Category Archives: Nintendo

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

March updates on both Pokémon TCG and Pokémon TCG Pocket

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) continues to captivate fans worldwide with its innovative expansions and gameplay mechanics. Meanwhile, Pokémon TCG Pocket, the mobile adaptation, is making waves with its frequent updates and unique features. Here’s a detailed look at the latest developments in both realms.

Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet – Journey Together

The physical Pokémon TCG is gearing up for the release of its highly anticipated expansion, Journey Together, set to launch on March 28, 2025. This set revisits the nostalgic concept of Trainer’s Pokémon cards, originally introduced in the Gym Heroes era. Popular trainers like N, Iono, Hop, and Lillie are paired with their iconic Pokémon, such as N’s Zoroark ex and Iono’s Bellibolt ex.

Key highlights of this expansion include:

  • Trainer’s Pokémon Cards: Featuring trainers alongside their Pokémon, these cards add a personal touch to gameplay.
  • Simplified Collecting: With fewer secret rares, collectors can focus on curated, collectible experiences.
  • Enhanced Gameplay: New mechanics and abilities promise to shake up strategies and deck-building.

Pokémon TCG Pocket: Shining Revelry Expansion

On the digital front, Pokémon TCG Pocket is preparing to release its Shining Revelry expansion on March 27, 2025. This mini-expansion introduces Shiny Pokémon to the game, a rarity that has long been cherished in the Pokémon universe.

Exciting features of Shining Revelry include:

  • Shiny Pokémon Cards: These alternately colored Pokémon cards come with a unique visual effect, adding aesthetic appeal.
  • Starter Deck Missions: Players can complete missions to earn Deck Tickets, redeemable for pre-built decks.
  • Ranked Matches: A new competitive mode allows players to battle others of similar skill levels, with seasonal rewards.

Meanwhile in Japan….

The Pokémon TCG expansion, The Glory of Team Rocket, has been officially revealed, and it’s generating a lot of excitement among fans! This set marks the return of the iconic Team Rocket to the Pokémon Trading Card Game after many years. Here are some key details:

  • Release Date: The set will launch in Japan on April 18, 2025, and its cards will be included in the English Destined Rivals set, releasing on May 30, 2025.
  • Card Highlights: The set features 98 standard cards, including Rocket’s Pokémon like Meowth, Persian ex, and Mewtwo ex. There are also additional secret rares.
  • Artwork and Theme: The cards showcase stunning artwork and emphasize the mischievous and chaotic nature of Team Rocket.
  • Competitive Impact: The new Trainer cards and Pokémon ex are expected to bring fresh strategies and challenges to the competitive scene.

This expansion is a nostalgic nod to one of the most beloved villainous teams in the Pokémon universe. Are you excited to see Team Rocket back in action? Let me know your thoughts!

Impact on Gameplay and Collecting

Both expansions are set to redefine the metagame. In Pokémon TCG Pocket, the introduction of Shiny Pokémon and new Trainer cards like Red will significantly alter deck strategies. Meanwhile, the physical TCG’s Journey Together expansion is expected to rekindle nostalgia while offering fresh gameplay mechanics.

Collectors and players alike are buzzing with anticipation. Whether you’re a fan of the physical cards or the digital adaptation, these updates promise to deliver thrilling experiences and new challenges.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

The Pokémon Company and Honda collab brought a real-life Koraidon motorbike

In a delightful fusion of the virtual and real worlds, The Pokémon Company and Honda have teamed up to create a life-sized motorbike based on Koraidon, the cover star of Pokémon Scarlet. This collaboration is a testament to the enduring popularity and cultural impact of the Pokémon franchise, as well as Honda’s innovative spirit.

The Concept and Design

The motorbike is a scale replica of Koraidon, a legendary Pokémon that can transform into a motorbike in the Pokémon Scarlet video game. The bike is designed to replicate the size and weight of Koraidon, making it an impressive and eye-catching piece of art. While the motorbike is not fully functional, it features proprietary self-balancing technology that allows it to walk on all four legs and stand upright on two wheels. This technology was developed by Honda’s Innovative Research Excellence team, who have applied their expertise in motorcycle design and robotics to bring Koraidon to life.

The Koraidon motorbike is currently on display at the Honda Welcome Plaza Aoyama in Tokyo, Japan, from March 7 to March 9, 2025. This exhibit is part of a series of month-long events around Japan to celebrate Pokémon Day, which marks the 29th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise. Fans visiting the exhibit can marvel at the intricate details and craftsmanship of the motorbike, which captures the essence of Koraidon in both form and function.

Previous Collaborations and Future Prospects

This is not the first time The Pokémon Company and Honda have collaborated on a Pokémon-themed motorbike. Last year, Honda produced a motorbike based on Miraidon, the cover star of Pokémon Violet. Both Koraidon and Miraidon are featured in the latest mainline games in the Pokémon franchise, where they serve as the player’s mode of transport, transforming into bikes, boats, and climbing aids.

While it is currently unknown what will happen to the Koraidon motorbike after the exhibit concludes, it is possible that it will be transferred to one of the several Pokémon Center retail stores in Japan. These stores often feature large statues of Pokémon, making them the perfect home for this unique creation.

The Koraidon motorbike exhibit is just one of many events taking place across Japan to celebrate Pokémon Day. On February 27, The Pokémon Company held its annual Pokémon Presents stream, where they announced new episodes of Pokémon Concierge and a brand new game, Pokémon Champions. Additionally, they shared information about this year’s Pokémon game, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, which is set to be released for the Nintendo Switch later this year.

In conclusion, the collaboration between The Pokémon Company and Honda has resulted in a stunning and imaginative creation that brings the world of Pokémon to life in a new and exciting way. The Koraidon motorbike is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation, and it serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of the Pokémon franchise.

Breaking, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo Switch Online will delist a game for the 1st time

Nintendo has announced that it will be removing a retro game from its Switch Online service for the first time. The game in question is Super Soccer, which will be delisted from the service on March 28, 2025. This marks the first time a game has been removed from the Switch Online retro library, raising concerns about the permanence of the service’s classic games catalog.

The removal of Super Soccer from the Switch Online service has sparked discussions among gamers about the future of the service and the potential for other games to be removed in the future.

Some players have expressed concerns about the possibility of losing access to their favorite retro games, while others have called for the return of the Virtual Console service, which allowed players to purchase and download individual games.

The decision to remove Super Soccer from the Switch Online service is believed to be due to licensing issues. The game was originally developed by Human Entertainment and published by Nintendo, and it is possible that the licensing agreement for the game has expired.

Nintendo has not provided any further details about the removal of Super Soccer or whether other games will be removed from the service in the future.

However, the company has assured players that it will continue to add new games to the Switch Online service, and that it remains committed to providing a diverse and extensive library of classic games.

The move was given the proper attention and one of the immediate reaction came from Hideki Kamiya and this is what PlatinumGames co-founder said:

Hey hey hey, I guess subscriptions are no good after all.

Seriously, bring back the Virtual Console… don’t be so mean.

Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Pokémon Present 2025: The 25th year of 21st century will be another big year for Pokémon

February 27, 2025, marked another exciting Pokémon Day, and The Pokémon Company did not disappoint with their latest Pokémon Presents showcase. Here’s a detailed look at all the announcements made during the event:

Pokémon Concierge

The Pokémon Company kicked off the event by announcing new episodes of the charming stop-motion animation series, Pokémon Concierge. These episodes are set to air on Netflix in September 2025. As a special treat, the first four episodes of the show are available for free on YouTube until March 9th.

Pokémon Go Tour

The next Pokémon Go Tour is happening this weekend, featuring Black Kyurem and White Kyurem in Raid Battles. Players will also have the chance to catch Victini and a shiny Meloetta.

Mobile Game Updates

Three mobile-focused Pokémon titles received updates:

  • Pokémon Masters EX: Champion May and her shiny Primal Kyogre, as well as Champion Brendan and his shiny Primal Groudon, will be making an appearance.
  • Pokémon Café ReMix: A new apple-themed menu item along with appearances from Flapple and Appletun.
  • Pokémon Sleep: A new Cresselia versus Darkrai event is coming in March 2025.

Pokémon Unite

Three new fighters were revealed for Pokémon Unite:

  • Suicune: Coming to the game on March 1st.
  • Alolan Raichu: Arriving in April.
  • Alcremie: Joining later in the year.

Pokémon TCG Pocket

The next major expansion set for Pokémon TCG Pocket, titled Triumphant Light, was announced. This set is themed around the deific Pokémon Arceus and includes new Eevee, Magnemite, and Golbat variations, as well as a shiny Raichu. The set launches tomorrow, February 28, 2025.

Mega Evolved Pokémon in TCG

Mega Evolved Pokémon are making a comeback in Pokémon TCG this year. The trailer showcased ex cards for Mega Lucario and Mega Gardevoir, though the release date for this feature was not revealed.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Players of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet can grab a special Rotom Phone cover for each game by inputting the codes SB00KC0VER for Scarlet and VB00KC0VER for Violet (those are zeroes, not Os). New Tera Raid Battles for Meowscarada, Skeledirge, and Quaquaval are also coming on February 28th, March 7th, and March 14th, respectively.

Pokémon Champions

A new game called Pokémon Champions was announced. This Pokémon Stadium-style game focuses on battling and will connect to Pokémon Home, allowing players to use Pokémon from their games to battle trainers worldwide. The game will be available on Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A

The event concluded with new information about Pokémon Legends: Z-A. The game is set in a futuristic Lumiose City, located in the Kalos region, and features Mega Evolutions. Players will start their journey from an old hotel and explore wild zones where humans and Pokémon coexist. The game is set to release in late 2025 exclusively on Nintendo Switch.

Pokémon Day 2025 was packed with exciting announcements, promising a thrilling year ahead for Pokémon fans. Whether you’re into mobile games, trading cards, or console adventures, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.

Business, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Pokémon Go & other popular AR games could land in Saudi Arabia Kingdom’s hand

Niantic, the developer behind the global phenomenon Pokémon Go, is reportedly exploring the sale of its gaming division to Savvy Games Group, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). This potential deal could significantly reshape the mobile gaming industry and raise questions about the future of Niantic’s popular AR games.

The Potential Deal

According to reports from sources of Bloomberg, Niantic is in advanced discussions with Savvy Games Group to sell its gaming business for approximately $3.5 billion. The deal would likely include Pokémon Go, Monster Hunter Now, and other titles developed by Niantic. While the terms of the deal remain confidential, sources suggest that an agreement could be reached in the coming weeks.

For Niantic, the sale would allow the company to focus on other ventures, including the development of AR technology for various applications beyond gaming. Niantic has been exploring areas such as geospatial data projects and the creation of a real-world AR metaverse. The sale would provide the company with the resources to pursue these initiatives more aggressively.

Impact on Pokémon Go and Other AR Games

The potential acquisition raises questions about the future of Pokémon Go and other Niantic games. Players are curious about Savvy Games Group’s plans for the acquired titles and whether they will continue to support and develop them. While Pokémon Go remains a major hit for Niantic, its subsequent games have not achieved the same level of success. The acquisition could provide Savvy Games Group with a platform for future growth in the AR gaming space.

The gaming community is closely watching the developments. Many fans of Pokémon Go and other Niantic games are concerned about potential changes under Savvy Games Group, especially regarding monetization and game updates. The community has expressed mixed feelings about the potential sale, with some hoping for continued support and others worried about the impact of the new ownership.

The potential sale of Niantic’s gaming division to Savvy Games Group could mark a new chapter in the company’s story. While the deal is not yet finalized, the fact that discussions are reportedly taking place indicates a potential shift in the gaming industry and the strategies of both companies. The future of Pokémon Go and other AR games remains uncertain, but the acquisition could provide opportunities for growth and innovation in the AR gaming space.

Business, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo Granted U.S. Patent No. 12,179,111 and probably is going to be used against Palworld

Nintendo has recently been granted U.S. Patent No. 12,179,111, a significant development in its ongoing legal dispute with Pocketpair, the developers behind Palworld. This patent, filed after Palworld’s launch, covers the process of aiming and capturing characters in a game, a mechanic that closely resembles the gameplay of Pokémon.

The patent describes a gameplay system where players use a “catching item” to capture a “field character” and then engage in a battle with a “fighting character”. This system is integral to the lawsuit in Japan, where Nintendo has accused Pocketpair of infringing on multiple patents related to creature-catching mechanics.

Pocketpair has confirmed a few months ago, that Nintendo’s lawsuit involves three specific Japanese patents: 7,545,191, 7,493,117, and 7,528,390. These patents cover various game mechanics, including the use and activation of “rideable characters” and the process of aiming and throwing a captured item at a character to capture it in a virtual space.

Evidently, U.S. Patent No. 12,179,111 is the American equivalent and consolidated patent of the previous three.

In a first mode, an aiming direction in a virtual space is determined based on a second operation input, and a player character is caused to launch, in the aiming direction, an item that affects a field character disposed on a field in the virtual space, based on a third operation input. In a second mode, the aiming direction is determined, based on the second operation input, and the player character is caused to launch, in the aiming direction, a fighting character that fights, based on the third operation input.

With the approval of this patent, Nintendo is now preparing to potentially extend its legal battle to the United States. The company has also filed additional patents related to creature-catching mechanics, further strengthening its case1. This move highlights the importance of protecting intellectual property and the potential for international legal disputes over game mechanics.

Nintendo’s legal strategy involves building a “patent family” where later patents are connected to earlier filings. This approach ensures that even if specific claims are rejected, the overall patent portfolio remains robust. The recent approval of U.S. Patent No. 12,179,111 is part of this broader strategy to protect its intellectual property on a global scale.

This development has significant implications for the gaming industry, as it underscores the importance of protecting intellectual property and the potential for international legal disputes over game mechanics. It also raises questions about the boundaries of game design and the extent to which companies can claim ownership over common gameplay elements.

As the legal battle between Nintendo and Pocketpair continues, the approval of U.S. Patent No. 12,179,111 marks a critical step in Nintendo’s efforts to protect its intellectual property. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for the gaming industry and the way game mechanics are developed and protected in the future.

Business, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo announces Q3 2025 results and seems that expectations for Nintendo Switch 2 are being felt monetarily

Nintendo recently reported its Q3 financial results for the fiscal year ending March 2025, revealing a significant downturn in its financial performance. The company posted $1.10 billion in revenue, a notable decline from $1.70 billion a year ago. This 31.4% drop in revenue was accompanied by a decrease in earnings per share (EPS) from 117.45 yen to 110.40 yen.

Nintendo Switch Sales

One of the most striking aspects of Nintendo’s Q3 report was the 30.6% year-over-year decline in Nintendo Switch hardware sales, with only 4.82 million units sold during the quarter. This brought the total sales for the fiscal year to 9.54 million units, significantly lower than the previous year. The company has now revised its sales forecast for the Switch from 12.5 million units to 11 million units for the fiscal year.

Software Sales

Software sales also saw a decline, with 123.98 million units sold during the nine-month period, down 24.4% from the previous year. Despite the release of popular titles like The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom and Super Mario Party Jamboree, the overall software sales were not enough to offset the decline in hardware sales.

Nintendo Switch 2 Expectations

Amidst these challenges, Nintendo has announced plans to launch the Nintendo Switch 2 later this year. The new console is expected to rejuvenate the company’s hardware sales and reinvigorate its market position1. However, Nintendo has also flagged that Switch games may not be fully compatible with the Switch 2, which could impact consumer decisions.

The anticipation of the Switch 2 has led to a slowdown in sales of the original Switch, as consumers hold off on purchases in anticipation of the new console. This has resulted in Nintendo reducing its annual dividend forecast and net sales expectations for the fiscal year2. Despite these challenges, Nintendo remains optimistic about the potential of the Switch 2 to drive future growth.

Nintendo’s Q3 results highlight the challenges the company faces as it transitions to its next-generation console. While the decline in sales is concerning, the upcoming launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 offers a beacon of hope for the company’s future. Investors and gamers alike will be closely watching how Nintendo navigates this pivotal period in its history.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo, Playstation, Xbox

Microsoft & Xbox will double down on more Xbox games on other platforms

Phil Spencer confirmed that more Xbox games will become available on other platforms, including PlayStation in his first major interview for 2025 with Gamertag Radio. He emphasized that they want to make great games accessible to as many people as possible, without putting up barriers.

This move is part of Xbox’s strategy to ensure that their games reach a wider audience.

When asked why gamers should buy an Xbox console, the Microsoft Gaming CEO highlighted the unique capabilities and features of Xbox hardware. He stressed that they want their hardware to stand out based on its merits and not just exclusive games. Phil Spencer wants people to choose Xbox hardware based on its capabilities and the choices they want to make about where they want to play.

The head of Microsoft’s gaming business did share his vision for the future of Xbox, mentioning upcoming titles like Avowed, DOOM: The Dark Ages, South of Midnight, The Outer Worlds 2, and possibly Fable. He also mentioned that Xbox Games Publishing is working on Ninja Gaiden 4, aiming to bring the franchise back to its former glory.

Finally, Spencer reflected on his legacy and the impact he hopes to have on the gaming industry and also, he talked about his passion for gaming and his commitment to innovation and inclusivity in the gaming community. Phil emphasized that he wants to leave a positive mark on the industry and continue to push for new and exciting gaming experiences.

There are insisting rumors that the “silence on Nintendo” at this interview, is because Xbox actually has plans on the brand be involved with Nintendo Switch 2 with surprising launches and Phil Spencer hasn’t been shy on expressing excitement for the Nintendo Switch 2 and his commitment to supporting the console with Xbox games has already gone outside the implicit.

The noise in the rumors mill suggests that we are inbound for an historical Nintendo Switch 2 port of Halo: The Master Chief along with Microsoft Flight Simulator, Starfield, Diablo 4 and Fallout 4.

Games, Gaming, Mobile, News, Nintendo

Pokémon TCG Pocket: Space-Time Smackdown – An Overview

The Pokémon Company has announced an exciting new expansion for Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket: Space-Time Smackdown. This expansion, set to be released on January 30, 2025, will feature over 140 cards, including new Pokémon ex and Trainer cards. The expansion is set in the Sinnoh region and focuses on the legendary Pokémon Dialga and Palkia, known for their control over time and space.

The expansion introduces powerful new Pokémon ex cards. Dialga ex, a Steel-type with 150 HP, has abilities such as Metallic Turbo, which deals 30 damage and attaches two Energy cards from your Energy Zone to one of your benched Pokémon3. Palkia ex, a Water-type with the same HP, can deal significant damage with its Dimensional Storm attack, which not only hits for 150 damage but also deals 20 damage to each of your opponent’s benched Pokémon.

New Trainer cards and tools have been added to enhance gameplay. Cynthia’s Full Art card, for example, boosts the performance of Garchomp and Togekiss, allowing them to deal an additional 50 damage to the opponent’s active Pokémon. These additions are sure to offer new strategies and dynamics to the game.

Noteworthy New Pokémon Cards

Here are some of the new Pokémon cards you can expect to find in the expansion:

  • Pachirisu ex (Electric)
  • Leafeon (Grass)
  • Cresselia (Psychic)
  • Gible (Dragon)
  • Honchkrow (Dark)

These Pokémon, along with many others, will provide players with fresh combinations and tactics to explore.

Release Date and Availability

Pokémon TCG Pocket: Space-Time Smackdown will be available starting January 30, 2025. Players can look forward to two booster packs featuring Dialga and Palkia. Pre-release events and promotional activities are expected to build excitement leading up to the launch, making it an eagerly anticipated event for all Pokémon TCG enthusiasts.

The upcoming release of Space-Time Smackdown is set to revolutionize the Pokémon TCG scene with its stunning artwork, new abilities, and strategic depth. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this expansion promises to offer a thrilling experience.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo did it again with Donkey Kong Country Returns HD!

I guess that it takes long for Nintendo to be extremely careful as fan are as observers as ever, but due diligence seems to be annoying and with this, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is a remastered version of the original game developed by Retro Studios for the Wii and later ported to the 3DS.

The remaster was handled by Forever Entertainment, but when the credits rolled, the original Retro Studios team members were not individually credited

Instead of listing the names of the original developers, the credits simply stated: “Based on the work of the original development staff.” This has caused significant backlash from fans and former Retro Studios staff.

After this made enough sound, Nintendo issued a statement to Eurogamer, saying:

“We believe in giving proper credit for anyone involved in making or contributing to a game’s creation, and value the contributions that all staff make during the development process.”

However, they did not provide a detailed explanation for why the original team’s names were excluded.

This was brought to the general attention as actually, isn’t the first time Retro Studios has faced this issue. In early 2023, the developers behind Metroid Prime Remastered were also left out of the credits, leading to similar frustrations. Senior gameplay engineer Zoid Kirsch expressed his disappointment on social media, calling it “a travesty.”

And it baffles that Nintendo didn’t expect many fans and former Retro Studios staff have voiced their disappointment and frustration over the omission. They feel that the original team’s contributions are not being properly recognized.

Despite the backlash, Nintendo has maintained its stance on condensing the credits for an entire development team into one sentence. This decision has sparked a debate about how remastered games should credit their original creators.