Category Archives: Nintendo

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.

Business, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo scores a 1st ever arrest for Switch Modding

A 58-year-old man named Fumihiro Otobe from Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, was arrested for selling modified Nintendo Switch consoles loaded with pirated games. This is the first arrest of its kind in Japan.

Otobe modified second-hand Switch consoles by soldering hardware components to their circuit boards, enabling them to play pirated games. As reported by NTV News and translated by Automaton, he sold these modified consoles for approximately ¥28,000 (around $180) each, with 27 pirated games pre-installed.

Upon his arrest, police found four modified consoles in his possession.

In a public statement, Fumihiro Otobe said:

I was curious to know whether people would think I was great if I sold modified consoles.

This significant development marks a turning point in Japan’s legal approach to video game console modifications, which have long been contentious due to concerns about piracy and copyright infringement.

For Nintendo, this is the first arrest of its kind in Japan. The arrest highlights increasing efforts by authorities to crack down on such activities and protect intellectual property rights, acknowledging that modded consoles are not legally sold in major retail stores worldwide.

Nintendo’s efforts are aimed at protecting the integrity of its intellectual property and ensuring that game developers and publishers can continue to innovate and create new games. The company cooperates with law enforcement worldwide to pursue legal actions against those involved in piracy.

Breaking, Featured, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, Nintendo

Nintendo unveils the Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo has officially unveiled its highly-anticipated successor to the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2, set to launch in 2025. The announcement came with a first-look trailer that showcased the new console’s design and features.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch 2.

As per the first-look presentation, the Nintendo Switch 2 features a larger display compared to the original Switch, providing an enhanced gaming experience. The Joy-Con controllers have been redesigned to attach magnetically to the console, making them more secure and easier to use. Additionally, the Joy-Con now includes an optical sensor, adding new possibilities for gameplay.

One of the most exciting aspects of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its backward compatibility as Nintendo already confirmed late last year 2024. The console will support both Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games and existing Nintendo Switch games.

However, it’s important to note that some older games may not be fully compatible with the new system.

Nintendo has scheduled a Nintendo Direct showcase for April 2, 2025, where more details about the console and its release date will be shared. To give fans a hands-on experience, Nintendo will host experience events in various cities around the world, starting in April 2025. These events will be held in cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, Tokyo, and more.

What We Don’t Know Yet

While the announcement provided a lot of exciting information, there are still some details that remain unknown. Nintendo has not yet revealed the price of the Switch 2 or the full software launch lineup. Fans will have to wait for the Nintendo Direct and experience events for more information.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be an exciting upgrade to the beloved Switch console. With its larger screen, redesigned Joy-Con controllers, and backward compatibility, it’s sure to be a hit among gamers. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the release date!

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo, PC, Playstation, Xbox

LUNAR Remastered Collection for nostalgia & new fans

GungHo Online Entertainment America has just announced the release of the LUNAR Remastered Collection, bringing two beloved JRPG classics back to life for a new generation of gamers. The collection, featuring LUNAR: Silver Star Story Complete and LUNAR 2: Eternal Blue Complete, will be available both physically and digitally on April 18, 2025.

Originally developed by GAME ARTS for the original Playstation, these games have captivated fans with their romantic storytelling and breathtaking soundtrack. The remastered edition not only preserves the heart of the original games but also introduces modern enhancements such as wide-screen support, high-definition pixel and animated art, and quality-of-life updates like customizable battle and strategy setting.

The collection will be available on PlayStation 4 (compatible with PlayStation 5), Xbox One (compatible with Xbox Series X|S), Nintendo Switch, and Steam. Digital editions are priced at $49.99 USD / €49.99 EUR, while physical editions will be available for $54.99 USD in North America and €54.99 EUR in Europe. The physical editions will feature reversible covers with new key arts illustrated by Toshiyuki Kubooka.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the LUNAR saga, this remastered collection promises to captivate you with its timeless charm and enhanced features. Dive back into the enchanting worlds of LUNAR and experience the magic all over again!

Business, CES 2025, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo noticed Nintendo Switch successor CES leak

The gaming world is buzzing with excitement and speculation as Nintendo finds itself at the center of a major leak regarding its upcoming console, the Nintendo Switch Succesor, or Switch 2 or some expecting a naming like Super Nintendo Switch (personal favorite too btw).

With the original Nintendo Switch setting a high benchmark, gamers and industry experts alike are eagerly awaiting any official news about its successor. However, recent leaks have fueled the anticipation even further, and Nintendo has been forced to address the growing storm of rumors and speculation.

In recent weeks, a series of leaks about the Nintendo Switch successor have spread like wildfire across the internet. These leaks have revealed tantalizing details about the console’s potential hardware specifications, price point, and the lineup of launch games.

While Nintendo has remained tight-lipped about the authenticity of these leaks, they have officially acknowledged their existence. This acknowledgment has led to a flurry of activity within the gaming community, with fans dissecting every piece of information to glean insights into what the new console might offer.

The plot thickened at CES 2025 when Nintendo’s legal team made headlines by approaching accessory maker Genki. Genki had displayed a replica of the Nintendo Switch 2 at the event, claiming it was based on the circulating leaks rather than any official information from Nintendo.

The mockup drew considerable attention, prompting Nintendo to take action. While Nintendo has not officially commented on the mockup or its creator’s claims, other than the leaks “are not official announcements”, the legal approach indicates the company’s concern over the spread of unofficial information.

With that, journalist Julien Tellouck has not claimed that Nintendo‘s lawyers approached Genki at CES 2025, but Genki representative explained that the company has nothing to worry about because they’ve never signed any confidentiality agreement or NDA with Nintendo, signaling that Nintendo cannot do anything drastically in legal terms.

Is fair to say that this is not an isolated event as Nintendo i known for defending and maintaining control over its announcements and managing public expectations and has been considered crucial at all time.

The acknowledgment of leaks, coupled with the legal actions at CES, underscores the challenges that Nintendo faces in navigating the fine line between fostering excitement and maintaining secrecy.

As the gaming community awaits further official updates from Nintendo, one thing is clear: the anticipation for the Nintendo Switch successor is at an all-time high. Whether these leaks turn out to be accurate or not, they have succeeded in keeping the spotlight firmly on Nintendo and its next big release.

Gaming, News, Nintendo

Lego X Game Boy is the newest lego & Nintendo collab

Nintendo and Lego have once again teamed up to bring fans a nostalgic treat: a Lego version of the iconic Game Boy, set to be released in October 2025. This collaboration continues the trend of Lego sets based on classic Nintendo hardware, following the success of the Lego NES and other Nintendo-themed sets.

The Lego Game Boy set will allow fans to build a miniature version of the original Game Boy, complete with the classic gray casing, purple face buttons, and directional pad. While the teaser trailer didn’t reveal all the details, it’s expected that the set will be a 1:1 scale replica of the original handheld console.

The original Game Boy, released in 1989, is one of the most iconic handheld consoles ever created. It brought joy to millions of gamers and paved the way for future handheld gaming devices.

The Lego Game Boy set will allow fans to relive those memories and add a unique piece to their collection.

No specific pricing information has been released yet, but given the complexity and nostalgia factor, it’s likely to be a premium set. Preorders are expected to open closer to the release date, so fans should keep an eye out for updates from Lego and Nintendo.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Triangle Strategy Temporarily Delisted from Nintendo eShop: What We Know So Far

In a surprising move, Square Enix’s critically acclaimed tactical RPG, Triangle Strategy, has been temporarily delisted from the Nintendo eShop. The game, which has garnered praise for its engaging turn-based combat and epic storyline, is no longer available for purchase on the platform.

However, Square Enix has assured players who have already purchased the game that they can still download and play it at their leisure.

The sudden removal has left many fans puzzled, as no official reason has been provided by Square Enix. The publisher simply stated that the game is “temporarily unavailable” and that they are working on resolving the issue.

This situation is reminiscent of a similar incident earlier this year when Octopath Traveler was temporarily delisted from the eShop before returning with a change in publisher from Nintendo to Square Enix.

Speculation is rife among the gaming community about the reasons behind the delisting. Some believe it could be related to licensing issues or a potential move to bring Triangle Strategy to other platforms such as PS5 and Xbox.

This theory is supported by Square Enix’s recent efforts to expand its games to a wider audience.

While the gaming community eagerly awaits more information, Square Enix has promised to provide updates as soon as the game is available for purchase again. In the meantime, fans can still enjoy Triangle Strategy on Steam, where it is currently on sale.

UPDATE (1/06/2025):

Square Enix announced that Triangle Strategy was back on the Nintendo eShop, but did not entered into details on why it was needed the temporarily delisting.

It is still strongly suggested that a change of publisher ahead of more ports coming this year as the main quite reason.

Business, Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Nintendo will sell its presence in China Market meaning the end of its run there

In a significant announcement, Nintendo has revealed that the Nintendo Switch eShop and all online services will be discontinued in China by 2026. This decision will impact millions of gamers in the region, marking the end of an era for Nintendo’s presence in the Chinese market.

The Chinese Nintendo eShop will stop selling games and software by March 31, 2026 and after this date, all titles, including paid and free games, will no longer be available for purchase or download followed by the ability to download titles, redeem codes, and access DLC and other network elements by May 15, 2026.

To soften the blow, Nintendo, in collaboration with Tencent, is offering up to four free games to players with active WeChat accounts tied to their Nintendo Switch consoles. This offer is available from November 27, 2024, until March 31, 2026. Eligible games include popular titles like Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Pokémon Let’s Go! Pikachu.

For context, the Nintendo Switch was launched in China in 2020 through a partnership with Tencent, a major player in the Chinese tech industry. Since then, several older Nintendo Switch titles have been localized for the Chinese market.

However, unspecified changes in Tencent’s business operations have led to the decision to end online services in the region by Nintendo simply not renewing their partnership.

The news has been met with mixed reactions from the gaming community. While some players are disappointed by the loss of online services, others are appreciative of the compensation offered by Nintendo. Many are hopeful that this move will lead to improvements in the services offered in other regions.