Tag: Nintendo

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
March 18, 2025
Pokémon Legends: Z-A Update Excites Gamers Awaiting Release Date
Key Takeaways
1. Pokémon Legends: Z-A won the title of Most Anticipated Game at the Famitsu Dengeki 2024 event despite its planned launch in late 2025.
2. Director Haruka Tochigi confirmed the game is in the “final fine-tuning phase” of development.
3. Mega Evolution is a key feature set to enhance gameplay, with a focus on a uniquely designed Victreebel.
4. The game will build on the battle mechanics from Pokémon Legends: Arceus, incorporating more real-time elements in an urban setting.
5. An April Nintendo Direct is expected to showcase the game, but it may face competition for attention from Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.
Despite a planned launch in late 2025, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is already raking in awards. At the Famitsu Dengeki 2024 event, Nintendo’s upcoming monster-hunting game snagged the title of Most Anticipated Game. More exciting for fans, director Haruka Tochigi shared a hopeful update on the game’s development. While he didn’t disclose a specific release date for Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Tochigi mentioned that they are in the “final fine-tuning phase.”
Insight from the Director
Pokémon specialist Lewtwo translated Tochigi’s announcement and shared it on social media. Having been part of Game Freak since 2013, this is the first major project for Lewtwo as a director. The development has gone well, as Tochigi remarked that the “release is just around the corner.”
Gameplay Enhancements
Tochigi also touched on a gameplay experience that will “Mega Evolve” from previous installments. Mega Evolution is among the most awaited features in this new title. A recent leak concerning Pokémon Legends: Z-A hinted at the uniquely designed Victreebel. This pitcher plant might see its abilities temporarily enhanced for the very first time.
The official Pokémon Presents trailer from last month showcased other new gameplay features. Pokémon Legends: Z-A aims to build on the 2022 Pokémon Legends: Arceus battle mechanics, adding more real-time elements. Nonetheless, the Game Freak title will be set entirely in an urban environment. Players can anticipate Lumiose City to be lively, filled with parks and greenery. Gamers will have the ability to leap across rooftops while they explore the area.
Anticipation for Release
With Tochigi’s encouraging update, gamers may start dreaming of an earlier release for Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Even though it might not come out alongside the Switch 2, the April Nintendo Direct is expected to showcase the game. However, Pokémon Legends: Z-A could face tough competition for attention from Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.
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Tags: Game Freak, Nintendo, Pokémon Legends: Z-A
March 14, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Rumored Price: $400 or More at Launch
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2 two months ago, with more details expected at the April 2 Nintendo Direct event.
2. Analysts believe the Switch 2 could be Nintendo’s biggest launch, with the company stockpiling up to eight million units.
3. Initial sales figures for the Switch and PlayStation 5 were 2.7 million and 4.5 million, respectively, which may have been affected by stock shortages.
4. Price predictions for the Switch 2 vary, with estimates ranging from $399 to $499, influenced by Nvidia’s pricing for components.
5. Overall expectations for the Switch 2’s launch are high, with significant stockpiling and uncertainty around pricing.
Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2 around two months ago, but there was little information shared about the new console. Since then, the company has remained silent regarding any updates. They are anticipated to reveal more details during their upcoming Nintendo Direct event, which is set for April 2.
Anticipations for the Launch
As reported by Takashi Mochizuki from Bloomberg, many analysts are optimistic that the Switch 2 will be Nintendo’s most significant launch to date. To prepare for this, the company is reportedly stockpiling up to eight million units, which would exceed the initial sales of both the Switch and PlayStation 5 (currently priced at $499 on Amazon). For context, the sales figures for these consoles were 2.7 million and 4.5 million, respectively, but those numbers might have been impacted by early stock shortages.
Uncertainty Around Pricing
However, there seems to be less consensus among analysts regarding the launch price of the Switch 2. Some speculate that Nintendo might price the new console at $399, aligning with earlier rumors. On the other hand, Mochizuki notes that others predict a price closer to $449 or even as much as $499, primarily because Nvidia is charging Nintendo between $130 and $150 for each Tegra SoC. Consequently, the Bloomberg editor suggests that the Switch 2 might “cost $400 or more,” indicating that it could surpass that $400 mark.
Conclusion
In summary, while details about the Switch 2 remain sparse, expectations are high for its launch. With significant stockpiling and varying price predictions, it will be interesting to see how Nintendo approaches this new console in the coming weeks.
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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2, Tegra SoC
March 11, 2025
Nintendo and Pokémon Company Marketing Tensions Revealed in Podcast
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo is one part of The Pokémon Company, alongside Game Freak and Creatures Inc., leading to internal disagreements.
2. Conflicts often arise over marketing strategies rather than game development, highlighted by recent discussions on the Kit & Krysta Podcast.
3. Minor disputes, like pronunciation and details in promotional materials, can become significant issues for dedicated Pokémon fans.
4. Historical tensions may stem from previous employment relationships, causing lingering conflicts within The Pokémon Company.
5. Upcoming Pokémon titles, like Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Pokémon Champions, are expected to bring further marketing challenges and potential tensions.
Gamers often find it hard to understand Nintendo’s connection with the Pokémon franchise. Nintendo is just one part of the trio that makes up The Pokémon Company. Game Freak is in charge of developing Pokémon games, while Creatures Inc. takes care of trading cards. This setup has caused various disagreements. A recent episode of the Kit & Krysta Podcast highlighted a clash between Nintendo of America and The Pokémon Company regarding marketing strategies for the beloved Pokémon.
Insights from Former Employees
Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang spent over ten years working at Nintendo of America, where they witnessed firsthand the conflicts between the different parties. Most of the disagreements arose with the U.S. branch of The Pokémon Company. Many issues started to surface around the time of the 2016 Pokémon Day celebration. However, the disputes were more about marketing strategies than the actual development of Pokémon games.
Notable Disputes
Some of the conflicts that Kit and Krysta discuss might seem trivial to casual gamers. For example, The Pokémon Company had a problem with Reggie Fils-Aimé’s way of saying “Pokémon” in a promotional video. Another disagreement involved the size of a Pokémon’s toenail in an ice sculpture. While most people might not notice these minor details, dedicated Pokémon fans tend to have a keen eye for specifics.
Historical Context of Tensions
The roots of these disagreements seem to connect to the history of staff at the American branch of The Pokémon Company. Some employees had previously been part of Nintendo of America before they left the company. Eventually, these same individuals ended up working with Nintendo again to help promote Pokémon. Any lingering bitterness over lost jobs may have fostered internal conflicts within The Pokémon Company.
Looking Ahead
Some gamers might have wanted updates on how Game Freak and Nintendo are handling performance issues in various games. Nevertheless, fans can now anticipate Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Pokémon Champions. With new Pokémon titles ready to be promoted, there will likely be no shortage of opportunities for further tensions within The Pokémon Company.
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Tags: Kit & Krysta Podcast, Nintendo, Pokémon Company
March 11, 2025
Nintendo Sound Clock: Alarmo on Easy Mode in Repair Video
Key Takeaways
1. Alarmo features an alarm sequence inspired by Mario games and allows users to switch to themes from other Nintendo titles, like The Legend of Zelda.
2. The clock includes a 24GHz mmWave radar for wireless functionality and gesture control, with easy access to internal components using tri-wing screwdrivers.
3. There is ample space between components, making it easier to replace parts like the 2.4-inch LCD screen and Hall sensor.
4. The removable CMOS battery (CR2032) is designed for clock memory and settings, making it easy to identify for replacement.
5. Silicone cases and screen protectors for the Alarmo are available on Amazon at reasonable prices.
Today is March 10, 2025, often referred to as MAR.10, or simply Mario Day. In celebration of this special occasion, iFixit has chosen to dissect a unique alarm clock that features one of Nintendo’s beloved characters on its display.
Alarmo’s Features
The Sound Clock: Alarmo offers a fun way to wake up, using an alarm sequence inspired by Mario games. Users can also switch it up with themes from other popular titles, like those from the Legend of Zelda series. The challenge is to get out of bed before a character like Bowser appears on its round screen.
Technical Specifications
This alarm clock is equipped with a 24GHz mmWave radar, which allows for wireless functionality and gesture control. Accessing the internal components is surprisingly straightforward, especially if you have the special tri-wing screwdrivers that Nintendo favors.
There’s a notable amount of space between the components inside the Alarmo, which could make it easier to replace parts like its 2.4-inch LCD screen and the Hall sensor located on the large dial at the top.
Battery and Longevity
An important feature of the Alarmo is its removable CMOS battery, which is used for clock memory and storing settings. This battery is labeled as a CR2032 in its holder, making it simple to identify when it needs replacement.
Overall, the Sound Clock: Alarmo appears to be quite “Princess Peach-worthy” for long-term use.
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Tags: Alarmo, iFixit, Nintendo
March 6, 2025
Sega Tops Metacritic While Nintendo and EA Miss Top 20 List
Key Takeaways
1. Metacritic’s rankings for 2024 evaluate game publishers based solely on critic scores, excluding retail sales and user reviews.
2. Fulqrum Publishing ranked 37th with 219.1 points, while Electronic Arts and Nintendo fell to 23rd and 22nd, respectively, after strong performances in previous years.
3. Nintendo’s major titles, including The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, scored lower than usual, potentially due to a strategic wait for the upcoming Switch 2.
4. Ubisoft improved its ranking from 23rd to 18th, and Take-Two Interactive rose significantly from 25th to 12th.
5. The top five publishers for 2024 are Focus Entertainment, Sony, Aksys Games, Capcom, and Sega, with Sega achieving its third top ranking, aided by successful titles like Metaphor: ReFantazio.
Metacritic has released its list showcasing the leading game publishers for titles launched in 2024. The platform applied a unique points system to evaluate the publishers, relying solely on scores from critics’ reviews. Games that were rated as “great” (scoring 90 or above with at least seven reviews) received an extra five points. Notably, retail sales and user reviews were not part of this specific ranking. The list encompasses various hardware platforms, but mobile games were left out. This marks Metacritic’s 15th annual review, featuring major players like Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft, who have been recognized in previous years.
Rankings Overview
At the forefront of the rankings (refer to the table below), Fulqrum Publishing sits in 37th place with 219.1 points. Atari is positioned at 31st, while Bandai Namco takes the 27th spot, and Konami follows in 25th place. However, two big names fell short this year. Electronic Arts landed in 23rd, and Nintendo, which had a strong performance in the past and ranked sixth last year, now finds itself in 22nd. Electronic Arts’ top-rated game this year was The Sims 4: Life & Death (PC, scored 86), but Madden NFL 25 (PS5, 70) and NHL 25 (PS5, 66) didn’t receive as much praise, with user ratings of just 3.1 and 3.0, respectively.
Surprising Performance
It wasn’t only Electronic Arts facing a disappointing outcome in 2024; Nintendo also experienced unexpected stagnation. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (Switch) performed decently with a score of 88, but The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom (Switch) “only” reached 85. Typically, most Zelda titles score above 90, with Ocarina of Time (N64, 1988) achieving an impressive 99 (3DS version available on Amazon). This could be attributed to Nintendo taking a more gradual approach in 2024. The anticipated release of the Switch 2, along with its major titles this year, is expected to elevate Nintendo’s position in the next year’s rankings.
Other Notable Changes
Ubisoft has shown improvement, moving up from 23rd to 18th place, while former two-time champions Take-Two Interactive made significant strides from 25th to 12th. The top five publishers, ranked from lowest to highest, are Focus Entertainment, Sony, Aksys Games, Capcom, and Sega. Sega, which was ninth in the previous rankings, owes its rise to titles like Metaphor: ReFantazio (PS5, 94), Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance (PS5, 87), and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth (PS5, 89). Sega has previously won in 2016 and 2021, making it the first publisher to top the rankings three times, as noted by the site.
Metacritic
Teaser image (edited): Metacritic & Sega
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Tags: Metacritic, Nintendo, Sega
February 19, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Price Could Be 33% Higher Than Original
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo is set to launch the Switch 2, replacing the original Switch from 2017, with a trailer already released.
2. More details about the Switch 2 will be revealed during the Nintendo Direct event on April 2nd.
3. Analyst predictions suggest the Switch 2 will be priced around $399, a $100 increase from the original Switch.
4. The new console is rumored to have significant hardware upgrades, including an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor and 12GB of RAM.
5. The Switch 2 may feature Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology for enhanced performance, though no official specifications have been confirmed yet.
Nintendo is gearing up to launch its next handheld gaming device, the Switch 2, which will take the place of the original Switch that debuted in 2017. Currently, the company has only shared a trailer showcasing the new design of the Switch 2. More details about the device are expected to be unveiled during the Nintendo Direct event set for April 2nd.
Leaks and Speculations
In the meantime, various leaks and rumors are popping up online, hinting at possible features of the upcoming handheld console. A recent report from Wccftech mentions the expected pricing of the Switch 2.
Analyst Joost van Dreunen predicts that the price for the Nintendo Switch 2 will be around $399. This indicates a potential increase of $100 compared to the original Switch, which was launched at $299. However, another leak has suggested that the price might be approximately 499 CAD, which roughly translates to about 350 USD.
Hardware Enhancements
The Nintendo Switch 2 is rumored to come with significant hardware upgrades compared to its 8-year-old predecessor. It’s believed that it will feature the Nvidia Tegra T239 processor with 8 cores, built on an 8nm architecture. The new console may also include 12GB of RAM, a notable increase from the 4GB found in the original Switch. Additionally, the Switch 2 is likely to incorporate Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology, which should provide further improvements in performance.
While Nintendo has yet to confirm any specifications or pricing for the Switch 2, it’s best to take this information with a grain of salt.
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Tags: Nintendo, Nvidia Tegra T239, Switch 2