Tag: Switch 2

September 14, 2025
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade: Switch 2 Game-Key Cards Explained
Key Takeaways
1. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade requires 87.9 GB, exceeding the Switch 2’s Game Card limit of 64 GB.
2. Switch 2 users face storage challenges as large titles consume significant internal space, with Game-Key Cards requiring additional downloads.
3. MicroSD Express cards are an option for expanded storage, but they are expensive and developers must consider read speeds.
4. Future possibilities for larger cartridges may arise from Macronix exploring new flash memory types, though speed improvements remain uncertain.
5. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is also set to release on Switch 2 and may have an even larger file size due to its open-world design.
Many players think that publishers choose Game-Key Cards since they are less expensive compared to regular cartridges. However, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade shows why some games for the Switch 2 have no other options. This title from Square Enix is set to release on January 22, 2026, and takes up a massive 87.9 GB on the eShop. Unfortunately, the current maximum size for Switch 2 Game Cards is only 64 GB.
Size Comparison
As noted by Twisted Voxel, the initial part of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy is actually smaller on the PS5. It appears that Nintendo’s handheld users will not be able to enjoy the same benefits as players on other consoles. There’s a chance that Square Enix could have made the game smaller to fit onto a Game Card, but this would have come with some sacrifices.
Storage Issues
Storage is becoming an increasing problem for fans who want to build a library of Switch 2 games. Being one of the largest titles so far, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will take up a significant amount of the handheld’s 256 GB of internal storage. Game-Key Cards won’t help in this case, as they necessitate downloading and installing most of the game’s files.
Options for Owners
Switch 2 users can turn to microSD Express cards, but they are quite pricey. Developers also have to think about read speeds during gameplay. Early tests showed that the console’s internal storage was the quickest option. Recently, a developer from Star Wars Outlaws mentioned that their game is on a Game Card because cartridges were too slow.
There might be a glimmer of hope for cartridges exceeding 64 GB in the future. Macronix, a Taiwanese company that has previously produced media for Nintendo, is reportedly looking into a new type of flash memory. This could lead to cheaper cartridges in various sizes. However, it remains uncertain whether this would also improve speeds.
Upcoming Titles
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is just one of three games in the series from Square Enix that are on their way to the Switch 2. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is also expected to be released on the console, potentially before the end of 2026. Unfortunately, with its larger open-world environments, it has an even bigger file size on other platforms.
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Tags: Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Game-Key Cards, Switch 2
September 13, 2025
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Release Date Announced and Details Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will launch on December 4, 2025, with pre-orders available for $60.
2. The game will take up 28.9 GB on both the Switch and Switch 2.
3. The title was changed from Metroid Prime 4 to Beyond in 2024 after a long development period starting in 2017.
4. A “Visual Retrospective” collection for Metroid Prime 1 to 3 will release on October 28.
5. Two amiibo packs, Samus and Samus & Vi-O-La on November 6 and Sylux on December 4, were also announced.
After a long period of guessing, fans of the Metroid series can finally mark their calendars for the eagerly awaited sequel, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. During the Direct event streamed on September 12, Nintendo unveiled a new trailer (linked below) and announced that the game will launch in December, aligning with its 2025 timeline, although no specific date was provided initially.
Pricing and Details
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Switch 2 Edition is set to hit the shelves on December 4. Players can pre-order the game through the Nintendo store for a price of $60. As of now, the store listing appears to still reflect the original Switch version, with compatibility for the Switch 2 marked as “untested.” The game will take up 28.9 GB on both the Switch and Switch 2. It seems like Nintendo is actively working on updating the page, as refreshing it disrupts the pre-order button.
Development Journey
At last, there’s a release date for this game, which has been in the works since at least 2017. Initially named Metroid Prime 4, the title was changed to ‘Beyond’ in 2024 alongside the announcement of a 2025 release date. Since then, Nintendo has presented demos at various events, but feedback from players has been somewhat disappointing, to put it mildly.
Additional Releases
In the same Direct event, it was also announced that a “Visual Retrospective” collection for Metroid Prime 1 to 3, which appears to be an art book, will launch on October 28. The Samus and Samus & Vi-O-La amiibo pack is scheduled for November 6, and the Sylux amiibo will follow on December 4.
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Tags: Metroid Prime 4, Nintendo, Switch 2
September 13, 2025
Resident Evil Requiem, Biohazard, and Village Launch on Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo announced that Resident Evil 7, 8, and 9 will be available on the Switch 2 as native ports, not cloud versions.
2. All three Resident Evil titles are set to release on February 27, 2024.
3. Resident Evil Requiem will feature both first and third-person gameplay perspectives.
4. The trailer for Resident Evil Requiem provides a first look at its gameplay on the Switch 2.
5. Highlights from the Nintendo Direct event can be viewed on Nintendo’s YouTube channel.
The Nintendo Direct event wrapped up earlier today (around 10:30 am ET, September 12) and it had a ton of news, including some exciting updates for games that fans have been eager to see for years, and others that were just recently suspected. Among the new announcements were the latest Resident Evil titles, with Nintendo confirming that parts 7, 8, and 9 will be making their way to the Switch 2 as fully functioning ports.
Resident Evil Titles Coming Soon
At the end of the showcase, Nintendo announced that Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, Resident Evil 8: Village, and Resident Evil Requiem are set to land on the Switch 2. All three games are scheduled to release on February 27 next year, which is also the same date for RE 9 across other systems. Unlike the cloud versions of RE 7 and RE 8 that were previously available on the Nintendo Store, these will run natively on the handheld console.
Gameplay Insights
The trailer for Resident Evil Requiem provided a sneak peek of first-person gameplay on the Switch 2, but it is noted that the game will let players enjoy the story from both first and third-person perspectives. This title was first revealed back in June at the Summer Game Fest and follows the story of Grace Ashcroft, an investigative journalist and a survivor of the 1998 Raccoon City Incident.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard debuted in January 2017 as the first installment to feature first-person gameplay. Much of its action unfolded within the eerie Baker household, where the main character Ethan was searching for his missing wife, Mia. Resident Evil 8: Village, released in 2021, also offered both first and third-person views, following Ethan as he ventured through a cursed village in search of his daughter, who was held by the village’s priestess, Mother Miranda, and her lords.
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Tags: Nintendo Direct, Resident Evil, Switch 2
September 13, 2025
Gamers React to High Prices of Switch 2 Games and DLC at Nintendo Direct
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo’s $80 price tag for Mario Kart World has raised concerns about a potential trend in game pricing.
2. Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are returning to the Switch for $39.99 each or $69.99 for both, with a free upgrade for Switch 2 owners.
3. Critics argue that Nintendo frequently re-releases older titles, questioning the necessity of enhanced versions for new consoles.
4. Fans are unhappy with DLC pricing, particularly the $20 Donkey Kong Bananza expansion and the $30 Mega Dimension add-on for Pokémon Legends: Z-A.
5. The trend of increasing base game prices to $70 has led Nintendo to find additional ways to monetize through DLC.
Some players think Nintendo has set a worrying trend with the $80 price tag for Mario Kart World. Ever since, major Switch and Switch 2 titles have steered clear of similar price hikes. Still, fans are voicing their concerns over the game prices announced during the Nintendo Direct event.
Price Reactions
The costs for Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are causing quite a stir among fans. Nintendo is bringing back these 3D platformers to the Switch, and there’s a free upgrade for those who own the Nintendo Switch 2. Scheduled for release on October 2nd, gamers can grab each digital copy for $39.99 or opt for a bundle of both games for $69.99.
Recycled Games?
Nintendo has long been criticized for bringing back the same titles for both new and existing consoles. Super Mario Galaxy was included in the 2020 Super Mario 3D All-Stars package that was revealed during the 35th Anniversary celebrations. It was available for a limited time, leading to increased prices in the second-hand market afterward.
Even if the new version of Super Mario Galaxy is produced in larger numbers, players are wondering if another Switch version with minor enhancements is really needed. One user on Reddit pointed out that one can buy a working Wii console with an original copy for about $80. Owners of the Switch 2 will enjoy more perks beyond just backward compatibility, including a 4K upgrade patch.
Criticism of DLC Pricing
Many are also upset about the DLC prices that were mentioned during the Nintendo Direct. The $20 Donkey Kong Bananza expansion allows players to explore DK Island. In the new Emerald Rush mode, gamers race to find collectibles and emeralds quickly to enhance their characters. However, it’s only been a couple of months since the base game’s launch, and some fans believe this content should’ve been free for those who recently spent $70 on the initial game.
Even more concerning, a $30 Mega Dimension add-on will be available alongside the new Pokémon Legends: Z-A on October 16th. While most first-party Switch 2 titles are priced at $70, Nintendo appears to be discovering other ways to raise game prices.
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Tags: Nintendo, Super Mario Galaxy, Switch 2
September 11, 2025
September 12 Nintendo Direct to Stream on Nintendo Today! App
Key Takeaways
1. Gamers learned about the upcoming Nintendo Direct primarily through the Nintendo Today! app instead of social media.
2. The Nintendo Direct will be streamed on YouTube and will last approximately 60 minutes.
3. The Nintendo Today! app has gained popularity but faces criticism for not being preferred over social media for news updates.
4. The app requires a Nintendo account and restricts sharing specific content outside of its platform.
5. The app has functionality issues, including constrained video playback and potential server overload during major events.
Some gamers didn’t find out about the upcoming Nintendo Direct through social media like before. Instead, they learned about it from the Nintendo Today! app, which announced that the broadcast is scheduled for September 12th at 9:00 AM EST/3:00 PM CST. Fans will be eager to see possible release date news for highly anticipated Switch 2 titles, such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. This marks an important step for an app that hasn’t yet become a must-have for all enthusiasts.
YouTube Availability
Those who want to catch another Nintendo Direct on YouTube don’t need to worry. The gaming giant will still stream the approximately 60-minute presentation on the widely-used platform. However, Nintendo did share a separate update about its availability on the mobile app, making sure gamers are informed.
The Rise and Challenges of Nintendo Today!
Before the launch of the latest console, Nintendo Today! gained significant popularity. Mobile users frequently discovered previews of the handheld’s features that confirmed previous Switch 2 rumors. On the flip side, some critics argue that they prefer getting their news through social media or reliable websites instead of an app.
Nintendo prefers to manage its marketing strategy by announcing Switch 2 games during its own events. The app is another effort to draw gamers into the limited Nintendo ecosystem. To use it, individuals must have a Nintendo account, and the app restricts users from sharing specific content outside of it.
Functionality Issues
Moreover, the app has constrained video playback options and doesn’t work well with smartphone screen rotation. It remains uncertain if the Nintendo Today! app is equipped to livestream such a major occasion. The servers that Nintendo depends on could get overloaded if the event isn’t also streamed on YouTube.
It seems unlikely that Nintendo Direct events will soon become exclusive to mobile platforms. However, the company might start shifting some of its audience away from its highly popular YouTube channel.
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Tags: Nintendo Direct, Nintendo Today!, Switch 2
September 8, 2025
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Release Date Expected in 2026 for Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will launch on Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S this winter.
2. Rumors suggest that Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth may be released shortly after, potentially in 2026.
3. The director of Rebirth indicated that all remakes are expected on the Nintendo Switch 2, with some needing optimization for smooth performance.
4. The gameplay dynamics differ, with Rebirth featuring open-world sections, while Intergrade is mainly set in Midgar.
5. A significant announcement regarding Final Fantasy Remake Part 3 is expected soon, with speculation about a PS5 exclusive launch.
Gamers are aware that Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is set to come out on the Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S this winter. However, there are rumors that Square Enix could release the next installment of the remake trilogy, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, shortly after. Reliable leaker NateTheHate2 suggests that the RPG will be available on both platforms in 2026.
Speculation and Expectations
NateTheHate2 was replying to comments on Reddit about a possible upcoming Nintendo Direct. It’s likely that Square Enix will showcase Rebirth for the first time, although the main attention will be on Remake Intergrade. Still, the leaker thinks there won’t be a long wait between the releases.
Technical Considerations
In May, Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, mentioned that all three remakes are expected to be available on the Nintendo handheld. He noted that the enhanced specs of the Nintendo Switch 2 would help developers create a true port. However, Rebirth might need extra optimization to ensure smooth performance.
Gameplay Dynamics
Currently available on PS5 and PC, the second part of the Final Fantasy 7 remake series includes open-world sections. In contrast, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade limits gameplay mainly to buildings in Midgar. NateTheHate2 speculates that Square Enix could utilize DLSS upscaling to enhance frame rates.
An Xbox Series X version of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth should not present a major technical hurdle. However, players of Final Fantasy 16 have noticed some differences between the Xbox and PS5 versions. Frame rates were decent on Xbox, but some players pointed out a lack of detail. Owners of the Xbox Series S might see even greater reductions in quality on that console.
Future Releases on the Horizon
Fans might not have to wait too long for a release date for Final Fantasy Remake Part 3. Director Tetsuya Nomura recently hinted that Square Enix could make a significant announcement soon. With indications that the game’s development is progressing well, gamers are looking forward to The Tokyo Game Show on September 25th. Despite its strategy of releasing on multiple platforms, it seems likely that Square Enix will launch the final remake as a PS5 exclusive.
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Tags: Final Fantasy 7, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S
September 7, 2025
Nintendo Developer Discusses Switch 2 Games and Franchise Recycling
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo relies on established franchises instead of introducing new intellectual properties (IPs) for the Switch 2.
2. Former developer Ken Watanabe emphasizes that Nintendo prioritizes innovative gameplay mechanics over new characters or stories.
3. The recent game Donkey Kong Bananza showcases Nintendo’s approach by allowing new interactions while featuring familiar characters.
4. Critics argue that Nintendo focuses on minimizing risks by using well-known franchises to attract players.
5. Watanabe believes that as long as fans remain loyal to existing characters, Nintendo’s strategy of innovation through familiar IPs will continue.
When Nintendo is criticized for not being innovative, many people highlight its dependence on established intellectual properties (IPs). Instead of introducing fresh games for the Switch 2 with unique characters, it seems the company might keep reviving its old franchises. Nevertheless, former Nintendo developer Ken Watanabe claims that the company does encourage creativity.
Watanabe’s Insights
Watanabe was with Nintendo from 2005 until 2015, contributing to projects like New Super Mario Bros. Wii and Splatoon. In an interview with Bloomberg, he shared his thoughts on why the gaming giant doesn’t feel the need to venture into new properties. He stated, “When Nintendo wants to do something new, it’s basically about the gameplay mechanics first — about creating a new way to play. As for the skin or the wrapper, they don’t really fuss over it. They just pick whatever fits that new gameplay best.”
The Example of Donkey Kong
An article from GamesRadar highlights a recent example of Nintendo’s philosophy with Donkey Kong Bananza. Iconic characters make a comeback in the Switch 2 game, but players can interact with the game worlds in ways that were not possible in earlier titles. Destructible voxels allow players to smash through obstacles while exploring. Nintendo picked Donkey Kong as the ideal character to perform this destruction.
Concerns About Risk
Critics might argue that the company is more focused on reducing risks. Splatoon was one of the rare occasions when a new IP made its way into the market. It’s simpler to attract customers using Nintendo franchises that already have dedicated fans. New first-party Switch 2 games build upon the legacy of older titles like Metroid Prime, Kirby, Pokémon, and Splatoon.
Despite the familiarity of these games, Watanabe is confident that Nintendo’s method of innovation will continue. As long as fans remain loyal to the same characters, there will be little motivation for Nintendo to change its strategy.
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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2
September 5, 2025
Elden Ring Tarnished Edition Demo Shows Progress Amid Switch 2 Concerns
Key Takeaways
1. Poor Initial Performance: Elden Ring Tarnished Edition faced noticeable frame rate drops at Gamescom, disappointing audiences.
2. Demo Improvements: A new build showcased at Pax West 2025 showed clearer visuals and reduced stuttering, particularly in expansive areas.
3. Visual Detail Retention: The game maintains good visual detail on Switch 2, with clear trees and effective lighting, despite some frame rate issues.
4. Need for Performance Mode: Developers should consider adding a performance mode to allow players to prioritize frame rates over texture quality.
5. Caution in Early Judgments: Early demos can lead to premature conclusions, as final versions may show improved performance, as seen with other titles.
The performance of the Elden Ring Tarnished Edition didn’t really impress audiences at Gamescom, with noticeable frame rate drops. To potentially counter this feedback, Bandai Namco organized a demo at Pax West 2025 showcasing a new version. While it wasn’t flawless, Nintendo Life noted some clear improvements with the upcoming Switch 2 game.
Improved Visuals in New Build
Unlike the event in Berlin, the company permitted recording of a docked version of the port. Even though it was not a final version, Nintendo Life got to try out an updated build of Elden Ring Tarnished Edition. Initially, the graphics struggled a bit, but once they entered the expansive areas of Limgrave, the visuals became surprisingly fluid. There were still some drops from 30 fps, but the stuttering was less common than what was seen at Gamescom.
Detail Retained on Switch 2
More notable than the frame rates was the fact that Elden Ring maintains a lot of visual detail for a Switch 2 game. The trees showed decent clarity, and the lighting did a good job of showcasing the foliage. Nintendo Life also pointed out that sudden bursts of fire did not seem to slow down performance.
The developers still need to include a performance mode in this Souls-like action RPG. Some players might be okay with reduced texture quality and details if it means achieving higher frame rates. With the Elden Ring Tarnished Edition release date still months away, FromSoftware has the opportunity to introduce this feature.
Caution in Early Judgements
The updated demo from Pax West serves as a reminder that judging games too early can be risky. Star Wars: Outlaws also raised concerns when Switch 2 players tried out the Ubisoft game. Yet, reviews of the final version indicated less stuttering than expected. Digital Foundry concluded that utilizing DLSS and ray tracing takes advantage of the enhanced specs of the Switch 2.
At the same time, players have grown used to getting early access to highly anticipated games. To boost marketing efforts, publishers are keen to showcase titles well before their actual launch. Nevertheless, optimization often happens late in the development process. Consequently, testers may leave with impressions that aren’t as favorable.
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Tags: Bandai Namco, Elden Ring Tarnished Edition, Switch 2
September 2, 2025
Star Wars Outlaws Performs Well on Switch 2, Leaked Gameplay Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Star Wars Outlaws is set to release on September 4 for the Switch 2, generating mixed opinions from gamers.
2. The game requires an RTX 3060 Ti for optimal performance at 60 FPS and 1080p, but needs optimization for the Switch 2.
3. Leaked gameplay footage shows the game running at around 30 FPS below 1080p on the Switch 2 in docked mode, with some frame drops.
4. The GVG YouTube channel reported poor performance during their hands-on experience at PAX West, with inconsistent frame rates below 30 FPS.
5. The true performance of Star Wars Outlaws on the Switch 2, especially in handheld versus docked mode, will be revealed soon after the release.
The highly anticipated upcoming third-party release for the Switch 2, Star Wars Outlaws, is set to launch on September 4. This game has received a mix of opinions from PC and console gamers, and it isn’t particularly demanding, suggesting a minimum requirement of an RTX 3060 Ti for achieving 60 FPS at 1080p. However, it does require a significant amount of optimization to perform well on the Nintendo Switch 2. Luckily, recently leaked gameplay footage indicates that the game is running quite smoothly and reliably on the handheld device when docked.
Gameplay Footage Leak
A user by the name of mataleao has posted about 40 minutes of gameplay from Star Wars Outlaws (linked below) on the Switch 2 in docked mode prior to its official release. It remains uncertain how they gained early access to the game, but their gameplay showcases them continuing from a previously saved game. As for the game’s resolution and frame rate, it appears to be running below 1080p at approximately 30 FPS, although this is difficult to verify.
Frame Rates and Performance
The gameplay mostly consisted of indoor scenes, with some open-world exploration towards the end. While there were occasional frame drops and stutters, the overall performance was generally stable. Experiencing frequent drops in frame rates can ruin the gaming experience more than having a consistently lower FPS, which seems to be the situation with Star Wars Outlaws on the Switch 2. It appears that DLSS is functioning, at least in docked mode.
Contrasting Views from PAX West
In contrast, the team from the GVG YouTube channel had a hands-on experience with the game at PAX West and reported that it runs “really poorly” on the Switch 2. The section they played took place on a Star Destroyer, with plenty of action sequences and space battles. Specifically, the Star Destroyer segment felt unstable, exhibiting inconsistent frame rates. They noted frame rate drops below 30 FPS, indicating that some moments might have reached 40 to 45 FPS or more, which is puzzling when compared to the leaked footage.
In short, we won’t have to wait long to find out how the game truly performs on the Switch 2, especially in terms of handheld mode versus docked.
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Tags: RTX 3060 Ti, Star Wars Outlaws, Switch 2
September 1, 2025
September Nintendo Direct Confirmed: Metroid Prime 4 and Mario News Expected
Key Takeaways
1. A Nintendo Direct is expected in September, likely on the 11th or 12th, ahead of the Tokyo Game Show.
2. YouTuber SwitchForce and Video Games Chronicle have confirmed rumors about the Direct, with NateTheHate2 being a reliable source.
3. There is speculation that Nintendo may avoid September 11th for the event, making September 12th a more likely date.
4. Fans are eager for announcements, particularly regarding the release date for Metroid Prime 4 and the possible celebration of Super Mario Bros.’ 40th anniversary.
5. NateTheHate2 has not revealed specific games for the Direct, but there are hopes for a mix of first-party, third-party, and indie titles.
It wouldn’t be surprising if we see a Nintendo Direct in September. The company has a history of hosting events during this month, typically just before the Tokyo Game Show. NateTheHate2 has confirmed previous rumors about a Direct, which is likely to take place on either September 11th or 12th. While the specific Switch 2 games are still under wraps, many fans are hoping to find out the release date for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond.
YouTuber Predictions
The YouTuber SwitchForce, known for his accurate predictions, has also shared a similar leak regarding the Nintendo Direct. Video Games Chronicle has backed this report, but many gamers were still looking for confirmation from NateTheHate2, whose sources have proven to be reliable. On social media, he shared that Nintendo is indeed planning a Direct towards the end of the second week in September.
Timing Considerations
Some gamers are speculating that Nintendo might steer clear of the sensitive date of September 11th. This would make Friday, the 12th, seem like a more reasonable option for the event. However, it’s worth noting that Nintendo does not frequently host significant events on Fridays.
Sadly, NateTheHate2 has not provided any details about which Switch or Switch 2 games could be featured. SwitchForce is predicting a big Direct filled with a variety of first-party, third-party, and indie titles. Additionally, he suggested that another showcase could happen soon after. But, according to NateTheHate2, his sources are only aware of one presentation.
Anticipated Announcements
With the release date for Metroid Prime 4 still set vaguely for 2025, fans feel it’s time to pin down a more specific date. Individuals like former Nintendo employee and podcaster Krysta Yang have expressed their frustration over the ongoing lack of news. A glimmer of hope came when the Retro Studios project received a recent ESRB rating.
The upcoming Nintendo Direct may also honor the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. In 2020, the company used a September Direct to celebrate the series’ 35th anniversary. There’s a possibility of a new compilation of classic Mario games, but gamers are really looking forward to a new 3D Mario title for the Switch 2.
NateTheHate2’s X account has been buzzing with excitement about these developments.
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Tags: Metroid Prime 4, Nintendo Direct, Switch 2