Tag Archives: Nintendo

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

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.

Games, Gaming, Nintendo

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:

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

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.

Business, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, Nintendo

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

Games, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News

Reactions didn’t wait for the Nintendo Switch Firmware Update 20.0.0

Nintendo has rolled out firmware update 20.0.0 for the Nintendo Switch, and while it introduces some exciting new features, it has also sparked controversy among fans. This update is particularly significant as it lays the groundwork for Nintendo Switch 2 compatibility, but not all changes have been well received.

Key Features of Firmware Update 20.0.0

Nintendo’s latest update introduces several new functionalities aimed at improving the gaming experience and preparing for the transition to the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2:

  • Virtual Game Cards: Digital purchases, including games and DLC, are now stored as virtual game cards, allowing users to load and eject them between two Switch systems.
  • GameShare: This feature enables Nintendo Switch 2 owners to share compatible games with other nearby systems via local wireless.
  • System Transfer to Switch 2: Players can now transfer their data from Nintendo Switch 1 to Switch 2 using local communication or a dedicated server.
  • User-Verification Settings: A new security feature lets users restrict access to the Virtual Game Card menu with a PIN or Nintendo Account sign-in.
  • Online License Settings: Players can now play downloaded software or DLC while connected to the internet, even if they don’t have the virtual game card loaded.
  • Updated UI Elements: The Nintendo eShop and News icons have received a color update.
  • Improved Save Data Transfers: Users can now transfer multiple save data files at once.

While some players are excited about the new features, others are frustrated by certain changes. Here’s what the community is saying:

The Good

  • Many fans appreciate the Virtual Game Card system, which makes managing digital purchases more convenient.
  • The GameShare feature is seen as a welcome addition, allowing players to share games locally without needing multiple copies.
  • The system transfer option is praised for making the transition to Nintendo Switch 2 smoother.

The Bad

  • Game-sharing restrictions: Previously, players could share digital games across multiple accounts and play simultaneously. However, update 20.0.0 removes this ability, forcing users to rely on the new Virtual Game Card system.
  • Donkey Kong’s profile icon change: Nintendo replaced the classic Donkey Kong icon with a new design from the upcoming Donkey Kong Bananza game. Some fans are upset, fearing this will be DK’s permanent look moving forward.
  • Multiplayer limitations: Players who used the old method to play the same game on different systems/accounts are frustrated that they can no longer do so.

What This Means for Nintendo Switch 1 and 2

This update signals a shift in how Nintendo handles digital purchases and game-sharing. While Nintendo Switch 1 users may feel restricted by the new policies, Nintendo Switch 2 owners will benefit from GameShare and improved system transfer options. The Virtual Game Card system suggests Nintendo is moving toward a more controlled digital ecosystem, possibly to combat piracy and unauthorized game-sharing.

As the Nintendo Switch 2 launch approaches, it will be interesting to see how Nintendo addresses fan concerns and whether future updates will refine these features.

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

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.

Business, Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo

Response to the Palworld lawsuit by Pocketpair revealed!

Pocketpair, the developer behind Palworld, has taken a bold stance in its legal battle against Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. The lawsuit, filed in Japan, accuses Palworld of infringing on patents related to monster-catching gameplay mechanics. Pocket Pair, however, has mounted a defense by citing prior works that utilized similar mechanics, arguing that Nintendo’s patents should not have been granted.

Revealed by Gamesfray, Pokectpair filed back in February its defense that went for two months under the radar and the TLDR is that Nintendo is conveniently pointing finger just for the mere selective pointing.

Pocket Pair’s defense hinges on the concept of “prior art,” which refers to previously existing works that demonstrate the mechanics in question were not novel at the time of Nintendo’s patent applications. The developer has listed several games and mods, including Rune Factory 5, Titanfall 2, Pikmin 3 Deluxe, Far Cry 5, Tomb Raider, and Final Fantasy XIV, as examples of prior art.

They argue that these titles already featured mechanics like releasing monsters or capture items, throwable objects, and targeting systems.

Additionally, Pocket Pair has pointed to its own game, Craftopia, as evidence that similar mechanics were already in use before Palworld. The developer also referenced mods like Pocket Souls for Dark Souls 3 and Nukamon for Fallout, as well as games like Monster Hunter 4G and Octopath Traveler, to bolster its case.

As you recall, the lawsuit was filed last year by Nintendo and instead of going of the aesthetic likeness that some Pals have with Pokémon creatures, had the Japanese veteran going for specific legal term with patents which some of the were granted in middle of the lawsuit’s run, specifically 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.

Nintendo and The Pokémon Company are each seeking 5 million yen, plus late payment fees.

This case raises important questions about the balance between intellectual property protection and creative freedom in the gaming industry. While Pocket Pair’s defense challenges the validity of Nintendo’s patents, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future.

Games, Gaming, News, Nintendo, Xbox

Microsoft Gaming CEO is a Nintendo Switch 2 believer

Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, has recently reiterated his enthusiastic support for Nintendo’s highly anticipated Switch 2 console, showcasing the deepening collaboration between the two gaming giants. Here’s a comprehensive look into the key points of his statements and their implications for the gaming industry

Is not a secret neither a unknown fact that Spencer has always expressed admiration for Nintendo’s innovation and role in shaping the gaming landscape. His recent comments highlight the strategic importance of the partnership between Xbox and Nintendo. This alliance allows Xbox to extend its reach to audiences who may not primarily engage with PC or Xbox platforms, aligning with Microsoft’s broader vision of accessibility in gaming.

A key element of Spencer’s vision is to bring Xbox experiences to as many platforms as possible. For the Switch 2, this includes plans to bring Xbox franchises like Diablo 4, Halo: The Master Chief Collection, and Microsoft Flight Simulator to the console. Notably, Activision, under Microsoft’s umbrella, is also committed to releasing Call of Duty titles on the Switch 2, further solidifying this cross-platform integration.

This approach underscores Xbox’s strategy of creating a unified gaming ecosystem that transcends traditional hardware boundaries. Whether on cloud, PC, or consoles, Xbox aims to make its games and features widely accessible.

Nintendo’s Role in Innovation

Spencer’s comments reflect his respect for Nintendo’s ability to innovate and captivate diverse audiences. He described Nintendo as a “great partner” and expressed excitement about collaborating on the Switch 2. Spencer’s belief in Nintendo’s significance in the industry further cements the potential for groundbreaking developments as the two companies work together.

Speaking in a new interview with Variety, Spencer has reconfirmed about Microsoft Gaming and Xbox supporting Switch 2, stating that he was “a big believer in what Nintendo means for this industry”.

We’ve been supporting Switch 1, I want to support Switch 2. Nintendo has been a great partner. We think it is a unique way for us to reach players who aren’t PC players, who aren’t players on Xbox. It lets us continue to grow our community of people that care about the franchises that we have, and that’s really important for us to make sure we continue to invest in our games.

I’m really a big believer in what Nintendo means for this industry and us continuing to support them. And getting the support from them for our franchises, I think, is an important part of our future.

Scheduled for a June 5, 2025 release, the Switch 2 represents a significant opportunity for Xbox to connect with new audiences. Spencer emphasized that the collaboration with Nintendo aligns with Xbox’s mission to build a community of players across platforms, leveraging the popularity and reach of Nintendo’s hardware.

The partnership between Xbox and Nintendo signals a shift towards greater collaboration and inclusivity in the gaming industry. By working together, the two companies aim to deliver high-quality gaming experiences to a wider audience, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming innovation.

In conclusion, Phil Spencer’s comments underline a strong commitment to the Xbox-Nintendo partnership, with the Switch 2 serving as a pivotal platform for this collaboration. As the June launch approaches, gamers can look forward to seeing how this partnership evolves and shapes the future of gaming.

Microsoft Gaming Chief Phil Spencer on ‘A Minecraft Movie’ Gamble, ‘Fallout’ Season 2 and Mixing Hollywood Pursuits With Xbox Biz Priorities
Microsoft Gaming’s Phil Spencer on “A Minecraft Movie,” ’Fallout” Season 2, and Xbox’s larger goals in Hollywood and gaming biz loyalty.
Source/Via
Games, Gaming, Hardware/Console, Nintendo

More expectations that you should consider for the Nintendo Switch 2

I has been a kind of a roller coaster week for the Nintendo segment of gaming fans since the announcement and presentation for the Nintendo Switch 2, and the almost immediate unrelated news about Trump Administration imposing new tariffs to Vietnam has prompted Nintendo on delaying preorders (not release date [yet]) to assess on how it will impact if Nintendo can have the price set or needs adjustments.

But I believe we are in another wave of ups and downs, depending on your perspective on some revealed expectations and that are new outside that Nintendo Switch 2 games will be distributed physically as Switch 1 games which generated of course, a interesting debate regarding people’s expectations on the technical capacities of the Nintendo Switch 2.

Now for the new things…

Nintendo Switch 2 will not have a favored anti-drifting detail

Nintendo Life confirmed that Nintendo acknowledged that the Joy-Con 2 devices of Nintendo Switch 2 will not have the Hall Effect design.

Hall Effect, named after US physicist Edwin Hall, is when you use magnets and electrical conductors to measure the position of the stick which makes them in theory and practice immune to drifting, one of the most hated “Achilles’ heel” of the original Nintendo Switch.

Nate Bihldorff answer Nintendo Life’s inquiry with this:

Let’s jump off the sensitivity stuff then and talk about the stick of the Switch 2 Joy-Con because it feels so different to the original Switch’s analog stick. So is it a Hall Effect stick? Were you inspired by the Hall Effect stick?

Well, the Joy-Con 2’s controllers have been designed from the ground up. They’re not Hall Effect sticks, but they feel really good. Did you experience both the Joy-Con and the Pro Controller?

Both!

So, I like both, but that Pro Controller, for some reason the first time I grabbed it, I was like, “this feels like a GameCube controller.” I was a GameCube guy. Something about it felt so familiar, but the stick on that especially. I tried to spend a lot of time making sure that it was quiet. I don’t know if you tried really whacking the stick around but it really is [quiet]. I’m thinking back to my Smash Brothers days, where you just whack it. [The Switch 2 Pro Controller] is one of the quietest controllers I’ve ever played.

Let’s hope that time treats this particular topic well.

If your only desire for the Nintendo Switch 2 is Achievements hunting, bad news!

Polygon brought the question if the Nintendo Switch 2 is going to support Achievements to proper make an appeal like Playstation does with its Trophies system or Xbox with their own Achievement Platform to Nintendo’s vice president of player and product experience, Bill Trinen.

Unfortunately, Trinen confirmed with a “nope”, that this will not be the case.

The confusion might arise because The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will both get Switch 2 editions, as well as a new app, Zelda Notes, which will be part of the Nintendo App.

And ironically, that app will have its own Achievements list, so in this perspective, I can assume that game developers can have their own Achievement within their game’s ecosystem.

Nintendo basically is already done with Nintendo eShop Music

Also via an inquiry by Polygon, Nintendo via Nintendo Switch 2 producer Kouichi Kawamoto, that eShop Music is not part and will not be part of Nintendo Switch 2 offerings.

Unlike back then, the eShop now has lots of videos that are showcasing the games. We didn’t want to intrude on that, so we don’t have music there.

Of course, it was acknowledge that Nintendo is focusing on improving the eShop experience ahead of the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2.

Originally Nintendo Switch is not being phased out (as expected and for now)

This time and via The Washington Post, Nintendo of America president Bowser was asked about the original Nintendo Switch following the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 and while it is disingenuous to think that Nintendo will maintain a legacy platform (history speaks for itself), it will be remain to be supported while the transition period is in course.

What I would say is that we’ll continue to observe consumers and how they engage and enter into the platform at various levels to try to really understand what the future may look like.

Here’s the other point. We have an install base [for the Switch] of 150 million plus units. We’ll probably announce more on May 8, when we have our next earnings call. We want to keep those players engaged. Not all of them may be ready to jump to Switch 2.

In average, Nintendo has historically maintained support for its previous consoles for a few years after launching a new system and the average goes between 2 to 3 years, by just looking at past transitions:

  • Nintendo 64 → GameCube (2001): Nintendo 64 saw a gradual decline in support, with its last first-party game released in 2002.
  • GameCube → Wii (2006): GameCube support continued for a few years, with some late releases like “The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess” in 2006.
  • Wii → Wii U (2012): The Wii remained relevant for a while, especially with its strong casual audience, but first-party support slowed down significantly after 2013.
  • Wii U → Switch (2017): The Wii U had a short lifespan, and support faded quickly after the Switch’s success.

Now, with the Nintendo Switch 2 launching on June 5, 2025, Nintendo has confirmed that Switch 1 will continue to receive support as long as there is demand. This suggests that:

  • 2025-2026: Nintendo will likely continue releasing some new titles for Switch 1, similar to how it supported the 3DS after the Switch launched.
  • 2027-2028: Support may gradually decline, with fewer first-party releases.
  • Beyond 2028: The Switch 1 could still receive third-party games, but official support will likely phase out.

Let’s hope that I am wrong and Nintendo Switch transition to Switch 2 means more years of support for a previous generation and this is good news for gamers at all!

Games, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, Nintendo

Nvidia shared details about the tech behind the power of Nintendo Switch 2

Exploring Nvidia’s Role in the Nintendo Switch 2 Revolution

The gaming world is abuzz with excitement as Nintendo unveils its next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2. At the heart of this technological leap is Nvidia, whose cutting-edge innovations are powering the console’s impressive capabilities. Let’s dive into the details of how Nvidia’s tech is transforming the gaming experience.

Nvidia’s Custom GPU: A Game-Changer

The Nintendo Switch 2 is equipped with a custom Nvidia processor featuring dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores. These components are pivotal in delivering stunning visuals and AI-driven enhancements. The RT Cores enable real-time ray tracing, creating lifelike lighting, reflections, and shadows that immerse players in vibrant game worlds. Meanwhile, Tensor Cores power AI technologies like Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), which upscale lower-resolution images to enhance both performance and image quality.

With Nvidia’s innovations, the Switch 2 achieves up to 4K gaming in TV mode and up to 120 FPS at 1080p in handheld mode. This marks a significant upgrade from the original Switch, which maxed out at 1080p resolution in TV mode. The console also supports HDR, ensuring richer colors and sharper contrasts. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) via Nvidia G-SYNC in handheld mode guarantees ultra-smooth, tear-free gameplay.

Nvidia’s Tensor Cores extend beyond graphics enhancements. They enable AI-powered face tracking and background removal, enhancing social gaming and streaming experiences. These features open up new possibilities for interactive gameplay and community engagement.

Nvidia’s collaboration with Nintendo isn’t just about hardware; it’s also about empowering developers. The custom GPU comes with optimized APIs and world-class development tools, making game creation faster and more efficient. This ensures that developers can fully leverage the console’s capabilities to deliver groundbreaking games.

A Leap Forward for Nintendo

The Nintendo Switch 2 represents a generational leap in gaming technology, thanks to Nvidia’s contributions. With 10 times the graphics performance of its predecessor, the console is set to redefine portable gaming. From ray tracing to AI-driven enhancements, Nvidia’s tech is at the forefront of this transformation.

As gamers eagerly await the Switch 2’s release, it’s clear that Nvidia’s innovations are not just powering a console—they’re shaping the future of gaming. Whether you’re a fan of immersive worlds or high-speed action, the Nintendo Switch 2 promises an experience like no other.

Are you excited to see how these advancements will impact your favorite games? Let me know your thoughts!