Month: June 2025

The “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition” game cartridges are compatible with the original Nintendo Switch, providing a significant benefit for current owners considering an upgrade. Early adopters have uncovered an interesting feature regarding these cartridges that original Switch owners should be aware of.

With the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, gamers are eager to explore its capabilities and game offerings. However, some players have noted that popular titles, such as Mario Kart World, lack local multiplayer in free roam mode.

While the Nintendo Switch 2 presents a notable improvement over its predecessor, its initial game lineup is regarded as somewhat underwhelming, with many feeling there aren’t enough exclusive titles yet to justify purchasing the new system. The backward compatibility of the Nintendo Switch 2 allows users to enjoy most original Switch titles seamlessly.

Yet an intriguing discovery has emerged: Switch 2 Edition cartridges, when inserted into the original Switch, can be played as well. For instance, games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Party Jamboree fall under this category.

It’s essential to highlight that original Switch 2 games will not work on the older console, as the functionality is solely for titles previously available on the original Switch. Nintendo clarified that Switch 2 Editions would comprise both the original game and an enhanced version for the new system.

The Switch 2 can access all available files on the cartridge, while the original Switch is limited to the unmodified version. This newfound compatibility might not directly benefit Switch 2 owners, but it offers a potential strategy for current Switch players.

Those planning to upgrade in the future might consider acquiring Switch 2 Edition games to ensure they have access to upgraded versions without having to invest again down the line.

Walmart recently delighted customers who pre-ordered the Nintendo Switch 2 by including free snacks like Pringles and Coca-Cola in their deliveries. This thoughtful gesture was unexpected and added a nice personal touch as gamers awaited their new consoles.

However, not all fans have had smooth experiences; some faced complications with pre-orders at both Walmart and GameStop. Those who pre-ordered the Nintendo Switch 2 from Walmart expressed their joy when discovering the surprise goodies accompanying their consoles.

With excitement surrounding the features and upgrades of the new system, many fans have been eager to explore exclusive titles and enhanced versions of older games. While some are still struggling to secure their own consoles due to limited supply, the happy customers with pre-orders in hand were pleasantly surprised during the unboxing experience.

Social media buzzed with posts starting on June 5, as Walmart began delivering the Nintendo Switch 2. Customers reported opening their packages to find not only the console but also a bottle of Coca-Cola and a can of Pringles.

The inclusion of a cheerful note reading “Thank a-you,” capturing the spirit of Mario’s speech and encouraging gamers to “level up” while enjoying the snacks, added to the excitement. In light of the positive reactions, Walmart tweeted, “We don’t play when it comes to release day,” and a spokesperson confirmed that the snack inclusion was a company-wide initiative, suggesting that most pre-order customers received these bonuses.

Despite the positive reception, some gamers were left disappointed as they learned that their pre-orders were canceled just days before the launch. Walmart isn’t the only retailer experiencing difficulties with the Nintendo Switch 2’s release.

Other retailers faced issues, such as GameStop, where customers found their receipts stapled to the screens of their new devices. As excitement continues to build around the Nintendo Switch 2, some fans are left grappling with frustration amidst all the hype.

YouTube Premium Lite subscribers are expressing their dissatisfaction with an upcoming increase in advertisements on the service. Although this change has not yet been implemented, many users are already concerned about the adjustments. With a projected revenue of $36 billion from advertisements in 2024, YouTube is actively working to counteract the use of adblockers, which complicates the situation for its paying customers. Introduced as a more affordable way to enjoy nearly ad-free content, YouTube Premium Lite costs $7.99 per month, compared to the standard YouTube Premium’s $13.99.

The Premium Lite version only recently rolled out, focusing on eliminating ads from videos, excluding music content. However, subscribers have begun receiving notifications indicating that starting June 30, 2025, ads will start appearing on YouTube Shorts. This change adds to the existing ad presence in music content and search results. The situation has sparked disappointment among users, who initially opted for Premium Lite to evade ads that have become increasingly prevalent.

Unlike standard YouTube Premium, the Lite tier lacks additional features such as offline downloads and background play. Many users, frustrated with the growing number of ads, previously turned to Premium Lite, hoping for a respite that now seems compromised. Despite its focus on Premium subscriptions, YouTube has continued to evolve its advertising strategy. In May, the platform updated mid-roll ads to be inserted at more natural breakpoints, minimizing disruption.

Additionally, a new AI feature named “Peak Points” was announced, strategically placing ads after moments when viewer attention is highest. As YouTube continues to refine its approach to advertising, further modifications to the Premium Lite tier could emerge in response to subscriber feedback.

Yamper and its evolution, Boltund, are set to debut in Pokémon GO this June during a limited-time event, much to the excitement of fans. The event will feature double Stardust, increased chances of encountering shiny Pokémon, and a $1 ticket option for exclusive timed research tasks.

As part of this new update, Pokémon GO will be adding more Galarian Pokémon, further enriching the game’s offerings. Yamper and Boltund are part of the series of new Pokémon being introduced this season, following the launch of the Delightful Days season on June 3.

Earlier announcements hinted at several Pokémon debuts throughout the summer, including Hisuian Lilligant and all forms of Tatsugiri. Yamper, an adorable Electric-type dog from Galar, has been highly anticipated by players since the integration of Galarian Pokémon began in 2020.

The upcoming event, titled Yamper’s Paw Prints, will take place from June 20 at 12:00 PM to June 22 at 11:59 PM local time. During this timeframe, players can evolve Yamper into Boltund using 50 Yamper Candy.

Not only will players earn double Stardust from catching Pokémon, but they will also have a heightened chance to encounter shiny variants of Snubbull, Poochyena, and Furfrou. Several dog Pokémon, such as Growlithe and Houndour, will spawn more frequently in the wild, coinciding with Jangmo-o’s Community Day on June 21.

Each day of the event, players will engage in timed research tasks that yield 3,000 XP and 1,500 Stardust, featuring encounters with different Pokémon each day. Moreover, players can opt to purchase a $1 ticket for special timed research that includes rewards like Incense and more encounters with event-themed Pokémon.

As Pokemon GO approaches its ninth anniversary, fans are eager for more exciting announcements, including the possible return of party-hat Pokémon as teased in the Delightful Days trailer.

Sony’s summer State of Play presentation unveiled Lumines Arise, a fresh entry in the iconic puzzle series, slated for release in fall 2025. Developed by Enhance, known for Tetris Effect, Lumines Arise marks the ninth installment in the series and is the first to be released on the ninth console generation.

Lumines has a rich history, having appeared on multiple platforms since its debut on the PlayStation Portable in 2004. The most recent game, Lumines Remastered, updated the original experience for the eighth console generation.

Tetsuya Mizuguchi, the CEO of Enhance and creator of the first Lumines, is back with Lumines Arise. Fans can expect classic tile-matching gameplay reminiscent of Tetris but with a unique twist: the Timeline, which synchronizes block erasure to the rhythm of the music.

The upcoming title will be available for both PC via Steam and PlayStation 5, with optional PS VR2 compatibility. A demo is set to be released later this summer, promising an immersive sonic experience with new music from the award-winning composer, Hydelic.

Lumines Arise introduces innovative mechanics to elevate the classic gameplay, including the Burst feature. Players can build combos and fill a gauge above the Timeline.

Once the gauge is full, activating Burst allows locked blocks to increase scoring potential. A character creation system will also offer players a chance to personalize their experience with various avatars.

Judging by the announcement trailer, Lumines Arise looks to be another captivating offering from Mizuguchi and Enhance. While currently confirmed for PlayStation 5 and PC, there are hopes for a future release on Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2.

This would be a fitting return to its mobile roots, akin to Tetris Effect’s success on handheld platforms. Overall, Lumines Arise promises addictive gameplay, stunning visuals, and a variety of modes that cater to both casual players and veterans.

Whether users prefer solo play or online challenges, Lumines Arise aims to deliver a captivating puzzle experience.

Monolith Soft played a significant role in the development of Mario Kart World for the Switch 2, contributing to the creation of fields and character designs. The studio, recognized for its expertise, has a longstanding partnership with Nintendo, having participated in the development of several successful titles over the years. Mario Kart World, released alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, offers gamers an exciting array of new courses, engaging modes, and a varied character roster.

Although it retains the beloved Grand Prix mode, which fans know well, the game also introduces fresh experiences like Free Roam and Knockout Tour modes, promising to keep gameplay dynamic and entertaining. In a recent social media update, Monolith Soft confirmed its contributions to Mario Kart World, showcasing its involvement in crafting the game’s vibrant environments and character designs. Given the game’s extensive roster and numerous courses, Monolith Soft’s expertise has undoubtedly been crucial to the project, especially considering their extensive history with Nintendo.

Beyond their work on the Xenoblade series, Monolith Soft has supported various other Nintendo games, including the expansive worlds of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild. Recently, with Nintendo acquiring full ownership of Monolith Soft in 2024, the studio is expected to continue partnering with Nintendo during the Switch 2 era. The dedication and effort poured into Mario Kart World are evident, as the latest installment leverages the improved hardware capabilities of the Switch 2 to enhance visuals compared to its predecessor, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

With a diverse array of familiar and quirky characters, the design team’s contributions are particularly noteworthy. As the Switch 2 generation unfolds, fans are eager to see what future projects Monolith Soft will undertake. In addition to assisting with other Nintendo titles, the studio recently launched Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition, sparking speculation about potential enhancements, including a 60fps patch for the game.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is priced at $9.99 and requires additional accessories for a complete experience. To fully enjoy the Welcome Tour, players may end up spending as much as $140 or even thousands if they need a 4K screen. This unexpected financial burden is leading some fans to reconsider participating in the Welcome Tour due to the console’s already high cost.

Introduced during the recent Switch 2 Direct, the Welcome Tour serves as an introduction to the new system, showcasing various mini-games and technological features. Fans were taken aback to find that this welcome experience has a fee attached. While the $9.99 cost seems modest initially, the added requirement of purchasing extra items could deter players.

The Nintendo Switch 2 significantly improves upon its predecessor, yet its launch lineup feels lacking apart from a few standout titles. According to reports, including insights from NintendoSoup, completing the Welcome Tour is impossible without acquiring supplementary accessories. While players can access 12 areas without additional purchases, enjoying all 34 mini-games and demos hinges on obtaining several extras.

For instance, specific mini-games require a USB camera and controllers equipped with GL/GR buttons. To experience everything fully, a 4K screen is also necessary. The total cost for gamers looking to complete the Welcome Tour can vary widely.

Many players may already own essential items like 4K screens or USB-compatible webcams. For those who do not, the expenses can quickly add up, potentially reaching $140 when purchasing both the Nintendo Switch 2 camera and Pro Controller with GL/GR buttons. Those lacking a 4K screen could face costs in the hundreds or even thousands, depending on their choices.

Though the initial price for the Welcome Tour is relatively low, the hidden costs associated with completing it may dissuade potential buyers. At $449.99, the Nintendo Switch 2’s price tag is already steep, which could leave some fans hesitant to commit further.

Fans of Pokémon continue to showcase their creativity, particularly through unique Gigantamax designs for beloved characters. A notable example is Gengar, one of the franchise’s most iconic Ghost-types. Recently, a Pokémon enthusiast shared imaginative Gigantamax forms for Gengar online, highlighting the character’s lasting popularity since its introduction in Generation 1.

Gengar, known for its mischievous nature and affinity for playing pranks, possesses the ability to hide in the shadows despite its large physique. This playful spirit is evident in its portrayal as a loyal companion to trainers who treat it kindly. The recent fan designs reflect a deep appreciation for Gengar’s character.

One fan, known as LapiSan_Laboratory on the Pokémon subreddit, unveiled two new Gigantamax forms for Gengar. The first form features a body split in two with a prominent tongue connecting the sections. This design comes with a G-Max Move called Treat, which allows Gengar to inflict damage and transform the opponent’s type to pure Ghost.

The second form depicts Gengar with distinctly white eyes, a smoke-like aura, and two shadowy figures accompanying it. Its G-Max Move, Get Out, not only damages opponents but also forces them to switch Pokémon. These forms draw inspiration from Agatha, a member of the Indigo Elite Four, and Morty, the Gym Leader of Ecruteak City, both of whom are experts in Ghost-type Pokémon.

Gigantamaxing, introduced in 2019 with Pokémon Sword and Shield, allows select Pokémon to adopt powerful new forms. Although only 32 Pokémon can Gigantamax, the concept remains a source of inspiration for fan creations. This continued creativity reinforces Gengar’s status as a favorite character in the expansive Pokémon universe.

Excitement is brewing among fans of the SpongeBob franchise with rumors of a new game titled “SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide” currently in development. This title follows a notable resurgence of SpongeBob games, sparked by releases such as the remake of “Battle for Bikini Bottom” and “The Patrick Star Game.” The anticipated reveal comes from recent game rating classifications in South Korea and Germany, suggesting that this new title could be on the horizon.

Over the last 25 years, while the animated series has consistently captivated viewers, video games based on the franchise have experienced fluctuating popularity. The early 2000s marked a golden era with classics like “SpongeBob SquarePants: The Movie” game and others. However, the subsequent decade saw a decline in significant releases, until recently.

The 2020 remake of “Battle for Bikini Bottom,” followed by “The Cosmic Shake” and “The Patrick Star Game,” has revived interest in SpongeBob gaming adventures. In addition to “Titans of the Tide,” some fans are speculating that SpongeBob may also appear in a forthcoming title, “Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds.” A recent leak hinted at potential DLC featuring our beloved sponge, further fueling excitement.

As anticipation grows around these new developments, fans also express hopes for a collaboration between LEGO and SpongeBob SquarePants, taking inspiration from LEGO’s successful partnerships with other franchises. Although details about “SpongeBob SquarePants: Titans of the Tide” remain scarce, its announcement signifies a promising new chapter in the world of SpongeBob video games. With the recent rekindling of interest in the franchise, it appears that SpongeBob’s gaming legacy is stronger than ever.

Dune: Awakening has made a remarkable entrance into the gaming world, attracting an impressive 93,634 concurrent players on Steam during its early access launch. Scheduled for its official release on June 10, the game is expected to see an even larger influx of players. Despite facing some technical issues, Funcom is committed to improving the gaming experience through features like private servers and Twitch drops.

This survival MMO has become highly awaited since its announcement nearly three years ago, garnering attention from fans of Frank Herbert’s Dune universe. Instead of following the events of the original books, the game offers an alternate timeline. Players will navigate the challenging desert environment of Arrakis, focusing on the mysterious disappearance of the Fremen.

Initially set for release on May 20, 2025, the launch was postponed to June 10 to accommodate one final beta testing phase. For those interested in purchasing, a guide containing details about the various editions of Dune: Awakening will help players determine which version is best for them. The game’s early access period has been particularly successful, with SteamDB reporting a peak of 93,634 concurrent players just hours after launch.

It’s noteworthy that this early access was limited to purchasers of the $70 Deluxe Edition or the $90 Ultimate Edition. With the full release, including the more affordable $50 Base Edition, a significant surge in player numbers is anticipated. Currently, Dune: Awakening enjoys a “Mostly Positive” rating on Steam, with about 76% of nearly 1,900 reviews favorably received.

However, players have reported some crashes and performance problems, which are active topics in community discussions. Funcom is enhancing the game through features like private servers and a collaboration with Twitch that offers exclusive rewards. From June 5 to June 24, 2025, players can earn three unique Observer building items to aid in base construction.