Tag: Mario Kart World

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Surpasses PS5 in French Console Sales Record

    Nintendo Switch 2 Surpasses PS5 in French Console Sales Record

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sales of the Switch 2 have exceeded 200,000 units in France, surpassing PS5 sales during the same period.
    2. The launch generated €130 million in revenue in France, indicating strong demand in one of Nintendo’s largest EU markets.
    3. 95% of Switch owners have purchased Mario Kart World, highlighting the game’s immense popularity.
    4. Concerns about the initial game lineup exist, but titles like Mario Kart World and Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition are maintaining customer interest.
    5. Over 3 million Switch 2 consoles were sold globally within the first 24 hours, breaking records set by the PS4 and PS5.


    Days after the June 5th release of the Switch 2, estimates for console sales are starting to come in. Pierre485, who follows the EU gaming market, shares insights on how French consumers are reacting to the launch of the handheld device. Although Nintendo hasn’t officially confirmed these numbers, he claims that sales have already surpassed 200,000 units. This figure is higher than the PS5, which sold 107,000 units during the same timeframe. The demand for the new console is strong worldwide, with similar forecasts seen in other areas.

    Strong Sales in France

    In France, the launch of the Switch 2 has generated an impressive €130 million in revenue. As one of the largest EU markets for Nintendo, this positive start is promising for other European countries. The company’s efforts to create a solid supply of consoles to deter scalpers appear to be working well. Unlike the situations with the Xbox Series X, PS5, and the original Switch, retailers have effectively met the pre-order demand for the Switch 2. Even gamers who didn’t pre-order have been able to find the handheld available in stores.

    Mario Kart World Popularity

    Another interesting fact from Pierre485’s sales overview is about Mario Kart World. A whopping 95% of Switch owners have bought this game, indicating its popularity. While the Mario Kart World Bundle is well-liked, many players have also opted to purchase a standalone version of the game.

    Concerns Over Launch Lineup

    Before the Switch 2’s debut, some experts voiced worries about a less-than-stellar first-party launch lineup. Follow-up games from Nintendo, such as Donkey Kong Bananza, won’t be released until July 17th. Nevertheless, Mario Kart World, along with third-party titles like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, is keeping customers happy.

    Nintendo Prime has also disclosed that over 3 million Switch 2 consoles were sold globally within the first 24 hours. This figure is significantly greater than what the PS4 and PS5 achieved, and the handheld is set to break even more records.

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  • Switch 2 Games Load Slower from Cartridges than MicroSD or Internal Storage

    Switch 2 Games Load Slower from Cartridges than MicroSD or Internal Storage

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 offers various storage options: internal storage, microSD Express cards, and Game-Key Cards, affecting game loading times.
    2. Internal storage (256GB UFS) performs the best, booting games in 16.60 seconds, while microSD Express cards range from 19.18 to 19.78 seconds, and cartridges take 23.91 seconds.
    3. Slower storage options could impact gameplay performance, especially for games that require loading large amounts of data.
    4. Nintendo may be limiting publishers to expensive 64GB cartridges, encouraging a shift towards digital sales over physical media.
    5. There are hopes that Nintendo will allow games from Game Cards to be installed in internal storage for faster loading and better game preservation.


    The various options for playing or storing Switch 2 games can make it hard for customers to decide. Besides cartridges, there’s internal storage, microSD Express cards, and even Game-Key Cards to think about. Nintendo fans who care about speed can look at a new benchmark that compares these different formats. It might not be surprising that the console’s built-in flash storage comes out on top, but the slower performance of Switch 2 cartridges could catch some gamers off guard.

    YouTuber’s Analysis

    YouTuber 4416Y took a closer look at the Switch 2 storage options using Mario Kart World for his test. In the video, viewers can see how fast the console boots the game right from the Home Menu. The Switch 2 has 256GB UFS internal storage, which achieves a speedy time of 16.60 seconds. Meanwhile, microSD Express cards from brands like SanDisk, Samsung, and Lexar take second place with times ranging from 19.18 to 19.78 seconds. Lastly, the Game Card or cartridge lags behind, clocking in at 23.91 seconds.

    Impact on Gameplay

    When a game needs to load a lot of data during play, having slower storage could really affect how it performs. The internals of Switch 2 cartridges haven’t been fully examined, but many think they use non-volatile flash memory. While the original Switch Game Cards have the same tech, the newer cartridges do offer quicker read speeds. Sadly, they still can’t match the performance of other storage formats that the handheld supports.

    Digital Gaming Shift

    Supporters of digital gaming now have a new reason to favor downloads over traditional physical media. There are rumors that Nintendo is restricting publishers to costly 64GB cartridges. Because smaller, cheaper options aren’t available, companies stand to gain more from digital sales. The release of Game-Key Cards tries to cater to both sides by providing physical media that depends on downloaded content.

    Some fans are hoping that Nintendo will let users install Switch 2 games from Game Cards into internal storage. This way, game preservation enthusiasts could enjoy faster load times while building up their cartridge collections.

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  • Unlock the Eighth Grand Prix in Mario Kart World Guide

    Unlock the Eighth Grand Prix in Mario Kart World Guide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mario Kart World for Nintendo Switch 2 starts with seven visible grand prizes, but an eighth can be unlocked.
    2. Historical context shows that previous Mario Kart games typically included eight grand prizes, except for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which had twelve.
    3. Completing the final grand prix reveals a familiar animation of Rainbow Road, allowing exploration of a new futuristic world.
    4. Unlocking the “Special Cup” introduces four new circuits: Acorn Heights, Mario Circuit, Peach Stadium, and Rainbow Road.
    5. The unique unlocking method hints at potential future DLCs, including additional grand prix and a 200cc mode.


    While gamers of Nintendo Switch 2 were excited to play Mario Kart World at the console’s launch, some noticed that there were only seven grand prizes available. However, there’s actually an eighth prize that can be unlocked through a specific method.

    Historical Context

    Since Mario Kart DS came out in 2005, each new version has included eight grand prizes, with each prize linked to four races. Yet, the keen observers might remember that Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which came to the Nintendo Switch, was different since it offered 12 grand prizes—four of those were from a Wii U DLC.

    Unlocking the Mystery

    In this fresh version released just yesterday for Nintendo Switch 2, players can only see seven grand prizes at first. But once you complete the final grand prix, an animation pops up on your screen. This animation is one that many fans will recognize; it’s the Rainbow Road, now with a new twist. It allows you to explore freely in this vibrant, futuristic world.

    At this moment, a new cup called the “Special Cup” becomes available. Digging deeper into this, you’ll find four circuits: Acorn Heights, Mario Circuit, Peach Stadium, and of course, the Rainbow Road.

    Looking Ahead

    With this secret cup, Mario Kart World stays true to its predecessors, except for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. The unlocking method for this championship is unprecedented in the franchise’s timeline. Thus, it’s possible that developers may introduce a DLC featuring four grand prix in the near future, alongside the 200cc mode, which is not currently available. To further highlight this, the open world provides numerous options and new features that are sure to attract all types of players.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date Patch Live: Specs and Game Impressions

    Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date Patch Live: Specs and Game Impressions

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 launch includes a worldwide day-one patch (20.1.1) with key features like microSD Express support and access to Nintendo Switch Online and eShop.
    2. New features in the patch include GameChat for voice/video chatting and Virtual Game Cards for digital gaming across devices, along with game and save data transfer from the original Switch.
    3. New Zealand players get early access to the Switch 2, with live streams for Mario Kart World highlighting smooth performance in docked mode.
    4. The Nintendo eShop has improved, allowing purchases of upgrade packs for games that benefit from the Switch 2’s enhanced specs, along with free updates for games like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
    5. Gamers are actively sharing their experiences and reactions to Switch 2 games as midnight launch events begin in other regions.


    For gamers in certain time zones, the day of the Switch 2 launch has finally arrived. Thankfully, Nintendo has rolled out the essential day-one patch worldwide. The 20.1.1 update introduces key features, including the use of the microSD Express card slot. Players can also access Nintendo Switch Online and the eShop. This means that fans can start sharing their initial experiences with Switch 2 games and the console’s performance.

    Patch Features Unveiled

    Nintendo Everything has provided a detailed list of what the inaugural Switch 2 patch enables. In addition to online capabilities, GameChat is now available for those wanting to voice or video chat. Virtual Game Cards are also functional, a feature that was already present on the original Switch. This enhancement makes digital gaming more attractive, letting users insert virtual cartridges across different handheld devices. Lastly, Nintendo has enabled the transfer of games and save data from the original Switch to the Switch 2.

    Early Access for New Zealand Players

    Typically, when a new console or game launches, players in New Zealand are often the first to experience it. This trend continues with the Switch 2, as live streams for Mario Kart World have kicked off. This kart racing game is included in a Switch 2 bundle and serves as a prime candidate for early testing. Up to now, there have been no significant surprises, with reports highlighting smooth performance in docked mode. Some observers feel that the game has a more laid-back vibe, but it’s still early to see how competitive gamers will respond.

    Enhanced eShop Experience

    The Nintendo eShop has gained new significance with the release of this latest handheld. Gamers can buy upgrade packs for various Switch games that will utilize the enhanced specs of the Switch 2. Other updates for games like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are being offered for free, enabling 60 fps gameplay. Now that the Switch 2 is available, players are noticing that browsing the marketplace is much more responsive. However, the only letdown is the absence of background music.

    As midnight launch events begin in other regions, reactions from gamers about Switch 2 games and the system will keep pouring in.

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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 Denies AI Images in Mario Kart After Billboard Claims

    Nintendo Denies AI Images in Mario Kart After Billboard Claims

    Key Takeaways

    1. AI-generated images in Mario Kart World raised questions among gamers due to their unusual designs, despite a Nintendo spokesperson clarifying that AI artwork is not involved in the game.

    2. The game’s vast open-world tracks present a challenge for detailed design, making AI appear to be an attractive option, but Nintendo is cautious about its use.

    3. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa acknowledged the potential of AI for enhancing character behavior but expressed concerns over legal issues related to AI-generated images.

    4. Shigeru Miyamoto, a key figure at Nintendo, has shown reluctance to adopt AI technologies, preferring not to follow competitors like Sony, which has patented AI tools for game asset creation.

    5. While gamers accept AI for improving gameplay dynamics, there is significant resistance to the idea of AI-generated visuals in premium games like Mario Kart World, reflecting broader concerns within the gaming community.


    The use of AI in video games has stirred up a lot of debate. In a recent Nintendo Treehouse event, spectators spotted odd billboards on the Mario Kart World tracks. These AI-generated images showcased recognizable items, but their designs were quite unusual. A Nintendo spokesperson clarified to Eurogamer that AI artwork doesn’t play a part in Mario Kart World.

    Skepticism Among Gamers

    After looking closely at the Mario Kart World footage, many players questioned the presence of AI images. However, a few billboards did raise eyebrows. For instance, there was a construction advertisement for a bridge, where certain elements of the design felt out of place. Nearby was an image of a skyscraper that didn’t match any real-life buildings. Additionally, one billboard featured a car with windows that were strangely tall. Many current AI tools simply don’t have the finesse or training to produce realistic designs.

    Ambition and Caution

    Mario Kart World stands as the most ambitious installment in the series, showcasing vast open-world tracks. With the challenge of populating these areas with intricate details, using AI might seem like an attractive shortcut. Nevertheless, key figures at Nintendo have been slow to adopt generative AI. Last July, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa mentioned that while AI could enhance the behavior of “opponent characters,” he was cautious about the legal implications surrounding images created by machines.

    Resistance to Change

    Shigeru Miyamoto, the renowned game director, designer, and producer at Nintendo, also expressed reluctance towards recent AI advancements. In a September 2024 interview, he indicated that the company would not imitate some of its rivals. For instance, Sony has secured a patent for AI technology that assists artists in crafting game assets.

    Most gamers are fine with developers utilizing AI to make enemies act more authentically. However, the idea of $80 games like Mario Kart World incorporating AI images would change the conversation. The backlash from the Ark: Survival Evolved trailer serves as a cautionary tale for the gaming industry.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Games Over 70 GB: Storage Space Alert

    Nintendo Switch 2 Games Over 70 GB: Storage Space Alert

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 will start shipping on June 5, and pre-orders may require an extra memory card due to large game sizes.
    2. Some Nintendo titles have increased storage requirements, with Mario Kart World at 23.4 GB and Donkey Kong Bananza at 10 GB.
    3. Third-party games can occupy significant space, with titles like Split Fiction needing 73 GB and Cyberpunk 2077 at 59 GB.
    4. Storage updates for existing Nintendo games also increase their size, such as The Legend of Zelda updates adding 9.8 GB and 3.6 GB.
    5. The Nintendo Switch 2 supports microSD Express cards up to 2TB for expanded game storage, with options like the Lexar 1TB and SanDisk 2TB cards available.


    The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to begin shipping on June 5. If you’ve already pre-ordered this console, you might need an extra memory card because certain new games demand more than 50 GB of space. This means you could fill the console’s internal storage after downloading just four games.

    Game Storage Requirements

    Typically, Nintendo’s own titles are not too large, and the Nintendo Switch 2 keeps this trend. For instance, Mario Kart World requires 23.4 GB, which is over three times larger than Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Additionally, Donkey Kong Bananza takes up 10 GB. The updates for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom raise the storage needs by 9.8 GB and 3.6 GB, respectively. Meanwhile, the upgrade for Kirby and the Forgotten Land nearly triples its storage requirement to 16.7 GB.

    Third-Party Game Sizes

    Some third-party games can take up a lot of space. For instance, Split Fiction needs 73 GB on the Nintendo Switch 2, which is only about 10% less than what is required on other platforms. Cyberpunk 2077 and Hitman World of Assassination both clock in at 59 GB, while Yakuza 0 needs 53.7 GB. The differences are significant, as shown by Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, which takes up 5.8 GB on the original Switch and 18.1 GB on the new version.

    Storage Expansion Options

    The Nintendo Switch 2 will be compatible with microSD Express cards that can hold up to 2TB, providing ample room for a variety of games. Some of the supported cards are the Lexar 1TB Play Micro SD Card and the SanDisk 2TB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card.

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  • Costco Offers Mario Kart World & Switch Online Bundle at Great Price

    Costco Offers Mario Kart World & Switch Online Bundle at Great Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. Costco Canada leaked the Switch 2 price and is avoiding pre-order chaos, while U.S. Costco prepares for a special bundle release on June 5th.
    2. The bundle includes the Switch 2 console, a digital download of Mario Kart World, and a 12-month subscription to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack for a potential price of $499.99.
    3. The Mario Kart World game alone costs $79.99, making the Costco bundle a potentially significant savings option for gamers.
    4. Customers must have an annual Costco membership (ranging from $65 to $130) to access the deal, and the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offer is only valid for new subscribers.
    5. Despite the appealing offer, past experiences suggest that Costco might still face significant crowds on release day.


    Costco Canada made news in February when it leaked information about the Switch 2’s price. Since that time, the store has avoided the frenzy surrounding pre-orders. However, it seems that U.S. Costco will release a special bundle when the console launches on June 5th. This package will come with the handheld console, a digital download of Mario Kart World, and a 12-month subscription to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. The price could make this Costco offer quite appealing, with unverified reports suggesting a cost of $499.99.

    Price and Offer Details

    The listing was first spotted by Wario64 on social media. Customers can get a year of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack for $49.99. The popular Mario Kart World bundle, which many are considering for Switch 2 pre-orders, has a price tag of $499.99. Wario64 hinted that Costco members might see a discount dropping the price from $549.99 to $539.99. After reaching out, some customers mentioned that a lower price for the Switch 2 might be possible.

    Bundle Savings

    According to Famiboards and some Reddit users, the Costco bundle might be available for as low as $499.99. After receiving backlash for the pricing of certain Switch 2 games, this deal could be the best option for those looking to save. Just the Mario Kart World game costs $79.99, whether for physical or digital versions in the U.S. The Nintendo Switch Online offer adds extra value, offering more than just multiplayer gaming. Additionally, with the Expansion Pack, players can enjoy new GameCube titles that will be added to the service on June 5th.

    Membership and Limitations

    Even with the appealing offer, the Costco Switch 2 deal comes with some conditions. To avoid extra fees, customers must have an annual Costco membership, which ranges from $65 to $130. Furthermore, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack bonus is only valid for new subscribers.

    Gamers who are annoyed by the limited pre-order options for the Switch 2 might think these requirements will keep the crowds away. However, Costco is not exempt from the chaos of release days, as seen in past incidents involving Pokémon cards.

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  • Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

    Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 has an impressive launch lineup featuring many popular third-party games.
    2. Gamers are disappointed by the lack of a 3D Mario game since Super Mario Odyssey, released eight years ago.
    3. Doug Bowser hinted at future Mario games, encouraging fans to “stay tuned.”
    4. Some analysts, like Krysta Yang, believe focusing on Mario Kart World may not be the best choice and suggest showcasing a new 3D open-world game instead.
    5. Over 20 games will launch with the Switch 2 on June 5th, but third-party titles dominate the lineup, leaving limited Nintendo offerings.


    The launch lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2 is quite impressive, featuring many well-known third-party games. However, some gamers are still unhappy about the absence of a 3D Mario game. Since Super Mario Odyssey was released on the Switch eight years ago, there has been no announcement for a sequel. Recently, when asked about the future of Mario games, Doug Bowser, the President of Nintendo of America, provided a glimmer of hope for fans. He also conveyed that the variety of games available for the Switch 2 will keep players entertained for quite a while.

    Nintendo’s Response

    When CNN inquired why a Mario platformer hasn’t been mentioned yet, Bowser urged Nintendo enthusiasts to “stay tuned.” He suggested that while there are plenty of games for the Switch 2, Mario, the iconic plumber, will still play a significant role in the new handheld’s library.

    Mixed Reactions

    As it became clear that Mario Kart World would be the main focus for the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2nd, not all industry analysts were in favor. Former Nintendo PR Manager Krysta Yang believed that putting the spotlight on the kart racing game was a misstep. On her Kit & Krysta podcast, she proposed that Nintendo should showcase a 3D open-world game that could utilize the enhanced specs of the Switch 2. A prime example she mentioned was The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which inspired many Wii U players to switch to the original model.

    A Change of Heart

    After the complete reveal of the Switch 2 launch titles, Yang began to recognize the variety of choices available. Even though Mario Kart World might not feature a 120 fps option, its off-road mechanics introduce fresh elements to the previous racing games. Still, Donkey Kong Bananza, scheduled to launch on July 17th, will have the responsibility of representing the 3D platforming genre. Over 20 games are set to debut with the Switch 2 on June 5th, but it’s worth noting that third-party titles overshadow a limited selection of Nintendo’s offerings.

    Unfortunately, Bowser did not provide specific details on when Super Mario Odyssey 2 or another 3D Mario title might be released on the Switch 2. Until that highly anticipated moment arrives, gamers will have to settle for racing against Mario on the tracks.

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  • Strong Switch 2 Launch Titles Boosted by Ex-Nintendo Praise

    Strong Switch 2 Launch Titles Boosted by Ex-Nintendo Praise

    Key Takeaways

    1. Concerns about insufficient marketing details for the Switch 2, particularly regarding price and game information.
    2. Nintendo is focusing on a main first-party game, with Mario Kart World featured prominently in marketing and bundles.
    3. The Switch 2 will launch with over 20 titles, including enhanced versions of popular games and GameCube classics for subscribers.
    4. Notable third-party games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy will be available at launch, supported by the Switch 2’s upgraded specs.
    5. Tariffs and unclear pricing and pre-order details may dampen excitement for North American customers.


    Kit & Krysta have expressed some concerns about Nintendo’s approach to marketing its upcoming console. A lot of feedback has pointed out the insufficient details regarding the price of the Switch 2 and the games. Nevertheless, during a recent podcast, the former Nintendo PR managers commended the variety of launch titles for the Switch 2. While there’s a strong focus on third-party games, the overall selection is broad enough to attract those willing to buy early.

    Single First-Party Focus

    The podcast highlighted that, similar to the original Switch, Nintendo is centering its attention on a main first-party game. Back in 2017, pre-launch videos prominently featured The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Fast forward eight years, and this time, Mario Kart World takes the spotlight and is included in a Switch 2 bundle. Unlike with the previous console, where Nintendo had to persuade Wii U owners to switch to a hybrid handheld, the launch games for Switch 2 aim to convert existing Switch users to an improved model. Another plus is backward compatibility, which was something the Wii U didn’t offer.

    More Launch Titles

    Reflecting on the Switch’s launch, there were nine initial games available, or ten if you count the two Shovel Knight titles as separate. For the Switch 2, buyers will have over 20 options to choose from. Among the titles, there are Switch 2 Edition games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, now with enhanced performance. Additionally, those who subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online+ Expansion Pack can enjoy new GameCube classics.

    Third-Party Games and Tariff Issues

    Notable third-party games, such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy, will also be launched alongside Nintendo’s new console. With the upgraded specs of the Switch 2, it seems that resource-heavy games are finally feasible. However, Kit & Krysta pointed out that many of these titles have been around on other platforms for a while now.

    The excitement around Nintendo’s handheld has been slightly dampened by the effects of tariffs. Even though the launch titles for the Switch 2 are impressive, the pricing and pre-order details remain unclear for customers in North America.

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