Category: Gaming

  • Valve Aims for Steam Machines to Support Battlefield 6 and Valorant

    Valve Aims for Steam Machines to Support Battlefield 6 and Valorant

    Key Takeaways

    1. Steam Machine Overview: A powerful small console running on SteamOS, featuring a Zen 4 AMD CPU and 28 CU GPU, designed to handle AAA games.

    2. Anti-Cheat Challenges: Ongoing issues with kernel-level anti-cheat systems on Linux hinder certain popular games, but Valve is optimistic about improved developer support.

    3. Enhanced Gaming Experience: The Steam Machine aims to provide a more PC-like experience with better hardware and compatibility for competitive multiplayer gaming.

    4. Performance Capabilities: Although marketed for 4K at 60 FPS, actual performance may vary, and the GPU is akin to a less powerful Radeon RX 7600.

    5. Developer Engagement: Valve hopes the Steam Machine will encourage developers to implement anti-cheat measures for Linux, expanding gaming possibilities on the platform.


    Valve has just revealed three new products: the Steam Machine, Steam Frame, and an upgraded Steam Controller. The Steam Machine is a small console that operates on SteamOS, boasting six times the power of the Steam Deck. With its Zen 4 AMD CPU and a 28 CU GPU (110 W TDP), it can handle AAA games, though with reduced visuals. Nonetheless, the ongoing problem with Linux and kernel-level anti-cheat remains a concern, yet Valve is optimistic that the Steam Machine will mark a significant change.

    An Overview of Anti-Cheat Challenges

    For reference, titles like Battlefield 6 and Valorant use a kernel-level anti-cheat system that is designed primarily for Windows and cannot be easily duplicated on Linux without support from developers. Consequently, these games currently cannot be played on Linux, and subsequently, SteamOS. Valve believes that with the improved features of the Steam Machine, game developers will be encouraged to implement anti-cheat measures for Linux. A Valve representative shared with Eurogamer:

    “Although [the] Steam Machine still needs developer involvement for anti-cheat, we think that the motivation for enabling anti-cheat on the Machine will be greater than on the Deck, as we anticipate more gamers will use it for multiplayer. Ultimately, we aim for the launch of the Machine to shift the dynamics surrounding anti-cheat support.”

    Enhanced Gaming Experience Awaits

    With its superior hardware and compatibility with specialized peripherals, the Steam Machine offers players a more PC-like experience, paving the way for a more competitive multiplayer environment. Games like Valorant should run at a satisfactory frame rate, as long as the display being used can support it.

    While Valve doesn’t directly compare the GPU in the Steam Machine to any existing desktop or mobile models, it is essentially a less powerful version of the Radeon RX 7600. However, Valve promotes the Steam Machine as capable of 4K at 60 FPS. Achieving this in every AAA title may not be feasible, as noted by Digital Foundry in their initial impressions. Valve has indicated that the Steam Machine will support ray tracing at “full performance” by its launch and is collaborating with AMD to implement FSR4 as well.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the new devices from Valve, particularly the Steam Machine, are set to provide gamers with enhanced experiences, especially in competitive play. With hopes of enticing developers to adapt their games for Linux, the Steam Machine might just be the key to more expansive gaming possibilities.

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  • TrimUI Smart Pro S: New Retro Handheld with 2.5x Faster GPU

    TrimUI Smart Pro S: New Retro Handheld with 2.5x Faster GPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Smart Pro S offers up to 2.5 times the GPU performance of the previous Smart Pro model.
    2. The device features an upgraded Allwinner A523 chip with eight ARM Cortex-A55 CPU cores and a Mali-G57 MP1 GPU.
    3. An active cooling system is included to prevent thermal throttling during extended gaming sessions.
    4. The Smart Pro S is equipped with TMR joysticks for improved gaming accuracy.
    5. Pre-orders for the Smart Pro S are available on Mech DIY for $89.99 in multiple color options.


    TrimUI has shared exciting updates regarding its upcoming gaming handheld. Recently, the company has reintroduced the Brick Hammer in two fresh color options. Now, it is gearing up to unveil the anticipated Smart Pro S, with pre-orders already available on Mech DIY.

    Enhanced Performance

    The Smart Pro S is essentially an upgraded version of the Smart Pro (currently priced at $89.99 on Amazon). TrimUI has implemented several modifications that are expected to provide up to 2.5 times the GPU performance compared to the Smart Pro. Specifically, they have replaced the Allwinner A133P with the Allwinner A523, which is a 22 nm chip featuring eight ARM Cortex-A55 CPU cores and a Mali-G57 MP1 GPU.

    Cooling and Joystick Improvements

    In addition to the enhanced chipset, TrimUI has integrated an active cooling system in the Smart Pro S to reduce thermal throttling during prolonged use. Furthermore, this new model features TMR joysticks that aim to offer better accuracy for gamers. While full hardware details are yet to be released, the TrimUI Smart Pro S can already be pre-ordered on Mech DIY for $89.99. It comes in several color choices, including black, grey, green, red, and white, ahead of the official announcement.

    Mech DIY, Retro Handhelds & TrimUI

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  • Sony Launches PlayStation Gaming Monitor with DualSense Dock Option

    Sony Launches PlayStation Gaming Monitor with DualSense Dock Option

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is launching a new gaming monitor in 2026, initially available only in the US and Japan.
    2. The monitor features a 27-inch QHD IPS LCD display with a refresh rate of up to 240 Hz for PC/Mac and 120 Hz for PlayStation 5/5 Pro.
    3. It includes a retractable built-in charging dock for DualSense controllers, sold separately.
    4. Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DP 1.4 port, two USB-A ports, and one USB-C port for PlayStation Link devices.
    5. Pricing details have not been revealed yet, but anticipation is growing among gamers.


    After quietly releasing its PlayStation speakers during a previous State of Play event, Sony has introduced a new gadget with a similar low-key approach. This time, they are launching a gaming monitor, which will initially be available only in the US and Japan, with no pricing details yet revealed for either country, set to hit the market in 2026.

    Key Features

    One of the standout features of the PlayStation gaming monitor is a built-in charging dock for DualSense controllers. This dock is retractable and located underneath the monitor, but it must be bought separately. The monitor boasts a 27-inch QHD (2,560 x 1,440) IPS LCD display, capable of a refresh rate of up to 240 Hz when connected to PC or Mac with VRR support. However, for those using the PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 5 Pro, the refresh rate will be limited to 120 Hz. HDR support is also included, but Sony has not specified which version it will be.

    Connectivity Options

    In terms of connectivity, the PlayStation gaming monitor is equipped with two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DP 1.4 port, two USB-A ports, and one USB-C port for PlayStation Link devices. This setup allows the monitor to connect with existing PS Link devices such as earbuds, headphones, and speakers.

    Sony’s latest entry into the gaming hardware market has gamers buzzing with anticipation as they await more details on availability and pricing.

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  • Sony Unveils Exclusive PlayStation 5 in Japan for 5th Anniversary

    Sony Unveils Exclusive PlayStation 5 in Japan for 5th Anniversary

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony launched the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition Japanese Language model on November 12, 2025, for 55,000 yen (~$350), available only in Japan starting November 21.
    2. The price features two fives, which is a nod to the phrase “Go Go” in Japanese, highlighted in Sony’s PS5 advertisement.
    3. Japanese PlayStation Network users can receive a 10% discount coupon as part of the “Go!Go!PS5” anniversary promotion.
    4. The console has a matte finish, supports only Japanese language settings, and allows downloads from the Japanese PlayStation Store with 825 GB SSD storage.
    5. It comes with a DualSense controller and compatible accessories, while its specifications match the standard PS5 Digital Edition.


    Sony has introduced the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition Japanese Language model (CFI-2200B01) on November 12, 2025, marking the fifth anniversary of the PS5. This console, priced at 55,000 yen (~$350), is only available in Japan and will launch there on November 21. In comparison, the PS5 Digital Edition in the USA is more expensive due to new tariffs.

    Special Pricing Significance

    Interestingly, the two fives in the price can be read as “Go Go” in Japanese, a phrase that features in Sony’s latest advertisement for the PS5. Additionally, PlayStation Network users in Japan can take advantage of a 10% discount coupon for the PlayStation Store, part of the “Go!Go!PS5” anniversary promotion (details in Japanese here).

    Design and Features

    The Japanese version of the PS5 Digital Edition showcases a slightly updated case with a matte finish. This model supports only Japanese as the system language and restricts settings to Japan alone. Users can download PS5 and PS4 games onto an 825 GB SSD, with all online purchases needing to be made through the Japanese PlayStation Store. The console comes with Astro’s Playroom already installed.

    Specifications and Accessories

    This special edition has dimensions of 358 × 80 × 216 mm (14.1 x 3.1 x 8.5 in.) and has a weight of 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs.). Included in the package are a DualSense wireless controller, HDMI, USB, and power cables. It’s also compatible with accessories from the PS5 CFI-2000 model, such as the external disc drive. Aside from these features, its specifications align with those of a standard PS5 Digital Edition.

    Additional announcements and sales related to the anniversary are expected to be revealed on the PS5 anniversary campaign website in Japanese.

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  • Abxylute M4 Snap-On Mobile Controller Launch Date Announced

    Abxylute M4 Snap-On Mobile Controller Launch Date Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. The M4 Snap-On Controller’s Kickstarter campaign will launch on November 13 at 8 AM PST.
    2. The price to back the M4 Snap-On Controller during the campaign is $39, but the final retail price and shipping details are still not disclosed.
    3. A promotional video has been released, showcasing the development and design process of the M4 controller.
    4. The M4 Snap-On Controller is the first product in a new series from Abxylute, with future controllers expected to have unique designs and functions.
    5. Abxylute offers a range of gaming products, including mobile controllers and gamepads, with the M4 designed specifically for smartphones.


    It has been a few months since Abxylute introduced its M4 Snap-On Controller, yet it is still not up for sale. Last month, they mentioned that the device would be launching on Kickstarter soon, but did not provide a specific date. Now, they have finally announced when the campaign will start on Kickstarter.

    Launch Date Announcement

    Through their social media channels, Abxylute has shared that the Kickstarter page for the M4 Snap-On Controller is set to go live on November 13 at 8 AM PST. Nonetheless, they are still holding back some important information, including the final retail price of the M4 Snap-On and when the controller will ship. Those interested in buying the controller during the campaign will need to pay $39.

    Promotional Video Release

    Along with the launch date, Abxylute has also put out a promotional video for the M4 Snap-On Controller. This video, which lasts three and a half minutes, shows how the concept for the M4 controller came to be and the various designs that were considered before arriving at the final version.

    An intriguing point made in the video is that the M4 Snap-On represents the start of a new series of controllers from Abxylute. Future products in this range will each have distinctive shapes, styles, and functions.

    Abxylute’s Product Range

    Abxylute offers a variety of products, including handheld devices, mobile controllers, and gamepads. These include the Abxylute One Pro (which can be found on Amazon for $259.99), the Abxylute S9 Type-C Mobile Gaming Controller, and the Abxylute C8 Wireless Gaming Controller, among others.

    The Abxylute M4 is tailored for smartphones, enabling users to play mobile games without the need for a large controller. It has a weight of 55 grams and can be disconnected from a phone to function like a typical wireless controller, too.

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  • Todd Howard Teases Fallout 3 Remaster with Large Team at Bethesda

    Todd Howard Teases Fallout 3 Remaster with Large Team at Bethesda

    Key Takeaways

    1. Todd Howard hints at a possible remaster of Fallout 3, with hundreds of people currently working on Fallout projects.
    2. Bethesda is actively working on The Elder Scrolls 6, which is still a long way off.
    3. The potential remaster of Fallout 3 may follow a surprise release strategy, similar to The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.
    4. Previous leaks support the idea of a Fallout 3 remaster, although it is confirmed to be a long way from release.
    5. Fans have concerns about optimization glitches and how the use of Unreal Engine 5 may affect the original charm of Fallout 3.


    After Todd Howard, the director of Bethesda Game Studios, shared some insights in a GQ interview, talks about a possible remaster of Fallout 3 have sparked interest online. He mentioned that the studio has “hundreds of people on Fallout right now, with 76 and some other things we’re doing.”

    10th Anniversary Remarks

    To mark the 10th anniversary of Fallout 4, Todd Howard chatted with GQ Magazine, hinting vaguely that the studio is involved in “some other things,” which VGC has reported might be a remaster of Fallout 3.

    Insights on Current Projects

    In the same interview, Todd Howard confessed that the studio is engaged with The Elder Scrolls 6 daily, confirming it is “still a long way off.” However, he stayed mum about other projects they have in the pipeline. The only thing he mentioned about Fallout 3 was that it “has the best opening” of any game he’s been involved with, adding that it “has a very harsh tone.”

    He elaborated on why the Fallout series remains popular, saying, “Fallout is great because it can be a gonzo B-movie one moment and then it can be life-or-death trauma. It’s what we spent a lot of time getting right on the TV show. I think the best quest is one with the characters you meet: what have they done to survive, and why? How do you feel about that?”

    Potential Release Strategy

    Bethesda might just surprise fans with the Fallout 3 Remastered, similar to how they approached The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, which was both announced and launched on April 22, 2025, via a livestream. Todd Howard described the surprise release of Oblivion Remastered as a “test run” that “worked out well.”

    Previous Leaks and Concerns

    Previously leaked information seems to support the idea of a Fallout 3 remaster on the horizon. In 2023, Microsoft’s legal documents were leaked during the FTC antitrust case regarding its acquisition of Activision Blizzard. These documents outlined plans for a remaster of Fallout 3 along with The Elder Scrolls 6.

    In April 2025, NateTheHate verified that the project is in existence, but he also mentioned that Fallout 3 Remastered is “a long way from release.”

    Meanwhile, fans of Fallout are worried about optimization glitches similar to those found in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, and there are questions about whether Bethesda’s use of Unreal Engine 5 might change the original charm and feel of Fallout 3.

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  • Ayaneo Next II Video Shows Size of AMD Strix Halo Handheld

    Ayaneo Next II Video Shows Size of AMD Strix Halo Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo’s Next II gaming handheld has undergone multiple redesigns and changes in processor architecture since its initial announcement in mid-2022.
    2. The release date for the Next II is still uncertain, but recent videos suggest it is nearing launch.
    3. The Next II is expected to be larger than Ayaneo’s current largest handheld, the Kun, with dimensions of 325 mm wide and 140 mm tall.
    4. The Next II may weigh around a kilogram, similar to the Kun, which weighs over 900 g.
    5. The device will feature an AMD Strix Halo APU, comparable to the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, enhancing its gaming performance.


    Last week, Ayaneo provided fresh insights regarding its much-anticipated Next II gaming handheld. As we mentioned earlier, the Next II first appeared in the middle of 2022. Since then, it has experienced multiple alterations, including a complete redesign and significant changes in its processor architecture.

    Teasing the Launch

    Even though a considerable amount of time has passed, Ayaneo is still just hinting that the Next II will be ‘coming soon.’ However, a recent video from Frandroid suggests that Ayaneo is nearly prepared to release its long-awaited gaming device. The video, which you can find below, also showcases the impressive dimensions of the Next II.

    Size Matters

    From what we can see, the Next II might actually be larger than the Kun, Ayaneo’s biggest gaming handheld so far. Measuring 325 mm wide and 140 mm tall with an 8.4-inch screen, the Kun is significantly bulkier than well-known gaming handhelds like the ROG Ally series, the Steam Deck, and even the Legion Go S (currently priced at $693 on Amazon), despite the latter having an 8-inch display.

    Weight and Power

    Considering that the Kun weighs more than 900 g, we suspect that the Next II won’t be much lighter than a kilo. Nevertheless, the Next II will utilize its size to accommodate an AMD Strix Halo APU, similar to the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, just like the OneXFly Apex and GPD Win 5. For further insights about Ayaneo’s upcoming large form factor handheld, please refer to our previous article.

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  • TrimUI Brick: Retro Game Boy Handheld Redesign with Smart Pro S Rumors

    TrimUI Brick: Retro Game Boy Handheld Redesign with Smart Pro S Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. TrimUI is developing the Smart Pro S, an upgraded version of the Smart Pro with enhanced performance and an active cooling system.
    2. The company has updated its existing gaming handheld, the TrimUI Brick, following the launch of the ‘Hammer’ models.
    3. Two new color variants, Black and Silver, have been added to the Hammer models, bringing the total to five color options.
    4. The new Hammer models maintain the same specifications, featuring an Allwinner A133P chipset, 1 GB of RAM, and 8 GB of storage.
    5. The new color variants of the TrimUI Brick are available for $83.59, offering a 12% discount from the original price of $94.99.


    Hardly any time has gone by since the latest rumors about TrimUI’s new horizontal gaming handheld surfaced online. To summarize, the company is reportedly developing the Smart Pro S, which is an upgraded version of the Smart Pro (currently priced at $84.99 on Amazon). This new model is expected to offer enhanced performance and includes an active cooling system.

    Update on the TrimUI Brick

    While we wait for the official word on the Smart Pro S, TrimUI has been busy refreshing its existing popular gaming handheld. Specifically, they have once again updated the TrimUI Brick, following the launch of the ‘Hammer’ models with CNC shells back in June. For reference, Ayaneo has also recently teased their own similar gaming handheld called the Pocket Vert.

    New Color Variants Available

    In an unexpected move, TrimUI has introduced two additional finishes to their latest Hammer refresh. This means that Hammer models can now be chosen in five different colors, with Black and Silver added to the previously available Grey, Green, and Pink options for the Brick Hammer.

    The new color choices come with the same specifications as the other TrimUI Brick models. This means that the Black and Silver CNC versions are equipped with an Allwinner A133P chipset, 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM, 8 GB of eMMC flash storage, and a 3,000 mAh battery. Moreover, TrimUI continues to offer a 3.2-inch IPS display with a relatively high resolution of 1,024 x 768 pixels. At present, these new versions are available for order from the TrimUI Store at a price of $83.59, which is a 12% discount off their original MSRP of $94.99.

    TrimUI Store via Mech DIY

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Sales Strong, But Game Purchases Decline

    Nintendo Switch 2 Sales Strong, But Game Purchases Decline

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo’s Switch 2 has sold 10.36 million units, surpassing its predecessor’s popularity, but game sales are lagging behind.
    2. Analyst Amir Anvarzadeh warns that weak game sales could negatively impact Nintendo’s share price.
    3. Switch 2 software sales stand at 20.62 million units, roughly twice the console sales, but the original Switch had better game-to-hardware sales ratios.
    4. Backward compatibility is crucial for Nintendo’s strategy, but the limited selection of new games has left some consumers dissatisfied.
    5. Criticism arises over how Nintendo reports revenue, particularly regarding digital upgrades versus digital title sales, affecting the perceived success of the Switch 2.


    With 10.36 million units sold, Nintendo’s new console has surpassed its predecessor in popularity. However, Switch 2 games aren’t moving off the shelves as quickly. Bloomberg took a close look at Nintendo’s latest financial report and uncovered some unexpected trends. Nonetheless, the company’s method of documenting software data might create some confusion in comparisons.

    Analyst Insights

    Takashi Mochizuki from Bloomberg shared insights from Amir Anvarzadeh, an analyst at Asymmetric Advisors. While Nintendo is seeing robust sales for the Switch 2, it heavily depends on the device’s backward compatibility. Anvarzadeh cautions that “any weakness in game sales from next term could hit its share price hard.”

    Sales Figures

    As of September 2025, Nintendo reported Switch 2 software sales of 20.62 million units. This is roughly twice the number of consoles sold, but the original Switch had achieved three times the game sales compared to its hardware sold by this stage.

    Nintendo’s approach aims to get as many gamers as possible to buy the new hardware. However, consumers appear to find the selection of new games unappealing. Mario Kart World had a boost from a well-liked bundle, but few other first-party titles were launched in the console’s initial four months. Fans will have to wait for the impact of upcoming Switch 2 games, such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A, in future reports.

    Current Gaming Landscape

    At the moment, buyers are satisfied with Switch games and the available free or paid upgrade packs. Whether they prefer quality or quantity, Nintendo is pushing Switch 2 owners to gather older titles. Thanks to backward compatibility, the aim is to have the hardware in homes by the time newer releases come out. However, given that game sales are more lucrative, Bloomberg sees some risk in this strategy.

    Criticism of the Analysis

    Mochizuki has faced some backlash regarding his analysis of Switch 2 sales. The Nintendo Patents Watch account on Bluesky highlights that the company counts digital upgrades for the Switch 2 as part of its revenue, while purchases of purely digital titles aren’t included at all. Still, the success of the new console remains closely linked to the software from the previous generation.

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  • Pokémon Pokopia: First Nintendo Switch 2 Game on Game-Key Card

    Pokémon Pokopia: First Nintendo Switch 2 Game on Game-Key Card

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo’s upcoming game, Pokémon Pokopia, will be released on March 5th, 2026, using new Game-Key Cards that do not contain game data.
    2. The new Game-Key Cards have sparked criticism from physical media supporters, as this marks a shift from Nintendo’s traditional cartridge approach.
    3. The Nintendo eShop has not clarified the Game-Key Card format, but Nintendo is confirmed as the publisher, with collaboration from various third-party studios.
    4. Doug Bowser, Nintendo’s President, previously stated that Nintendo games would remain with cartridges, making Pokémon Pokopia the first Switch 2 game to use Game-Key Cards.
    5. There are concerns about Game-Key Cards leading to lower sales compared to standard cartridges, and developers cite high costs and slower read speeds as issues with these new cards.


    Physical media supporters have criticized the new Switch 2 Game-Key cards, which do not include any game data. Up to this point, games published by Nintendo have steered clear of this download-dependent option. However, it looks like Pokémon Pokopia is set to change that, as shown in a recent video that explains the new format.

    Release Date Announcement

    Nintendo and The Pokémon Company have revealed that Pokémon Pokopia will be released on March 5th, 2026. This announcement has caught some gamers off guard, but another video showcasing the Nintendo game is also making waves.

    In the demo on YouTube, the company illustrates the differences between traditional Game Cards and the new Game-Key Cards. Using the upcoming Pokémon title as an example, the much-feared key symbol can be seen on the cartridge. The video also showcases a sneak peek of the cover art for Pokémon Pokopia, featuring the same logo.

    Format Confusion

    Currently, the Nintendo eShop hasn’t clarified the format, but it does confirm that Nintendo is the publisher. Pokémon titles can often lead to misunderstandings due to a complicated partnership. Various third-party studios, like Game Freak or, in this situation, Omega Force, create the games. Nevertheless, outside of Japan, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company typically collaborate to publish these titles.

    Doug Bowser, the President and COO of Nintendo, had previously indicated that Nintendo games would remain with cartridges. In an interview with Nintendo Life back in May, he mentioned that the company has “no plans to embrace Game-Key Cards for titles developed by Nintendo.” Technically, with Pokémon Pokopia, that still holds true. However, this will mark the first instance where the gaming giant will release a Switch 2 game using a Game-Key Card.

    Industry Impacts

    Until now, it has been third-party developers who have embraced this blend of physical and digital media. Some data suggests that sales have dipped for games released on Game-Key Cards compared to those on standard cartridges. Conversely, the full physical release of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition might have seen better outcomes.

    It seems that there is little optimism for those against Game-Key Cards. High costs might be part of the reason these cards are quickly becoming the norm for the Switch 2. Reports suggest that Nintendo only provides its partners with costly 64 GB cartridges. Additionally, developers like Square Enix believe that Game Cards lead to delays due to their slower read speeds.

    For more information, check out the Nintendo of America YouTube channel, the Nintendo of America X account, or visit Nintendo Life.

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