Category: Gaming

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Games: Confirmed, Announced, and Rumored

    Nintendo Switch 2 Games: Confirmed, Announced, and Rumored

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be released on June 5, 2025, featuring over 40 games at launch.
    2. New features include Joy-Con 2 mouse capabilities, complete GameCube emulation, and support for most original Switch games.
    3. A diverse lineup of genres will be available on day one, including racing, RPGs, action-adventure, and fighting games.
    4. A strong selection of both Nintendo and third-party exclusives is expected in the first year after launch, with some titles still awaiting release dates.
    5. Additional third-party franchises are rumored to be in development for the Switch 2, although not all will be ready for the launch date.

    Nintendo’s April Direct revealed that the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be released on June 5, 2025. This new console will come with a wide selection of over 40 games. The lineup features first-party exclusives, popular third-party titles, enhanced versions of beloved games, and some ports that have not yet been announced.

    New Features of the Switch 2

    This upcoming console will also bring new Joy-Con 2 mouse capabilities, complete GameCube emulation through the Switch Online + Expansion Pass, and will support most games from the original Switch. To help players get ready, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the games that will be available during and after the console’s launch.

    Day One Game Releases

    On the first day, owners of the Switch 2 will find a wide array of games across genres such as racing, RPGs, action-adventure, and fighting. Here’s a list of all the confirmed games that will be launching on June 5th with the new console:

    Additionally, players can look forward to the following titles that will be available shortly after the console’s debut:

    Future Game Releases

    In the months following its launch, the first year for the Switch 2 will be full of both Nintendo and third-party exclusives. Here are some of the titles that have been announced but still need firm release dates:

    There are also rumors that several notable third-party franchises are aiming for a future release on the Switch 2, even if they won’t be ready at launch. Here’s a quick list of some of these anticipated titles:

    Keep in mind that release dates and game information might change as publishers make their final announcements. We will continue to update this guide as new information comes in.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Games: Confirmed, Announced, and RumoredNintendo Switch 2 Games: Confirmed, Announced, and RumoredNintendo Switch 2 Games: Confirmed, Announced, and RumoredNintendo Switch 2 Games: Confirmed, Announced, and Rumored

     

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Launch: Play Native Games Without Day-One Patch

    Nintendo Switch 2 Launch: Play Native Games Without Day-One Patch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Some Nintendo Switch 2 units were received early but had limited functionality.
    2. The console can run native games without needing a day-one patch.
    3. Games on cartridges for the Nintendo Switch 2 work without updates, unlike Game-Key Cards from the original Switch.
    4. The micro SD card slot and 3D Audio feature require a day-one patch to function.
    5. Users can still enjoy gaming offline with native games, despite the need for an internet connection for certain features.

    A few fortunate individuals received their Nintendo Switch 2 units sooner than expected. Unfortunately for them (and everyone else), the console turned out to be little more than a colorful brick, as it wouldn’t run nearly anything. There were some rumors that a day-one patch was needed to enable full capabilities. While that might be the case for certain features, it seems that the device can operate native games without any trouble.

    Confirmation from Nintendo Expert

    Felipe Lima, the Editor-in-chief of the fan site Universo Nintendo, has verified that the Switch 2 can play native games, such as Mario Kart World, without the need for a software update. This also applies to any game that is fully loaded on a cartridge for the Nintendo Switch 2. However, Game-Key Cards and titles from the original Nintendo Switch will need that aforementioned day-one patch to function properly.

    The Silver Lining

    This could clarify why many users believed the console was completely non-functional without the software update. Overall, it’s a silver lining since gaming consoles typically should not require a day-one patch to fully operate. However, it’s important to note that the micro SD card slot on the Nintendo Switch 2 won’t work without the patch, nor will the 3D Audio feature. Technically, one could acquire a Nintendo Switch 2, some games, and enjoy gaming without an internet connection, and it’s likely that someone will attempt this after the launch.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Can Outperform PS4 with DLSS, Says CDPR

    Nintendo Switch 2 Can Outperform PS4 with DLSS, Says CDPR

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, with Cyberpunk 2077 as a key title at release.
    2. Development for the Cyberpunk 2077 port began in summer 2023, requiring significant changes to the game’s engine.
    3. The Switch 2’s hardware power is comparable to the PlayStation 4, with potential to exceed it due to Nvidia DLSS support.
    4. The Switch 2 features more RAM than the PS4 and operates without a mechanical drive, enhancing its performance.
    5. The Cyberpunk 2077 version for Switch 2 will have visual adjustments tailored for the handheld experience, differing from the PC edition.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled to launch on June 5, 2025, and one of the key titles available at its release will be Cyberpunk 2077. In a recent chat with IGN, Charles Tremblay, who is the VP of Technology at CD Projekt Red, provided some details on the handheld’s capabilities while discussing the updated version of the game.

    Development Insights

    According to Charles, the work on the Cyberpunk 2077 port for the Switch 2 began in the summer of 2023, which required the team to implement numerous changes at the engine level. These modifications were essential since the handheld device operates on a different architecture than the x86 systems.

    Performance Comparisons

    While discussing the game’s performance on the Nintendo Switch 2, Charles pointed out that the hardware power of the handheld is already similar to that of the PlayStation 4. He emphasized that with the addition of Nvidia DLSS support, the device could actually exceed the PS4 in quality.

    Enhanced Specifications

    In addition to modern features, Charles mentioned that the Switch 2 has more RAM than the PS4, which plays a significant role in its performance. This advantage, along with the fact that the handheld does not depend on a mechanical drive, is expected to enable the Switch 2 to run Cyberpunk 2077 more effectively than its PS4 counterpart.

    It’s important to remember that the version of Cyberpunk 2077 for Switch 2 won’t be exactly the same as the PC edition. Various visual adjustments have been made specifically to ensure that the gaming handheld provides a satisfying experience.

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  • Samsung Odyssey OLED G9: 49-Inch 240Hz Gaming Monitor Deals

    Samsung Odyssey OLED G9: 49-Inch 240Hz Gaming Monitor Deals

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung has launched two new 49-inch OLED gaming monitors: Odyssey OLED G9 G93SD and G95SD, introduced at CES 2025.
    2. Both monitors have a resolution of 5,120 x 1440 pixels, an 1800R curvature, and a 32:9 aspect ratio, with a refresh rate of 240 Hz and a 0.3 ms response time.
    3. The G95SD model includes additional Smart TV features and supports Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 5 for streaming services.
    4. Both models cover 99% of the DCI-P3 color space and have brightness levels of 250 nits in SDR and 1,000 nits in HDR.
    5. Pricing for the G93SD is $1,699 (currently discounted to $1,299.99), while the G95SD is priced at $1,399.99.

    Samsung has launched its new 49-inch OLED gaming monitors, which were first introduced at CES 2025 in Las Vegas back in January. According to TFTCentral, the Odyssey OLED G9 G93SD and Odyssey OLED G9 G95SD utilize the same QD-OLED panel technology. The main difference is that the G95SD model comes with extra Smart TV functionalities.

    Monitor Specifications

    Both models provide a resolution of 5,120 x 1440 pixels, commonly known as Dual QHD or DQHD. They feature an 1800R curvature along with a 32:9 aspect ratio, ensuring a smooth 240 Hz refresh rate and a 0.3 ms GtG response time, supported by AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync. Additionally, both monitors cover 99% of the DCI-P3 color space and deliver brightness levels of 250 nits in full panel SDR and 1,000 nits in HDR (3% APL).

    Features and Connectivity

    Samsung has included an anti-glare coating on the screens to minimize reflections, though this does lead to a slightly grainy surface. The Odyssey OLED G9 G95SD model also comes with Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 5, allowing for streaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass. Both monitors are equipped with DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, and USB Type-C ports for connecting to other devices.

    Pricing Information

    The Odyssey OLED G9 G93SD is priced at $1,699, which is $200 less than the G95SD. However, early discounts have made the price difference only $100 at some retailers. Currently, the best price for the Odyssey OLED G9 G93SD can be found on Amazon US for $1,299.99. On the other hand, the Odyssey OLED G9 G95SD is available at Amazon, B&H Photo Video, Best Buy, Newegg, and Samsung for $1,399.99. For more information, check out the product listings for both models.

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not liable for any pricing changes made by retailers. The prices or deals mentioned were accurate at the time of writing and may have time limits or availability restrictions.

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    Samsung Odyssey OLED G9: 49-Inch 240Hz Gaming Monitor DealsSamsung Odyssey OLED G9: 49-Inch 240Hz Gaming Monitor Deals
  • Two New Xbox Game Pass Titles Launching in Early June

    Two New Xbox Game Pass Titles Launching in Early June

    Key Takeaways

    1. Crypt Custodian Overview: A 2D Metroidvania game featuring Pluto, a cat janitor in the afterlife, who battles monsters while cleaning a cursed tomb.

    2. Gameplay Mechanics: Players unlock skills like magical broom attacks and special tools, navigating through crypts while facing quirky characters and completing side quests.

    3. Symphonia Introduction: A musical platformer where players control a violinist in a deserted concert hall, aiming to restore music to a silent world.

    4. Unique Gameplay Elements: The violinist uses his instrument for navigation, with gameplay focusing on timing and flow, supported by hand-drawn graphics and atmospheric music.

    5. Overall Game Pass Additions: Game Pass subscribers can look forward to creative adventures in June with Crypt Custodian and Symphonia, despite a smaller lineup of indie games.

    The last week of May was really busy for Game Pass, bringing two new games along with two big-name titles. Given that, subscribers might not mind that “only” two indie games are coming in the first week of June. Let’s take a look at what Crypt Custodian and Symphonia have in store.

    An Adventurous Journey

    Crypt Custodian is a 2D Metroidvania game where players step into the shoes of Pluto, a cute but naughty cat who finds herself in the afterlife after a sudden end. Her fun in heaven leads to her being kicked out by the creator, who gives her a new job: the janitor of a cursed tomb. What’s her goal? To clean up, battle monsters, and maybe cause enough chaos to change her fate.

    The game offers a cheeky cleaning experience combined with intense real-time combat. As you navigate through twisting crypt passages, you’ll face off against ghosts and slimy creatures while unlocking new skills – from magical broom attacks to double jumps, dashes, and special cleaning tools. Throughout your journey, you’ll encounter quirky afterlife characters, complete side quests, and gather clues about Pluto’s backstory, all presented in a delightful cartoon art style.

    A Musical Adventure Awaits

    Symphonia is a unique musical platformer that puts you in the role of a mysterious violinist who awakens in a deserted concert hall. Your goal is to bring music back to a world that has fallen silent. The game unfolds a poetic tale without dialogue, relying instead on sound, harmony, and fluid movement to convey its message.

    In Symphonia, the violinist doesn’t simply play music – he also uses his instrument to navigate. With elegant jumps, double hops, and a violin bow that functions like a grappling hook, he moves smoothly through levels filled with platforms, mechanisms, and musical devices. Although the gameplay isn’t directly tied to rhythm, progressing effectively still needs a good sense of timing and flow. The hand-drawn graphics capture the charm of animated shorts, and when combined with the gentle rhythm and atmospheric music, the game creates a nearly meditative experience.

    Final Thoughts

    So, for Game Pass subscribers, there’s a lot to look forward to in June, even if the indie game lineup is smaller. With Crypt Custodian and Symphonia, players can expect unique experiences that blend adventure with creativity. Don’t miss these exciting additions!

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  • Radeon 9060 XT Benchmarks Reveal RX 7700 XT Performance with OC

    Radeon 9060 XT Benchmarks Reveal RX 7700 XT Performance with OC

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD will unveil the Radeon RX 9060 XT on June 5, following the RX 7600 XT, with significant performance improvements anticipated.
    2. Early benchmarks from a Reddit user show the RX 9060 XT achieving a score of 17,069 with a mild overclock, indicating strong performance capabilities.
    3. The GPU reportedly has memory limitations, unable to overclock past 2,538 MHz without causing crashes.
    4. In performance comparisons, the RX 9060 XT nearly matches the RX 7700 XT, achieving 36 FPS in Black Myth: Wukong’s Cinematic mode while overclocked.
    5. A Geekbench listing suggests a 25% to 30% performance improvement over the RX 7600 XT, though 3D Mark Time Spy is seen as a more accurate benchmark.

    AMD is gearing up to unveil the Radeon RX 9060 XT on June 5, which will follow the Radeon RX 7600 XT. A Geekbench listing found last week (between May 26 and June 1) indicated a notable increase in performance compared to the previous model. However, a recent leak suggests it might have even greater performance capabilities. A Reddit user posted benchmark results from Time Spy GPU as well as gaming tests for the RX 9060 XT that featured a slight overclocking of the clock speeds.

    Impressive Benchmark Scores

    Screenshots shared by a Reddit user, who claims to have gotten early access to the unreleased RX 9060 XT, reveal that the GPU achieved a score of 17,069 with an overall score of 14,210. The tests were done using an AMD Ryzen 5 5600 CPU at 1080p. Importantly, it had a mild overclock with a 200 MHz boost to the clock speed and a 40mV undervolt. At these settings, the GPU reached a clock speed of 3.47 GHz while consuming 199W of power.

    Memory Limitations

    The user also pointed out that they could not increase the memory clock speeds past 2,538 MHz, labeling it “un-overclockable.” The benchmark run or system would crash when they tried to go beyond that point.

    Performance Comparison

    In addition, a commenter sought benchmark results from Black Myth: Wukong’s tool, and the RX 9060 XT provided an average of 36 FPS in Cinematic mode (with overclocking), which was merely 3 FPS behind the RX 7700 XT. This performance places the RX 9060 XT nearly on the same level as the Radeon RX 7700 XT, which has an average Time Spy graphics score of 17,113 according to the 3D Mark database. Even though the Radeon RX 9060 XT, specifically the XFX Swift Pro Gaming variant, was overclocked, it managed to match the performance of a more expensive, higher-tier GPU from the previous generation.

    This benchmark result arrived shortly after the Geekbench listing, which indicated a 25% to 30% improvement in performance over the RX 7600 XT, the RX 9060 XT’s direct predecessor. While Geekbench may not be the most accurate for GPU performance, the 3D Mark Time Spy and Black Myth: Wukong benchmarks are considered far better indicators.

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  • Radeon 9060 XT GPUs Available Online Near MSRP Prices

    Radeon 9060 XT GPUs Available Online Near MSRP Prices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Leaks: The Radeon RX 9060 XT has seen leaks indicating its performance is comparable to the RX 7700 XT.

    2. Confirmed Pricing: AMD’s suggested prices are $299 for the 8 GB model and $349 for the 16 GB model, with some retailer listings slightly higher.

    3. Retailer Listings: Central Computers in California has listed ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT models, showing prices of $320 for the 8 GB Challenger and $370 for the 16 GB version.

    4. Series Variants: The Challenger series features dual-fan cooling, while the Steel Legend series has triple-fan solutions and higher boost clocks.

    5. Launch Date: The official launch is set for June 5, with potential updates on pricing expected around that time from various retailers.

    With the release date approaching, the Radeon RX 9060 XT has seen several leaks about its performance. Specifications for the board partner cards are mostly confirmed, and a retailer in the US has revealed the actual prices for these cards. AMD has set the prices at $299 for the 8 GB model and $349 for the 16 GB model, and the new retailer listings align closely with these figures.

    Retail Listings

    A California retailer, Central Computers, has put up three models of the ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT for sale: two Challenger models and one Steel Legend model. The board partner has disclosed that both the Challenger and Steel Legend series will come in 8 GB and 16 GB versions, complete with specifications. According to the listings, the 8 GB Challenger is priced at $320, while the 16 GB version is listed at $370, which is $20 above AMD’s suggested retail price.

    Pricing Variants

    In contrast, the 16 GB Steel Legend variant is marked at $390, indicating that the price for the 8 GB Steel Legend could be around $350.

    Interestingly, there are no images associated with these listings, which might imply that this is not the final product detail page. As a result, prices could vary. Listings on platforms like Amazon, Newegg, and MicroCenter will likely provide a more accurate picture of the RX 9060 XT’s retail price, with updates expected either right before or on the launch date, June 5.

    Specifications Breakdown

    In terms of specs, the Challenger series features black GPUs equipped with dual-fan cooling systems, while the Steel Legend series comes in white with triple-fan solutions. The Steel Legend cards offer a slightly higher boost clock, reaching up to 3,320 MHz, compared to 3,290 MHz for the Challenger models.

    Recently, some gaming and synthetic benchmarks for the XFX Swift Pro Gaming RX 9060 XT surfaced online, showing performance comparable to the pricier, older RX 7700 XT.

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  • Seagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High Price

    Seagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Series X and Series S users face storage challenges, with only Seagate and Western Digital NVMe SSDs approved for expansion.
    2. A new 4TB Seagate NVMe SSD is available, but its price of $429.99 is considered steep by many gamers.
    3. Current-gen games must be launched from Xbox expansion cards, though external USB drives can be used for storage.
    4. Microsoft’s shift towards digital gaming and services like Game Pass leads to increased demand for storage, prompting the release of a 2TB console variant.
    5. The proprietary storage technology used by Microsoft results in higher prices compared to similar drives for the PS5.

    Xbox console sales might be facing challenges, but storage is still a big issue for Series X and Series S users. A new 4TB Seagate NVMe SSD has appeared on Best Buy’s website. Although players can save games on external USB drives, current-gen games can only launch from Xbox storage expansion cards. This ease of use, however, comes with a steep price. Even with a reduced price of $429.99, the latest Seagate option is quite shocking for many.

    Storage Options

    The only approved Xbox storage card options are NVMe SSDs from Seagate and Western Digital. These accessories fit into the expansion slot on Xbox Series X and Series S consoles. After installation, games load almost as quickly as they do from the internal storage. Up until now, the largest SSD that Microsoft accepted was 2TB.

    Digital Gaming Trends

    With Game Pass being a major selling point for Xbox consoles, big titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 can quickly fill up available storage. Microsoft has also shifted towards digital gaming, leading to less reliance on physical media. To meet this demand, the company launched the 2TB Galaxy Black Special Edition Series X in 2024. However, this still might not be enough for the most dedicated gamers.

    Pricing Concerns

    Those looking at Microsoft’s gaming systems are already spending quite a bit. Due to tariffs, the company increased the prices of its consoles and accessories in early May. The $499.99 MSRP of the 4TB Seagate Xbox storage expansion card only adds to the financial strain.

    The cost of the new Seagate SSD is particularly annoying when you consider that similar drives for the PS5 are much cheaper. Microsoft chose to use proprietary technology for its storage instead of standard NVMe M.2 SSD drives. While the installation is more straightforward, this decision results in higher prices for consumers.

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    Seagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High PriceSeagate Debuts 4TB Xbox Storage Expansion Card at High Price
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  • Roblox Grow a Garden Codes for June 2025: Get Rewards Now

    Roblox Grow a Garden Codes for June 2025: Get Rewards Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Popular Game: Grow a Garden is currently one of the most popular games on Roblox, focusing on gardening and crop mutation.
    2. Real-Time Growth: The plants in the game grow in real-time, enhancing the gardening experience for players.
    3. No Active Codes: As of June 2, 2025, there are no active codes available for players to redeem for rewards.
    4. Gameplay Rewards: Players can still enjoy the game through crop mutations, pets, and daily quests, despite the lack of new codes.
    5. Stay Updated: Players are encouraged to bookmark the page and check back regularly for new codes or updates, and join the game’s Discord for more information.

    At present, Grow a Garden stands out as one of the most popular games on Roblox. As the name indicates, it’s all about gardening. What makes this game unique is its crop mutation aspect, which allows players to create rare and valuable crops. Additionally, the plants grow in real-time, enhancing the overall gardening experience.

    Codes and Updates

    When it comes to codes, players usually get rewarded with in-game items following major updates or milestones. Recently, Grow a Garden introduced the Bizzy Bees update; however, no new codes were provided at this time.

    As of June 2, 2025, players looking for free rewards in Roblox’s Grow a Garden will notice that there are no active codes available at the moment. Normally, these codes would offer extra seed packs, eggs, and other helpful bonuses to expand your gardening empire, but currently, there are no working codes.

    Enjoying the Game

    Despite the lack of new codes, players can still take pleasure in crop mutations, pets, and a recent cosmetic update while earning rewards via daily quests and trading with friends.

    Previously, there was a code that players could use to get in-game seed packs, but as stated earlier, that code is now inactive.

    How to Redeem Codes

    Redeeming an active code in Grow a Garden is fairly simple. When a new code comes out, just follow these steps to claim your rewards:

    Last Updated on June 2nd, 2025 by Nitisha Upadhye.

    At the moment of this update, we have not discovered any fresh Grow a Garden codes. However, we recommend bookmarking this page and regularly checking back for any updates.

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    Roblox Grow a Garden Codes for June 2025: Get Rewards NowRoblox Grow a Garden Codes for June 2025: Get Rewards Now
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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Manual: Screen Protector and Safety Tips Revealed

    Nintendo Switch 2 Manual: Screen Protector and Safety Tips Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 comes with a factory-installed screen protector designed to prevent glass shards from detaching if the screen breaks.
    2. It’s advisable to apply an additional screen protector since the factory one is plastic and not very scratch-resistant.
    3. The console’s battery and Joy-Con 2 should be charged at least once every six months to maintain battery health.
    4. The operational temperature range for the console is between 41 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and it’s not suitable for high humidity or dusty environments.
    5. Users should clean dust from vents with a vacuum, wipe the chassis with a damp cloth, and use wrist straps for the Joy-Con 2 while being aware of surroundings when gaming.

    First units of the Nintendo Switch 2 will ship this Thursday. NintendoSoup has already found the official safety booklet, which reveals some intriguing information. Most importantly, the handheld console comes with a factory-installed screen protector that is meant to remain intact. This film is specifically made to keep glass shards from detaching if the screen glass were to break.

    Screen Protector Advice

    Since these protectors are typically plastic and not very good at resisting scratches, it’s still wise to apply an extra screen protector. The manual mentions that the console’s battery and the Joy-Con 2 need to be charged at least once every six months; neglecting this could reduce the battery’s lifespan. As per Nintendo, the console should be operated in temperatures ranging from 41 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the Nintendo Switch 2 is unsuitable for areas with very high humidity or excessive dust or smoke.

    Maintenance Tips

    If dust clogs the vents on the console or docking station, users should use a vacuum cleaner to clean it out. The chassis of the console should be wiped down with a damp cloth, but without any cleaning solutions. Furthermore, Nintendo suggests using a mouse pad when in mouse mode for the Joy-Con 2 to avoid scratching the table surface. Lastly, the manual reiterates the importance of using the wrist straps for the Joy-Con 2 and being mindful of your surroundings while gaming on the move.

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