Tag: Switch 2

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Amazon Launch Delayed Due to Import Pricing

    Nintendo Switch 2 Amazon Launch Delayed Due to Import Pricing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo was frustrated with Amazon’s pricing practices, as scalpers sold games at lower prices than official rates.
    2. Amazon faced a warning from Nintendo to address scalpers or risk losing the supply of its products.
    3. Despite Amazon’s attempt to label authentic Nintendo products, Nintendo ceased selling on the platform due to dissatisfaction.
    4. The launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 on Amazon failed, missing out on a record-breaking sales opportunity.
    5. Price disparities exist between regions, with lower prices in Asia leading to scalping issues on Amazon in the US.


    Amazon has lost the ability to sell the Switch 2, which is known to be the most successful gaming console launch ever, due to its practice of undercutting Nintendo’s prices with low-cost imports.

    Nintendo’s Discontent

    Nintendo was not happy at all that games like Donkey Kong Bananza, which now costs $69.99 on Amazon—matching the price at Nintendo America—were once available for less. They expressed frustration over this situation, feeling that it was unfair to both them and customers.

    Nintendo gave Amazon a warning that it would stop supplying its products if the company didn’t take action against scalpers. These scalpers were buying Nintendo games and consoles in Asia and reselling them on Amazon US for less than the official Nintendo America prices.

    Token Efforts

    In response, Amazon tried to make a small gesture by labeling authentic Nintendo products on its site, but that didn’t satisfy Nintendo. The gaming giant decided to stop selling its products on Amazon altogether. It has only just started to allow some Switch 2 games and accessories back on the platform, now at their original prices.

    Due to this scalping issue, the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 on Amazon came and went without any sales, missing out on what is considered the biggest console launch in history, with 3.5 million units sold within just days.

    Price Disparities

    In some Asian countries, the price of the Nintendo Switch 2 is lower compared to the US, and the same applies for Nintendo’s games. For instance, the Switch 2’s cost is around $340 in Japan, but this version is only available in that local market.

    Scalpers have taken advantage of Amazon, which is seen as a place for cheap imports from Asia, to sell Nintendo products at lower prices in the US. After finding little support from Amazon, Nintendo reportedly chose to take a stand by pulling its Switch 2 launch, hoping it would encourage the marketplace to adhere to original pricing.

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  • Switch 2 Owners Can Use Amiibos Without Unboxing: New Hack

    Switch 2 Owners Can Use Amiibos Without Unboxing: New Hack

    Key Takeaways

    1. Users can now scan Amiibos without opening the packaging, preserving collector’s items.
    2. The Switch 2’s NFC reader can read chips inside many sealed Amiibo packages, a change from older models.
    3. Newer Amiibo releases do not have NFC blocking tags, benefiting serious collectors.
    4. Counterfeiting remains a significant issue in the Amiibo market, with fake products still being sold.
    5. Nintendo has taken legal action against counterfeiters, winning a lawsuit for over $7 million.


    Switch 2 users have found a neat trick that lets them scan Amiibos without having to tear open the packaging. This means no more sacrificing the pristine look of a collector’s box just to get some in-game goodies.

    New Scanning Method

    Before this discovery, if you wanted to use an Amiibo, you had to break the factory seal. However, as confirmed by Reddit user u/sputnikk in the r/switch2 subreddit, the Switch 2’s NFC reader can actually read the chips inside many sealed Amiibo packages. This is a big win for collectors who want to maintain the condition of their items while still enjoying the benefits of Amiibo scanning.

    Collector’s Delight

    Nintendo had previously used NFC blocking tags in older Amiibo models, but these are not found in newer releases. This change is fantastic for serious collectors who can now obtain in-game items without damaging their valuable “in-box” collectibles. Some users on Reddit humorously suggested taking their Switch 2s to stores to scan Amiibos right off the shelves, without purchasing them. While this is harmless—since most Amiibos can only be scanned once per day—it could impact retail sales.

    Sales and Counterfeits

    By September 2016, Nintendo had sold over 36 million Amiibos, and that number jumped to more than 77 million by September 2022. A lot of this success comes from releasing Amiibos that tie in with new game launches. However, the Amiibo market has faced issues with fake products and hacks, including the cloning of NFC tags, which let people imitate Amiibo data. Some counterfeiters have even gone as far as making fake Amiibos.

    The counterfeit problem is nothing new; low-quality, unlicensed Amiibos and accessories have been sold on platforms like Amazon. In October 2023, Nintendo took action against some of these counterfeiters and won a lawsuit, getting awarded $7,030,158 from two sellers. Still, counterfeit Amiibos and cards are available on sites like eBay, which is a continuing worry for many collectors. Nintendo introduced Amiibos in November 2014, and they serve as interactive action figures that unlock new content, equipment, and game modes in Nintendo titles. Initially designed for the Wii U, the Amiibo craze is still very much alive today.

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  • Target Offers $50 eShop Gift Card After Delayed Switch 2 Pre-Orders

    Target Offers $50 eShop Gift Card After Delayed Switch 2 Pre-Orders

    Key Takeaways

    1. Many Nintendo enthusiasts were worried about pre-order cancellations for the Switch 2, leading to complaints about delayed shipments.
    2. Target is offering a $50 Nintendo eShop gift card to customers whose deliveries were late, but eligibility criteria remain unclear.
    3. Delivery times for the Switch 2 varied, with some arriving later than expected, while competitors like Best Buy and GameStop delivered on time.
    4. Customers can redeem the gift card offer by adding it to their cart and using a promo code during checkout for a total of $0.
    5. Target appears to be working to rebuild trust with gamers after the launch issues, especially for future product releases.


    The weeks before the Switch 2 launch were filled with worry for Nintendo enthusiasts. Even those who managed to pre-order their consoles were still uneasy about possible cancellations. While Target managed to fulfill many of the online orders, there were complaints from gamers about shipments arriving late. For some, the Switch 2 didn’t show up until the following week. To make up for this inconvenience, Target is sending out emails with codes for a $50 Nintendo eShop gift card.

    Social Media Buzz

    Currently, social media reports indicate that buyers who received their deliveries on or after June 7th are getting the Nintendo eShop gift card offer. However, this doesn’t apply to every gamer, and it remains uncertain what criteria Target is using to determine eligibility.

    Delivery Expectations

    Target never explicitly promised that the handheld would arrive on June 5th. Gamers noticed that the estimated shipping times ranged from June 6th to June 11th. In reality, some consoles didn’t show up until June 11th or later. In contrast, competitors such as Best Buy, GameStop, and Walmart managed to deliver their systems on June 5th or the day after.

    For those looking to take advantage of the gift card offer, they should add the $50 eShop card to their cart on the Target website. After that, buyers need to apply the promo code provided in the email during the checkout process. With a total order amount of $0, customers should find a digital code for the Nintendo store in their email. Some gamers are thinking of using a portion of the funds to pre-order Switch 2 games like Donkey Kong Bananza.

    Rebuilding Trust

    Even though early delivery wasn’t guaranteed, it seems Target might be trying to regain the favor of gamers as future launches approach. For those who pre-ordered the Switch 2, it was particularly frustrating to see other fans unbox their consoles days ahead of them.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Game Leak: First-Party Title May Cost $20

    Nintendo Switch 2 Game Leak: First-Party Title May Cost $20

    Key Takeaways

    1. Drag x Drive features newly designed Switch 2 Joy-Cons with a unique mouse mode and gained attention during the April Nintendo Direct event.
    2. The game is expected to be budget-friendly, with a potential price of around $20, and will be released digitally in summer 2025.
    3. Reviewers suggest that Drag x Drive resembles a tech demo, leading to concerns about its gameplay scope and overall depth.
    4. Play testers noted discomfort with the standard Switch 2 controllers during long sessions, especially compared to traditional mice.
    5. Another first-party Switch 2 game, Welcome Tour, is priced at $10, raising expectations for Drag x Drive’s value despite its lower graphics quality.


    Drag x Drive is a platform to showcase the newly designed Switch 2 Joy-Cons and their unique mouse mode. It received significant attention during the Nintendo Direct event in April, with the wheelchair basketball game set for release in the summer of 2025. Although an exact release date hasn’t been confirmed, Brazilian leaker ‘Necro’ Felipe has hinted at a potential price. Drag x Drive could be one of the more budget-friendly first-party Switch 2 titles, estimated to cost around $20.

    Pricing Insights

    ‘Necro’ Felipe got information about the pricing of Drag x Drive from the Brazilian Nintendo eShop. While he can’t promise that this price is final, it has certainly piqued the interest of players. This game will be a purely digital release, meaning that it will likely not be available in cartridge form anywhere.

    Gameplay Critiques

    Some reviewers who have seen gameplay footage of Drag x Drive think it resembles a tech demo more than a full-fledged game. Based on the details available, the game’s scope appears to be somewhat limited, which could be the reason for the lower pricing. Nevertheless, testers have noted that it showcases the enhanced Joy-Cons effectively. For instance, tilting the controllers in one direction mimics real-life wheelchair maneuvers, allowing players to move forward. Additionally, lifting the Joy-Cons from a surface lets players shoot and catch the basketball.

    User Experience Concerns

    Another issue that play testers have raised is related to the comfort of the standard Switch 2 controllers. When used for long sessions, they don’t feel as pleasant to hold compared to traditional mice. While some Switch 2 games do accommodate USB mice, they don’t seem well-suited for Drag x Drive.

    On a related note, another first-party Switch 2 game with a low price point is Welcome Tour. Priced at $10, some players anticipated that this interactive demo would be offered for free. Despite the lack of high-end graphics, Drag x Drive may provide a more engaging gaming experience.

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  • Square Enix Hints at Final Fantasy 16 Switch 2 Port Possibility

    Square Enix Hints at Final Fantasy 16 Switch 2 Port Possibility

    Key Takeaways

    1. Possible Nintendo Release: Square Enix hinted at a potential release of Final Fantasy 16 for the Switch 2 during a livestream, with comments from producer Naoki Yoshida and creative director Kazutoyo Maehiro.

    2. Caution Advised: Gamers should be cautious not to assume an official confirmation regarding the Nintendo version since the statements were not definitive.

    3. Upcoming Titles: Additional Final Fantasy games, including Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, are expected to be released on the Switch 2, along with Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles on September 30th.

    4. Performance Concerns: There are worries about the performance of Final Fantasy 16 on the Switch 2, as it is demanding on hardware and has faced issues on other platforms like PC and Steam Deck.

    5. Market Interest: Square Enix may not struggle to attract players on the Switch, given the popularity of previous titles on Nintendo systems, unlike the initial reception of Final Fantasy 16 on Xbox.


    After the recent launch of Final Fantasy 16 on Xbox consoles, there are growing signs that it might also be released for the Switch 2. During a livestream for Final Fantasy 14, an important figure from Square Enix hinted at a possible Nintendo version. As one ResetEra user translated, producer Naoki Yoshida remarked that the only platform missing a version of Final Fantasy 16 was Nintendo. Creative Director Kazutoyo Maehiro then added, “Will do his best.”

    Caution is Advised

    It’s important for gamers not to jump to conclusions about this statement, since it’s not an official confirmation. However, it seems unusual for anyone at Square Enix to bring up Nintendo if there weren’t any plans for a port in the works.

    More Titles Coming Soon

    Fans are already aware that additional Final Fantasy games will be arriving on the Switch 2. In May, it was revealed that Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade would be released for the handheld system. Furthermore, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, along with an undisclosed third installment in the trilogy, are also likely to be ported. For those who still need more games on their Switch 2, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is scheduled to launch on September 30th.

    Performance Worries

    Some skeptics are concerned about how well the demanding Final Fantasy 16 will operate on the Switch 2. Players on PC can confirm that it puts significant stress on GPUs, resulting in uneven frame rates. Additionally, many consider the game nearly unplayable on the Steam Deck. Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of Final Fantasy 7 Remake, previously praised the Switch 2’s specifications, stating that the extra power made the port feasible. Nevertheless, getting Final Fantasy 16 to run smoothly on handheld devices may need more work.

    Market Interest

    One challenge that Square Enix might not face with Final Fantasy releases on Switch is drawing in customers. Previous titles attracted large player bases on Nintendo systems, including the original Switch. Conversely, Final Fantasy 16 had a tough time capturing the interest of Xbox gamers at first, although sales eventually started to pick up.

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  • Switch 2 Users Report Joy-Con Issues That Aren’t Stick Drift

    Switch 2 Users Report Joy-Con Issues That Aren’t Stick Drift

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 has set records as Nintendo’s most sought-after console at launch.
    2. Users are reporting battery swelling and Joy-Con issues, separate from the known stick drift problem.
    3. A Reddit user shared a video showing the left Joy-Con malfunctioning, not registering as connected.
    4. Troubleshooting attempts, like restarting and recalibrating, have not resolved the Joy-Con issue.
    5. If problems persist, users may need to return to GameStop for a replacement console or Joy-Cons.


    The Switch 2 has set multiple records, making it the most sought-after console at its launch for Nintendo. Nevertheless, it hasn’t escaped some issues and negative feedback. Recently, reports of battery swelling have surfaced, along with Joy-Con problems raised by users on Reddit. Interestingly, this time, it seems the issue isn’t related to the stick drift that has affected the original Switch Joy-Cons.

    Joy-Con Malfunction

    A Reddit user named IcyBoi23 posted a video (linked below) on the NintendoSwitch2 subreddit that shows the left Joy-Con behaving oddly. The left stick appears to be stuck downward, not in a physical sense but regarding its input. Even when the Joy-Con is connected to the handheld, it doesn’t register as connected in the controller settings. The video indicates that the controller is charged, ruling out a low battery problem.

    Troubleshooting Attempts

    Despite restarting the console, the issue persisted. The user noted that the Switch 2 had been docked all day, so everything should’ve been fully charged upon returning. Furthermore, removing the Joy-Cons and placing them in the charging grip did not rectify the situation.

    Some users have suggested that this doesn’t appear to be a stick drift issue and that recalibrating the controller might help. Others recommended restarting the handheld through the settings. A few comments mentioned that when detaching the left Joy-Con for the first time, the user might have accidentally touched the left joystick, potentially causing it to lock in that input. Resetting the console could be the solution to this problem.

    The Next Steps

    If all else fails, the user may need to return to GameStop for a replacement of either the Joy-Cons or the entire console. It’s likely that GameStop will opt to replace the entire console, requiring the user to buy the warranty again.

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  • Battery Swelling in Switch 2 May Cause Bulging Consoles, Says Nintendo

    Battery Swelling in Switch 2 May Cause Bulging Consoles, Says Nintendo

    Key Takeaways

    1. Concerns have emerged about battery swelling in the Switch 2, with users sharing images of bulging consoles on social media.
    2. Reports indicate that swelling issues are affecting the console’s casing, raising alarms among gamers and prompting contact with Nintendo Support.
    3. Swelling lithium-ion batteries have a history in handheld gaming devices, though the original Switch had fewer reported cases.
    4. The battery swelling issue is particularly troubling for a new console, suggesting a possible manufacturing defect rather than user error.
    5. Players have reported inaccurate power level readings and frustrations with battery life, but these concerns may not be directly linked to hardware problems.


    Despite its initial success, the Switch 2 has raised some concerns about its battery. The most recent issue is about potential swelling in its rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Many gamers have shared images of consoles that are bulging on platforms like Reddit and social media. One customer who reached out to Nintendo Support was informed that the company is looking into the matter.

    Notable Reports on Social Media

    A Reddit user named Tombyt3 highlighted a misshapen handheld that has caught people’s attention. Although it might be hard to spot at first, the back panel of the console is no longer flat. Automaton reported a similar case from a Japanese Switch 2 owner, who noted that the left side of the device’s casing was lifting. This gamer has also contacted Nintendo Support regarding the issue.

    History of Battery Issues in Gaming Devices

    Swelling lithium-ion batteries have been a problem for various handheld gaming devices, such as the Sony PSP. While this issue is less frequent with the original Switch, there have been some cases where its back panel has expanded. Even controllers have faced this problem. Battery swelling can happen due to overcharging, even with the Switch 2’s settings designed to prevent it. Additionally, storing or playing consoles in very hot conditions can lead to damage, and in severe cases, even fires.

    Concerns for a New Console

    What’s alarming about the battery swelling issue with the Switch 2 is that it is a new console. Typically, such problems are found with older systems that have been charged many times or left unused for long periods. However, teardowns of the console indicate that the back panels are not bulging where the battery is located. This might suggest a manufacturing defect instead of user error, and the design of the handheld makes it challenging for users to change the battery on their own.

    Another concern tied to the Switch 2 battery is the system’s habit of showing wrong power levels. Nintendo has proposed a method for owners to fix this irritation. Some players have voiced their frustration about the battery life being subpar, but this is probably not linked to hardware issues.

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  • Old Switch Games Performance on Switch 2: Updated Community List

    Old Switch Games Performance on Switch 2: Updated Community List

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 has sold out quickly, becoming Nintendo’s fastest-selling console ever.
    2. Many original Switch users are excited to play older games on the Switch 2 with better graphics and performance.
    3. Nintendo offers free and paid updates for popular games like The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario.
    4. A dedicated Reddit thread discusses the performance of original Switch games on the Switch 2, with regular updates from the community.
    5. Nintendo provides compatibility lists for games, which are supplemented by community contributions on Reddit.


    The Switch 2 has been available for just under two weeks and has quickly sold out at many stores, with the company declaring it the fastest-selling Nintendo console ever. The Switch 2 user community has rapidly figured out which games from the original Switch 1 perform better on the new system, which perform worse, or even which ones don’t work at all.

    Old Switch Owners React

    Many former Switch 1 users haven’t touched their devices for a while. When it became apparent that a lot of the older games would also work on the new Switch 2, it sparked excitement about experiencing beloved titles on bigger screens, with better resolutions and enhanced frame rates. Nintendo offers both free and paid updates for certain games, including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, Kirby and the Enchanted Land, and Super Mario Jamboree.

    Community Discussions on Compatibility

    The topic of backwards compatibility has become a hot discussion point on a dedicated Reddit thread focused on the performance of Switch 1 games. Gamers who have tried out older titles on the Switch 2 are welcome to share their thoughts on how those games perform. The thread’s creator, wtfimdoingwithmylife, commits to regularly updating the list, which is a valuable resource for gamers. In addition, Nintendo has also provided compatibility lists:

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Price Surprises Ex-PlayStation Executive

    Nintendo Switch 2 Price Surprises Ex-PlayStation Executive

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shuhei Yoshida expressed surprise at Nintendo’s pricing choices for the Switch 2, particularly its lower price in Japan compared to the U.S.
    2. The price of the Switch 2 is $450 in the U.S. but only 49,980 yen (about $345) in Japan, with a higher international price of $483.
    3. Factors influencing the Switch 2’s pricing include the weaker Yen, deterrence of resellers, and possible higher profit margins for Japanese retailers.
    4. Yoshida noted that Nintendo takes risks to maintain its market position in Japan, even at the cost of lower hardware profits.
    5. Sony views Nintendo as a competitor primarily in Japan, while focusing on Xbox in other regions, indicating different strategies are needed for various markets.


    Since Shuhei Yoshida departed from PlayStation earlier this year, he has shared his thoughts on how the company perceives its competitors. The former head of Sony Interactive Entertainment recently joined the Kit & Krysta podcast. In the interview, he expressed surprise at some of the choices Nintendo made. One notable point was the unexpectedly low price of the Switch 2 in Japan.

    Pricing Differences

    In the U.S., gamers are paying $450 for the standard version of the Switch 2. In contrast, the price for the region-specific console in Japan is only 49,980 yen, which is about $345. However, for the international version, the price is set at $483. Japanese consumers need this more expensive version to connect foreign Nintendo Switch Online accounts. Still, Yoshida implied that PlayStation would have chosen a different pricing strategy for a handheld device with Switch 2 specifications.

    Factors Influencing Pricing

    The weaker Yen against the U.S. dollar likely played a role in the Switch 2’s pricing. Additionally, Nintendo seems to have aimed to deter resellers from importing the console from other regions. Lastly, there was a rumor suggesting that the company granted more profit margins to Japanese retailers on console sales, although this remains unconfirmed.

    During the podcast, Yoshida suggested that Nintendo is willing to take risks to keep its leading position in Japan. Even if it means lower hardware profits, maintaining a strong presence in the gaming market is seen as beneficial in the long run.

    Rivalry in Different Markets

    Yoshida pointed out that Sony does not view Nintendo as a competitor outside of Japan. In other regions, the company competes primarily with Xbox in the high-tech console arena. However, in Japan, the competition is more intense, as Microsoft has struggled to gain traction. Both companies understand that they must adopt different strategies to thrive in these varied markets.

    There have been increasing leaks about a new PlayStation handheld device, which may support PS5 games natively. If the current leaders at Sony share Yoshida’s mindset, the console could be priced much higher for Japanese consumers than the Switch 2.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Game’s Slow Sales Highlight Game-Key Card Limits

    Nintendo Switch 2 Game’s Slow Sales Highlight Game-Key Card Limits

    Key Takeaways

    1. Disgaea 7 Complete is launching on the Switch 2, but fans are disappointed about it using a Game-Key Card.
    2. The Collector’s Edition, called Ewwdo Edition, includes the Deluxe Edition and physical collectibles but has seen sluggish pre-order sales.
    3. A Game-Key Card holds minimal data, requiring players to download most of the game, leading to criticism from fans and concerns about game preservation.
    4. Many physical third-party Switch 2 games are adopting the Game-Key Card format, but some titles like Cyberpunk 2077 are still available as traditional cartridges.
    5. The release has sparked negative feedback regarding the high cost for content already available, with fans preferring a more affordable upgrade option.


    Western fans of tactical RPGs were thrilled when they heard the news about Disgaea 7 Complete launching on the Switch 2. While a version of Disgaea 7 was released for the original Switch, it missed out on some DLC that was only available in Japan. However, the excitement faded somewhat when fans discovered that the new release would be using a Game-Key Card. This disappointment might be contributing to the sluggish sales of the Collector’s Edition pre-orders.

    Collector’s Edition Details

    The NIS Online Store is a popular place for fans to find many of the publisher’s games. Recently, they added the Disgaea 7 Complete: Ewwdo Edition to their listings. This special edition comes with the Deluxe Edition of Disgaea 7 along with various physical collectibles. A user on NeoGaf noticed that no one had bought the Switch 2 version yet, even with limited quantities typically selling out fast.

    What is a Game-Key Card?

    A Game-Key Card is basically a cartridge that holds just a tiny bit of data. Because publishers have access to only pricey 64 GB media, they see this as a cheaper option. Players must download most of the game’s files before they can start playing. While gamers can still sell the game or use it on other consoles, those who care about game preservation are critical of this format. Additionally, fans who love to fill their shelves with traditional game cards are also quite displeased.

    Market Trends

    Many physical third-party Switch 2 games are opting for the Game-Key Card method. However, there are some exceptions, including Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition and Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma. The developers of these games have shared concerns that not every title suits this format. The strong sales of Cyberpunk 2077 could indicate that there is still a market for cartridges that do not depend on internet access.

    The comment sections are filled with negative feedback about Disgaea 7 Complete being released on a Game-Key Card. In addition to that, it’s seen as a costly investment for content that is largely already available. Owners of the Switch would have rather had a more affordable upgrade option.

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