Category: Gaming

  • Ninja Gaiden 4 Sets Guinness World Record with Xbox in Miami

    Ninja Gaiden 4 Sets Guinness World Record with Xbox in Miami

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ninja Gaiden 4 set a Guinness World Record for the largest video game display flown by a helicopter before its official release.
    2. The record-setting event took place in Miami Beach, featuring a 26-foot-wide screen and a live gameplay session with rapper Swae Lee.
    3. The display was broadcast live with advanced technology, showcasing gameplay and snippets from Swae Lee’s new track “Flammable.”
    4. Ninja Gaiden 4 marks the return of the franchise, featuring classic gameplay with Ryu Hayabusa and a new character, Yakumo, available on multiple platforms.
    5. The Deluxe Edition will include future content, such as “The Two Masters” expansion, enhancing gameplay for Ryu Hayabusa.

    Ninja Gaiden 4 has achieved a Guinness World Record for the biggest video game display flown by a helicopter, even before its official release today. This remarkable feat was made possible through a collaboration between Xbox, Koei Tecmo, Team Ninja, and aerial media company Heli-D.

    A Spectacular Stunt in Miami

    The thrilling event unfolded against the vibrant skyline of Miami Beach, Florida, where two helicopters took flight. One helicopter was equipped with a gigantic 26-foot-wide screen, covering an area of 20 square meters. The other helicopter transported Team Ninja’s community manager, Emmanuel “Master” Rodriguez, along with diamond-certified rapper Swae Lee, who played the game while soaring through the air.

    Streaming the Action Live

    This record-setting display was broadcast live using cutting-edge sports broadcasting technology, enabling Rodriguez and Swae Lee to control their gameplay from the helicopter. The massive screen, dangling from the second helicopter, showcased every slash, grapple, and combo amidst the dazzling Miami city lights. Viewers were also treated to snippets from Swae Lee’s new exclusive track “Flammable.”

    Xbox went above and beyond by combining marketing, gaming, technology, and a celebrity appearance to celebrate the comeback of a cherished franchise that’s been inactive for nearly 13 years.

    The Return of a Classic

    Crafted by Team Ninja in collaboration with PlatinumGames and published by Xbox, Ninja Gaiden 4 signifies a return to the series’ roots, featuring Ryu Hayabusa alongside a new character named Yakumo. The game has been lauded for its return-to-form gameplay, delivering high-octane action for a new generation. Despite some criticisms regarding the game’s premise and story, fans of PlatinumGames and Ninja Gaiden Black are expected to find enjoyment in the game’s ‘satisfying’ combat loop.

    Launched today on multiple platforms including Xbox Series S|X, Xbox on PC, Rog Xbox Ally handhelds, Xbox Cloud, Steam, and PlayStation 5, Ninja Gaiden 4 is also available as a day-one title for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass.

    Future Content Awaits

    In addition to the thrilling stunts, the Deluxe Edition of Ninja Gaiden 4 promises future content such as “The Two Masters” expansion, which may provide Ryu Hayabusa with more gameplay time, as he is unfortunately playable only during certain sections of the main story.

    This Guinness World Record achievement is not linked to sales numbers or units sold. However, in light of the recent layoffs at Microsoft, it could help cast a favorable light on the creative efforts Xbox undertakes to promote the titles it publishes, at least in certain instances.

    Xbox Wire

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • MindsEye Employees Claim Chaos in Leslie Benzies’ Build a Rocket Boy

    MindsEye Employees Claim Chaos in Leslie Benzies’ Build a Rocket Boy

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Development Turmoil: MindsEye faced significant challenges during its development, leading to harsh criticism and being labeled as “one of the worst games” upon release.

    2. Lack of Direction: Former employees highlighted a disorganized atmosphere, with unclear goals from leadership that contributed to the project’s struggles.

    3. Ineffective Management: Decisions made by upper management often disregarded employee feedback, leading to inefficient workflows and low morale among staff.

    4. Mass Layoffs and Legal Action: Recent layoffs affected 250-300 employees, prompting legal action from the union representing the workers, amid claims of poor management.

    5. Acknowledgment of Failures: Build A Rocket Boy’s leadership accepted responsibility for the game’s shortcomings, expressing a commitment to improve and learn from the experience.

    The saga surrounding MindsEye continues as new claims emerge from ex-employees, shedding light on the turmoil during the game’s development. Released in June, the game faced harsh criticism, with reviews labeling it as “one of the worst games” many had ever experienced, disappointing a large number of users.

    Development Challenges

    Once highly anticipated due to Benzies’ influence in transforming the Grand Theft Auto franchise into a cultural phenomenon, Build A Rocket Boy raised over $300 million by 2024 and grew to 448 employees with offices in Edinburgh, Budapest, and Montpellier.

    Initially, the studio set its sights on an ambitious multiplayer RPG titled Everywhere, which promised user-generated content in a futuristic open world. However, the studio later pivoted to focus on MindsEye, which was initially seen as a supplementary experience for Everywhere.

    Internal Struggles

    Former employees describe a dismal atmosphere filled with dysfunction. Jamie, a staff member who departed BARB in 2022, shared with the BBC that “Leslie never decided what game he wanted to make,” which led to “no coherent direction” that “haunted the project from its inception.”

    Ben Newbon, a former lead data analyst, discussed the frequent “knee-jerk” decisions made by upper management, where essential feedback was regularly “ignored and never acted upon.” Meanwhile, Benzies’ tendency to micromanage turned into what the team referred to as “Leslie tickets” or “Leslie bugs.”

    Disrupted Workflows

    All direct orders from Leslie Benzies took priority over the development team’s ongoing tasks, hindering their ability to manage their own workflows. Margherita “Marg” Peloso, a former associate producer, added that any efforts to voice concerns were “met with laughter in meetings with the bosses.”

    This led to a work environment where employees felt “commanded to give a lot to the company without receiving much in return.” Isaac Hudd, a former audio programmer, noted that the rapid feature changes requested by Benzies at “breakneck speed” were too rushed for proper execution, causing regressions where one team’s work undid another’s solutions.

    Hudd further expressed, “And it does mess with you. You really do start to see the morale drop, and small arguments begin to arise. People burning the candle at both ends and starting to wonder: ‘What’s the point?’”

    Layoffs and Legal Actions

    Earlier this month, between 250 and 300 BARB employees were let go, with most being from the Edinburgh studio. The IWGB union’s Game Workers Branch announced it would pursue legal action on behalf of the affected staff.

    In response, Build A Rocket Boy stated that it aims to manage the redundancy process with “care and transparency,” while also expressing its “commitment to learning and growing.”

    In the studio’s statement, it elaborated, “Leslie and the whole senior management team take full responsibility for MindsEye’s initial launch. The version of the game that was released did not reflect the experience our community deserved.”

    Despite releasing hotfixes and Update 4 to fix bugs and enhance gameplay, former staff like Newbon view the situation as a “wasted” chance for Scotland’s gaming industry during a time when layoffs have surpassed tens of thousands across the sector.

    The entire MindsEye controversy has left the lead actor anxious about future job prospects, and IO Interactive has decided to pause its third-party publishing efforts.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • New Xbox Console Promises Premium Features, High Price Expected

    New Xbox Console Promises Premium Features, High Price Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is not abandoning its hardware plans for Xbox, despite speculation about future consoles.
    2. The upcoming Xbox console may feature a premium design and high-end experience, potentially at a higher price point.
    3. Exclusive Xbox titles may not be a major selling point, with a focus shifting towards cloud gaming and Game Pass offerings.
    4. Microsoft’s partnership with AMD suggests that new hardware will likely require a significant financial investment from consumers.
    5. Future Xbox products may target enthusiasts rather than casual gamers, with limited production runs expected.

    Responding to the latest speculation, Sarah Bond, the President of Xbox, has firmly stated that Microsoft is not scrapping its hardware plans. However, uncertainties remain about whether the upcoming Xbox console will take on characteristics similar to a Windows PC. In an interview with Mashable, Bond offered some insights on what gamers can expect in terms of design and pricing. Unfortunately, those on a tighter budget may need to start setting aside money to afford the new console.

    The Future of Xbox

    The conversation with Bond largely focused on the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds. Still, she was questioned about the possibility of a future console being a mix between a PC and a traditional console. Referring to the Xbox Ally X, which was reviewed by Notebookcheck, she mentioned that the upcoming console will provide a “very premium, very high-end, very curated experience,” hinting at a luxurious product.

    While she didn’t specify a target price, gamers are anxious about what it might mean for their wallets. Microsoft has already faced backlash after increasing the prices of its current Xbox consoles and the Game Pass. The Series X is currently priced at $649.99, even though it launched back in 2020. If the next console is even more premium, it could potentially be priced at or above the $999.99 of the ROG Xbox Ally X.

    Exclusive Games vs. Cloud Gaming

    Additionally, Bond hinted that exclusive Xbox titles may not be a key selling point for the new consoles. She stated that limiting games to a single platform is an “outdated” strategy. Instead, cloud gaming will be prioritized to enhance variety and accessibility within the Game Pass offerings.

    Bond’s statements align with earlier rumors about the future direction of Xbox hardware. As early as 2023, a leaker going by the name SneakersSO suggested that upcoming devices would not compete directly with Sony or Nintendo. He envisioned a strong system aimed at enthusiasts rather than the casual gaming market. If a new Xbox console fits that description at all, it will likely be produced in limited numbers.

    Hardware Development Partnerships

    Microsoft has teamed up with AMD for hardware development, likely depending on the Magnus APU. This makes it increasingly likely that any new product will require a significant financial commitment from purchasers.

    In conclusion, the gaming community is eager to see how these developments will unfold, especially as new announcements are expected to arrive in the near future.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Arc Raiders Developers Plan 10-Year Content Strategy Without Roadmap

    Arc Raiders Developers Plan 10-Year Content Strategy Without Roadmap

    Key Takeaways

    1. 10-Year Game Vision: Arc Raiders is designed with a planned lifespan of ten years, influencing content creation strategies.

    2. No Current Roadmap: The developers are not sharing a detailed roadmap to avoid making unfulfilled promises, focusing instead on player feedback post-launch.

    3. Content Plans: Future updates will include new maps, extended questlines, and additional weapons and enemies, although specifics are currently undisclosed.

    4. Player Feedback Importance: The direction of future content will heavily depend on the feedback received from players after the game’s release.

    5. High Expectations for Success: There is significant excitement around Arc Raiders, with potential for it to thrive as a major hit over the next decade.

    With the launch date approaching on October 30, Arc Raiders is generating a lot of excitement among gamers. While it appears that the game is on track for success, Embark Studios has shared an unexpected insight: the game might have a lifespan of ten years.

    Game Longevity Aspirations

    During a Twitch stream at TwitchCon, Virgil Watkins, the design director for Arc Raiders, discussed the studio’s plans for keeping the game alive over the years. When asked about the longevity of the game, he stated, “Internally, we’ve been calling this a 10-year game for quite some time. This vision shapes the kind and amount of content we want to create.”

    No Roadmap for Now

    Watkins also explained why there isn’t a roadmap available for players at this moment. He said, “At this point, we won’t be sharing any roadmap details. Things can change, and we don’t want to make promises that we can’t keep. However, we do plan to introduce new maps, extend questlines, add new weapons and enemies over time. We have some content ready to go after launch, but what comes next will depend on player feedback once the game is released.”

    This approach makes sense, especially in trying to prevent player disappointment, yet it is a bit surprising. Fans might find themselves feeling uncertain in the upcoming months, especially if Embark Studios chooses to keep things under wraps.

    Future Success of Arc Raiders

    Nonetheless, Arc Raiders has the potential to be a major hit upon its release. If Virgil Watkins’ insights are to be believed, players could enjoy the game for a decade, assuming it continues to thrive and doesn’t lose momentum too soon.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Xbox Dev Kit Price Increase May Limit New Games and Game Pass Access

    Xbox Dev Kit Price Increase May Limit New Games and Game Pass Access

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has raised the cost of Xbox development kits from $1500 to $2300, impacting game releases for the Xbox Series X|S.
    2. Subscription prices for Xbox Game Pass have increased, leading to cancellations and fewer users accessing new games.
    3. Xbox games are becoming harder to find in major retailers, with some stores ceasing to carry certain consoles.
    4. Smaller developers face challenges due to the higher cost of Xbox dev kits, affecting the diversity of available third-party games.
    5. Analysts suggest that Microsoft may need to focus more on cross-platform publishing and subscription services as interest in Xbox consoles wanes.

    Xbox gaming is getting pricier for players. Tom Warren from The Verge shares that Microsoft has raised the cost of Xbox dev kits. This increase could lead to fewer new games being released for the Xbox Series X|S, as developers face higher expenses.

    Price Increase Announcement

    Microsoft confirmed this news in a statement to developers. The Xbox Development Kit (XDK) now costs $2300, up from the previous price of $1500. The company cites “macroeconomic developments” for the hike, but this change affects regions outside the U.S. too. Warren points out that currency fluctuations and increased manufacturing costs, alongside tariffs, also play a role in this situation.

    Subscription Costs Rising

    Gamers have recently experienced price hikes on Game Pass and consoles. The Ultimate tier’s price has jumped to $29.99 from $19.99, leading to a wave of cancellations by subscribers. As a result, fewer Game Pass users now enjoy day-one access to new Xbox games. The $649.99 Xbox Series X is facing a similar fate, with some stores no longer carrying it or its cheaper counterpart, the Series S.

    Retailer Stock Issues

    Shoppers have noticed that Xbox games are vanishing from big stores like Target and Walmart. Microsoft has denied rumors that shipments to these retailers are ceasing. However, persuading consumers to invest in a struggling ecosystem has become increasingly challenging. Some analysts have even gone as far as to declare Xbox consoles as being “dead,” suggesting that Microsoft should pivot towards cross-platform publishing and subscription services.

    Challenges for Small Developers

    While the impact may not be significant for large studios, the higher cost of Xbox dev kits presents a challenge for smaller developers. This situation has also created friction among some Switch 2 developers. Although cost isn’t the main issue, Nintendo has reportedly restricted the availability of its dev kits to prevent leaks. Critics argue that these limitations have led to a less diverse selection of third-party games than what was anticipated.

    Supporters of Xbox feel that Microsoft is trying hard to phase out its current consoles. Despite this perception, the company maintains that it will continue to support these systems while also working on new Xbox hardware.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Escape from Duckov Sells 500,000 Copies in 3 Days on Steam

    Escape from Duckov Sells 500,000 Copies in 3 Days on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Massive Sales Success: Escape from Duckov sold over 500,000 copies within three days of its launch on October 16, 2025.

    2. Unique Gameplay: The game is a top-down PvE looter-shooter where players control ducks exploring “Duck Planet” for resources, with over 50 hours of replayable content.

    3. Rapid Player Growth: The game experienced a surge in players, peaking at 146,602 concurrent users shortly after launch and surpassing 180,000 by October 20.

    4. Positive Reception: The game has received a 95% approval rating on Steam from around 6,000 reviews, praised for its risk-reward gameplay and base-building mechanics.

    5. Developer Engagement: Team Soda celebrated the game’s success by giving away 20 free game keys and actively engaging with the community on social media.

    Escape from Duckov has become an unexpected hit on Steam, taking the extraction shooter genre by storm and selling over 500,000 copies in just three days after its launch on October 16, 2025.

    Developer’s Celebration

    The team behind Escape from Duckov, Team Soda, shared their excitement on X, saying, “Over 500K of you joined the adventure, your support means everything. To celebrate, we’re giving away 20 free game keys to lucky Ducklings!!” This milestone shows the game’s quick rise in popularity among players.

    Game Overview

    As the title indicates, Escape from Duckov is a top-down PvE looter-shooter created by a small team at Team Soda, which is part of Bilibili in China. Players take on the role of brave little ducks scouring the strange “Duck Planet” for resources, blueprints, and upgrades to their hideouts while facing off against waves of enemy birds.

    Currently, the game is available for $15.83, but the price will increase to $18 on October 30. It offers over 50 hours of replayable fun through procedural maps and features more than 50 types of weapons. The storyline uncovers the “truth of Duckov,” presented in a humorous way that playfully references its inspiration, Escape from Tarkov.

    Rapid Growth

    The game started as a demo, catching the eye of many, but it has since transformed into a viral sensation, exceeding expectations for an indie game that steps away from the intense PvP survival mechanics of Tarkov.

    During the weekend, Escape from Duckov saw a surge to 146,602 concurrent players on Steam, a significant jump from its launch-day peak of 34,958 players. By October 20, the game had even surpassed 180,000 concurrent players.

    As of now, Escape from Duckov ranks sixth on Steam’s most-played games list, falling behind titles like Delta Force, Battlefield 6, PUBG: Battlegrounds, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike 2, while surpassing popular games such as Apex Legends, Arc Raiders Playtest, and Rust.

    Player Feedback

    Steam reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, with a 95% approval rating based on 6,000 reviews. Many players have commended the game for its engaging loop of risk-reward raids and base-building, without the negativity often found in multiplayer games like Rust. Nonetheless, some players have noted concerns regarding the fixed floating camera and are urging the developers to include cooperative gameplay features.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Starfield Release Delayed for PS5 Until 2026, Insider Reveals

    Starfield Release Delayed for PS5 Until 2026, Insider Reveals

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starfield has received multiple updates since its release two years ago.
    2. There is anticipation for Starfield’s release on PS5, but players may need to wait longer than expected.
    3. A potential PS5 release announcement is suggested for 2026, contrary to earlier hopes for a 2025 launch.
    4. The Nintendo Switch 2 version of Starfield may also be released in 2026.
    5. Official confirmation from Bethesda regarding the PS5 port is still pending, so news should be approached cautiously.

    Released over two years ago, Starfield has seen numerous updates to satisfy player demands, but that’s not the only news, as fans are also looking forward to its arrival on the PS5. If you happen to be one of those players, you might need to hang tight a bit longer.

    Future Release Dates

    To get a clearer picture, it’s worth mentioning that in August 2025, @NateTheHate2 suggested that Starfield might drop on the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. He also indicated that the game could potentially be available on the PS5 by the end of this year, which had many gamers excited about this port.

    Recently, however, he shared some disappointing news in a comment on X. When asked about the PS5 release date for Starfield, NateTheHate remarked:

    “Believe the announcement will be in 2026 unless plans change.”

    So it seems unlikely that players will be able to dive into Starfield on PS5 in 2025, which might let down some fans. Nevertheless, the project is still in progress, and even if it doesn’t launch in the next few months, it’s likely to show up in 2026.

    Proceed with Caution

    While NateTheHate is typically reliable, it’s important to approach this news cautiously. Bethesda has not issued any official statements regarding this topic, and nothing has been confirmed yet. Therefore, it’s essential to keep an eye out for any announcements from the studio about this PS5 port that could happen in the near future.

    @NateTheHate2 on X

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Director Discusses Switch 2 Game-Key Cards

    Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Director Discusses Switch 2 Game-Key Cards

    Key Takeaways

    1. Naoki Hamaguchi believes that the slow performance of traditional cartridges is due to the hardware specifications of the Nintendo Switch 2, not the cartridges themselves.

    2. The upcoming version of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth for the Switch 2 will be available on a Game-Key Card, which requires downloading most game files after purchase.

    3. Hamaguchi predicts a decline in traditional physical media for the Switch 2, with Nintendo focusing on promoting the Game-Key Card format.

    4. Developers can help educate gamers on the benefits and costs of the Game-Key Card format, according to Hamaguchi.

    5. There is uncertainty about whether new manufacturing techniques for cartridges will improve their read speeds, impacting the market for game media.

    Naoki Hamaguchi has a dim view on the future of traditional Switch 2 cartridges. Even with gamers voicing their concerns, the director of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth believes that Game-Key Cards will gain traction. He doesn’t attribute the slow performance of cartridges as the main issue; instead, he highlights other specifications of the Switch 2 as the real culprits.

    Game-Key Card Details

    Similar to Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade, the version of Rebirth for Switch 2 will be available on a Game-Key Card. Although these purchases aren’t linked to Nintendo Switch Online accounts, most game files need to be downloaded after buying. Hamaguchi, a well-known figure at Square Enix, has linked the decline of cartridges to the slow read speeds of the device.

    In a recent interview with Wccftech, Hamaguchi elaborates on his previous comments regarding the controversial format. He suggests that the problem is not the cartridges themselves, but rather the Switch 2’s inability to communicate with them swiftly. He believes, “Personally, I think that the loading speed issue for the game cartridge relates more to the hardware spec of the Nintendo Switch 2.”

    The Shift in Gaming Media

    Regardless of the reasons behind it, Hamaguchi predicts a decline in games for Switch 2 using traditional physical media. The game director states, “Nintendo will focus more on making the Game Key Card format more popular, which is a really great idea for us developers.” He acknowledges that developers can play a role in helping Nintendo inform gamers about the benefits and costs associated with this format.

    The director, who has worked on several Final Fantasy titles, paints a grim picture for 64GB cartridges. Nonetheless, a previous report had suggested that a manufacturer was exploring ways to enhance these cartridges’ capabilities. Macronix, known for making physical media for Nintendo systems, is reportedly working on a mix of MLC NAND and 3D NAND technology. This could lead to cartridges that are larger, smaller, or more affordable, giving developers greater options.

    Future Prospects

    However, it remains uncertain if Macronix’s new strategy will enhance read speeds. More resource-intensive third-party games for the Switch 2, including Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, are slated for release on the platform. If the internal storage of the handheld could eliminate issues like stuttering, Game-Key Cards might take the lead in the market.

    Wccftech, Stealth40k X account.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Pre-Order the MCON Magnetic Controller for 2026 Release

    Pre-Order the MCON Magnetic Controller for 2026 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. MCON is a portable magnetic controller designed for smartphones, compatible with devices like iPhones and Pixel 10 series, and includes an adapter for non-magnetic devices.

    2. It is available for pre-order at $149.99 with a $5 discount for early buyers, limited stock, and shipping expected in mid-January.

    3. The controller features full-size joysticks, Hall Effect triggers, a gyroscope, and a battery life of over 15 hours, with charging via USB-C.

    4. MCON connects via Bluetooth to up to three devices and offers an optional dock for 2.4GHz mode with 4K HDMI output, priced at $69.

    5. Bundles are available: $199 for the controller with the dock, and $249 for a complete kit including the dock, USB-C adapter, MCON Key Cast, HDMI cable, USB-C cable, and travel sleeve.

    MCON is a magnetic controller that has been under development for some time. It’s made to be a portable controller for smartphones, attaching easily to devices like iPhones with MagSafe, the HMD Skyline, and the Pixel 10 series. Additionally, it includes an adapter for devices that lack built-in magnets.

    Availability and Pricing

    After more than a year since its initial reveal and over nine months of crowdfunding on Kickstarter, the controller is now available for pre-order. The price is set at $149.99, and it comes in two colors: Day (White) and Night (Black). If you pre-order now, you can get a $5 discount, but it’s noted that the stock is limited. Shipping is expected to start in mid-January, following a “first-come, first-shipped basis”.

    Features and Design

    With a compact design similar to the 8BitDo SN30 Pro (which is available on Amazon for $44.99), MCON features some remarkable specs. It includes full-size GameSir Mag-Res joysticks, Hall Effect triggers, a gyroscope, and extendable grips for extended gaming sessions.

    The MCON attaches to the back of your smartphone and can be utilized in both portrait and landscape orientations. It supports mobile games that are compatible with controllers, and it also works with emulators and cloud streaming platforms. The controller has a battery capacity of 500mAh, allowing for over 15 hours of gameplay on a single charge. Charging is done through a USB-C port, which can also be used for wired connection to a device.

    Connectivity Options

    MCON connects through Bluetooth and, according to the specifications, can pair with up to three devices simultaneously. There’s also an optional dock available that links to a phone via USB-C, enabling the controller to operate in 2.4GHz mode. The dock is priced at $69 and features an HDMI output that supports 4K at 60fps. Additionally, it has a USB-C port that supports fast charging up to 65W.

    Another accessory available is the MCON Key Cast, which has a USB-C connector on one side and an HDMI input port on the opposite side. This $29.99 dongle allows users to connect their phone to any display with an HDMI port, supporting resolutions of up to 4K at 60Hz.

    You can either buy the controller by itself or opt for a $199 bundle that includes the dock. There’s also a $249 kit available that comes with the dock, a 35W USB-C adapter, the MCON Key Cast, an HDMI cable, a USB-C cable, and a travel sleeve for the controller.

    OhSnap!

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • New Virtual Console Trademark Highlights Nintendo Switch Online Limits

    New Virtual Console Trademark Highlights Nintendo Switch Online Limits

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers essential online features and access to classic Nintendo games but has faced criticism for its subscription model limiting game access.
    2. A recent trademark application has raised hopes for a possible replacement for the Virtual Console, which ended for several consoles in recent years.
    3. The trademark filing may not lead to significant changes, as it could be a way for Nintendo to retain rights for future use, similar to past applications.
    4. The Switch Online model allows for the addition and removal of retro games, whereas the Virtual Console allowed users to buy and download games permanently.
    5. There is ongoing debate between the benefits of subscription services and the importance of owning physical copies or games outright for long-term access and game preservation.

    Many players consider the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack to be a great deal. It provides essential online features and access to a collection of classic Nintendo games at a fair price. On the flip side, some critics are not happy that the subscription model limits the games that can be played. Recently, a trademark application has sparked hope that a replacement for the Virtual Console might be on the way.

    A user named Mike Odyssey shared on social media that a trademark filed on April 21, 2025, is currently pending on the USPTO website. One of the categories listed in this trademark is IC 009, which includes “Recorded electronic game programs; downloadable electronic game programs; recorded video game programs.” Additionally, Nintendo has multiple active trademarks linked to the Virtual Console.

    Potential Outcomes

    As noted by Nintendo Life, it’s a possibility that this trademark filing may not result in anything substantial, similar to past Nintendo patent applications. The company might just be looking to keep rights to the name for future use. Yet, hopeful gamers are reminiscing about the benefits that the service used to provide.

    The Virtual Console for the Wii ended in 2019, and both the 3DS and Wii U lost access in 2023. There were speculations that Nintendo intended to bring it to the Switch before opting for the NSO solution instead.

    Subscription vs. Ownership

    The Switch Online and the optional Expansion Pack utilize apps specific to Nintendo Classics for each console. A significant difference is that retro games can be added or removed based on Nintendo’s preference. In contrast, Virtual Console users could buy and download games outright, without needing a subscription. Many fans argue that this provided a broader selection of Nintendo titles at any given moment.

    Advocates for game preservation argue for the importance of owning Nintendo games permanently. Players who still have older consoles can continue to enjoy their purchases from Virtual Console. However, with subscription services like Xbox Game Pass becoming popular, it seems Nintendo may be leaning towards steady income from subscriptions. Nevertheless, collectors argue that neither option replaces the value of owning physical copies.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,