Tag: Nintendo

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Delayed Indefinitely in the US

    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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  • New Trump Tariffs May Raise Nintendo Switch 2 Prices Further

    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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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Dev Kits Lack 4K Output, Contradict Specs

    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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  • Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Dev Kits to Prevent Leaks for Developers

    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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  • Nintendo Announces Zelda Live-Action Movie Release Date for 2027

    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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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games Spark Upgrade Cost Questions

    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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  • Nintendo Launches Virtual Game Card Feature for Switch and Switch 2

    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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  • Pokémon Legends: Z-A Update Excites Gamers Awaiting Release Date

    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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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Rumored Price: $400 or More at Launch

    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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  • Nintendo and Pokémon Company Marketing Tensions Revealed in Podcast

    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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