I suspected 2nd Chapter would drop sometime in September, but I'm glad we finally have an official date. I still need to play the first game in some form, so I'll likely pick this up sometime after launch.

While I know the site reviewed the Switch 2 version, I don't recall seeing one for Switch 1. How does this game run on Switch 1? From my experience with the modern Ys series, some of those definitely had a couple issues (Ys IX being the worst offender, much as I love the game; surprisingly, I don't recall Ys X: Nordics being bad). I'm ok with lower frames for this type of game as long as the console isn't chugging to almost zero in busy areas.

I honestly forgot they were releasing the physical Switch 2 edition later. Better late than never.

As much as I'm not a fan of GKCs, code-in-the-box is worse IMO. At least the former aren't one time use, aren't as much of a plastic waste, and can be sold or traded.

That said, I think I'll stick with my physical Switch 1 copy, thanks.

I'd be fine with a Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker sequel, though I'd rather see a new game featuring the character that explores something new. I did quite enjoy the game on the Wii U but never picked up any of the later ports since I didn't feel like they added enough for a rebuy. Plus, I like how the game made use of the Wii U Gamepad.

I choose to remain cautiously optimistic about this one. While I agree that the Zelda series would probably be better animated, I'm willing to give this movie a chance. Hopefully a trailer that intrigues the audience but doesn't show off TOO much drops before long.

@batmanbud2 I was only considering home consoles, though I can attest that both Super Mario Land 2: Six Golden Coins and New Super Mario Bros. (DS) are pretty awesome too. NSMB was in fact my first exposure to modern Mario. Never played SML2 until the 3DS VC.

Methinks some skipped the part of the article that mentions that reviews are 1. subjective, and 2. were done in the context at the time vs. the present lens we have. While I wouldn't give New Super Mario Bros. Wii a 10/10 today, at the time it really did bust open a couple multiplayer doors and was also the first new 2D home console Mario since the SNES. Yeah, I'd agree some of the games on the list don't deserve 10s, but I recognize this list is a bit of fun and did play some of these titles for the first time years after they were reviewed.

...Also, NL is 20. I was a teen when the site started, though I didn't find it until my early college years. Didn't bother joining until 2015. Now if you all will excuse me, I'm going to go figure out where the last decade has gone....

I'll definitely pick up Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave in the future. But...not until I play through the remaining routes in Three Houses. Not to mention I have yet to buy a Switch 2.

I am curious about Splatoon Raiders. The multiplayer focused mainline titles always have looked fun, but knowing my tastes they wouldn't hold my attention long. But a single player focused game, on the other hand....

Besides starting the prologue of Spring Cleaning Simulator: IRL Edition - not fun, but I want a head start while the weather cooperates - I'm playing:

• The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD - Firing this up for the first time shortly. I last played this on the Wii a decade ago, so I'm eager to see how the Switch changes affect gameplay. Besides, I haven't played through a Zelda title since Echoes of Wisdom released, so I'm overdue.
• Pokemon Yellow (3DS VC) - Revisiting Kanto seems in vogue these days for some reason, so I figured I'd jump on the bandwagon in a less conventional way. I'm very early in the game. No badges yet. It's been many years since I revisited Gen 1, so I'm curious how well it holds up in casual play.
• Pokemon Go - Tinkatink Community Day is today, so I hope to get out late this afternoon and catch a few shiny fairy blacksmiths. This is somewhat dependent on Spring Cleaning Simulator progress though....

I wrapped up Ys Memoire: The Oath In Felghana (Switch) this week. It was the perfect palate cleanser and worth the revisit! It's still one of my favorite Ys titles even if the emotional payoff in more recent entries is better.

Happy gaming!

@Bobb I agree that crossover releases related to different companies can be difficult to manage. Though not impossible IMO since the game is already in the wild. I considered grabbing the physical game at one point, but even the secondhand price scared me off. I think Capcom would be all too happy to rerelease it with their track record lately, but I'm unsure about Level-5. Hopefully someday. 🤞

@KingMike I'm still a bit miffed over how Yo-Kai Watch 3 was handled, at least in North America (IIRC PAL regions had issues too). I had no clue the physical release would be so limited and would have pre-ordered. The previous two games were easy to find after launch, so the thought didn't even cross my mind. There's always importing I suppose, but I'd need to buy a Japanese 3DS and take a crash course in said language before that happens.

I appreciate the summary article since I missed the showcase. However, outside of Layton NWoS - which I'm glad is still on track for this year - and the Snack World Switch 2 release, it wasn't really worth watching the entire thing for.

I'm VERY glad this is still slated to release this year. And that it will be coming to additional platforms. While the Layton series has historically been found on Nintendo systems, the OG Layton trilogy, Layton's Mystery Journey, and Layton Brothers: Mystery Room are all available on mobile (or at least Android). I've played them all minus Layton vs. Phoenix Wright since it's very expensive (REALLY hope this is ported or remastered in the future). All games range from kinda decent to amazing IMO.

Definitely looking forward to this game, though Switch 1 is my platform of choice.

I'd rather a game be delayed so that it isn't rushed out and receives the dev time it needs. The problem is, a large number of delays may point to a troubled development cycle. There are some success stories out there, but then there are games that were delayed or revived from the grave that...didn't exactly turn out well.

All that said, I'm glad I didn't get up early for this. I'm glad Professor Layton and the New World of Steam is still slated for 2026, but it sounds like the rest of the presentation wasn't exactly worth losing some Zs in my case.

On paper this looks great and would likely help fill the WarioWare sized hole in my heart until the next title. But in practice...I've learned I'm terrible at rhythm games if my previous attempts at HarmoKnight (demo) and Cadence of Hyrule are anything to go by.

I honestly wouldn't complain about any Zelda game getting the remake treatment as long as it's given a respectable amount of TLC. There are plenty of examples of good and bad gaming remakes out there.

As for my picks....I'd most like to see Oracle of Ages/Seasons remade in the Link's Awakening (Switch) and Echoes of Wisdom engine. Though when it comes to pure gameplay, my picks would be Phantom Hourglass and Spirit Tracks. Both are decent games in their own right, but the touch-heavy mechanics, use of the mic (much as I love the Spirit Flute, some of the tunes are hard to play later on), and the general repetitive slog the Temple of the Ocean King becomes in PH all need addressed. At least Spirit Tracks partially addressed the latter with how the Tower of Spirits is handled.

I'll keep my expectations in check, but I'd love to see (or play) something more substantial than social media art and collectible knickknacks. I love Okami and do need to revisit it sometime. Same with the not quite as great but still fun Okamiden, which I kinda forgot I had until I was going through my handheld games last weekend.

@MamaSymphonia All fair points! Not enough to make me want to upgrade at this time, but future consideration isn't off the table. Whatever form they're played in, I can easily recommend both Super Mario Galaxy titles to pretty much anyone. The first game is still my favorite 3D Mario title.

@Nabbit01 I don't own a Wii (that stayed at my parents' place since it belonged to the family), so the Wii U is currently the only way I can play any Wii titles I own. I've been equally impressed with the Wii U's HDMI upscaler. As odd as some of the Wii U's design choices are, I still enjoy playing games on the system now and then and leave it hooked up. My physical library is small but mighty, and I have a plethora of Virtual Console titles lol.

It's been many years since I've played Super Mario Galaxy 2, so I'm overdue for a replay. I've debated picking up the SMG 1 & 2 Switch collection, but at this time I find it unnecessary. I still have Wii copies of both games, plus I have SMG1 through Super Mario 3D All-Stars. I picked it up for the other two games, but I will admit revisiting SMG 1 on the Switch was pretty fun.

A discount is a discount, even if it is slight and there are better examples out there. This still isn't enough to make me bite on Switch 2 yet since I can play both Galaxies in other forms - I'm debating replaying Super Mario Galaxy 2 on my Wii U (Wii disc) for one thing - but I will be persuaded someday.

LAAAAAAYTON!!!!

As mixed as I am about Level-5's decision making lately, I am looking forward to this presentation. It's also early enough in my day that I should be able to catch it live unless the runtime becomes long. Besides Professor Layton and the New World of Steam, I'm also looking forward to hopefully hearing more about DECAPOLICE and Holy Horror Mansion (though this one depends on how much they lean into generative AI).

Alluring charm, eh?

Seriously though, however one feels about the TotK incarnation of this character, he is one of the best final boss sequences in recent games IMO. Especially phases 2 and 3.

I really like both, but I finally had to go for Japan. It drops the busy NA/EU action cover to show off more of the characters and still manages to show the ships. If they'd swap in the bottom section with more action, it would be close to a perfect cover IMO.

@D-Star92 Enjoy your trip! I know you've been looking forward to it. Should be a good time.

@Pillowpants Happy Cake Day! I hope you have an especially amazing weekend.

What am I playing? EVERYTHING. Well, in my physical handheld game collection that is. I've decided to go through my collection and test each game for a few minutes. Not a tall order for my GB/GBC/GBA collections since I've trimmed them down to my favorites over time, but my DS and 3DS libraries are another story. Which are the ones remaining as of this writing. All triggered by recent reports of 3DS carts failing. It's about time for my twice a year retro hardware tests anyway.

But my Switch won't collect dust. Since I finished my Verdant Wind run in the excellent Fire Emblem: Three Houses earlier this week, I've started Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana. While I've played the non-remaster (or is this considered a remake?) previously on Steam, I couldn't pass up owning a physical copy of one of my favorite Ys games on Switch. Adol is currently sweating in the Zone of Lava after obtaining the Ventus Bracelet and showing the mid-boss the door.

Happy Easter to all who celebrate it. Whether you do or not, have a great weekend, and happy gaming!

Mildly tempting, but I already own all the Switch Mario titles I want. I'd rather invest in a multi cart case outright.

While it wouldn't surprise me if the Switch 2's price does increase sometime with everything going on in the world currently, I'm not going to worry or panic buy anything until it 1. Is actually announced, and 2. I fully think through the situation. I very rarely impulse buy anything, especially if it's three figures on up.

(Admittedly, if the rumored Zelda Switch 2 is a thing, that may push me over the fence.)

@Antraxx777 I think the same lol. Part of the reason I kept it was because I found the situation funny. The gifter did offer to correct the error.

I heeded the editor's note at the beginning and skipped most of the review since I want to go in mostly blind and form my own opinion when I see the film. However, I did read the conclusion and tagline, which do seem to confirm some of my concerns. Still looking forward to watching this one on my own time and will keep an open mind about it, but I suspect I won't enjoy it as much as the first movie.

In the meantime, I still need to watch the "so bad it's good" Super Mario Bros. movie from the 90s that was mistakenly gifted to me for Christmas. I was hoping to receive the 2023 film but kept it since I've heard the camp is worth it lol.

Ah yes, the day where you take everything you read online with a Garganacl of salt. Yoshi meets Yoshi meets Yoshi is my favorite on this page.

I enjoyed the first movie for what it was. Sure, it could have used more substance, and I likely got more out of it as a Mario fan. But it was a fun watch. I plan to watch this film as well to form my own opinion, but I don't plan to go for a couple weeks. I prefer thinner crowds.

If this were any other game, I'd say Ditto would be a more appropriate 'Mon. XD

I prefer the element of surprise. While I'll be one of the first to agree that Nintendo should air a first party Direct soon, all rumors do - true or not - is help set up unreasonable expectations. Then people get disappointed when something doesn't show and complain. Not to mention all they do for leakers and hype train influencers is act as clickbait fuel and inflate egos.

Personally, I prefer shadow drops and "Hey, this game is coming out in only a few months!" over knowing we're getting a game ten years from now that has barely started development. That too can lead to questions akin to "Are we there yet?!" and generate unreasonable expectations.

I'm curious what form this'll take since, in my experience, the physical auto catchers aren't easily obtained these days. However, if I'd have to keep throwing coins at it, the answer is no.

Neither is particularly great IMO, but EU/JP is mildly cooler, so I went with that one.

As others have mentioned, some of these are great Pokemon but are tied to lines with more recognizable Pokemon. I typically go by either the first stage or final stage of a line. I voted for Metang, Gabite, and Fraxure since all three are part of stellar evolution lines.

...I'm not surprised two of the Unova monkeys didn't net votes. No offense to fans of them, but I've never cared for any of them since they felt like unnecessary filler. In fact, I didn't feel that GF had any "good" monkeys from after Slaking up to Grookey and its line.

I finished Paranormasight: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo (Switch) last night. It's a decent horror/mystery VN even if some of the fourth wall breaking felt more convoluted than clever. I obtained all endings and definitely prefer the true ending. I enjoyed it enough that I plan to look up Paranormasight: The Mermaid's Curse in the future.

In Fire Emblem: Three Houses, I'm about to tackle Verdant Wind's Chapter 18 map. I plan to mostly focus on FE3H this upcoming (busy) week and hope to finish it next weekend at the latest. I've heard this route has a great final map - no spoilers please.

I do plan to dive into the first Dragon Quest Builders demo today and check out the gameplay. Doubt I'll buy it, but I enjoyed its successor enough that I feel obligated to check out where this excellent spinoff series began.

Happy gaming!

I'm all for an Ocarina of Time remake as long as it A. Stays faithful to the original while introducing thoughtful QoL changes, and B. Isn't just a visual upgrade. It's one of my top five games in the series (only played the 3DS version to date though), so I hope the game is treated with the respect it deserves.

I'm okay with waiting on a new 3D Mario. Games shouldn't be rushed. Besides, I'd like to revisit Super Mario Odyssey first.

Depending on how this new Star Fox game takes shape, I may give the series another chance. I played the first two games on the SNES Classic and didn't care for them. I didn't mesh well with Star Fox Zero's controls in the demo. I did enjoy Star Fox 64 3D enough to finish it but did eventually sell the game since I didn't see myself playing it again.

The AI bubble seriously needs to burst soon. I hope the Switch and Switch 2 families don't follow suit (again in the Switch 1's case) anytime soon, but I'm increasingly less confident.

@SwitchVogel As am I! Unfortunately, I think that ship has long sailed. I would've liked to see what else Capcom could have done building off of 3's Noise system in particular. Or some new fun gimmick.

As it should have been from the start. I buy retail games physical outside of select scenarios (major discounts and/or a game I'd likely never sell, to name two), but this makes sense. Digital distribution isn't subject to manufacturing the plastic, inserts (though sparse these days, if any), and paying the personnel required throughout the process. Besides, physical costs can be recouped through selling and trade-ins.

A great review! I still own my copies of MMSF: Leo, MMSF2: Zerker X Saurian, and MMSF3: Black Ace (Where the games really started coming into their own; shame the series was cancelled after 3 due to poor sales). While I don't wanna let go of those games due to sentimentality, that's the perfect excuse to pick up this collection in the future; this way, I can start new files without overwriting the old ones. And on modern hardware.

I'd like Capcom to do a Mega Man Legends Collection of sorts next since I've never played those games.

This way of ranking things seems like a huge nothing burger to me, but hey, data is cool I guess?

As suspected, these additions don't do much for me. Playable Rosalina is nice, but I can honestly live without the rest of it. I'm sure I'll revisit Super Mario Bros. Wonder in the future, but frankly there's enough content in the base game and existing online features that I'm satisfied with the current package. Plus, as mentioned in the interview, plenty of other Mario-centric games handle party modes better.

Sounds like an Epic Failure to me.

There are several reasons why this American is waiting to pick up a Switch 2. Software exclusives don't majorly factor in for me but do play a part. There are a handful of Switch 2 titles I do want, but nothing that I can't wait on. Now if a new exclusive Zelda, Xenoblade, or 3D Mario were to release, however....

The main factors as to why I'm waiting? I'm presently saving for/prioritizing other things, plus I have more than enough backlogged games on my current systems to contend with.

Edit: Ah, I'm seeing this was by Mochizuki. Isn't this person's track record kinda dubious at best?

Still waiting on Dragon Quest X Offline to migrate to the West at some point.... Preferably without this AI assistant they're beta testing in the online variant.

I'm glad this excellent game is getting more love, though like others this tempts me to wait around for a more complete release. I'll likely cave eventually, but in the meantime I've had Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth - Complete Edition backlogged on Switch for some time. I should probably play that dynamic duo first.

@D-Star92 They were definitely appreciated. I hope you have fun on your upcoming trip!

Busy weekend between a family friend's wedding two hours away, nibling time, and errands, so not much gaming. I'm still working on both Fire Emblem: Three Houses (Verdant Wind, Chapter 16) and Paranormasight: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo (Switch, over halfway through I think?) when I get the chance.

Thank you to all who sent kind words, condolences, prayers, good vibes, and other positives towards my family and me in last week's WAYPTW comment section. I will really miss my grandma, but I am also glad she's no longer in pain. 97 is a good age to make it to.

Happy gaming, and happy spring!