The Nintendo Switch 2 console and its current lineup of launch and upcoming games signal that the company is not just innovating, but taking things to the next level.
Nintendo has never followed trends; it simply forges its path and reaps the rewards of doing so. While this has led to some failed attempts (the Virtual Boy, the GameCube, the Wii U), when Nintendo makes a splash, everyone listens.
Currently, the company has become the first to price new titles like Mario Kart World at around US$80. It’s a steep price, but one that reflects the increasing cost of game development.
Why do you think the original Nintendo Switch lasted so long, despite using outdated hardware compared to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series? At the end of the day, it’s all about the games and software. While the price hike for its new console may spark controversy, Nintendo has cultivated such a passionate fanbase that consumers will likely accept the hit to their wallets.
Short beats
Donkey Kong champion and retro game high scorer Billy Mitchell won a defamation lawsuit against YouTuber Karl Jobst.
Nintendo has announced the launch date and price for the Nintendo Switch 2: June 5 in the US and Japan, with the base console priced at US$449.99. Mario Kart World, its launch title, will cost US$79.99.
Nintendo also revealed several new first-party titles: Donkey Kong Bananza, a 3D platformer set for release on July 17, and Kirby Air Riders, a 3D racing game featuring Kirby characters, coming in 2025.
The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch in Southeast Asia in July, but only in four countries: Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines.
A Minecraft movie, a live-action adaptation of the popular game, is out now in Malaysian cinemas. It holds a 53% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Devil May Cry, the anime series based on the Capcom action franchise, is currently streaming on Netflix. It has a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Op-Eds
We interviewed Mobile Legends pro player Soloz about MOBAs, his career, and his thoughts on the movie named after his callsign.
We asked several Indonesian game developers their thoughts on why the Nintendo Switch 2 isn’t launching in their country.
Games out this week
South of Midnight, a new action-adventure title from Compulsion Games, takes place in the American Deep South. You’ll play as Hazel, exploring Southern folklore and encountering fantastical creatures in a dark world. The game is out on April 8 for PC and Xbox Series, but you can pre-purchase the Premium Edition for early access.
The Last of Us Part II Remastered is now available for PC. This former PlayStation 4 exclusive continues the post-apocalyptic journey of survivor Ellie, featuring new modes like Guitar Free Play and the No Return roguelike mode.
Recommended viewing
For some reason, SNK is adding DJ Salvatore Ganacci as a fighting game character in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves. Check out the bizarre promotional video here.
We also made a video highlighting easter eggs and references from the Devil May Cry anime series on Netflix. Watch it here.
