Tag: Switch 2

June 6, 2025
Nintendo to Offer Free Joy-Con Replacement for Stick Drift Issues
Key Takeaways
1. The absence of Hall effect sensors in Switch 2 Joy-Cons raises doubts about their reliability and potential for stick drift.
2. Nintendo claims the Switch 2 Joy-Cons will be more durable, but early teardowns show minimal design changes from previous models.
3. Warranty policies for Switch 2 Joy-Cons vary by region, with U.S. gamers having standard options for dealing with defects.
4. It’s uncertain if Nintendo will extend its previous leniency on replacements for Joy-Cons 2 after the warranty period ends.
5. With higher repair costs and prices for Switch 2 Joy-Cons, gamers may seek alternatives like affordable Hall effect controllers from other brands.
The absence of Hall effect sensors in the Switch 2 Joy-Cons has led gamers to doubt their dependability. Stick drift is a common problem found in controllers from Xbox and PlayStation, both in regular and premium models. However, the original Switch accessories seem to show more signs of wear over time. Luckily, the company is able to replace the latest Joy-Cons at no charge.
Promises of Durability
Nintendo has claimed that the larger Joy-Cons of the Switch 2 will be tougher. Yet, early teardowns suggest that the analog stick design hasn’t really changed much. A Reddit user named moshi_yo posted some images of the internal parts, which feature Alps potentiometers. These components are known to degrade over time, leading to erratic gameplay movements. In contrast, Hall effect controllers make use of magnetic sensors that can detect inputs without as much wear on the parts.
Warranty Policies vary
Just like the first Switch, the warranty rules differ based on where the player lives. Nintendeal pointed out that gamers in the U.S. have the usual options to deal with defective Switch 2 Joy-Cons. The Nintendo Support Center has grouped both generations of the controllers together. Once owners explain their issues, Nintendo is expected to send a free shipping label for sending back the Joy-Cons.
Uncertainty for Replacement Policies
When the initial Switch controllers had issues with stick drift, Nintendo provided replacements even after the 12-month warranty had expired. It’s uncertain if this policy will extend to Joy-Cons 2 in the United States and Latin America. Regardless, Nintendo might apply the same leniency with its new accessories.
Stick drift poses a bigger challenge for the Joy-Cons 2 since they come at a higher price than the older models. Repair costs for the Switch 2 and its accessories are also steeper. Without extended warranty coverage, gamers might look for other options. Although replicating the new Joy-Cons is tough, PowerA has already started selling an affordable Hall effect controller for handheld use.
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Tags: Joy-Con, stick drift, Switch 2
June 6, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Exploit Enables Custom Graphics Soon After Launch
Key Takeaways
1. The Switch 2 was released recently, and modders have already demonstrated an exploit using a userland Return-Oriented Programming (ROP) technique.
2. The exploit allows for framebuffer graphics to be drawn on the screen without requiring native code execution, limiting system access.
3. The demonstration showed a moving checkerboard design but was noted to be a partial proof-of-concept with performance limitations.
4. Community response included excitement and concern about Nintendo’s potential swift action to patch the exploit in early production units.
5. While this exploit indicates early access to the system, it does not enable full homebrew or piracy, and Nintendo is likely to strengthen its defenses against such discoveries.
Nintendo has just released the Switch 2 a few days ago, and modders are already digging into its insides. On June 5, developer and security expert David Buchanan (@retr0_id on Bluesky) posted a video showing a successful framebuffer graphics demo on the console using a userland Return-Oriented Programming (ROP) exploit. This method doesn’t require native code execution but still allows graphics to be drawn directly on the screen. “Userland” means that the code runs outside of the kernel, which limits its access to system privileges and hardware.
Exploit Details
This exploit seems to work by altering system libraries to get around regular restrictions and run code in a sandboxed setting. In Buchanan’s demonstration, a small checkerboard design moves in the top-left area of the handheld’s screen. He noted that this is just a partial proof-of-concept and warned that trying to show a full-screen display would probably slow down the framerate significantly.
Buchanan jokingly said, “This has no practical purpose and I can’t prove I’m not just like, playing a YouTube video or something.” However, other developers and modders quickly verified the demo’s authenticity, expressing worries that Nintendo will likely fix this issue promptly, making it functional only on early units.
Community Response
The response from the community was a mix of excitement and caution. One user remarked, “They’re gonna patch it so fast that only Switch 2s from the first week of production can actually do this,” while another shared their struggle to refrain from diving into similar modifications right away.
June 4 marked the release date for the Switch 2, and although it’s still early in the homebrew scene, this is the first indication of significant access being obtained without hardware modifications. Nevertheless, it is not quite in the realm of full homebrew or piracy yet. As Buchanan pointed out, the exploit does not allow for native code execution; it only enables ROP-style chaining within userland, which considerably lowers its risk in its current form.
Future Implications
This is still an important initial step. Historically, Nintendo has acted quickly to such discoveries, often implementing silent firmware updates to strengthen their systems. Whether this method leads to more significant breakthroughs or is swiftly shut down is still uncertain.
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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2
June 6, 2025
GameStop Damages Nintendo Switch 2 Screen, Delays Release Date
Key Takeaways
1. GameStop employees damaged Switch 2 screens by stapling receipts to boxes, causing punctures and scratches.
2. Disappointed customers are sharing their experiences on social media, highlighting the issue’s impact.
3. Packaging design lacks adequate cushioning, with the screen facing upwards and minimal protection from potential damage.
4. Nintendo warned users to keep a protective film on the screen to prevent glass shards from scattering if dropped.
5. The ongoing complaints indicate a need for improved handling and packaging practices at GameStop and Nintendo.
Anxious gamers picking up consoles from GameStop on the Switch 2 release date soon made devastating discoveries. Some employees stapled receipts to boxes, which damaged the handheld’s screen. As noted by Wario64 on social media, disappointed customers have shared evidence of their misfortune. While the retailer is under fire, other critics blame Nintendo for improper packaging.
Damage Reports
It’s unclear how widespread the problem is, but one post gaining attention was from a Staten Island, New York buyer. Gamers in other regions collecting Switch 2 pre-orders soon chimed in with similar horror stories. Unfortunately, GameStop workers stapled proof of purchase where the Switch 2 screen sits. The decision led to punctures and scratches on the LCD display. Now, these gamers are asking GameStop to rectify the situation, but with limited stock, a replacement could take weeks to arrive.
Packaging Concerns
When the first unboxing videos appeared, the packaging design shocked some viewers. Inside the rather thin box, the Switch 2 screen faces upwards with minimal cushioning. Had the manufacturer placed the dock in the same spot, the more valuable console below might have avoided harm. Still, the box is also surprisingly compact, considering the handheld’s larger 7.9-inch screen. With Nintendo stockpiling units to avoid shortages, the dimensions allowed more consoles to fit on pallets.
Protective Measures
Nintendo has also warned fans about another way the Switch 2 screen could become damaged. The handheld arrives with a protective film, which some gamers may peel off. However, the material prevents glass shards from scattering after impacts and should remain untouched.
Even if GameStop stops stapling, complaints stemming from midnight Switch 2 pre-order pickups and sales will mount. Hopefully, the store can avoid similar disasters when the console restocks.
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Tags: GameStop, Nintendo, Switch 2
June 6, 2025
Red Dead Redemption 2 Switch 2 Port Release Expected This Year
Key Takeaways
1. The Switch 2 features significant hardware enhancements, improving performance for major AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Hogwarts Legacy.
2. Red Dead Redemption 2 is rumored to be coming to the Switch 2, with leaks suggesting a late summer or early fall release.
3. There has been no official confirmation from Nintendo regarding Red Dead Redemption 2’s availability on the Switch 2.
4. Critiques of the Switch 2 include issues with display brightness and contrast ratio.
5. The Welcome Tour tech demo requires additional accessories for full experience, contrary to expectations of it being a free download.
The Switch 2 has been released, showcasing significant hardware enhancements compared to its predecessor, though it has also faced some criticism. Its performance is clearly superior, enabling it to handle major AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077, Hogwarts Legacy, and Hitman: World of Assassination. A highly anticipated title, Red Dead Redemption 2, is rumored to be making its way to the Switch 2, and recent leaks suggest that this port is very much in progress and set to launch this year.
Podcast Insights
This information was shared by the well-known leaker Nate the Hate during a podcast episode featuring guest Rand al Thor, where they discussed the forthcoming Xbox Showcase. Around the ten-minute mark, Nate stated, “Those rumors are true. Red Dead Redemption 2 is getting a next-gen update, and the game will be coming to Nintendo switch 2 later this year.” He further mentioned that it may arrive in the late summer or early fall timeframe.
Rumors and Expectations
Previously, Red Dead Redemption 2 was speculated to be part of the initial game lineup for the Switch 2, but that plan did not materialize. Additionally, there has been no official word from Nintendo regarding the release of this Rockstar title on the handheld device. If it does happen, it would certainly enhance the AAA game collection available on the platform.
A next-gen upgrade patch for the game was hinted at earlier, and it has resurfaced in discussions. This patch is expected to improve performance on the PS5 and Xbox Series consoles, which has been lacking since the game’s initial launch.
Critiques of the Switch 2
Despite the advancements, there are critiques surrounding the Switch 2, particularly regarding its display. Reviews have highlighted issues with brightness and contrast ratio. Furthermore, the Welcome Tour tech demo, which many believed would be a free download, actually requires additional accessories to be fully experienced.
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Tags: Nate the Hate, Red Dead Redemption 2, Switch 2
June 5, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2: 8 Games Receive Free Updates Before Launch
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo has released patches for eight additional games ahead of the Switch 2’s launch, along with updates for twelve other titles.
2. The updates are minor compared to the significant improvement made for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, which now runs at 60 frames per second.
3. Gameplay improvements have been made, but specific details of the changes have not been disclosed by Nintendo.
4. A total of 20 titles will receive updates for the Switch 2 at launch, including free and paid upgrades.
5. Paid upgrades for various games will range from $10 to $20, offering enhancements in graphics, performance, and additional content.
Just ahead of the Switch 2’s release to customers, Nintendo has rolled out patches for eight additional games, alongside the previously mentioned updates for twelve other titles. The exact reasons for these patches haven’t been shared by the company, but the changes are considered quite minor when compared to the update for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, which increased the frame rate to 60 frames per second and addressed a variety of technical problems.
Gameplay Improvements
Nintendo’s release notes indicate that several adjustments have been made to enhance gameplay on the Switch 2, although no specific details on the changes have been disclosed. For example, the updates for two Zelda titles primarily prepare them for their full Switch 2 version, which will come at a price of $10. In Pikmin 3 Deluxe, a glitch causing the screen to flicker occasionally has been somewhat fixed, meaning that the issue won’t be completely resolved until a future update arrives.
Total Updates at Launch
With these eight games included, a grand total of 20 titles will receive updates for the Switch 2 when it launches. Alongside these free updates, Nintendo is also providing paid upgrades for various games, which range from $10 to $20. These upgrades feature enhancements in graphics and performance, plus new content, like an expanded campaign in Kirby and the Forgotten Land.
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Tags: Nintendo, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Switch 2
June 5, 2025
No Man’s Sky Switch 2 Upgrade: Free, Multiplayer & Enhancements
Key Takeaways
1. No Man’s Sky will receive a free upgrade for players transitioning from the original Switch to the new Switch 2, enhancing graphics, frame rates, and content from the Beacon update.
2. The upgraded version on Switch 2 supports multiplayer, cross saves, and cross play, leveraging the new hardware capabilities.
3. The Beacon update introduces revamped settlements with larger towns, unique character stories, and the ability for players to upgrade buildings and become mayors.
4. The enhancements made possible by Switch 2’s performance were not feasible on the original Switch, which struggled with the game’s demands.
5. No Man’s Sky is currently priced at $60 and is exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch in the Nintendo US store.
With the Switch 2 set to launch tomorrow (June 5), Hello Games has shared that No Man’s Sky will receive a complimentary upgrade for players who already have it on the original Switch. The version for Switch 2 introduces significant enhancements to graphics and frame rates, along with additional content from the Beacon update. The team has been laboring in secrecy for more than a year to create the version for Switch 2.
YouTube Insights
The HelloGamesTube channel on YouTube released a detailed video showcasing all the upgrades that will be available for No Man’s Sky on the Switch 2 when it launches. The new hardware capabilities of the Switch 2 have allowed the developers to make impressive advancements in graphics and overall functionality. The game will also feature multiplayer support, along with cross saves and cross play. Not only has the level of detail improved, but the render resolution and frame rates have also seen a boost.
Settlements and New Features
The Beacon update revamps the settlements, introducing larger towns inhabited by characters that have their own unique stories. Players can discover new buildings that they can upgrade, and they even have the option to become mayors of these towns. Such features were not feasible on the original Switch, but the enhanced performance of the Switch 2 has made it possible for the developers to implement them.
Moreover, Beacon will also be a free update for No Man’s Sky on the Switch 2. Initially launched for the Switch in October 2022, the game pushed the console’s capabilities to the edge. Since its original debut in 2016, No Man’s Sky has evolved greatly, thanks to the commitment of its dedicated team. Currently, No Man’s Sky is priced at $60 and is only listed for the Nintendo Switch on the Nintendo US store.
Sources and Team Efforts
You can check out the latest updates from Hello Games on YouTube, as well as follow Nintendo US and Sean Murray on X for more information.
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Tags: Hello Games, No Man’s Sky, Switch 2
June 4, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date Patch Live: Specs and Game Impressions
Key Takeaways
1. The Switch 2 launch includes a worldwide day-one patch (20.1.1) with key features like microSD Express support and access to Nintendo Switch Online and eShop.
2. New features in the patch include GameChat for voice/video chatting and Virtual Game Cards for digital gaming across devices, along with game and save data transfer from the original Switch.
3. New Zealand players get early access to the Switch 2, with live streams for Mario Kart World highlighting smooth performance in docked mode.
4. The Nintendo eShop has improved, allowing purchases of upgrade packs for games that benefit from the Switch 2’s enhanced specs, along with free updates for games like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.
5. Gamers are actively sharing their experiences and reactions to Switch 2 games as midnight launch events begin in other regions.
For gamers in certain time zones, the day of the Switch 2 launch has finally arrived. Thankfully, Nintendo has rolled out the essential day-one patch worldwide. The 20.1.1 update introduces key features, including the use of the microSD Express card slot. Players can also access Nintendo Switch Online and the eShop. This means that fans can start sharing their initial experiences with Switch 2 games and the console’s performance.
Patch Features Unveiled
Nintendo Everything has provided a detailed list of what the inaugural Switch 2 patch enables. In addition to online capabilities, GameChat is now available for those wanting to voice or video chat. Virtual Game Cards are also functional, a feature that was already present on the original Switch. This enhancement makes digital gaming more attractive, letting users insert virtual cartridges across different handheld devices. Lastly, Nintendo has enabled the transfer of games and save data from the original Switch to the Switch 2.
Early Access for New Zealand Players
Typically, when a new console or game launches, players in New Zealand are often the first to experience it. This trend continues with the Switch 2, as live streams for Mario Kart World have kicked off. This kart racing game is included in a Switch 2 bundle and serves as a prime candidate for early testing. Up to now, there have been no significant surprises, with reports highlighting smooth performance in docked mode. Some observers feel that the game has a more laid-back vibe, but it’s still early to see how competitive gamers will respond.
Enhanced eShop Experience
The Nintendo eShop has gained new significance with the release of this latest handheld. Gamers can buy upgrade packs for various Switch games that will utilize the enhanced specs of the Switch 2. Other updates for games like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are being offered for free, enabling 60 fps gameplay. Now that the Switch 2 is available, players are noticing that browsing the marketplace is much more responsive. However, the only letdown is the absence of background music.
As midnight launch events begin in other regions, reactions from gamers about Switch 2 games and the system will keep pouring in.
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Tags: Mario Kart World, Nintendo eShop, Switch 2
June 3, 2025
Suspicion of AI in Spanish Voices for Zelda Notes on Nintendo Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. Critics accused Nintendo of using AI-generated content in Mario Kart World, but the company denied these claims.
2. Concerns arose over mechanical-sounding Spanish dialogue in the Zelda Notes app for updated Switch 2 games.
3. Players expected to hear the original voice of Princess Zelda, Nerea Alfonso, but some suspect AI-generated voice or a different actress was used.
4. Nintendo has not adopted generative AI, as Shigeru Miyamoto believes it doesn’t fit the company’s values and raises intellectual property concerns.
5. Players will be able to experience the new narration when the upgraded Switch 2 versions of Zelda games launch on June 5th.
The topic of generative AI in video games has sparked a lively debate. Recently, some critics accused Nintendo of utilizing AI-generated billboards in Mario Kart World. The company refuted these claims and has generally avoided such controversies. However, doubts have now arisen regarding some peculiar-sounding Spanish dialogue in Zelda. Players encounter this voice work in the Zelda Notes app, which accompanies two updated Switch 2 games.
Enhancements in Zelda Notes
Zelda Notes improves the Switch 2 versions of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild. In this app, players gain navigational help and insights on significant places. Additionally, it allows users to share their ultrahand builds from Tears of the Kingdom. Nintendo also recorded lines for key characters, including Princess Zelda. When the gaming giant released snippets of this dialogue on social media, Spanish players quickly voiced their worries.
Concern Over Voice Acting
The narrator guiding gamers sounds quite mechanical, leading some to believe it might be generated by AI. However, the focus is primarily on Princess Zelda’s voice. Spanish gamers in Europe expected to hear Nerea Alfonso, who voiced Zelda in Breath of the Wild. Instead, some listeners suspect that Nintendo may have used AI-generated voice or possibly a lesser-known actress. Up until now, Alfonso has not provided any clarification on whether she is involved in Zelda Notes.
Future of AI in Gaming
As more opinions pour in, a growing number of Zelda enthusiasts are concluding that Nintendo has chosen a different actress. Unlike other developers and publishers, Nintendo has not yet adopted generative AI. Shigeru Miyamoto, a key designer and producer, believes that this technology doesn’t align with the company’s ethos. He also raises concerns about potential issues surrounding intellectual property rights.
Players will soon have the chance to form their own opinions about the narration in Zelda Notes. The upgraded Switch 2 versions of Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild, along with last-gen upgrade packs, are set to launch on June 5th.
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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2
June 3, 2025
Nintendo Lowers Wholesale Switch 2 Price in Japan to Boost Sales
Key Takeaways
1. Physical stores in Japan remain popular for buying gaming consoles, including the Switch 2, despite high pre-order interest.
2. Nintendo is offering the Switch 2 at a lower wholesale price, increasing retailer margins from 2% to 5%, encouraging them to promote the console more.
3. Japanese consumers prefer physical copies of games over digital ones, which supports retail sales and promotions for Switch 2 games.
4. Nintendo aims to outpace competitors like PS5 and Xbox by leveraging the Switch 2’s pricing strategy and appealing to current handheld owners.
5. The handheld gaming market is thriving in Japan, as many gamers prefer portable devices for gaming on the go.
Physical stores in Japan continue to be a favored method for consumers to buy the latest gaming consoles and titles. Despite the impressive pre-order figures for the Switch 2, Nintendo is not taking any risks. According to a new report by Bloomberg, the company is supplying Japanese retailers with the handheld at a surprisingly affordable wholesale price. Nintendo’s aim is to make the Switch 2 the leading console in the market.
Retailer Insights on Switch 2
Various retailers discussed Nintendo’s strategy regarding the Switch 2 with Bloomberg’s Takashi Mochizuki. Typically, stores earn about a 2% gross margin for each console they sell. This makes it tough for retailers to gain profit from these systems, so they usually depend on selling bundles, games, and accessories. However, with the Switch 2, the margin is increased to 5%. This change gives shops greater motivation to stock the new handheld and to put more focus on marketing it.
Market Trends and Consumer Preferences
Retailers in the U.S. and other areas will also be focusing on the console both before and after the Switch 2’s official launch date. However, data from 2022-25 indicates that Japanese consumers are not as open to digital gaming. Physical copies still hold strong appeal, which means that customers depend on stores to buy their games. Retail chains like Bic Camera are heavily promoting Switch 2 games for the launch.
Competition and Future Sales
By offering a lower wholesale price for the Switch 2, Nintendo is also targeting its competitors. Sales of the PS5 are still behind those of the PS4, while the Xbox is becoming increasingly irrelevant. In 2024, the Switch reached the milestone of being the best-selling console in Japan’s history. If Nintendo can persuade current handheld owners to upgrade, it will continue to lead in hardware sales.
The Mobile Gaming Opportunity
With the help of retailers, Nintendo can tap into the profitable mobile gaming sector. Since gamers often spend a lot of time traveling and away from home, handheld devices like the Switch and 3DS have flourished in Japan.
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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2
June 1, 2025
Koei Tecmo: Switch 2 Can’t Run Nobunaga’s Ambition in 4K/60fps
Key Takeaways
1. Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition launches on June 5th, alongside the Switch 2, featuring new content and improved graphics.
2. Koei Tecmo’s team faced challenges achieving 4K resolution and 60 fps, settling for 1080p at 30 fps due to the Switch 2’s limitations.
3. The new Switch 2 offers enhanced visuals, making gaming experiences more immersive, but some games may not meet player expectations.
4. Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening does not use DLSS upscaling, which is disappointing given the console’s support for Nvidia’s technology.
5. The game supports Joy-Con mouse mode and wired USB mice, allowing for a more PC-like experience for mobile strategy gamers.
Many games are likely to take advantage of the improved specs of the Switch 2. However, a developer from Koei Tecmo working on Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening mentioned that some games might not live up to what players expect. In an interview with Wccftech, Michi Ryu shared that their team struggled to maintain smooth gameplay at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second. They had to significantly reduce the graphical settings, and the game does not use DLSS upscaling.
Release Details
Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition is set to launch on June 5th, coinciding with the Switch 2 release. This grand strategy game from Japan changed the gaming landscape since its debut in 1983, focusing on history and RPG elements. The game was first released in 2022 for PC, PS4, and Switch, and the Complete Edition will introduce new scenarios, downloadable content, and better graphics.
Console Advancements
Michi Ryu, producer and director at Koei Tecmo, mentioned that Nintendo’s new console has become a more powerful handheld device. He noted that the visuals of “the sea, sky, and ground feel much more realistic, making the gaming experience more immersive.” Despite this, he hoped to offer a mode that could showcase 4K resolution at 60 fps. Sadly, the specs of the Switch 2 fell short for rendering intricate 3D maps at those settings. Ultimately, the team decided on a more attainable goal of 1080p at 30 fps.
Technology Limitations
It’s a letdown that Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening won’t utilize DLSS, which is worth mentioning. The Tegra T239 processor in the console is somewhat outdated but does support Nvidia’s upscaling technology. Games like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition on Switch 2 benefit from DLSS in various handheld and docked modes. Consequently, some demos of this title have impressed players, sometimes outperforming the usual Steam Deck results.
Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition takes full advantage of the Joy-Con mouse mode available on the Switch 2. With wired USB mice also an option, mobile strategy gamers can enjoy similar benefits to those playing on a PC.
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Tags: DLSS, Nobunaga’s Ambition, Switch 2