Tag: Metroid Prime 4

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Mouse Mode: Ergonomic Concerns Raised

    Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Mouse Mode: Ergonomic Concerns Raised

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Joy-Cons of the Switch 2 can function as mice, allowing for new gameplay possibilities.
    2. Journalists reported discomfort with the Joy-Cons during long gaming sessions due to their slim design and button arrangement.
    3. Competitive gamers may benefit from using Joy-Cons as mice, but a new Switch Pro Controller will also be available for more traditional control.
    4. Nintendo’s mouse technology offers precise tracking and quick responses, which may lead to third-party enhancements for better comfort.
    5. Feedback on the Joy-Cons is mixed, with some testers finding it easy to adjust to the new controls.


    Before the reveal of the new console, one of the most interesting leaked specifications about the Switch 2 was that the Joy-Cons could function as mice. Nintendo’s announcement in January showcased the controllers smoothly moving across a surface. This led gamers to wonder how various games might utilize this feature. However, now that some journalists have had a chance to test the console, there are concerns regarding the comfort of the Switch 2 Joy-Cons. Eurogamer, for instance, has noted that they can be uncomfortable during long gaming sessions.

    Journalists’ Experience

    Two reporters from Eurogamer tried out the controllers at an event in Paris. Their main issues were related to the design of the Joy-Cons. While they are effective as controllers, they become hard to hold when tilted. Unlike ergonomic mice, which are designed with curves for better grip, the Joy-Cons are quite slim. This makes them feel awkward when moving across a desktop. Moreover, the arrangement of the buttons seems less intuitive in mouse mode, leading to some muscle strain.

    Competitive Edge

    For those into competitive gaming, using Joy-Cons as mice offers clear advantages. A new Switch Pro Controller will be available alongside the Switch 2, providing players with another option. However, analog sticks cannot deliver the same accuracy as mice in games like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, which fully utilizes the enhanced specs of the Switch 2. The updated Joy-Cons could also simplify playing strategy games like Civilization 7 on a console, though this ease might compromise comfort.

    Positive Feedback

    On the bright side, Nintendo’s unique mouse technology tracks movements with impressive precision and quick responses. This has sparked speculation among gamers about whether third-party products could enhance the functionality of this mode. Custom accessories could provide the level of comfort associated with ergonomic mice designed for PCs.

    Not everyone who tested the Switch 2’s mouse feature has had negative feedback. Alex Cranz from Gizmodo found it relatively easy to adjust to the new controls. When the console hits the market on June 5th, opinions on the Joy-Cons are likely to vary among gamers.

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  • Nintendo’s March 27 Switch Direct Won’t Feature Switch 2 Games

    Nintendo’s March 27 Switch Direct Won’t Feature Switch 2 Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo will host a Direct livestream on March 27th at 7:00 a.m. PST/10:00 a.m. EST, focusing on Switch games.
    2. There is a subsequent Direct on April 2nd for the Switch 2, causing concerns about overshadowing the March event.
    3. Sales for the existing Switch have slowed, prompting the need for new game announcements during the March Direct.
    4. Game journalist Jeff Grubb confirms ongoing development of Switch games, with the Switch 2 expected to arrive in several months.
    5. Fans are speculating about the appearance of titles like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A during the March 27th event.


    Ending the guesswork, Nintendo has announced a Direct stream for March 27th. This livestream, lasting around 30 minutes, will kick off at 7:00 a.m. PST/10:00 a.m. EST on Nintendo’s official YouTube channel. The company emphasized that this Direct will center on games for the Switch and not on the expected Switch 2 console.

    Timing Concerns

    Many players were unsure about the timing of this event, especially with another Direct scheduled for April 2nd regarding the Switch 2. There had been whispers about a February event, which ultimately didn’t happen. Sharing hardware details or launch titles for the new console could overshadow the subsequent show. Nevertheless, the Nintendo Direct on March 27th will focus on a backlog of unannounced titles for the current generation. Sales for the existing Switch have slowed down due to the lack of new, exciting titles.

    Game Updates

    In response to some leaks from earlier this week, gaming journalist Jeff Grubb stated that there are still plenty of Switch games being developed. Even if the exact release date for the Switch 2 is not known, it seems gamers will have to wait several more months for its arrival. The new console is designed to keep players engaged with the Switch ecosystem, and it will also support backward compatibility. Most games released before the Switch 2 comes out should function, possibly with some upgrades.

    Fan Speculation

    Naturally, fans are already guessing which games will be shown during the Nintendo Direct on March 27th. Two highly awaited titles include Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Nintendo has mentioned both games for the Switch, but they haven’t been confirmed as titles for the Switch 2 yet. Interestingly, the leaker extas1s recently suggested that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond won’t be showcased in the April 2nd event. Given the game’s history since 2017, players are hoping to see it on March 27th instead of facing another delay.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Games Expected to Release in Three Phases

    Nintendo Switch 2 Games Expected to Release in Three Phases

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release in three phases starting in June 2025.
    2. The first phase will focus on first-party games like Metroid Prime 4 and PowerWash Simulator 2.
    3. The second phase will feature third-party titles and is expected to launch in October or November 2025.
    4. The final phase of releases will occur at the end of 2025.
    5. More details about the games for the Switch 2 may be revealed on April 2, and it will support current and last-generation games with upgraded hardware.


    There has been a lot of talk about the Nintendo Switch 2, mainly focusing on its cost and hardware capabilities, while not much has been said about the games that will be available for the new console. Insider Gaming has recently provided insight into Nintendo’s plans for the year 2025.

    Launch Phases

    The release will reportedly take place in three stages. The first phase is expected to begin in June when the Nintendo Switch 2 is said to be released. This phase will mainly feature first-party games, likely including Metroid Prime 4, PowerWash Simulator 2, among others. The second phase is anticipated in October or November and will focus on third-party titles. Finally, the last phase will wrap up at the end of the year.

    Upcoming Titles

    We could expect more details about the Nintendo Switch 2 games on April 2, or possibly even earlier if recent rumors hold some truth. So far, it seems that the Switch 2 will handle current and last-generation games quite well, thanks to its enhanced Nvidia GPU and AI upscaling technology similar to DLSS.

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  • February Nintendo Direct Unlikely as Switch 2 Showcase Nears

    February Nintendo Direct Unlikely as Switch 2 Showcase Nears

    A February Nintendo Direct has become a bit of a ritual, but whether it will happen this year is still unclear. Nintendo has already announced a Switch 2 presentation set for April 2nd. However, the current lineup of games for the existing console is quite sparse, leaving players eager for updates on Switch titles. Sadly, analyst Nate the Hate, known for his accurate predictions in the past, is now questioning if the next Nintendo Direct will take place this month.

    Expectations and Doubts

    Last month, both Nate the Hate and various sources were optimistic about a February Nintendo Direct. Nate has successfully predicted events like the launch of the Nintendo Music streaming service. In addition, another well-known leaker, PH Brazil, seemed confident that the company would host one last Switch showcase to help boost their declining sales. Yet, Nate the Hate recently shared on X that he has not received any information confirming the event.

    What to Look Forward To

    Nintendo usually takes these chances to announce new games or hardware. Although a Switch 2 is scheduled for release in 2025, gamers were hoping for some insights into titles such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. While the game could benefit from the enhanced specs of the Nintendo Switch 2, it was anticipated to remain compatible with the current generation.

    Upcoming Events

    But gamers shouldn’t be too disappointed since there are still other Nintendo events coming up. Another Pokemon Day is scheduled for February 27th. Fans are eagerly awaiting a potential update for Pokemon Legends: Z-A. The one-year anniversary of the game’s announcement is near, and there have been few details shared since then.

    It is still possible for a Nintendo Direct to occur in February. However, as the days go by, Nintendo is really pushing the confirmation of the event to the very last minute this time around.

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  • Nintendo Announces Three Major First-Party Switch Games for 2025

    Nintendo Announces Three Major First-Party Switch Games for 2025

    With the anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2 in the latter part of 2025, current hardware sales are already feeling the impact. Sales for the existing Switch, which is priced at $299 on Amazon and has been around for eight years, have dropped by roughly one-third as many consumers are choosing to hold off on buying it.

    The Ongoing Importance of the Switch

    Even with the new console on the horizon, the Nintendo Switch continues to be an important element in Nintendo’s gaming offerings. Recent financial updates indicate that three major first-party games are confirmed to be launching on the Switch in 2025. Gamers can be excited for:

    This announcement is particularly noteworthy for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, which has encountered delays and even a shift in development teams. Additionally, Pokémon Legends: Z-A has sparked worries since there hasn’t been much news since its reveal on February 28, 2024, prompting speculation about potential delays.

    Anticipation Around Upcoming Events

    While specific release dates for the new Metroid and Pokémon games remain unannounced, two key events may provide further insights: Pokémon Day on February 27 and the upcoming Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2. Until those dates arrive, it’s uncertain whether Nintendo has more surprise titles planned for the current Switch or if they will turn their full attention to the new console after the Direct event.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date Rumored for March 2025

    Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date Rumored for March 2025

    After a classic ‘announcement of an announcement’, Nintendo has just recently shared details about its upcoming console (Nintendo Switch 2, Super Switch, etc.). While a specific release date hasn’t been revealed yet, the company has promised to launch it before April 2024. A new rumor from Weibo and Famiboards suggests a possible announcement timeframe.

    Possible Announcement Timeline

    The rumor indicates that the Switch 2 will be unveiled in January 2025, with a global release expected in March 2025. Although this timeline seems reasonable, it might be more financially beneficial for Nintendo to release it after April 2025, coinciding with the end of the fiscal year. However, since this is just a rumor, we will have to wait until January to see if it holds any truth.

    Shipping Plans

    Another post on Weibo supports the idea of a January announcement, stating that Nintendo aims to ship approximately 650,000 Switch 2 units “in each region” during the first month. This aligns with previous leaks suggesting that there will be 7 million consoles available at launch.

    Nintendo appears to be counting on the Switch 2 to achieve significant commercial success, and given the impressive sales figures of its predecessor, it is likely to do so. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is expected to be one of the launch titles for the Nintendo Switch 2. Players will also be able to enjoy it on their original Switch, as Nintendo has confirmed that both platforms will support full backward compatibility.

    Final Thoughts

    In conclusion, while the details surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 remain speculative, the excitement is building among fans. The potential for a January announcement and the ambitious shipping plans hint at a major release on the horizon. Only time will tell if these rumors turn out to be true, but for now, anticipation continues to grow.

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  • Nintendo Confirms Metroid Prime 4 Release Date Soon

    Nintendo Confirms Metroid Prime 4 Release Date Soon

    Metroid is surely one of Nintendo’s most important games. The first game came out in Japan in 1986 and reached the USA in 1987, making the NES controllers work hard and changing gaming forever with its special mix of exploring and adventuring. Together with Castlevania, it created the term “Metroidvania.” This phrase still describes games that feature large, connected worlds that promote exploration, often without a clear goal, while slowly unlocking new areas through gaining new skills or items.

    The Shift to 3D

    In 2002, Nintendo brought the Metroid series into the 3D realm for the first time with Metroid Prime, which was a huge moment in gaming history. The latest edition, Metroid Prime 3: Corruption, debuted on the Nintendo Wii in 2007, leaving fans eagerly waiting for nearly twenty years for a new game. At last, in June 2024, the anticipation ended: Nintendo released the announcement trailer for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, showing gameplay and bringing back Samus Aran.

    A Bumpy Road to Release

    However, the path to Metroid Prime 4: Beyond wasn’t easy. It was first announced at E3 2017, but faced a big challenge in 2019 when Nintendo opted to start from scratch. In a video, Shinya Takahashi shared that they had restarted development with a different studio in charge. While the delay was tough for fans, many appreciated Nintendo’s transparency and honesty during the whole situation.

    Updates on the Future

    The announcement trailer already stated that Metroid Prime 4 will come out in 2025, but not much information has come out since then. Recently, there’s been a tiny update: the official Metroid Prime 4 website now says “Coming soon.” Even though the exact meaning isn’t clear, it suggests that the sequel to this legendary series might be available in the first part of the year instead of later. A release that aligns with the expected March 2025 launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 seems very likely.

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