Category: News

Logitech has revealed which of its webcams are compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2. Despite Nintendo offering its own webcam for the console, several third-party cameras are also compatible. While the company did disclose the technical specifications needed for webcam functionality, it did not provide a list of specific models that meet these requirements.

The introduction of the new GameChat feature on the Nintendo Switch 2 has prompted early adopters to seek compatible cameras. The console carries a hefty price tag of $450, leading some gamers to look for cost-effective alternatives to the official $55 peripheral by using existing webcams. Innovative fans have even discovered ways to connect smartphone cameras to the Switch 2, though this requires additional cables.

Logitech has become the first major webcam manufacturer to clarify compatibility details with the Switch 2. For those without an official camera, Logitech’s reassurance comes as good news. The company has confirmed that all its webcam models, with the exception of the Logitech Brio 4K, are compatible with the new console.

This means that many Logitech webcams are a viable option, significantly reducing the cost barrier associated with purchasing a camera for the Switch 2. Some gamers might find a compatible Logitech webcam simply by searching through their old belongings, making it an attractive free alternative. Logitech has yet to announce plans to update the Brio 4K for compatibility.

However, it is possible for webcam manufacturers to implement firmware updates to address any compatibility issues. As Logitech sets this precedent, other companies may follow suit, providing Switch 2 users with even more options. While excitement is building around the camera features, currently, there are only a limited number of games that fully utilize them.

With the availability of more camera choices, it will be interesting to see if players opt for the official Nintendo camera or a more economical old Logitech model.

Independent game studio Sloclap has made a significant move with their soccer game, Rematch, by unveiling its first branded cosmetics collaboration with Puma. This partnership marks an exciting milestone for Rematch, adding a new layer of customization to the game’s vibrant and fast-paced soccer experience.

Since launching on June 19, Rematch has captured a sizable audience, boasting over 92,000 concurrent players on Steam on its first day. This impressive start can be attributed to the game’s innovative approach, which breaks from traditional soccer rules.

In Rematch, there are no fouls, offsides, or goal kicks. Instead, matches unfold in a closed arena where the action remains continuous, focusing entirely on dribbling, positioning, and scoring amidst fast-paced gameplay.

On June 27, the collaboration with Puma was officially announced, introducing the first fully branded cosmetic pack within the game. Players can now equip themselves with Puma jerseys, shorts, shin guards, and boots, all reflecting the brand’s distinct style.

The newly available items, designed with performance in mind, integrate Puma’s Future line, emphasizing their commitment to quality football gear. Sloclap has indicated that this collaboration is just the beginning, hinting at further content tied to the partnership.

Félix Garczynski, Head of Marketing & Publishing at Sloclap, stated that aligning with Puma—a brand embedded in both football and gaming—fits perfectly with Rematch’s ethos of energy and self-expression. Meanwhile, Puma’s Director of Emerging Marketing Technology highlighted that football is deeply rooted in Puma’s identity, making the collaboration a natural fit.

Despite the game’s rapid ascent, it has faced some challenges. Sloclap has been proactive in addressing these issues, implementing recent patches to fix gameplay glitches, including the “outfield dive” exploit and a wall dribbling bug.

The updates also enhance overall game stability, ensuring a smoother experience for players.

In an exciting development for fans of both franchises, Sega has partnered with Warner Bros. Discovery, Jakks Pacific, and Funko to introduce a new line of action figures and POP collectibles featuring a crossover between Sonic the Hedgehog and DC Comics. With the highly anticipated launch of the next Sonic title, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, fans will have the opportunity to enhance their collections with this latest merchandise.

Earlier in 2025, DC Comics released a crossover comic series showcasing Sonic the Hedgehog alongside the Justice League, where readers were treated to a fun blend of gaming and superhero culture. The series achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success, prompting Sega to expand its range of Sonic-related offerings, including new exclusive toy lines. In a further collaboration with Sega and Warner Bros.

Discovery, Jakks Pacific is set to unveil a fresh line of action figures inspired by the Sonic x DC crossover. These figures will showcase beloved characters such as Sonic, Silver, Shadow, Amy, The Flash, Green Lantern, Batman, and Wonder Woman. Additionally, Funko is releasing a series of POP figures that includes characters like Knuckles, Tails, Superman, and Cyborg.

Both the Jakks Pacific figures and Funko POPs are slated for exclusive release at Target during the retailer’s Summer Geek Out event, with the Jakks figures starting to ship on October 1. Fan favorites will emulate the designs seen in the comic books, such as Sonic as The Flash and Shadow as Batman. The Jakks Pacific action figure set, including Darkseid, is priced at $59.99, while individual figures are available for $14.99 each.

Funko’s POP figures, currently sold out for preorder, also feature all six crossover characters. Sega’s recent collaborations, including those with Magic: The Gathering and McLaren Racing, continue to excite fans and keep the anticipation for Sonic’s upcoming title high. Collectors are encouraged to act quickly to secure the Sonic x DC collectibles and stay updated on future merchandise announcements.

Microsoft is set to implement a significant change to one of Windows’ most well-known features: the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). This symbol of system failure and user frustration will be gradually phased out in the coming months. The BSOD has been an integral part of the Windows experience since the early 1990s, first appearing in Windows 3.1 and subsequently becoming a staple in Windows NT in 1993.

Over the years, it has gained a reputation for indicating unrecoverable system errors, especially after the addition of the “frowny face” and QR codes in Windows 8 and 10. Following the recent CrowdStrike outage that affected countless Windows devices, Microsoft decided to reevaluate its approach to system failures. In a new update for Windows 11 24H2 devices, Microsoft will replace the BSOD with a “Black Screen of Death.”

This new display, visually akin to the black screen encountered during updates, will omit the frowny face and QR codes. Instead, users will see a system stop code and the problematic driver responsible for the crash, which will simplify troubleshooting for IT professionals and advanced users without relying on external tools like WinDbg. This change is part of Microsoft’s broader Windows Resiliency Initiative, designed to enhance stability and accelerate recovery.

In addition to the new error display, Microsoft is introducing several features aimed at improving the overall user experience. Notable enhancements include Quick Machine Recovery (QMR), which enables devices to reboot and recover from crashes in approximately two seconds. Other features include Connected Cache for reducing bandwidth during updates, Universal Print for streamlined enterprise-level printing, and Hotpatch for installing monthly security updates without requiring a restart.

However, it’s important to mention that these updates will only apply to systems running Windows 11. Computers operating on Windows 10 will continue to display the classic BSOD, raising concerns as many PCs worldwide still utilize the older version.

The developers of Fortnite have announced a significant change to the number of bots in the Battle Royale mode, potentially increasing the game’s difficulty. Since their introduction in 2019, bots were meant to help inexperienced players acclimate to the game. However, many players have voiced concerns about how these bots impact overall gameplay, often finding them easy targets.

This dissatisfaction may have influenced Epic Games to consider toughening the gaming experience, especially following the successful launch of the Blitz Royale mode, which appears to cater to those seeking a greater challenge. In a recent update shared by the HYPEX Twitter account, it was confirmed that the maximum number of bots allowed in each Battle Royale match has been reduced from 75 to 65. Consequently, players can now expect to face at least 35 real opponents in each match, which should enhance the gaming challenge.

However, this adjustment seems to apply solely to Battle Royale, with no word yet on whether bots will be reduced in other game modes, leaving some veteran players wanting more. This news coincides with Epic Games’ previous decision to extend the Blitz Royale mode and the recent adjustments made to controller aim assist, which aims to balance the experience for console players. While some may interpret these changes as a move towards increasing the game’s difficulty, they could also be seen as a way to level the playing field after granting enhanced capabilities to millions of players.

As Fortnite evolves, players should prepare for more intense gameplay as they strive for that coveted Victory Royale. With an array of game modes available, including Battle Royale and Zero Build, players can expect a dynamic and exciting gaming experience, whether they’re teaming up with friends or taking on new challenges alone.

The upcoming game, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, is set to introduce an exciting new multiplayer mode called Skirmish, which will feature team-based gameplay with 20 players on each side. This information comes from a recent leak originating from Activision, highlighting key details about the game before its anticipated release.

Black Ops 7 was officially announced during the Xbox Games Showcase in June, but a specific release window has not been revealed. However, historical trends suggest that the game could launch around October 2025.

In response to rumors, Activision clarified that wall-running will not return in this installment, but they did mention some notable movement changes. An unusual incident occurred when the Xbox version of the Call of Duty HQ app seemingly leaked loading screens from an internal playtest for Black Ops 7.

These screens unveiled exciting details about the game, including the new Skirmish mode, which promises an objective-driven gameplay experience across expansive maps. Players will engage in various objectives such as destroying payloads, capturing key points, and transmitting valuable data.

Additionally, the use of wingsuits has been highlighted, allowing players to navigate the map creatively. While discussions surrounding a closed internal playtest for the game are ongoing, no definitive confirmation has been issued by Activision, nor have they removed any of the leaked images online.

It is important to note that even if a playtest has occurred, the game mode may undergo significant changes before the final release. As Activision continues to develop Black Ops 7, fans can expect more information to be shared by early August 2025.

Excitingly, there are also rumors that this game might be the first Call of Duty title to launch on a Nintendo console in over ten years, potentially marking a return to the platform with the forthcoming Switch 2.

On June 26, Nintendo announced that Super Mario Strikers will be available on the Nintendo Switch Online service through the GameCube app starting July 3. This exciting addition marks the fourth playable game in the GameCube app, which is available exclusively to subscribers of the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack.

Originally launched in late 2005, Super Mario Strikers is a dynamic five-on-five soccer game developed by Nintendo and Next Level Games. Players can control teams led by iconic characters such as Mario, Luigi, and Peach, alongside three sidekick characters like Toad and Koopa, while a Kritter takes on the role of goalkeeper.

The game features traditional soccer mechanics but also incorporates beloved Mario franchise power-ups like the Mushroom and the Star, providing players with unique advantages during matches. Notably, Super Mario Strikers was the last title in the Mario franchise to be released on the GameCube in North America and Japan before the Wii launched the following year.

With the addition of Super Mario Strikers, players will have another classic title to enjoy on the GameCube app on their Nintendo Switch. A trailer released by Nintendo showcases the game’s fast-paced action, and it joins other titles like F-Zero GX, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and Soulcalibur 2.

Other anticipated GameCube games, including Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness and Super Mario Sunshine, will be added in future updates. However, access to these games requires the Expansion Pack upgrade for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.

The anticipation surrounding Super Mario Strikers has also attracted the attention of imitators. In January 2025, an Xbox title called Mariostro Strikers: Soccer League briefly appeared on Microsoft’s storefront before being removed, likely due to its similarities to the beloved franchise.

As July unfolds, with Super Mario Strikers and the launch of Super Mario Party Jamboree’s Switch 2 edition, fans are eager to see what surprises Nintendo has in store for the GameCube lineup.

The recently launched co-op game PEAK has generated significant buzz in the gaming community, thanks to its engaging gameplay and the efforts of developers Aggro Crab and Landfall Games. They have expressed their gratitude to players for their enthusiastic support, which has been crucial for the game’s success. As indie games are often overshadowed by major titles, PEAK’s achievement serves as a reminder that smaller developers can still capture players’ attention.

Aggro Crab, known for their prior hit Another Crab’s Treasure, and Landfall, famous for their quirky title releases like Totally Accurate Battle Simulator, have come together to create a delightful and wholesome climbing adventure. This collaboration has resonated well with gamers, making PEAK an instant favorite. The developers are committed to enhancing the player experience, and they have shared future plans, including the introduction of localization and various updates ranging from quality-of-life improvements to new content.

The game’s launch was met with remarkable success, selling two million copies in just nine days. Players have overwhelmingly praised PEAK, dubbing it a “peak” game that offers a “fun and replayable” experience. Additionally, the developers hinted at upcoming merchandise ideas to further engage their fans.

Despite some technical issues like disconnection bugs and crashes, the dev team is actively working on fixes to enhance performance. With its rising popularity, PEAK is already being regarded as one of the best co-op games available, alongside titles such as Surmount: A Mountain Climbing Adventure. As localization efforts ramp up, the game’s global reach is expected to grow, allowing even more gamers to enjoy this charming experience.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has initiated a new wave of refunds for Fortnite players, stemming from a significant settlement in 2022 where Epic Games agreed to pay $245 million. This decision came after allegations that the company engaged in deceptive practices, tricking consumers into making unintended purchases. The first batch of refunds, distributed in December 2024, saw over 629,000 players receiving an average payout of $114 as compensation for their claims.

The FTC’s initial announcement outlined the reasoning behind these refunds, highlighting issues with the game’s button configuration. They described it as “counterintuitive, inconsistent, and confusing,” which likely led to accidental purchases by players. More recently, on June 25 and 26, the FTC revealed that around $126 million has been allocated for the second round of refunds.

When combined with the first round, this brings the total refunds to approximately $198 million, leaving about $47 million remaining from the original settlement. Players eligible for these refunds can submit new claims until July 9 at ftc.gov/fortnite. To qualify, individuals must adhere to certain stipulations: if refunds are issued through PayPal, they must be accepted within 30 days; for checks, they must be cashed within 90 days.

The FTC’s claims against Epic Games included violations related to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) for collecting minors’ personal information, as well as the burden of confusing purchase prompts. Besides financial restitution, the settlement mandated that Epic Games must obtain positive consent before charging players and stop locking them out of their accounts over disputed transactions. While these changes are promising for consumer rights, it remains to be seen if Epic Games will adequately address ongoing issues that have led to previous refund situations.

A Nintendo Switch 2 owner, known as Funaoe24, has issued a cautionary tale to the gaming community regarding the irreversible consequences of a permanent ban from Nintendo. With the Switch 2 being as closely managed as its predecessor, the company maintains strict control over online services. Violating their terms of service can lead to users being barred from accessing these services, sometimes for seemingly trivial reasons. Since the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, sales have soared, and excitement for upcoming exclusive games has been palpable among fans.

However, the platform isn’t without its issues. Funaoe24 shared a disheartening account that their sister experienced a harsh penalty after changing her username to “Twink Link,” which melds a playful reference to LGBT+ culture with a nod to Legend of Zelda’s protagonist. This seemingly harmless change resulted in a permanent “System Ban,” eliminating access to any Nintendo services for the console. Upon reaching out to customer support, Funaoe24 was informed that the only resolution would be to attempt to return the console to the retailer for a replacement.

The community reacted to this story with empathy, acknowledging the loss of significant online features from the console through what many perceived as an overly punitive action by Nintendo. While some users made light of the situation, suggesting the humorous name change was worth the ban, others expressed skepticism about the rationale behind Nintendo’s decision. The incident underscores Nintendo’s swift and uncompromising approach to enforcing its rules. Although many view these actions as excessive, they serve as a reminder for users to be cautious, especially regarding username selections.

As the successor to the original Switch continues to thrive, players should consider the potential risks involved in their online interactions.