Category Archives: Nintendo

Yet another big week for Stellar Blade

Stellar Blade exploded onto the scene as a PlayStation 5 exclusive in April 2024, winning hearts with fluid, Souls-like combat and jaw-dropping visuals. Just over a year later, its leap to PC has rewritten expectations for single-player action games—and Shift Up isn’t done yet. Below we break down the PC launch’s jaw-dropping numbers, the community’s response, the confirmed sequel roadmap, and the swirling rumors of a Nintendo Switch 2 edition.

When Stellar Blade debuted on PS5, it immediately topped pre-order charts in more than 60 countries. Critics and players alike praised its lightning-fast combos, striking art direction, and moody sci-fi worldbuilding—earning a 9.2 user score on Metacritic and winning eight categories in the PlayStation Blog’s Game of the Year awards (over 1.6 million votes cast).

A Record-Shattering PC Launch

On June 11, Stellar Blade landed on Steam and promptly sold over 1 million copies within its first three days—a first for any Sony-published single-player title on PC. It soared into Steam’s global Top 10 bestsellers for June, reached a peak concurrent player count north of 190,000, and has maintained an “Overwhelmingly Positive” review rate above 94 %[1][3][4]. Rate-boosting technical bells and whistles—including NVIDIA DLSS 4 and AMD FSR 3 upscaling/frame generation, high-res textures, uncapped frame rates, and ultrawide support—have let high-end rigs and Steam Deck alike run smoothly even during the toughest boss fights.

Analyst Daniel Ahmad notes that a majority of PC sales stem from China, where a freshly added Chinese dub and regionally adjusted pricing (roughly $38 vs. $60 in the US) have unlocked mass appeal. This surge continues a broader trend of Asian PC gamers embracing premium single-player blockbusters.

Shift Up marked the PC launch with a cross-IP event featuring its own Goddess of Victory: NIKKE, delivering a NIKKE-themed map, skins, minigame, boss fight, and more. Meanwhile, modders have embraced Stellar Blade wholeheartedly—so much so that director Kim Hyung-tae has publicly challenged them to create deeper gameplay expansions beyond the hundreds of cosmetic and “adult” mods already circulating.

Looking Ahead: Sequel Development

Buoyed by over 3 million copies sold across PS5 and PC, Shift Up has confirmed a sequel targeting release on or before 2027. The team acknowledges the original’s narrative was pared down—many cutscenes and deeper story beats (like Eve’s outfit changes) were axed for budgetary reasons—and promises Stellar Blade 2 will feature a richer, more serious storyline backed by a fuller cutscene roster now that resources have opened up.

The Switch 2 Question: Rumor vs. Reality

Rumors surfaced in mid-June that Shift Up quietly secured Nintendo Switch 2 developer kits and has begun platform-specific optimization for the console’s lower power profile. Korean outlet PlayForum claims initial work is underway on a Switch 2 port, part of a broader multiplatform strategy to expand beyond PlayStation[16]. However, in direct comments to PlayForum, a Shift Up representative stressed that “nothing has been confirmed regarding the development of the Nintendo Switch 2” edition, leaving fans to weigh hope against official silence.

Stellar Blade’s PC launch isn’t just a win for Shift Up and Sony—it’s proof there’s untapped hunger for premium single-player experiences on PC and (possibly) beyond. Between record sales, an energized mod community, a confirmed sequel, and the tantalizing prospect of a Switch 2 port, Stellar Blade stands poised to become one of the decade’s most intriguing new IPs. Whether you’re gearing up for Eve’s next adventure in 2027 or simply diving into the heightened PC experience now, Stellar Blade’s saga is far from over.

Nintendo Switch 2 Is Already Re-Writing The Record Books—Here’s Exactly How

Forget “solid launch.” Switch 2 is dropping numbers that belong in Olympic track meets, not console sales ledgers. Let’s dissect the frenzy, the tech, and the ripple effects—then peek at what could come next.

Nintendo confirmed 3.5 million consoles sold worldwide in the first four days after its 5 June release, officially crowning Switch 2 the fastest-selling Nintendo system in history. Crunch that:

  • 875 000 systems per day
  • ≈ 36 458 per hour
  • ~600 Switch 2s leaving stores every minute

For perspective, PlayStation 4’s once-vaunted “best day ever” record (1 million day-one units) has been obliterated; Switch 2 reportedly flirted with three million sales on day one alone.

• Spain: 108 000 units opening weekend—double the previous PSP record
• UK: 160 000+ in week one—biggest Nintendo launch ever
• France: 200 000 day-one—fastest-selling gaming device in French history

These pockets of demand signal universal appetite, not a single territory spike.

Let’s recall:

Spec / FeatureSwitch (2017)Switch 2 (2025)
Display6.2″ 720 p LCD @60 Hz7.9″ 1080 p OLED @120 Hz
Docked Output1080 p4K
CPU/GPUTegra X1Custom NVIDIA “NVN 3” chip (DLSS-style upscaling)
ControllersSlide-on Joy-Con (drift-plagued)Magnetic Joy-Con 2 + Hall-effect sticks
Online CommsPhone-app kludgeGameChat 2 built-in voice/video

The original Switch promised console-quality gaming anywhere; Switch 2 finally supplies the horsepower to keep that promise in 2025’s 4K, 120 Hz world.

With that being said…Day-one exclusives are modest—Mario Kart World, Switch 2 Welcome Tour, and a slew of upgraded ports—but the install base ballooned anyway. Why?

  1. Back-compat: 130 million-strong Switch library boots natively.
  2. Handheld horsepower: Cyberpunk 2077 legitimately playable on a train without melting frames.
  3. eSports/Speedrun buzz: Pokémon Scarlet & Violet runs are already 25-minute faster on the new silicon.

Nintendo has basically sold potential: buyers know Zelda, Pokémon, and Smash will turn up later, and they want to be ready.

Despite pre-launch production ramp-ups and even shipping “Out of Stock” signage to stores, inventory vanished instantly at GameStop, Walmart, and Target. Online restocks have been measured in seconds, not hours. Expect:

  • Rolling “micro-drops” every Wednesday-to-Friday as shipments clear customs.
  • A calmer channel in late July once Donkey Kong Bananza ships and Nintendo’s second manufacturing wave lands.

The $449.99 base / $499.99 Mario Kart bundle × 3.5 million equals roughly $1.57 billion in weekend hardware revenue alone. Software attach rates (Mario Kart bundle, digital upgrades) push the haul even higher—before accessories.

Looking at the competetion, Sony and Microsoft suddenly face a portable 4K-capable rival with first-party IP that historically converts casuals. Switch 2’s blitz may:

  • Accelerate a PS5 “Slim Portable” rumor cycle.
  • Force Xbox to double-down on cloud/hybrid handheld concepts.
  • Pressure Valve to price-cut or fast-track a Steam Deck OLED 2.

What Could Slow Momentum?

  1. AAA drought: If December arrives without Zelda or a genuine new Mario 3D, momentum could wobble.
  2. Supply chain hiccups: Another chipset shortage would rerun 2020-era frustration.
  3. Price sensitivity: $449 isn’t pocket change; a global recession could pinch second-wave buyers.

And will al this, there are some that are giving som predictions, including 15 million units by March 2026 (based on Nintendo’s own forecast) feels conservative; at current velocity, 18-20 million is feasible, all with a first-party blockbuster will arrive by fiscal Q3 to keep attach rates high and it is suggested that we are talking about Metroid Prime 4.

Also, Nintendo will launch an “XL Dock” with integrated NVMe storage and Wi-Fi 7 to entice 4K-TV owners and finally, some predicts that by 2027, Nintendo Switch 2 could flirt with the DS’s 154 million lifetime crown if momentum endures.

Switch 2 isn’t merely repeating the Switch playbook; it’s hitting numbers that redraw the entire launch-era curve. Hybrid gaming is no longer a quirky niche—it’s the growth vector, and Nintendo currently owns the lane.

Nintendo Switch 2 faced it’s first Durability Test

The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, and as expected, YouTube’s favorite tech durability tester, Zack Nelson or better known as JerryRigEverything, wasted no time putting it through his infamous stress tests. Known for his brutal scratch, bend, and heat tests, Jerry’s evaluations often reveal hidden weaknesses in devices that manufacturers might not advertise. This time, the Switch 2 faced the gauntlet, and the results were both surprising and reassuring.

The Plastic Screen Controversy

One of the first things Jerry noticed was the plastic screen on the Switch 2. Unlike premium smartphones that use Gorilla Glass or other hardened materials, Nintendo opted for a plastic display, which means scratches are inevitable. Jerry demonstrated this by running a key across the screen, leaving visible marks. While this might be a disappointment for those hoping for a more durable display, it does have one advantage—plastic screens are less likely to shatter upon impact.

Joy-Con 2: A New Connection System

The Joy-Con 2 controllers introduced a magnetic attachment system, which initially raised concerns about durability. Would they snap off too easily? Would the internal pins wear out over time? Jerry put these questions to the test by aggressively bending and detaching the Joy-Cons. Surprisingly, the attachment mechanism held up well, even under extreme force. Instead of breaking, the Joy-Cons simply popped off, preventing damage to the internal connectors.

Scratch and Heat Resistance

Jerry’s scratch test revealed that the Switch 2’s body is fairly resistant to everyday wear and tear, but the screen remains vulnerable. He also subjected the device to heat, using a lighter to simulate extreme conditions. The screen warped slightly under prolonged exposure, but it returned to normal once cooled.

Despite the plastic screen, the Switch 2 passed JerryRigEverything’s durability test with flying colors. The Joy-Con attachment system proved to be more resilient than expected, and the overall build quality suggests that Nintendo designed this console to withstand years of gaming.

For those looking to protect their Switch 2, Jerry recommends investing in screen protectors and protective cases to minimize wear and tear.

Nintendo addressing about decisions behind Mario Kart Tour & the redesign of Donkey Kong

Nintendo’s redesign of Donkey Kong and the naming of Mario Kart World instead of “Mario Kart 9” have sparked discussions among fans. Here’s a deep dive into the reasoning behind these changes and their potential impact.

Nintendo’s Justification for Donkey Kong’s Redesign

Nintendo has opted for a modernized look for Donkey Kong, aligning his appearance with the version seen in The Super Mario Bros. Movie. This redesign features:

  • Smoother facial features: His once furrowed brow has been softened, giving him a more approachable and expressive look.
  • Updated fur texture: More detailed rendering enhances realism while maintaining his classic charm.
  • Merchandise integration: Nintendo has introduced new Donkey Kong-themed products featuring this updated design.

Fans have had mixed reactions. Some appreciate the friendlier aesthetic, while others miss the classic rugged look that defined Donkey Kong for decades. Former Donkey Kong Country artist Kevin Bayliss responded to the redesign, stating, “Everything changes! Change is good!”.

The redesign hints at a larger focus on Donkey Kong in upcoming Nintendo projects. With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, speculation suggests:

  • A new Donkey Kong game featuring the updated design.
  • Further integration of the character into Mario Kart World and other franchises.

Why “Mario Kart World” Instead of “Mario Kart 9”?

Nintendo’s decision to name the latest installment Mario Kart World instead of continuing the numbered sequence reflects a shift in vision. According to producer Kosuke Yabuki, the game aims to be more expansive, incorporating a global racing experience rather than just adding new tracks.

This change suggests:

  • A broader scope: Potentially featuring international circuits and new gameplay mechanics.
  • A fresh branding approach: Moving away from sequential numbering to emphasize evolution rather than iteration.

Nintendo’s approach to evolving its characters and franchises reflects its commitment to keeping them fresh and relevant. Whether fans embrace these changes or remain nostalgic for the past, one thing is certain—Donkey Kong and Mario Kart are entering a new era.

Nintendo acknowledged the economics with Nintendo Switch 2 will be complicated

In a pivotal earnings briefing, Nintendo not only unveiled its fiscal targets for the coming year but also pulled back the curtain on several headwinds affecting its next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2. The report paints a picture of a company determined to expand its platform while managing the challenges of tariffs, a high price point, and an evolving global supply chain—all amid soaring expectations from investors and fans alike.

Nintendo’s numbers reveal a fascinating juxtaposition between robust aspirations and recent financial turbulence. The company projects an operating profit of 320 billion yen and an ordinary profit of 380 billion yen for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026. By comparison, its past figures saw operating profits of 528.9 billion yen (FY2024) and 282.5 billion yen (FY2025). Translating these figures—even approximately using the rough guide provided in the briefing (where 10 billion yen is about US$67 million)—highlights both the challenges ahead and the massive scale at which Nintendo operates. For instance, 320 billion yen converts to roughly US$2.14 billion in operating profit, underscoring Nintendo’s ambition to rebound and stabilize in uncertain economic times.

Tariff Troubles and Trade Uncertainty

Central to Nintendo’s latest disclosure was the impact of volatile international tariff policies. During the briefing, President Shuntaro Furukawa explained that the legacy of U.S. tariff policies—based on rates effective from early April—had been factored into the company’s financial models. He noted that the forecast “includes a negative impact of several tens of billions of yen at the profit level.” In stark terms, a single negative adjustment of 10 billion yen equates to roughly US$67 million. Although recent U.S.–China trade adjustments (lowering tariffs significantly) may alter these figures, Nintendo remains cautious, stating that any future policy changes could necessitate pricing adjustments to protect profitability .

Another recurring theme is the challenge posed by the Switch 2’s premium pricing. Set at an MSRP of US$449.99 for the base model—with a bundled version featuring Mario Kart World coming in at US$499.99—the new console stands markedly higher than its predecessor. As Furukawa candidly explained,

“Nintendo Switch 2 is priced relatively high compared to Nintendo Switch, so we recognize that there are corresponding challenges to early adoption.”
This deliberate pricing strategy is designed to reflect not only enhanced hardware features but also to absorb potential tariff costs. At a forecast of 15 million unit sales over the coming fiscal year, this price point implies potential hardware revenues on the order of US$6.75 billion—a figure that sets high expectations for market performance .

Nintendo is not standing still in the face of these challenges. Recognizing that early adoption might be tempered by the high entry cost, the company has deployed strategic measures such as the Mario Kart World bundle. This move aims to incentivize consumers and accelerate the install base—mirroring the explosive launch of the original Switch in 2017. Moreover, Nintendo expects strong software sales to accompany the hardware push, forecasting that over 45 million Switch 2 game units will move through the same fiscal period. The strategy, while ambitious, is a calculated effort to maintain momentum beyond the initial launch window and ensure a long-term ecosystem for gamers.

Production Challenges and Global Supply Dynamics

Beyond pricing and tariffs, Nintendo is grappling with the complexities of a diversified manufacturing base. With the Switch 2 produced in a mix of China, Vietnam, and Cambodia, the company faces logistical hurdles amid a fluid global trade environment. While efforts to shift production away from heavily tariffed regions are ongoing, the reality is that any disruptions—whether from changing trade policies or supply chain bottlenecks—can have a direct impact on profit forecasts. Nintendo’s management has stressed that tariff assumptions (such as the current 10% rates on goods from China and Vietnam) are baked into their forecasts, but they remain ready to adjust prices if these rates shift further .

Nintendo’s latest earnings report is as much a roadmap for future growth as it is an acknowledgment of real-world risks. The high price of the Switch 2, potential tariff costs, and the challenge of sustaining momentum post-launch all paint a picture of a company that is well-aware of the risks it faces. Yet, the same report also exudes cautious optimism: Nintendo aims to replicate the installing success of the original Switch while building on decades of brand loyalty and unparalleled innovation. If Nintendo can adapt quickly to tariff policy changes and maintain consumer enthusiasm, its next launch could well be a defining moment that cements its legacy in an increasingly competitive market .

As the Nintendo Switch 2 prepares for its early June launch, the balance between pushing cutting-edge hardware and managing external economic factors will be closely watched by industry analysts and devoted gamers alike. While there is no shortage of challenges—from converting tens of billions of yen in potential losses into a sustainable profit model, to weathering the unpredictability of international trade—the company’s proactive measures and strategic pricing could serve as a blueprint for future console launches. Nintendo’s approach reminds us that even in the face of adversity, bold innovation and strategic foresight remain fundamental to success in the gaming industry .

Nintendo’s earnings and strategic roadmap provide plenty of fodder for discussion. Beyond these reported numbers, you might be curious about how similar market challenges have influenced other major console launches or how trade policies continue to reshape the consumer electronics landscape. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Nintendo’s storied franchises or simply keen to understand the evolving currents of global gaming, the unfolding story of the Switch 2 promises to be one worth following.

Nintendo updated its EULA ahead of Nintendo Switch 2 launch and debates didn’t wait

Nintendo has recently updated its End User License Agreement (EULA), and the gaming community is buzzing with reactions. The changes, which took effect in May 2025, introduce a significant shift in how disputes between users and Nintendo can be resolved. Specifically, the new EULA prevents users from filing class-action lawsuits against the company, instead requiring arbitration on an individual basis.

What Changed in Nintendo’s EULA?

The most controversial update is found in Section 16, which explicitly states that users waive their right to sue Nintendo in court, participate in a class-action lawsuit, or have a trial by jury. Instead, disputes must be resolved through arbitration, a legal process that typically favors corporations over consumers due to its private nature and limited appeal options.

Nintendo does offer an opt-out clause, allowing users to reject the arbitration requirement by sending a written notice to Nintendo within 30 days of agreeing to the EULA. However, many gamers feel this is an inadequate safeguard.

The response from the gaming community has been overwhelmingly negative. Many players see this move as an attempt by Nintendo to shield itself from future lawsuits, particularly regarding hardware issues like the infamous Joy-Con drift.

On gaming forums, users have expressed frustration, with some calling the update “scummy” and others questioning its legality. Some players believe the clause won’t hold up in court, especially in countries where consumer rights laws prevent companies from enforcing such agreements.

Others speculate that Nintendo is preemptively protecting itself from potential lawsuits related to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 and its new Joy-Con 2 controllers. Given the backlash Nintendo faced over Joy-Con drift in the past, this change seems like a strategic legal maneuver.

What Does This Mean for Gamers?

For now, Nintendo users must decide whether to accept the new terms or opt out within the 30-day window. While arbitration can sometimes lead to quicker resolutions, it also limits consumer power by preventing collective legal action.

This update raises broader concerns about corporate accountability in gaming. As more companies adopt similar legal strategies, gamers may need to pay closer attention to the fine print before agreeing to new terms.


Sources:

A new Palworld patch was an undesired effect from Nintendo

Palworld, the monster-collecting survival game that took the gaming world by storm, is undergoing yet another transformation. Pocketpair, the studio behind the game, has announced a significant change in response to its ongoing legal battle with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. The latest update, Patch v0.5.5, removes the ability to glide using Pals, replacing it with a standard glider item.

This decision follows previous adjustments made in Patch v0.3.11, which eliminated the ability to summon Pals by throwing Pal Spheres—a mechanic that bore a striking resemblance to Pokémon’s Poké Balls. While many expected the lawsuit to focus on character designs, Nintendo’s legal action has instead targeted gameplay mechanics, citing patent infringements related to creature-catching and traversal systems.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the continued support of our fans over the past few months. We apologize for not being able to share as much information as we would like, but we trust our fans understand how difficult it is to be fully transparent while litigation is ongoing.

Currently, we remain involved in prolonged legal proceedings regarding alleged patent infringement. We continue to dispute these claims and assert the invalidity of the patents in question. However, we have had to make certain compromises in order to avoid disruptions to the development and distribution of Palworld.

On November 30th, 2024, we released Patch v0.3.11 for Palworld. This patch removed the ability to summon Pals by throwing Pal Spheres and instead changed it to a static summon next to the player. Several other game mechanics were also changed with this patch. As many have speculated, these changes were indeed a result of the ongoing litigation. Everyone here at Pocketpair was disappointed that this adjustment had to be made, and we fully understand that many players feel the same frustration. Unfortunately, as the alternative would have led to an even greater deterioration of the gameplay experience for players, it was determined that this change was necessary.

Furthermore, we regret to inform our players that with the implementation of Patch v0.5.5, we must make yet another compromise. From this patch onward, gliding will be performed using a glider rather than with Pals. Pals in the player’s team will still provide passive buffs to gliding, but players will now need to have a glider in their inventory in order to glide.

We understand that this will be disappointing for many, just as it is for us, but we hope our fans understand that these changes are necessary in order to prevent further disruptions to the development of Palworld.

We also want to extend our apologies to our fans for the discomfort and concern this ongoing litigation has caused.

We remain committed to developing Palworld and delivering exciting new content to our fans.
On behalf of everyone at Pocketpair and Team Palworld, thank you again for your continued support.

For players, this change alters one of Palworld’s most unique traversal mechanics. Previously, players could summon certain Pals to glide across landscapes, adding a dynamic and immersive element to exploration. Now, gliding will require a separate glider item, though Pals will still provide passive buffs to enhance the experience.

Pocketpair acknowledged that this adjustment would be disappointing for many fans but emphasized that it was necessary to “prevent further disruptions to the development of Palworld”. The studio has been transparent about its legal struggles, stating that these compromises are essential to ensuring the game’s continued availability and growth.

Nintendo’s lawsuit against Pocketpair, filed in September 2024, has sparked broader discussions about the use of patents in the gaming industry. While Nintendo argues that Palworld infringes on multiple patents, critics worry that such legal battles could set a precedent for larger companies using litigation to stifle competition.

Despite these challenges, Pocketpair remains committed to developing and expanding Palworld. The studio has reassured players that more updates and content are on the way, even as it navigates legal hurdles.

What’s Next for Palworld?

While the removal of Pal gliding is a setback, Pocketpair’s willingness to adapt suggests that Palworld will continue to evolve. The studio’s new publishing division, Pocketpair Publishing, aims to support indie developers, demonstrating its resilience and commitment to the gaming community.

As the legal battle unfolds, players can expect further adjustments to Palworld’s mechanics. Whether these changes will satisfy Nintendo’s legal claims remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Pocketpair is determined to keep Palworld alive and thriving.

Nintendo definitely didn’t forget about Genki

In a surprising turn of events, Nintendo has filed a lawsuit against accessory maker Genki over its unauthorized mock-up of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. The controversy stems from Genki’s decision to showcase a size-accurate recreation of the upcoming console at CES 2025, weeks before Nintendo officially revealed the device.

The Mock-Up That Sparked Legal Action

Genki, known for its gaming accessories, presented a dummy version of the Switch 2 at its CES booth, complete with redesigned Joy-Cons. The mock-up was allegedly based on leaked specifications, but Nintendo argues that Genki either had unauthorized access to the real console or misled consumers by falsely claiming compatibility with the Switch 2.

Nintendo’s legal team wasted no time, accusing Genki of infringement, unfair competition, and false advertising. The lawsuit claims that Genki’s actions were a strategic campaign to capitalize on public interest in the next-generation console.

Nintendo’s Argument: Trademark Violations & Consumer Deception

Nintendo alleges that Genki violated its trademarks by using the Switch 2’s design and branding to promote its own accessories. The gaming giant also points out that Genki’s contradictory statements—first claiming access to a real Switch 2, then denying possession—suggest an attempt to mislead consumers.

Furthermore, Nintendo argues that Genki’s claim of compatibility with the Switch 2 would be impossible to verify unless the company had illicit access to the console or confidential technical details. This raises concerns about whether Genki’s accessories were truly designed for the Switch 2 or if the company was simply riding the hype wave.

Via Oatmeal Dome:

[Switch 2]Nintendo is suing accessory maker Genki, the company that showed off a mockup of the Switch 2 at their CES 2025 booth before the console's official reveal.Nintendo alleges that Genki violated their trademarks.

OatmealDome (@oatmealdome.bsky.social) 2025-05-03T16:12:05.3008271Z

Genki’s Response & The Fallout

After Nintendo’s legal team confronted Genki, the accessory maker backtracked, stating that its mock-up was based on online leaks rather than direct access to the console. However, Nintendo remains firm in its stance, arguing that Genki’s actions damaged its brand and misled consumers.

The lawsuit also highlights Genki’s social media activities, where the company hinted at having insider knowledge of the Switch 2. Nintendo claims that Genki’s marketing tactics—including launching its own “Direct” broadcast shortly after Nintendo’s official announcement—were designed to confuse fans into thinking it was an official Nintendo event.

As the legal battle unfolds, the gaming community is watching closely. If Nintendo wins, it could set a precedent for how companies handle leaks and unauthorized mock-ups. On the other hand, if Genki successfully defends itself, it may raise questions about fair use and third-party accessory development.

Regardless of the outcome, this lawsuit underscores Nintendo’s strict approach to protecting its intellectual property. The company has a long history of taking legal action against unauthorized use of its trademarks, and this case is no exception.

Sources: Nintendo Life

CD Projekt Red is going full throttle with a surprising expectation of Cyberpunk 2077 Nintendo Switch 2 version

When Cyberpunk 2077 first launched in 2020, it was met with both excitement and controversy. While the game’s ambitious open-world design and gripping narrative were praised, its performance on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One left much to be desired. Players encountered severe frame rate drops, texture pop-ins, and long loading times, making the experience frustrating for many. Fast forward to 2025, and CD Projekt Red is now claiming that the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 version of Cyberpunk 2077 will be superior to its PS4 and Xbox One counterparts.

Why is the Switch 2 Version Better?

According to Tim Green, an engineer at CD Projekt Red, the Switch 2 hardware has allowed the developers to create a version of Cyberpunk 2077 that surpasses the previous-generation console editions. Here’s why:

1. Improved Resolution and Performance

  • The Switch 2 version will run at 1080p in both quality and performance modes when docked, and at 720p in performance mode when played in handheld mode.
  • Unlike the PS4 version, which struggled to maintain 30 FPS, the Switch 2 edition benefits from Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), ensuring smoother gameplay.

2. Faster Storage and Load Times

  • One of the biggest issues with Cyberpunk 2077 on PS4 and Xbox One was the slow storage speeds, leading to long loading times and texture pop-ins.
  • The Switch 2 features UFS 3.1 storage, which operates at 2,100 MB/s, compared to the 100 MB/s speed of the PS4’s hard drive. This means faster asset streaming, reducing popping issues and ensuring a more seamless experience.

3. More Memory for a Smoother Experience

  • The PS4 had only 5 GB of usable RAM, which severely limited Cyberpunk 2077’s ability to render complex environments.
  • The Switch 2 boasts 12 GB of RAM, with at least 10 GB available for games, allowing for better texture loading and fewer graphical compromises.

We are currently targeting 1080p resolution in TV quality mode, TV performance mode, and handheld quality mode—and targeting 720p performance in handheld performance mode.

Switch 2 docked play offers more power, Green added, “but [the game] still utilizes Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) when players take it on the go.

Cyberpunk 2077 has seen a tremendous amount of ongoing love as we’ve continued to improve the game. In bringing the Ultimate Edition to Nintendo Switch 2 we were able to build on top of that already solid base.

Development still had challenges, of course, as any development process does, but we’ve been careful in picking tradeoffs to not compromise the game’s vision.

We haven’t had to fight with fitting into memory.

And the speed of the data storage has helped alleviate some of those early streaming problems. This has allowed us to focus our attention on improving other things, and we’re very happy with the result.

-Tim Green, CD Projekt Red engineer in an inteview with Game File

CD Projekt Red’s Optimism

Despite the challenges of porting such a demanding game to a hybrid console, CD Projekt Red remains confident in the Switch 2 version. Green acknowledged that the development process was not without difficulties, but the team was able to make smart sacrifices without compromising the core vision of the game.

With the Ultimate Edition of Cyberpunk 2077 launching alongside the Switch 2, players will get to experience both the base game and the Phantom Liberty expansion in one package. Given the improvements in resolution, performance, storage speed, and memory, this version might just be the redemption Cyberpunk 2077 needed on consoles.

EA Sports Shakes Up the Football Gaming Landscape with Major Announcements

EA Sports has officially unveiled its plans for Madden NFL 26 and College Football 26, and the gaming community is buzzing with excitement—and a bit of controversy. The announcement, made on NFL Draft Day, confirmed that both titles will launch this summer, but with a significant shift: neither game will be available on PlayStation 4 or Xbox One. This marks a pivotal moment in EA Sports’ transition away from previous-generation consoles, fully embracing the power of modern hardware.

For years, EA Sports has maintained support for older consoles, ensuring that players who hadn’t upgraded could still enjoy their annual football fix. However, with Madden NFL 26, the franchise is making a clean break, focusing exclusively on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and the upcoming Switch 2. This decision aligns with the industry’s broader trend of prioritizing current-gen hardware to deliver higher fidelity graphics, improved gameplay mechanics, and deeper immersion.

Meanwhile, College Football 26 is set to continue the revival of EA’s beloved college football series, which returned last year after a decade-long hiatus. The game promises an expanded career mode, allowing players to take their athlete from high school to college and eventually the NFL. This seamless progression between the two games is a major selling point, reinforcing EA’s vision of a connected football universe.

Why Leave Previous-Gen Behind?

The exclusion of PS4 and Xbox One is a bold move, but not entirely unexpected. These consoles, launched in 2013, are now over a decade old, and their hardware limitations have increasingly hindered developers from pushing the boundaries of gaming technology. By focusing on current-gen platforms, EA Sports can leverage advanced physics engines, enhanced AI, and more detailed player animations, creating a more authentic football experience.

Additionally, the shift allows EA to streamline development, ensuring that both Madden NFL 26 and College Football 26 take full advantage of next-gen capabilities without being constrained by outdated hardware.

Release Dates and Pre-Order Details

Gamers eager to dive into the action won’t have to wait long. College Football 26 is set to launch on July 10, 2025, with early access available on July 7 for those who pre-order the Deluxe Edition. Madden NFL 26 will follow shortly after, arriving on August 14, 2025, with early access beginning August 11.

For players looking to grab both games, EA is offering an MVP Bundle, which includes exclusive in-game content and early access perks. This bundle is designed to cater to die-hard football fans who want the full EA Sports football experience.

EA Sports’ decision to leave behind previous-generation consoles is a clear signal that the gaming industry is moving forward. While some players may be disappointed, the shift promises better graphics, smoother gameplay, and deeper immersion. With Madden NFL 26 and College Football 26, EA is betting big on the future of football gaming—and it looks like they’re ready to deliver.