Editions don't work on Switch. They should because they are Switch games with the upgrade pack included. Yet to be confirmed. We only know dedicated Switch 2 games like Mario Kart World won't work on Switch.
Commenting on the article in general, interesting to read almost universal acceptance of the pricing model for these upgrade packs.
Re: Poll: So, Did You Manage To Get A Switch 2 Pre-Order In? (North America)
Gee, those high prices really affected demand! 🤣
Seriously, Nintendo knew the extra $50 (above the anticipated price) for the console and $10 for comparative games would never dissuade anyone interested in a Switch 2. Again, it's a caution into thinking that internet hysteria correlates to reality.
Even though most people could order without issue, for those that couldn't, retailers only sell on their initial allotment. Nintendo will obviously still be producing the system over the next 6 weeks so periodically check sites or even be prepared to walk into a store on the day and buy off the shelf. In my country, I did the latter for the Switch, and noticed retailers are taking online orders again for the Switch 2 despite selling out on day 1.
Re: Opinion: Steam Deck Fans Are Seriously Underestimating The Switch 2
@SabreLevant That's it. Xbox has been running a modified form of Windows since the start. Not sure why you're grounded on Xbox One because Xbox Series X/S is currently running a version of Windows 11 and I'm referring to the future. The mooted Xbox handheld will obviously use some form of further optimised Windows, which Microsoft will license to consolidate the Xbox and PC market, if they have a brain. To me (my opinion) that will be the future. Steam OS isn't, as much as I appreciate your detailed information about it!
Re: Exclusive: Shin'en Talks 'Fast Fusion' On Switch 2, Reveals First-Look Trailer
Not sure about the hyper jumps. Generally, I'm against gimmicks in pure racing games. Otherwise, looking forward to it. I bought Fast RMX on day one for Switch so will likely do likewise with Fast Fusion for Switch 2.
Edit:
I agree with Mommar. This series is closer to Wipeout than F-Zero, and that's due to the sliding nature of the handling. Not a bad comparison either because Wipeout is a great series, and I'd love to see a version on Switch 2.
Re: Opinion: Steam Deck Fans Are Seriously Underestimating The Switch 2
@wiiware As to $80 for Mario Kart World vs $70, Nintendo clearly think that if you can afford $520 for the console and game, then another $10 won't kill you. Just think about it. As you rightly said, just about everyone would accept $70 for MKW, so all the hysteria is over the extra $10. Nintendo know it will blow over and we will quickly adjust.
Considering Zelda TOTK on Switch was priced at a premium level of $70 a few years ago, and with the vast increase in costs to develop games in recent years, I'm not fussed about the extra $10 for MKW. I'm more fussed about future releases in that bracket. DK Bonanza is actually $70, so I really hope Nintendo is reserving the $80 bracket only for special games.
Re: Opinion: Steam Deck Fans Are Seriously Underestimating The Switch 2
@SabreLevant @MattmanForever
When I say a version of Windows, I'm talking about an optimised one like Xbox uses. A desktop version is clearly nonsense.
Re: Opinion: Steam Deck Fans Are Seriously Underestimating The Switch 2
No reason to scoff. You're simply providing the facts!
Beyond the weaker tech, no dedicated separate controller and TV connection included, and unable to play Switch 2 games, many games don't run on it. Older ones are not fully compatible or completely incompatible, while newer ones will struggle to run well or be playable at all. You need to mess around in the settings for those, which immediately destroys the friendly user experience of a mainline console.
For first generation technology, the Steam Deck actually has done well and created an exciting new market. I believe they need a version of Windows for these devices to really excel, which might happen quite soon with Microsoft's plans for their own handheld. Then it's true compatibility with almost all PC games. At present, 90% of my (mostly old) Steam library simply won't run on it.
Edit:
(Replying to SabreLevant & MattmanForever below)
When I say a version of Windows, I'm talking about an optimised one like Xbox uses. Steam OS simply isn't the viable solution long term. Microsoft will never use it, for one. It also still needs a lot of work, especially for compatibility with older games.
Re: Nintendo Won't Have Enough Switch 2 Consoles To Satisfy Demand In Japan
@NintonicGamer I think with the scalping, Nintendo were referring to Western markets like the USA. Whether they can ensure enough supply, who knows! I know in Australia there's no issue to order a Switch 2 right now.
Furukawa actually said, on 9 May 2024: "We will make an announcement about the successor to Nintendo Switch within this fiscal year." That's a subtle difference in wording to "announcing it", and that announcement came in January. Sorry to say, when companies give broad time lines like this, they generally mean towards the end of them. Metroid Prime 4 got a "2025" release time, which, sadly, always meant second to later half of 2025. Otherwise they would say end of 2024 or first half of 2025 if they intend to release then. Same with the Switch 2, if late 2024 was the plan, they would say it. End of fiscal year, I actually expected February or early March (at the tail of the usual Switch Direct). The leaks, rumours and wild speculation likely forced it out in January.
Re: Nintendo Won't Have Enough Switch 2 Consoles To Satisfy Demand In Japan
Pleasing to see Japanese consumers so interested in the Switch 2. Many might have applied for the lottery simply for the sake of it, especially if it's not compulsory to buy a Switch 2 if successful. Perhaps not so many people will be as disappointed.
More accurately, it was a small price increase on accessories, not a "price hike". It wasn't quite "all" either.
Re: Feature: 27 GameCube Games We'd Love To See On Nintendo Switch 2 NSO
Rogue Leader, Timesplitters 2 and Wave Race Blue Storm would excite me most. I've no doubt anything made by Nintendo will eventually appear, like Wave Race. Minimal chance for the other two.
Yes, Wave Race 64 had better gameplay than Blue Storm, particularly with the water physics. I still think the N64 is untouchable for water physics. The hovercrafts in Diddy Kong Racing felt great too.
Re: Digital Foundry Delivers First Impressions Of Switch 2 - "It Stands Alone In What It Does"
Good to see the Switch 2 praised and analysed on actual usage instead of video footage. Indeed, the Switch 2 is far more powerful and impressive than DF ever imagined, and they raved about Mario Kart World. DK Bonanza didn't impress to the same level because it's not their style of game. Other sites like IGN thought it was really impressive and are looking forward to it the most.
As to the PS4 comparison, DF were clearly referring to ports and that developers simply geared them to PS4 level because that was easiest. With 4K and HDR, the Switch 2 is way beyond PS4. In fact, 4K and HDR were the entire premise of PS4 Pro, and the Switch 2 beats that with frame rate (60 vs 30 locked).
Re: "Stay Tuned" For Next Mainline Mario, Says Nintendo's Bowser
I must be the only person on the planet that thought a new 3D Mario had no chance of a reveal, much less be the star of the show at the Direct a few weeks ago. Glancing through the comments, I didn't note anyone else thinking similarly. Nintendo teased Mario Kart World in January so it would always be the star of the show in April. There's also Metroid Prime 4 loitering about to deliver a powerful 1-2 punch during the early life of the Switch 2, plus the system itself would be a major star.
Nintendo are so predictable. They only launch with one major title, save something for a month or so later, then deliver the next big title after 6 months. We saw that on Switch with Zelda BOTW, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Mario Odyssey. N64 had Mario 64, MK64 and Star Fox. Curiously, the Game Cube had no marquee launch title. Switch 2 will go Mario Kart World, DK Bonanza and MP4. I suspect the usual Direct in September is when we might get a glimpse of the next Mario for a late year release or more likely not until 2026. Nintendo like giving their games room to sell, and suspect MP4 will be the key focus for later this year.
Re: Mailbox: Switch 2 Price Drops, Remake Replacements, Pokémon Acquisitions - Nintendo Life Letters
Great letter about the pricing. I don't even think $80 is a "massive sum" for a game. It's just $10 more than most people would accept for Mario Kart World, which should be compared to Zelda TOTK on Switch a few years ago. It was, and still is, $70. We're in a new generation and an era of much higher development costs, so $10 more is justifiable. To think prices should that of games 8 years ago and potentially stay at that level for another 8 years (Nintendo rarely, if ever, raise prices broadly during a cycle) is preposterous. Indeed, if $70 for MKW is seemingly fair, then all the hysteria is really over an extra $10.
The real fault lies with the messaging from Nintendo. With DK Bonanza at $70, clearly they have two price tiers as they did on the Switch. A regular tier and a premium tier. DK is regular; MKW is premium. Both are $10 more compared to their counterparts on the Switch. If $10 is really such a strain, then you have bigger financial concerns than affording the latest Nintendo system.
Re: Nintendo Switch 2 US Pre-Orders Start 24th April, System & Launch Game Pricing Unchanged
I always thought there was a buffer in the console price for a 10% tariff or for any "changes in market conditions" despite Nintendo America denying it. A general 10% tariff was telegraphed weeks in advance and might still apply even if all electronics were exempt from the reciprocal ones (I'm not up to date). The $5 increase for most accessories is likely a further buffer against further volatility. Nintendo's attitude is that if you can afford $600 on console, game and controller, then another $5 won't kill you.
As for games, keep dreaming if you think prices might reduce. Again, if you're spending $520 on a console and separate game, you can afford an extra $10. Indeed, games increased by just $10, and that's fair considering the higher costs of game development and a next generation system. Mario Kart World at $80 is actually analogous to Zelda TOTK at $70 on Switch. DK Bonanza at $70 is analogous to the $60 bracket on Switch.
The problem with reducing prices is Nintendo don't want to create consumer resentment for those that bought early. Therefore, prices are locked. Our best hope is not too many games are priced at the premium level like MKW. That Kirby is at that price is clearly ridiculous. For accessories, buy only what's necessary and watch for sales. Big retailers will quickly offer $10 or so off a Pro Controller.