Tag: Nintendo

April 15, 2025
Japanese Court Sentences Modded Switch Seller in Nintendo Victory
Key Takeaways
1. A Japanese court sentenced Fumihiro Otobe to two years in prison (suspended for three years) for selling modified Switch consoles used for piracy.
2. Otobe was fined approximately $3,500 for altering Switch motherboards to run pirated games and selling them with a bundle of 27 games.
3. In contrast, Canadian hacker Gary Bowser received a 40-month prison sentence for creating devices that bypassed the Switch’s anti-piracy features and still owes Nintendo $14.5 million.
4. Nintendo actively targets emulator creators, leading to the shutdown of the Yuzu emulator following a lawsuit, despite emulators not being illegal.
5. With upcoming Switch 2 titles priced at $80 or more, hackers are likely to seek ways to bypass the new console’s protections, prompting Nintendo to continue its anti-piracy efforts globally.
Nintendo has been actively targeting those who enable the illegal downloading of Switch games. While prison sentences have been rare, on April 14th, a 58-year-old individual was found guilty by a Japanese court for selling modified Switch consoles. This ruling represents the first jail time related to Nintendo piracy in Japan.
Court Ruling and Penalties
Fumihiro Otobe, the convicted man, received a two-year prison sentence, but the court suspended it for three years. This means he probably won’t serve any time behind bars, but he does have to pay a fine of about $3,500. Otobe altered standard Switch motherboards to run pirated games and sold these modified parts for around $195, which included a bundle of 27 games.
Comparisons with Other Cases
In contrast to Otobe’s case, a Canadian hacker got a much harsher punishment. Gary Bowser was arrested in 2020 and sentenced to 40 months in prison. He was part of the Team Xecuter group, which created devices that bypassed the Switch’s anti-piracy features. Bowser was released after 14 months due to good behavior but still owes Nintendo a staggering $14.5 million.
Nintendo’s Ongoing Battle Against Piracy
Nintendo has also been firm in its actions against emulator creators. While the company does not view emulators as illegal per se, it acknowledges that these programs, which replicate the Switch on PCs and other devices, are often misused for piracy. Following a lawsuit against Yuzu, a well-known emulator, its developers shut down all activities.
Modern games often require internet access, which prevents users with pirated versions from accessing essential features. Nevertheless, upcoming Switch 2 titles like Mario Kart World are expected to retail for $80 or more. As a result, hackers are likely already looking for methods to circumvent the new console’s protections. With the stakes higher, Nintendo is set to continue its fight against piracy both in Japan and globally.
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Tags: Nintendo, piracy, Switch
April 10, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Imports in Vietnam: US Pre-Order News Awaited
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo has shifted a significant portion of Switch 2 production to Vietnam, with over 750,000 units shipped to the US in February.
2. Most consoles made in Vietnam are intended for the US market due to potential tariff increases in July.
3. Global production still relies on China, Taiwan, and Cambodia, but imports from Vietnam may help keep prices lower for US customers.
4. Manufacturing costs for the Switch 2 are estimated at around $400, which is higher than previous predictions.
5. Fan concerns about the Switch 2’s pricing and upcoming game releases may influence their decision to stick with the original Switch.
Previous rumors about the Switch 2 mentioned that Nintendo moved a lot of its console manufacturing to Vietnam. Now, Bloomberg brings more specific figures from customs data. A major assembler sent over 750,000 units from Vietnam to the United States in February. With a 90-day delay on Trump tariffs, gamers in the US are optimistic that pre-orders for the Switch 2 will kick off soon.
Console Production Focused on the US
Beginning in January, nearly all consoles made in Vietnam were destined for the US market. Since higher tariffs could come back in July, Nintendo plans to ship as many Switch 2 consoles from Vietnam to the US as they can. The company has postponed pre-orders for the Switch 2, leading to a backlog of unclaimed units. While Canada faced similar issues, fans in other nations, including the UK, are still able to reserve their consoles.
Global Production Landscape
Other regions still account for two-thirds of the Switch 2’s production. China, Taiwan, and Cambodia are expected to provide consoles for the rest of the globe. However, due to high Trump tariffs on China, imports from Vietnam could help keep prices lower for American customers when it comes to the Switch 2.
The Bloomberg report also featured information from stock analyst Robin Zhu. While 10% tariffs are still applied to products from Vietnam, Zhu thinks Nintendo can handle the extra costs. The analyst estimates that it costs the gaming titan about $400 to manufacture the console, which is higher than other predictions.
Fan Reactions and Future Pricing
Nintendo has faced criticism regarding the price of the Switch 2 and the cost of physical games like Mario Kart World. Any future price increases might push fans to stick with the original Switch. Upcoming games such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, which will launch on the original Switch, make the new system seem a bit less enticing. On the Kit & Krysta podcast, former Nintendo staffers didn’t rule out a price hike. However, they feel the company aims to avoid any further negative publicity.
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Tags: Bloomberg, Nintendo, Switch 2
April 8, 2025
Nintendo Confirms Game-Key Cards Can Be Loaned or Resold
Key Takeaways
1. Game-Key Cards allow players to download games to the Switch 2 without storing them on the card itself.
2. An internet connection is required for the initial game download, but afterward, the Game-Key Card functions like a regular Game Card.
3. Game-Key Cards are not tied to a specific console or Nintendo account, allowing for borrowing, renting, or selling.
4. They are primarily designed for games larger than the 64GB limit of standard Switch 2 Game Cards, but may also be used for smaller games.
5. Concerns about the long-term availability of games linked to Game-Key Cards exist, but past experiences with Nintendo systems suggest ongoing access to downloaded titles.
Along with a brand new Game Card, Nintendo has also revealed that the Switch 2 will feature something called Game-Key Cards. These cards resemble Game Cards but do not hold an actual game. Instead, they act as a key for downloading the complete game onto your Switch 2. Recently, Nintendo shared more details about these Game-Key Cards.
How Game-Key Cards Work
When you buy a Game-Key Card, you need to insert it into the console and then download the game. An internet connection is necessary the first time you start the game. After that, players simply need to insert the Game-Key Card into the Switch 2 to play, just as they would with a regular Game Card.
Transferable and Flexible
Even though it might seem like the Game-Key Card is linked to a specific console, that’s not true. Nintendo’s Tetsuya Sasaki mentioned that the Game-Key Card isn’t associated with any console or Nintendo account, allowing them to be borrowed, rented, or sold just like a typical Game Card.
Purpose Behind Game-Key Cards
According to Doug Bowser, the president of Nintendo America, the purpose of the Game-Key Cards is for publishers to sell physical versions of games that exceed the 64GB limit of the Nintendo Switch 2 Game Cards. However, it’s still possible that some publishers might choose to use Game-Key Cards even if their games are smaller than the 64GB maximum file size of a Switch 2 Game Card.
Future Concerns
Even with the clarification that Game-Key Cards aren’t connected to accounts like digital downloads, some people worry about the long-term future of these games if the servers were to go offline. However, since owners of the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U can still redownload their previously bought titles and updates even after the eShop has shut down for these systems, it’s reasonable to believe that those who purchase Game-Key Cards will continue to have access to download their games for many years to come.
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Tags: Game-Key Cards, Nintendo, Switch 2
April 5, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Delayed Indefinitely in the US
Key Takeaways
1. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. are delayed, originally set for April 9, 2025.
2. Nintendo will evaluate tariffs and market conditions before announcing a new pre-order date.
3. The official launch date for the Nintendo Switch 2 is June 5, 2025, but it may be delayed if tariffs worsen.
4. There are concerns that the console’s price may increase beyond the already high estimate of $450.
5. The higher pricing could make the console unaffordable for many gamers.
While the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 stirred up mixed reactions, there are plenty of Nintendo enthusiasts eager to pre-order the new console. Those in the United States might find themselves waiting longer than expected. A representative from the company shared this message:
Pre-order Delays Announced
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not begin on April 9, 2025, as they need to evaluate the potential effects of tariffs and changing market conditions. Nintendo plans to provide updates regarding the timing later on.
Originally, the pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 were set to start on April 9 in the U.S. Now, it’s uncertain when exactly they will commence. Nevertheless, the launch date for the console remains fixed at June 5. There is a possibility that this date may be delayed if the tariff situation worsens.
Price Concerns Rise
Additionally, there’s a significant chance that the Nintendo Switch 2 could be priced even higher due to these tariffs. Many people felt that $450 was already on the expensive side, and any further increase would make it unaffordable for even more gamers.
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Tags: Nintendo, pre-orders, Switch 2
April 3, 2025
New Trump Tariffs May Raise Nintendo Switch 2 Prices Further
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo has moved much of its hardware production to Vietnam to avoid U.S. tariffs on China, but new tariffs now threaten this strategy with a 46% import charge on Vietnamese goods.
2. Nearly 50% of Nintendo’s hardware is produced in Vietnam, including the Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, which is set to launch on June 5th.
3. Despite the shift to Vietnam, Nintendo still relies on China for some manufacturing, raising concerns about potential price increases for consumers.
4. The expected price for the Switch 2 has risen from $400 to $450, with additional costs for games like Mario Kart World, which is priced at $80.
5. Cambodia could be a potential alternative for production, but it faces its own challenges with steep 49% tariffs, creating uncertainty for future pricing stability.
Nintendo has shifted a lot of its hardware production to Vietnam to reduce the effects of U.S. tariffs on China. Sadly, President Trump’s new tariffs have introduced a hefty 46% charge on imports from Vietnam. Fans of gaming, especially those who are let down by the Switch 2 price, are now worried about potential price increases in the future.
Shift to Vietnam
The Japanese gaming giant started moving its factories to Vietnam back in 2019 as a response to previous tariffs from Trump aimed at China. Current estimates suggest that nearly 50% of Nintendo’s hardware is produced in this Southeast Asian nation. Among these products are the well-known Switch and the upcoming Switch 2 consoles. To counter an ongoing trade conflict, Nintendo sent a significant amount of its new gaming system to the U.S. as early as January.
Ongoing Dependence on China
Despite this shift, Nintendo still relies on China for some of its manufacturing, which means there are limits to its strategy. Gamers are left pondering whether the company had foreseen the new Trump tariffs affecting Vietnam. Some leaks regarding the Switch 2 hinted that it would be priced at $400. However, it turns out that the handheld device will actually cost $450, which is more than expected. On top of that, the costs for upgrading with Mario Kart World are surprising many, as it comes with an $80 price tag. Alternatively, consumers can buy a Switch 2 bundle that includes the game for $499.99.
Future Price Stability
If Nintendo had properly considered future tariffs, gamers might have seen a more stable price for the Switch 2. It’s also unlikely that Nintendo will make any adjustments before the console launches on June 5th. Nonetheless, it might not be long before buyers feel the effects of these import costs.
Cambodia appears to be a clear alternative for producing Nintendo’s consoles. The company already has operations in that country. However, Cambodia has recently been slapped with steep 49% tariffs. While consoles were exempt from China tariffs back in 2019, it’s uncertain if gamers can count on another break this time around.
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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2, Tariffs
April 1, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Dev Kits Lack 4K Output, Contradict Specs
Key Takeaways
1. Some Switch 2 development kits reportedly lack 4K output capabilities, raising questions about the console’s final specs.
2. Nintendo has not confirmed 4K support for the Switch 2, despite earlier leaks suggesting it might offer 4K signal output through its dock.
3. Visuals may rely on upscaling technologies like DLSS, rather than native 4K rendering, similar to other consoles like the PS5.
4. The absence of 4K capabilities could impact the marketing appeal of the Switch 2, especially as 4K TVs become more common.
5. Historical context shows that early development kits for consoles may not reflect final product specifications, suggesting caution in interpreting current reports.
Gamers are left puzzled following a recent report concerning Switch 2 development kits. During a recent session of the Insider Gaming Weekly podcast, Tom Henderson revealed that some of the kits sent to developers do not feature 4K output capabilities. Henderson got this information during the Game Developers Conference in March as well as from various email sources. It’s important to note that early development kits might not accurately represent the final specifications of the Switch 2.
Speculation Surrounding 4K Capabilities
Nintendo has yet to confirm that their upcoming console will support 4K. However, earlier leaks concerning the Switch 2 suggested that the dock would allow for a 4K signal output. It seems improbable that the console would have enough power to generate graphics in native 4K, particularly at 60 fps. Instead, it’s more likely that the visuals would be enhanced through a type of DLSS, allowing for an upscaled resolution from 720p or 1080p to 1440p or even 4K. While systems like the PS5 are marketed as 4K consoles, many games don’t actually run at that setting without some form of upscaling.
Impact on Marketing
While the difference in visual quality might not be vast, the Switch 2 could miss out on some marketing advantages. As 4K TVs have become cheaper, they are now a staple in many homes. Additionally, a lot of gamers would rather see Nintendo prioritize game development, as it seems unlikely the new console will support streaming 4K media.
Historical Context of Development Kits
Potential buyers should keep in mind the past of Switch development kits before jumping to conclusions. Prior to the launch of the original Switch in 2017, Nintendo is said to have released multiple versions of these kits. The earlier models were less robust, and it is thought that there were separate kits for both handheld and docked play. The absence of 4K output in the Switch 2 specs contradicts a report from NateTheHate in 2023, which claimed that Nintendo demonstrated The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild running at 4K/60 fps on a Switch 2.
Fans may not have to wait too long for Nintendo to clarify which rumors regarding the Switch 2 are true. The upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2nd is expected to highlight the console’s enhanced connectivity features.
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Tags: 4K output, Nintendo, Switch 2
April 1, 2025
Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Dev Kits to Prevent Leaks for Developers
Key Takeaways
1. Launch Timeline: Nintendo plans a three-phase launch for the Switch 2, starting with first-party titles, followed by third-party games from October to November.
2. Development Kit Shortage: Many developers, especially smaller ones, are struggling to obtain development kits for the Switch 2, which are essential for game creation.
3. Pressure on Developers: The delay in receiving development kits may impact developers aiming to release titles for the Switch 2 in 2025, as they have less time to prepare.
4. Leaks and Speculations: Despite Nintendo’s efforts to keep details private, there have been numerous leaks about the Switch 2, including a private demonstration at GamesCom 2023.
5. Upcoming Events: Nintendo is hosting Switch 2 Experience events in April, allowing attendees to try the console before its expected June launch.
Gamers aren’t the only ones eager for more details on the Switch 2. While rumors have hinted at a possible June launch, many developers are still waiting on development kits. In a recent podcast by Digital Foundry, John Linneman shared his experiences with various studios at the Game Developers Conference. He confirmed that these dev kits are hard to come by, particularly for smaller and medium-sized developers.
Launch Plans Revealed
Tom Henderson from Insider Gaming recently disclosed that Nintendo has a three-phase plan for the Switch 2’s launch. The focus will be on first-party titles initially, and then from October to November, third-party studios will take the center stage. Henderson noted that these developers might not receive their dev kits until June, which matches Linneman’s observations. Major partners like EA and Bandai Namco are believed to be exceptions to this rule.
Challenges for Developers
Many gamers find it puzzling that studios are being denied vital tools until the console is officially launched. Development kits, which are quite different from the retail consoles, are crucial for coding and debugging. Nintendo’s strategy to prioritize first-party games does give publishers some extra time. However, the delay in providing these resources puts pressure on companies that aim to release Switch 2 titles in 2025.
Leaks and Speculations
Despite Nintendo trying hard to keep things under wraps, leaks about the Switch 2 have become quite common. Reports suggest that the company showcased the console during a private demonstration at GamesCom 2023. With multiple patent filings, many gamers were not shocked by Nintendo’s announcement video back in January. Some expected features include detachable magnetic Joy-Con controllers.
If the Switch 2 indeed launches in June, it seems Nintendo has little faith in smaller developers to keep anything secret. It might also suggest that the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2nd will not reveal all the specs of the Switch 2. Meanwhile, Nintendo is organizing a series of Switch 2 Experience events in April, where attendees will get a chance to try out the console firsthand. It won’t be long before analysts start to examine the system’s inner workings.
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Tags: Digital Foundry, Nintendo, Switch 2
March 30, 2025
Nintendo Announces Zelda Live-Action Movie Release Date for 2027
Key Takeaways
1. A live-action movie based on The Legend of Zelda will be released globally on March 26, 2027.
2. The film may be the start of a trilogy, with filming scheduled in New Zealand from November 2025 to April 2026.
3. The storyline will follow Link’s quest to protect Hyrule from Ganon and will feature elements like monsters, dungeons, and puzzles.
4. Wes Ball, director of the Maze Runner trilogy, will direct the film, with Shigeru Miyamoto and Avi Arad as producers.
5. This Zelda movie is Nintendo’s third major film adaptation, following Detective Pikachu and the Super Mario Bros. Movie.
On Friday, a message on the newly-launched Nintendo Today app disclosed that a live-action movie based on Zelda is set to debut on March 26, 2027. The brief video, lasting just 21 seconds, solely indicated that the film related to The Legend of Zelda will be available globally on the stated date. No additional information regarding the movie was shared in that announcement.
Potential Trilogy Plans
Recent industry insights suggest that this film could be the beginning of a trilogy. According to Production List, a service that tracks film and television projects, filming is scheduled to occur in New Zealand from November 2025 until April 2026.
Storyline Overview
The site also presents a short synopsis indicating that the plot will center around Link, a young hero on a mission to protect Hyrule from Ganon, a warlord who aims to seize the powerful Triforce. Expect to see fearsome monsters, perilous dungeons, and intricate puzzles – all elements we’ve come to love from the cherished video games.
Creative Team
Wes Ball, known for directing the Maze Runner trilogy and the Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, will helm the project. Additionally, the film is being produced by Shigeru Miyamoto from Nintendo and Avi Arad, a veteran from Marvel.
With the new Zelda movie, Nintendo is embarking on its third major film adaptation, following Detective Pikachu and the successful Super Mario Bros. Movie. With a set release date, chosen filming location, and ambitious plans for a trilogy, The Legend of Zelda is shaping up to be one of Nintendo’s most daring cinematic endeavors to date.
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Tags: Nintendo, Wes Ball, Zelda Movie
March 28, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games Spark Upgrade Cost Questions
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo introduced the Virtual Game Card feature, allowing players to convert digital games into physical cards for easy sharing between consoles.
2. The Switch 2 will be backwards compatible, but only games linked to a Nintendo Account can use virtual game cards, raising concerns about how upgrades will work.
3. There may be special “Switch 2 Edition” games that are exclusive to the new console, leading to speculation about their features and potential costs.
4. Optimized versions of older games might be released, taking advantage of new technologies like DLSS and a 120Hz display to enhance gameplay.
5. Upgrade costs for Switch 2 Edition games remain unclear, with speculation that Nintendo may adopt a pricing model similar to Sony’s enhanced versions.
At the Switch Direct event on March 27, Nintendo unveiled its innovative Virtual Game Card feature. This new capability lets players turn their digital games into physical cards, making it easy to share or transfer them between consoles. Yet, the promotional page for this feature includes some important details in small print, hinting that there will be special Switch 2 Edition Games available for either upgrades or new purchases.
Backwards Compatibility Confirmed
Many Switch users found comfort in Nintendo’s January announcement regarding the Switch 2 being backwards compatible. However, the recent reveal of the Virtual Game Card feature has sparked worries about how current games will upgrade. Nintendo stated, “Compatible systems must be linked to a Nintendo Account to use virtual game cards. Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games can only be loaded on a Nintendo Switch 2 system.” The use of “Switch 2 Edition” has raised questions and speculation among fans.
Optimized Versions On The Horizon
Gamers were aware that most of the physical and digital games from the current Switch generation would still work with the Switch 2. These games might even benefit from some features unique to the new console. However, there is now speculation about independent optimized versions of older games. Reports about the Switch 2 have hinted at features like DLSS and a 120Hz display, which could enhance the experience of playing older titles. Nintendo might leverage these new technologies as a reason for players to buy Switch 2 Editions.
Upgrade Costs Remain Unclear
A major concern for Switch gamers is how much these upgrades will cost. Microsoft and Sony have very different approaches to this. Xbox offers Smart Delivery, allowing customers to get the best version of a game for their console without extra charges. Conversely, while most PS4 games are playable on the PS5, some publishers have opted to sell enhanced versions at an added cost. With Switch 2 Edition titles, it seems that Nintendo might adopt a model similar to Sony’s for backwards compatible games.
With the recent Switch Direct, Nintendo inadvertently raised more questions about the new console. Viewers also noticed the unclear joy-con C button featured in a promotion for the Nintendo Today! App. Fans are hopeful that the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2 will shed light on the controls for the Switch 2 and the options for upgrading games.
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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2, Virtual Game Card
March 27, 2025
Nintendo Launches Virtual Game Card Feature for Switch and Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. There are two ways to get games on a Nintendo Switch: physical game cards and digital versions from the eShop.
2. Nintendo is introducing a new feature called the Virtual Game Card, which stores digital games as virtual cards.
3. Users can switch virtual game cards between different Switch devices, but an internet connection is required for this process.
4. Players can lend virtual game cards to family members with a limit of one game per person and a maximum lending period of 2 weeks.
5. The Virtual Game Card feature will be available on the original Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, with a software update expected in late April.
There are two main options for getting games on a Nintendo Switch – either by purchasing a physical game card or by getting a digital version from the Nintendo eShop. Swapping physical game cards between different Switch systems is simple because they aren’t linked to a specific account or console. However, sharing digital games requires that the consoles be linked to the same Nintendo Account, designating one as the primary console while the others are marked as secondary. Now, Nintendo is introducing a new feature with the Nintendo Virtual Game Card.
New Virtual Game Card Concept
According to Nintendo, when you buy a digital game, it will be stored on your system as a virtual game card (imagine this like loading an ISO file onto a virtual drive). Once a virtual game card is active, it will display an icon similar to that of a physical game card thumbnail.
Switching Between Devices
If you want to play a game on a different Switch that you own, you can simply eject it from one device and load it onto the other. Keep in mind that ejecting and loading a virtual game card requires an internet connection. Once a virtual game card is removed from one device and used on another, it cannot be played on the first device anymore. Users will also be able to manage which games are accessible on each console.
Lending and Sharing Games
Nintendo will enable users to lend virtual game cards to family members within a group (up to 8 Nintendo account users), but there’s a limit of one game per person. The maximum lending period is 2 weeks, after which the game will automatically return to the original owner. When a game comes back, the save data stays on the borrower’s device so they can continue from where they left off when they borrow it again.
The Virtual Game Card feature will be available on the original Switch (currently offered on Amazon for $299.99) and the soon-to-be-released Switch 2. This feature will be introduced as a software update in late April for the original Switch.
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Tags: Nintendo, Nintendo Switch, Virtual Game Card