Tag: Switch 2

  • Nintendo R&D Expense Surge Sparks Switch OLED and Lite Console Rumors

    Nintendo R&D Expense Surge Sparks Switch OLED and Lite Console Rumors

    Key Takeaway

    1. Nintendo’s R&D costs surged by 23.7% in FY 2026, indicating significant investment possibly related to developing the Switch 2 and its variants.
    2. There are strong rumors and leaks suggesting the upcoming release of a Switch 2 OLED or Lite version, aligned with Nintendo’s historical hardware refresh patterns.
    3. Market conditions, including lagging sales and regulatory changes, may influence Nintendo to release more affordable or revised console models more quickly.

    Recent Financial Insights and R&D Costs

    Nintendo’s 2026 fiscal report revealed a substantial increase in their research and development expenditure, reaching 177.8 billion yen. This is a sharp rise of 23.7% compared to the 144.6 billion yen spent in FY 2025. This trend highlights Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to innovation, especially with the significant investment seen lately. Many gamers believe this might be linked to upcoming console projects, including a possible Switch 2 OLED or Lite version.

    Historical Trends and Console Releases

    Looking back, the company’s expenses have steadily increased from around 69.6 billion yen in 2019 to 84.1 billion yen in 2020, coinciding with the launch of the Switch Lite in September 2019 and the OLED model in October 2021. These years marked notable upgrades, but in the absence of new consoles, shifts in R&D costs have been relatively minimal. Nintendo’s innovative pursuits, supported by numerous patents, suggest that new hardware variations always seem to be on the horizon, requiring hefty investments to develop new versions of existing handhelds or consoles.

    Speculations and Future Hardware Leaks

    In early 2026, data mined from the Nintendo Account portal revealed an “OSM” reference, sparking rumors about an upcoming Switch 2 or a possible upgraded Lite or Pro model. Additionally, a March report from Bloomberg pointed out declining console sales, hinting that Nintendo might accelerate revisions or introduce more affordable options to boost sales. Fans and analysts are speculating about a new console possibly priced around $350, as suggested by popular Nintendo commentators. Meanwhile, some implications point to a response to EU repair laws, with Nintendo recently modifying their handhelds to facilitate easier battery replacements, though whether this would significantly increase R&D expenses remains uncertain.


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  • Switch 2 Price Hike Sparks Need for Console-Selling Games, Ex-Nintendo Marketers

    Switch 2 Price Hike Sparks Need for Console-Selling Games, Ex-Nintendo Marketers

    Key Takeaway

    1. Nintendo faces declining Switch sales and strategic need for strong first-party games amid upcoming price hikes.
    2. Successful game titles like Pokémon Pokopia and Tomodachi Life boost hardware adoption, but many players remain on older systems.
    3. The price increase and lack of compelling exclusive titles may hinder the console’s appeal, especially with competition from PS5 and Xbox.
    4. Transparency and timely game releases, including potential reveals in upcoming Nintendo Directs, are crucial for maintaining consumer interest.

    Understanding the Impact of the Switch 2 Price Hike

    Because of the rising costs for storage and memory components, the price of the Switch 2 saw an increase, which was not very surprising in the gaming world. Nintendo has predicted that their console sales will go down in the next fiscal year which ends in March 2027. Many believe Nintendo needs to focus on producing more attractive games to encourage people to buy the new console.

    Insights from Industry Experts

    Kit & Krysta, once key figures in Nintendo’s PR and marketing team, are now well-recognized as popular podcast hosts. In their latest YouTube video, they discussed how Nintendo might face hurdles in convincing current Switch owners to upgrade. As the new hardware costs $499.99 starting September, it becomes even more important for Nintendo to launch compelling first-party titles to attract buyers.

    Game Sales and Market Trends

    Nintendo’s financial reports from 2026 show how games like Pokémon Pokopia helped boost the console’s popularity. Within just five weeks of release in March, it sold over 4 million copies. Another game, Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, also saw success, but the majority of players still used the older system—about 60 percent. This shows that older consoles still hold significant market share, making it harder for the newer model to gain traction immediately.

    Considering Future Game Releases

    The upcoming price hike for the Switch 2 poses a challenge to convincing consumers who are hesitant to buy. Kit Ellis mentions that “software sells hardware,” and suggests Nintendo should focus on releasing major games later in 2026. However, new titles like Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, Star Fox, or Splatoon Raiders are not seen as strong enough to be the key reasons for console upgrades.

    Looking Ahead to 2026 and 2027 Releases

    Fans are eagerly awaiting games like Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave, expected later this year. The holiday season lineup remains uncertain, especially since Nintendo isn’t releasing a big title in November like GTA 6 for PlayStation and Xbox. With Xbox and Sony’s offerings becoming more appealing, gamers might question whether it’s worth sticking solely to handheld gaming now.

    Calls for Greater Transparency

    Kit & Krysta are encouraging Nintendo’s leaders to be more upfront about their future plans. A potential move could be an upcoming Direct presentation in June. The company faces criticism over recycling older game ideas, but the rumored remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time might bring huge excitement among fans and boost Nintendo’s prospects.

    Future Titles and Industry Perspectives

    Looking into 2027, Nintendo may introduce new 3D Mario adventures alongside Pokémon Winds and Pokémon Waves. Industry expert Dr. Serkan Toto emphasizes that Nintendo must prioritize exclusive new games for the Switch 2. Speaking to CNBC, he said that releasing big, first-party titles quickly is essential for driving console sales, especially with the recent price increases making consumers more cautious.

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  • Ex-Nintendo President Claims Amazon Pressured for Illegal Terms Amid Switch 2 Launch

    Ex-Nintendo President Claims Amazon Pressured for Illegal Terms Amid Switch 2 Launch

    Key Takeaway

    1. Nintendo has a history of conflicts with Amazon over issues like illegal demands for support, pricing, and third-party sales.
    2. The relationship between Nintendo and Amazon has at times led to Nintendo withholding stock and restricting product availability, especially around new console launches.
    3. Disagreements over used game sales, pricing policies, and regional scalping have contributed to ongoing tensions between the companies.
    4. Despite past conflicts, Nintendo now offers a wider selection of Switch 2 products on Amazon, with price-matching for digital releases, though tensions over policies remain.

    Nintendo’s Ongoing Battle with Amazon Over Game Sales

    The physical Switch 2 games, still being quite popular, keeps Nintendo’s retail influence strong. The company, however, have had ongoing squabbles with Amazon, the big online retailer. Ex-Nintendo boss Reggie Fils-Aimé recently talked about this feud which has been going on for years, revealing some interesting details.

    Reggie Fils-Aimé Spills The Beans

    During a talk at the NYU Game Center Lecture Series, Fils-Aimé shared stories from his time leading Nintendo. He explained those early days when Amazon was pushing hard to get more control over the video game market. He said an Amazon top executive asked for massive support to help the online giant offer the lowest prices, even to beat Walmart. Fils-Aimé quickly pointed out that such demands were “illegal,” showing that Nintendo refused to give in to such tactics. This was a key moment showing how Nintendo tried protecting its business and partnering relationships.

    The Conflict Over Stock and Pricing

    After this incident, Nintendo chose not to supply Amazon with stock, aiming to preserve good relations with other stores like GameStop. This move caused tensions, and other companies accused Amazon of doing similar aggressive behaviors. When the Nintendo Switch came out in 2017, the product was once again sold on Amazon, but conflicts over used games and shady third-party sellers became bigger problems. Fans found fewer directly sold new titles and consoles. The company also got worried about third parties discounting prices or scalping across regions, especially with the upcoming launch of their new handheld in 2025. Although Nintendo tried to deny some of these issues, fans kept doubts about Amazon’s practices.

    Impact of Lower Digital Prices and Ongoing Disputes

    Now, lots of first-party Switch 2 games and the console itself can be bought openly. Recently Nintendo cut digital game prices, and Amazon began to match those costs for physical copies, which is good for buyers. However, disagreements about pricing and policies between Nintendo and Amazon are still likely to crop up in the future. From clashes over stock support to pricing strategies, the rivalry seems far from over.


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  • Retailer Discounts on Physical Switch 2 Games Matching Nintendo eShop Prices

    Retailer Discounts on Physical Switch 2 Games Matching Nintendo eShop Prices

    Key Takeaway

    1. Nintendo’s new pricing strategy for Switch 2 games favors digital copies, making them more affordable than physical versions.
    2. Walmart is matching eShop discounts on select new releases, offering lower prices on physical copies, which may impact store profit margins.
    3. Factors such as shipping costs, tariffs, and NAND flash shortages contribute to the growing gap between digital and physical game prices.

    Nintendo’s New Pricing Approach for Switch 2 Games Sparks Retailer Competition

    Recently, Nintendo revealed that the digital versions of their upcoming Switch 2 titles gonna be more affordable than the physical copies. That move might upset store owners, who already losing some profits from boxed games. In response, a big retailer has stepped up to match the eShop discounts on new game releases.

    Walmart’s Response to the New Pricing Strategy

    Walmart has offers some incentives for Switch users but usually doesn’t give discounts on pre-orders for new Switch 2 games. Still, titles like Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, along with Splatoon Raiders, are listed at prices lower than Nintendo’s recommended retail price. Customers can get these deals both in their local stores or enjoy free shipping if they shop online within many U.S. regions.

    Game Price Differences and Discount Details

    Yoshi’s puzzle-platformer becomes the first game to illustrate Nintendo’s new approach to pricing. You can buy the digital version at the Nintendo eShop for $59.99. However, Nintendo suggests that stores should retail the physical cartridges at $69.99. Walmart has taken it a step further by cutting down the price on physical copies by $10, making them more attractive for buyers.

    Splatoon Raiders and Ongoing Promotions

    Next, the single-player version of the popular Splatoon shooter, called Splatoon Raiders, is scheduled to drop July 23rd. Walmart is selling both the box and the game at only $49.94, whereas most competitors price it at $59.99 — the same as the eShop price. It remains uncertain if Walmart or other stores will keep up these pre-order discounts after the game’s launch or possibly offer similar deals later. Nintendo explained that it’s gotten harder to keep physical game prices steady because digital titles are cheaper to produce and distribute than physical copies. Factors like tariffs, rising fuel costs, and shortages in the NAND flash storage used for game cartridges all contribute to this fluctuation. Rumors even suggest the company might start sending publishers lower-capacity game cards to cut costs.

    Market Trends and Industry Challenges

    In the current economy, digital sales seem to have a competitive edge. Walmart, with its huge sales volume, might afford to take some losses on initial game prices seeing it as a way to drive more traffic to its stores, encouraging shoppers to buy more expensive items later. Smaller stores, however, might find it tough to compete in this new environment of rising physical game prices versus cheaper digital versions.

    Disclaimer: Price adjustments vary between retailers. The deals mentioned here were valid at the time of publication but could change or be limited by availability and time constraints.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Games Sale – 50% Off including Pokémon

    Nintendo Switch 2 Games Sale – 50% Off including Pokémon

    Key Takeaway

    1. Costco offers significant discounts (up to 50%) on newer Nintendo Switch 2 titles like Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, primarily for members.
    2. Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond are both available at notably lower prices compared to other retailers, with strong reviews and optimized graphics for Switch 2.
    3. Other recent titles like Kirby Air Riders are also discounted, although limited in availability, as Nintendo maintains stable MSRPs amidst ongoing supply shortages.

    Huge Discounts on Nintendo Switch 2 Games at Costco

    Some of the Switch 2’s debut titles are still selling at their original prices at the launch, but recent deals now give gamers a golden opportunity to purchase newer Nintendo releases for much less. Costco’s recent sale offers massive discounts, especially on titles like Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, both now half price.

    Exclusive Offers for Costco Members

    These deals, brought to attention by Wario64, are exclusive mainly for members of Costco, with availability depending on the store location. If you want to know if your local warehouse has the game you’re interested in, just check through the retailer’s app, under the warehouse tab.

    Pricing and Features of Pokémon Legends: Z-A

    Pokémon’s newest adventure, Legends: Z-A, is a real steal at just $29.97, a sharp drop from the usual $59.99 that Amazon or other stores have listed it for. This makes it an extraordinary find for fans of the franchise wanting to expand their Pokémon collection.

    Game Details and Player Feedback

    Rating high with a 78 score from Metacritic, the game brings a fresh spin by blending real-time battles within an urban setting, diverging from the classic turn-based system. The graphics are smooth with a stable frame rate, and players can enjoy a variety of missions. However, some note Lumiose City appears less lively than expected, leaving a quality gap in the open-world experience.

    Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Its Review

    Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, eagerly anticipated, scored similarly with top marks from critics. Graphics have been notably enhanced, taking full advantage of Switch 2’s capabilities, and new exploration options like motorcycle-like vehicles add depth to gameplay. Still, the world can seem sparse, with some players feeling it’s a little too empty in parts.

    Game Exploration and New Gameplay Features

    The game’s visuals and design are praised for their optimization, but the lot of open spaces does leave some users wishing for more life and activity within its environments. Regardless, it offers a captivating sci-fi experience that’s worth the price, especially during these deals.

    Kirby Air Riders on Sale

    Another recent Nintendo release, Kirby Air Riders, is now available at its lowest price yet—$29.97. Created by Masahiro Sakurai, this racing game stands out for its unique control scheme and fast-paced action that combines racing with combat, making it more challenging to fully master.

    Game Mechanics and Player Experience

    While it’s simpler to pick up than Mario Kart, the game demands skill and timing, with heavy emphasis on fighting and strategic play along with racing. Its speed and combat-focused gameplay make it a distinctive experience not just for casual gamers but also for those seeking a more intense challenge.

    Market Outlook and Future Price Trends

    With ongoing chip shortages, many are worried about possible price increases for both the Nintendo Switch console and its games. Fortunately, Nintendo has so far maintained its suggested retail prices for both hardware and software. Although physical copies are supposed to stay at standard pricing, discounts like these at Costco are unlikely to return soon.

    Important Notes for Buyers and Disclaimer

    Keep in mind, the prices and deals mentioned were available at the time of writing. Retailers may change prices without notice, and availability might be limited. So prospective buyers should act quick if they wish to take advantage of these discounts.

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  • Overwatch Switch 2 Upgrade Runs at 30fps, Blizzard Plans Performance Patch

    Overwatch Switch 2 Upgrade Runs at 30fps, Blizzard Plans Performance Patch

    Key Takeaway

    1. The Overwatch Switch 2 upgrade is underperforming, with the game only running at half the advertised frame rate and worse image clarity.
    2. There is confusion among players about whether the correct update was uploaded, and Blizzard has acknowledged the FPS issue, promising a future patch.
    3. Despite the upgrade, the new version appears to lack significant improvements, although some features like HD Rumble and interface changes suggest a possible new release.

    Initial Performance Concerns with Overwatch 2 on Switch 2

    Many gamers were excited about the improved specs that the Switch 2 offers, which are supposed to give games like Overwatch 2 a graphics upgrade that rivals other gaming platforms. But, unfortunately, the launch has been quite disappointing. The free-to-play Overwatch 2 upgrade for the Switch 2 was promised to run at smooth 60 fps, whether in docked or handheld mode. Instead, it is only managing to hit about half that, causing frustration among players.

    Graphics and Frame Rate Limitations

    The previous version of Overwatch 2, which was released during early access on the original Switch back in 2022, had modest graphics. The game’s visuals did not compare favorably with newer consoles like the PS5, Xbox Series X, or powerful PCs. When the upgrade for the Switch 2 was announced, many expected that the game would showcase significantly better visuals with higher frame rates. But, in reality, as the new season begins, the game still runs sluggish at 30 fps, and players are even reporting that the picture quality appears to be worse than before.

    Players’ Observations and Speculations

    Some users on forums and social media suggest they might be downloading an incorrect version of the game, which may explain some of the issues. In particular, posts from Reddit mention that features like HD Rumble and a new control scheme appear to be functional, and some speculate that the visuals could be rendered at a higher resolution. But not all gamers are convinced, and confusion remains about whether the properly optimized update was actually released or uploaded to the eShop.

    Blizzard Official Response and Future Updates

    Blizzard has finally acknowledged the problem, mainly the lower-than-expected FPS on the Switch 2. On their official forums, they stated: “We are aware of an issue with the FPS limit on the Nintendo Switch 2 being lower than intended. We are working on a patch to resolve this issue.” Players are hopeful that these performance issues will be addressed shortly, with an upcoming fix promised soon.

    What the Future Holds for Switch 2 Gamers

    When the performance issues are sorted out, the Switch 2 could become a very appealing portable for shooters. Games like EA’s Apex Legends are already running at the desired 60 fps, creating a benchmark for what’s achievable. Rumors also hint at other big titles like Call of Duty making its way to the system, which could further boost its appeal. Moreover, the enhanced Handheld Mode Boost feature may improve performance for games that aren’t yet perfectly optimized specifically for this console.

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  • Switch 2 Game Leaks Including Star Fox Sorry Nintendo Ex-Employee

    Switch 2 Game Leaks Including Star Fox Sorry Nintendo Ex-Employee

    Key Takeaway

    1. Leaks about unannounced Nintendo projects, especially from credible sources like NateTheHate, significantly impact the company’s marketing plans and frustrate Nintendo’s efforts to keep secrets.
    2. Despite strict legal actions and protections, Nintendo has struggled to prevent leaks, making insiders like NateTheHate difficult to control.
    3. Public reaction is mixed—some fans welcome early leaks for anticipation, while others prefer to wait for official announcements.

    Recent Gaming Leaks Stir Controversy

    Leaks about unannounced projects is somethin that happens all the time in the gaming worlds. Sometimes, it’s just a small annoyance, but other times, it messes up marketing plans for a long time. Recently, on a podcast, a well-known insider, NateTheHate, let slip some info about upcoming Switch 2 games. An ex-Nintendo communication boss thinks that these leaks are not just small problems but a lot more serious for his past employer.

    Inside Look from a Former PR Expert

    Kit Ellis used to be head of marketing at Nintendo for around 13 years. Now, he hosts a podcast with Krysta Yang, who also worked in public relations there. After NateTheHate’s revelations, Kit made a quick YouTube video where he talked about how Nintendo probably feels about all this. His point was that the company must be pretty mad about the leaks, especially given how secretive they try to be.

    Details About Upcoming Games

    The insider shared some pretty exciting info, including when fans might see new games like a Star Fox comeback and a remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. He even mentioned that by 2027, we could see a new 3D Mario game. Because of how much he revealed, Kit pointed out that “Nintendo is absolutely furious about this,” as they might be worried about spoilers ruining their plans.

    Media and Public Reactions

    What sets this leak apart from others, though, is how the media reacted. Usually, many news outlets don’t spread rumors unless they are confirmed, but NateTheHate has such a good record of predictions that people took his words seriously. He correctly predicted when the Switch 2 would be announced, which made his revelations more credible, and the news went all over.

    Legal and Ethical Concerns

    Kit explains, “Nintendo has a problem with leaks that they just can’t seem to fix.” Even though they are very strict and sue anyone talking about upcoming games or showing unreleased footage, these leaks still happen. Despite all their efforts with lawyers, they haven’t managed to stop one guy from revealing spoilers anymore. It’s kind of a mystery how NateTheHate gets away with it all without getting caught.

    Community’s Mixed Feelings About Leaks

    Fans are divided on whether these leaks should keep happening. Some gamers, who think Nintendo’s next direct is way overdue, are happy about the spoilers because it builds excitement. But others believe fans should wait patiently for Nintendo to officially announce their games, like Star Fox or future Mario adventures. So, opinions about leaks are pretty split in the community.


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  • Nintendo Switch 2: Easy Battery Replacement for EU Compliance

    Nintendo Switch 2: Easy Battery Replacement for EU Compliance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 is harder to fix than its predecessor, with battery issues being a common complaint.
    2. Nintendo is redesigning the Switch 2 for European markets to comply with the EU’s Right to Repair directive, effective July 2026.
    3. Joy-Con 2 controllers will see improvements, particularly regarding battery reliability and stick drift issues.
    4. New EU regulations aim to make spare parts more accessible, reducing repair costs and e-waste.
    5. Concerns about the durability of the Switch 2 battery exist, with challenges in accessing it for repairs due to strong adhesive.

    iFixit has noted that the Switch 2 is quite hard to fix, even more so than the previous handheld version. One of the most frequent issues reported to Nintendo Support is a reduced capacity or damaged battery. In at least one area, the company plans to alter the Switch 2 specifications to make it easier to replace this component.

    Nintendo’s Response to Legislation

    According to a report by Nikkei in Japan, Nintendo is taking steps to comply with EU laws. The Right to Repair directive, which was passed in 2024, is set to take effect in July 2026. Currently, Nintendo is only looking at redesigning the Switch 2 for European markets. However, they may consider enhancements for repairability in Japan and North America down the line.

    Joy-Con Improvements on the Horizon

    While the issue of stick drift is a significant concern with the Joy-Con 2 controllers, Nintendo also intends to make improvements to these accessories. The controllers, which come with the console, have rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that tend to wear out over time.

    In the past few years, the EU has implemented additional regulations concerning batteries. These new rules aim to provide consumers with better repair options for devices such as smartphones, tablets, and hand-held gaming systems. With these changes, spare parts are expected to be more accessible, which should lower repair costs at home or in local businesses. A key goal of this legislation is to minimize e-waste when electronics become too hard or expensive to repair.

    Battery Reliability Concerns

    Having been on the market since June 2025, the durability and lifespan of the Switch 2 battery are still unclear. So far, isolated cases of dangerous swelling have been reported. Nevertheless, teardowns have revealed that if the battery does fail, many gamers may find it challenging to fix it. Even after taking apart the handheld, accessing the battery is tough due to strong adhesive securing it.

    With the current memory shortage impacting production, Nintendo’s adjustments to the Switch 2 specs could lead to higher manufacturing costs. Sometimes, it can be more cost-effective for a company to modify a product’s design on a global scale. It’s also uncertain whether the gaming giant will revise its warranty policies in light of the new EU regulations.

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  • Nintendo Enhances Switch 2 GameCube Emulator for Better Control

    Nintendo Enhances Switch 2 GameCube Emulator for Better Control

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 aims to be the primary device for playing GameCube classics, but latency and control issues hinder the retro gaming experience.
    2. The GameCube emulator version 1.6.0 introduced improvements, including reduced control sensitivity and a calibration screen for better input registration.
    3. Ongoing lag issues remain, despite some positive changes seen in games like F-Zero GX and The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker after recent patches.
    4. The CRT filter feature aims to enhance retro graphics but affects brightness levels; an HDR option was added to improve this.
    5. Nintendo Classics has gained popularity since its launch, but slow library expansion leads many retro gamers to prefer the Dolphin GameCube emulator.

    Ideally, the Switch 2 would serve as the sole device needed to play GameCube classics. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription features an ever-growing array of beloved titles. Unfortunately, some of these games suffer from noticeable latency and unresponsive controls, which can make enjoying retro gaming quite frustrating. Nonetheless, fans have observed some improvements since the release of Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness.

    Emulator Updates

    According to GamesRadar+, the official GameCube emulator’s version 1.6.0 was launched together with the Pokémon game. One of the first games that players often try after updates is the 2003 arcade racing game F-Zero GX. In the past, even minor movements of the analog stick would be amplified, leading to disastrous results on the high-speed tracks.

    YouTuber Madao Joestar shared a video demonstrating how the control sensitivity has decreased. The game now provides a calibration screen, making it simpler to see how inputs are more accurately registered. Sadly, due to ongoing lag issues, many players may still choose to enjoy the racer on the original Nintendo console for a better experience.

    Ongoing Lag Issues

    With the Switch 2’s GameCube emulator, players have noticed a delay between their inputs and what appears on the screen. Back in December 2025, gamers detected improvements in an earlier patch for Nintendo Switch Online. Both F-Zero GX and The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker showed positive results, but some latency issues remained. It’s expected that the company will keep working on enhancing the overall experience.

    Another enhancement includes the CRT filter for GameCube titles. This feature adds scan lines and smooths out the jagged edges typical of retro graphics. While it aims to replicate the visuals of a TV from the early 2000s, the brightness levels have been affected. The release of Gale of Darkness included an HDR option to lessen this dimness somewhat.

    Nintendo Classics Appeal

    Since its debut in June 2025, Nintendo Classics has become a more attractive option for gamers. Generally, the titles showcase fewer performance problems, even if input lag can still detract from enjoyment. However, the expansion of the library is not happening as quickly as some gamers would prefer. Consequently, the Dolphin GameCube emulator continues to be favored by retro gaming fans.

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  • Switch 2 Firmware Update Breaks MicroSD Express Cards

    Switch 2 Firmware Update Breaks MicroSD Express Cards

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 update (firmware version 22.0.0) introduced a boost mode for older games but caused storage issues for many players.
    2. Some MicroSD Express cards, particularly the 1TB model from PNY, are not recognized by the console, preventing game loading.
    3. Users can only transfer screenshots and videos to the console, as game saves require the compatible MicroSD Express format.
    4. Possible solutions include reformatting the cards, but this will erase installed games, causing inconvenience for players.
    5. The high cost of larger 1TB MicroSD Express cards, combined with ongoing memory shortages, raises concerns about future pricing and availability.

    Fans are really excited about the new update for the Switch 2 that brought boost mode to older games. However, many players are now dealing with a sudden lack of storage space. A lot of users on Reddit are talking about how the console is not recognizing some MicroSD Express cards anymore. Because of this, the games that were installed won’t load, forcing players to rely on the handheld’s 256GB internal storage.

    Issues After the Update

    Problems started popping up after the Switch 2 firmware version 22.0.0 was released on March 16th. A lot of the reports focus on the 1TB MicroSD Express card made by PNY. One Reddit user, Whaleambassador, mentioned that the console is saying the extra storage is not compatible.

    The card still works to some extent, as the console sees it as a regular MicroSD card. But players can only move screenshots and videos from the original handheld. To save games, the new console needs the more expensive MicroSD Express format.

    Seeking Help

    After cleaning the card, Whaleambassador reached out to Nintendo support. The company didn’t provide quick help, so the user decided to contact PNY’s support. They haven’t had this issue with the 1TB model and asked for a return merchandise authorization (RMA) to test it further.

    Many other users joined the conversation on Reddit, sharing that their MicroSD Express cards also stopped working after the update. While most problems seem to happen with PNY cards, the 1TB model from Integral Gamer’s Edge X could be experiencing similar issues.

    Possible Solutions

    One way to fix this could be to reformat the card using Windows. Unfortunately, this would erase any game installs on the Switch 2, including big ones like the 90GB+ Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade. Game-Key Cards not only slow down internet speeds, but they also make players buy extra storage for the handheld. The silver lining is that game saves are stored on the internal drive.

    Even though most cards come with long warranties, the larger 1TB MicroSD Express cards can go for over $200. With NAND Flash prices affected by the memory shortage, it’s unlikely these accessories will get cheaper anytime soon. It’s hoped that either Nintendo or PNY can find out why the latest Switch 2 firmware is causing these problems.

    Switch 2 subreddit, Nintendo Switch Help subreddit.

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