Switch 2 was almost called the Super Nintendo SwitchWill have an improved eShop.Image credit: Nintendo News by Ed Nightingale Deputy News Editor Published on April 2, 2025 Switch 2 was almost called the Super Nintendo Switch, but Nintendo felt it "didn't feel right" to use the same naming convention as the SNES due to Switch 2's backwards compatibility.In a new Ask The Developer discussion, Switch 2 producer Kouichi Kawamoto discussed how the team landed on the right name for the new console."There were a lot of ideas for the name, and we really struggled to find the right one," he said. "We even considered ideas like 'Super Nintendo Switch'. However, Super NES, which came out after the NES, couldn't play NES games. Since Switch 2 can play Switch games, it didn't feel right to use the same naming convention as Super NES. Switch 2 is a new system with improved performance, but we'd like players who get their hands on it not to focus on the specs, but rather to think of it as the latest system developed by Nintendo."Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 02.04.2025Watch on YouTubeHe added: "So, in the hope that it becomes the new standard for Nintendo Switch, we named it Nintendo Switch 2."Does that mean we can expect a Nintendo Switch 3 in the future?Switch 2 director Takuhiro Dohta continued: "From the beginning of development, we wanted Switch 2 to be a system that can be enjoyed by a wide variety of players. This hasn't changed from Switch to Switch 2. I also wanted to create an experience that as many players as possible could enjoy, rather than an experience made specially for those who prefer high-performance hardware. So, we wanted a name that would communicate simply to potential customers that, if you're considering buying a Switch, Nintendo Switch 2 is the newest system."Surmised Tetsuya Sasaki, from the Technology Development Division: "I thought the name was simple and easy to understand, since development began with the idea that Switch 2 would be a proper successor to Switch."Elsewhere in the interview, Dohta also confirmed the Switch 2's eShop will be improved."Thanks to the system's performance capabilities, Nintendo eShop on Switch 2 has been improved and runs smoothly even when displaying a large number of games," said Dohta. "We believe the act of finding the game you want to play is itself part of the game system experience."For more on the new console, here's everything on Switch 2 from the Nintendo Direct, including details on launch game Mario Kart World.

Here's our first batch of Xbox Game Pass titles for AprilSouth of Midnight! Blue Prince! More!Image credit: Compulsion News by Victoria Kennedy News Reporter Published on April 2, 2025 Microsoft has announced its first wave of Game Pass titles for April.Day one titles with this batch include South of Midnight, Commandos: Origins and Blue Prince. "Explore the mythos and confront mysterious creatures of the Deep South in this modern folktale while learning to weave an ancient power to surmount obstacles and face the pain haunting your hometown," reads South of Midnight's official blurb.Meanwhile, the likes of Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition will also be coming to the service.5 Things We Liked About South Of Midnight (And 2 Things We Didn't). Watch on YouTubeHere's everything heading to Game Pass in the coming weeks:Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition (Cloud, Console, and PC) April 3 via Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, Game Pass StandardAll You Need is Help (Console) April 3, Now with Game Pass StandardStill Wakes the Deep (Xbox Series X/S) April 3, Now with Game Pass StandardWargroove 2 (Console) April 3, Now with Game Pass StandardDiablo 3: Reaper of Souls Ultimate Evil Edition (Console and PC) April 8 via Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, Game Pass StandardSouth of Midnight (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X/S) April 8 via Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game PassCommandos: Origins (Cloud, PC and Xbox Series X/S) April 9 via Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game PassBlue Prince (Cloud, PC and Xbox Series X/S) April 10 via Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game PassHunt Showdown 1896 (PC) April 15 via Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass To see this content please enable targeting cookies.Game Pass members who fancy getting their hands on South of Midnight - the next game from We Happy Few developer Compulsion Games - can save 10 percent on the Premium Edition Upgrade to unlock up to five days early access. This edition also gives digital access to the South of Midnight Artbook, as well as the game's original soundtrack, and "more".I went hands-on with South of Midnight earlier this year, and while I enjoyed the setting and atmosphere, I did worry combat might get a tad repetitive. Not much longer to see if that is indeed the case. Image credit: Compulsion GamesIn addition, and as is the case with every new batch of games, the following titles will be leaving Game Pass on 15th April:Botany ManorCoral IslandHarold HalibutHomestead ArcanaKonaOrcs Must Die! 3Shadow of the Tomb Raider Definitive EditionTurbo Golf RacingIf you want to keep playing these games after they leave Game Pass, you'll need to purchase them. On the plus side, Game Pass subscribers get a 20 percent discount.For everything else in Microsoft's subscription service, you can check out our handy Xbox Game Pass guide detailing the many titles available.

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Exclusive Though?The Duskbloods is FromSoftwares next game, a Switch 2 exclusive coming in 2026, and guaranteed system sellerThe Duskbloods is to Bloodborne what Dark Souls was to Demon's Souls, right? RIGHT? News by Sherif Saed Contributing Editor Published on April 2, 2025 People are going to argue for a while which of todays Nintendo Switch 2 Direct reveals was the biggest, but I am more inclined to say it was The Duskbloods. This is the next project from the iconic FromSoftware.The Duskbloods appears to be a follow-up to Bloodborne in all but name, and its coming exclusively to the Switch 2 in 2026.To see this content please enable targeting cookies. The Duskbloods is directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, the legendary director behind many of FromSoftwares games, including Dark Souls, Bloodborne, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and Elden Ring.The Duskbloods reveal was one of the few Nintendo decided to keep for the very end of the showcase. We got a nice, meaty look at gameplay, and the footage looks to have been captured from a Switch 2, seemingly running at 30fps.As the name suggests, The Duskbloods has a major vampire element. Characters are seen biting the necks of, and sucking the blood out of enemies. It also appears to be an open-world game with a new steampunk-like jetpack that players will use to traverse the world. To see this content please enable targeting cookies.Indeed, The Duskbloods is set in what looks to be a steampunk version of London (or at least a city very much inspired by it). This all seems like the next evolution of Bloodborne.Though gameplay remains mostly in melee, theres a big emphasis on ranged weapons. One shot in the trailer has the player character using dual-SMGs - which admittedly looks a bit strange. The character is also shown multiple times with a rifle on their back.Were going to learn more on April 4, when Nintendo will publish an interview with Miyazaki himself on Nintendos website. Until then, start speculating now!

Image: NintendoHopefully, you'll have gotten used to the name 'Nintendo Switch 2' by now. Given how much we now know about Nintendo's latest hardware, the firm's approach to its name actually makes a lot of sense.According to an Ask the Developer interview with Kouichi Kawamoto, Takuhiro Dohta, and Tetsuya Sasaki, however, it very nearly had a different name altogether; one that many fans were sincerely hoping for in the run up to the official reveal earlier this year.Super Nintendo Switch.The reason why didn't ultimately didn't opt for this is rather simple: the Switch 2 is backwards compatible, but the SNES wasn't, so the company didn't want to follow the same naming convention.Here's what Kawamoto had to say:"There were a lot of ideas for the name, and we really struggled to find the right one. We even considered ideas like "Super Nintendo Switch". However, Super NES, which came out after the NES, couldnt play NES games. Since Switch 2 can play Switch games, it didn't feel right to use the same naming convention as Super NES."Switch 2 is a new console with improved performance, but we'd like players who get their hands on it not to focus on the specs, but rather to think of it as the latest console developed by Nintendo. So in the hope that it becomes the new standard for Nintendo Switch, we named it Nintendo Switch 2."The Switch 2 will officially launch on 5th June 2025. Launch games include Mario Kart World, Street Fighter 6, and Hitman: World of Assassination, along with paid upgrades for Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.Be sure to check our pre-order guide for all the latest info. Pre-orders open 8th/9th AprilMario Kart! Elden Ring! Donkey Kong?!Would you have preferred the 'Switch 2' be called 'Super Nintendo Switch'? (95 votes)Yes, 'Super Nintendo Switch' sounds cooler52%Nah, I'm quite happy with 'Switch 2'39%They could call it '2witch 2woo' for all I care9%Do you like the name 'Switch 2', or would you have prefered 'Super Nintendo Switch'? Let your thoughts be known in the above poll and with a comment down below.[source nintendo.com]See AlsoShare:00 Nintendo Lifes resident horror fanatic, when hes not knee-deep in Resident Evil and Silent Hill lore, Ollie likes to dive into a good horror book while nursing a lovely cup of tea. He also enjoys long walks and listens to everything from TOOL to Chuck Berry. Hold on there, you need to login to post a comment...Related ArticlesNintendo Switch 2 Direct: Time, Where To Watch, What To ExpectIt's time for Switch 2Switch 2 Pre-Orders Expected To Sell Out "Day One" Due To Limited Unit AllocationAccording to a "large US retailer"Metroid Prime 4: Beyond's Official Switch Box Art Is Absolutely StunningAhhhh we want itNintendo Direct Confirmed For Today, 27th March 202530 minutes of news for OG Switch games

Image: Nintendo LifeWell, we've gone from knowing next-to-no information to knowing a boatload of information in roughly one hour. Nintendo has fully lifted the lid on its upcoming hardware in the Switch 2 Direct and it was a packed one.Below, you will find the full April 2025 Nintendo Switch 2 Direct video, followed by a breakdown of every announcement, game reveal and trailer. There's a lot to get through, so let's dive in...On this page: Nintendo Switch 2 Direct April 2025 - Every Announcement, Game Reveal & TrailerNintendo Switch 2 Direct April 2025 - The Full PresentationFor those who missed the initial livestream (or those who just want to watch it again), you can find the full Direct below:Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kEvery AnnouncementNow then, onto the announcements themselves in the order they appeared in the Direct. Things kicked off with a closer look at a familiar face...Mario Kart World - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kIn Mario Kart World, you can go off the racetrack and drive virtually everywhere!Race seamlessly across connected roads and racetracks that deliver Mario Kart racing like never before. Participate in the new Knockout Tour mode, where youll barrel through back-to-back courses with no pit stops along the way. And in Free Roam mode, its possible to go off the racetrack and drive in any direction you wish, explore areas that pique your interest and take some photos at scenic spots with a group of friends.More details about the game will be shared in an upcoming Mario Kart World Direct on April 17 at 6am PT. Our first launch day release!Just look at all those characters!GameChatSubscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kChat, share your game screen, and hang out with friends using GameChat, a new online feature for Nintendo Switch 2!With GameChat, people can play games and talk like everyone is in the same room, even if they are miles apart. Whether sharing a victory or just waving hello, GameChat makes it feel like online friends around the world are on the same couch. Players can start a chat with friends anytime by pressing the C Button on the right Joy-Con 2 controller.GameShareImage: NintendoA new way to play games together locally on multiple systems, using just one game. GameShare lets you temporarily share compatible games with up to three other systems (Switch 1 or Switch 2), so you can each play on your own screen. The feature's rollout will begin with a free update to Clubhouse Games, but will later come to other titles including Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury, Super Mario Odyssey, Big Brain Academy and more. Get the gang togetherNew Console FeaturesSubscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kWitness the systems powerful processing speeds delivering visuals never seen before on a Nintendo system via a bigger screen showcasing vibrant color and clarity. Discover reimagined Joy-Con 2 controllers that snap to the system with magnetic connectors and can each be used as a mouse. From compatible games in existing Nintendo Switch libraries to Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games connect and play with friends and family in surprising new ways! Smooth!Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour - 5th June 2025Image: NintendoNintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is an introduction to the new system, giving you helpful tips on what the Switch 2 is capable of. You'll be able to read the facts via information boards and see them in action through a series of minigames. It's a paid experience (oh, Nintendo), but it launches alongside the console on 5th June. Tutorial is a paid downloadGame Cart & SD Card InformationImage: NintendoWe got our first look at the Nintendo Switch 2 game carts, which are now red and boast much faster speeds. Nintendo also informed us that the system won't be compatible with Micro SD cards, and will require you to use Micro SD Express cards instead. S(D) ExpressNintendo Switch 2 Pro ControllerImage: NintendoThe all-new Switch 2 Pro Controller has a C button for GameChat and new GL and GR buttons on the rear for you to map your own inputs to. There's also a headphone jack on the bottom. Could it really be the "pinnacle of all controllers"?Nintendo Switch 2 Edition GamesSubscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kA host of Switch 1 games are getting enhanced Switch 2 Editions for the new console. These beefed-up versions will boast features like improved visuals, unique Switch 2-specific controls and more.Nintendo went into depth on a handful of games getting a Switch 2 enhancement Super Mario Party Jamboree, Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, Kirby and the Forgotten Land, Metroid Prime 4 and Pokmon Legends: Z-A stating that all will be available both digitally and physically. If you already own the original version of the game, you'll be able to purchase an 'Upgrade Pack' to get the new edition. Plus, new amiibo are on the way!And the award for longest title goes to...Drag x Drive - Summer 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kA new 3v3 game experience, Drag x Drive challenges players to use both Joy-Con 2 at the same time to intuitively steer, speed up and make plays. Mouse controlled slam-dunks?Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition - 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kRise, Tarnished. The critically acclaimed dark fantasy action RPG ELDEN RING Tarnished Edition is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 this year including the base game, Shadow of the Erdtree expansion new armour and a new Torrent appearance customisation feature. Rise (again) TarnishedHades IISubscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kBattle beyond the Underworld using dark sorcery to take on the Titan of Time in this bewitching sequel to the award-winning rogue-like dungeon crawler.Street Fighter 6 - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kStreet Fighter 6 is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5! Enjoy an evolved experience that anyone can easily dive into, anywhere, with anyone!Exclusive Modes for Nintendo Switch 2- Local Wireless Match supports "One on One" with legendary fighters and "Avatar Match" with avatars leveled up in World Tour.- Enjoy brand new party modes using the Joy-Con 2, such as "Gyro Battle" and "Calorie Contest."- The Joy-Con supports all three control types: Classic, Modern, and Dynamic. It also supports Tabletop Mode, so you can enjoy battles with friends and family on the go.- Three types of amiibo figures and 22 types of amiibo cards that are compatible with the game are also available.Start your battle journey with a bang with the "Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Fighters Edition" which includes the additional characters and stages from Years 1 & 2!Standard Edition is also coming to Nintendo Switch 2! Punch up!Daemon x Machina: Titanic Scion - 5th September 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kBecome the ultimate mech warrior and liberate your future in DAEMON X MACHINA: Titanic Scion, coming to Nintendo Switch 2 September 5th. Mech my daySplit Fiction - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kThe critically acclaimed Split Fiction is coming to Nintendo Switch 2! Jump into the mind-blowing moments of this boundary-pushing co-op adventure from the studio behind It Takes Two.Play together with couch co-op or remotely with Friend's Pass*, now featuring cross-platform play. As long as one of you owns the game, both of you can play.Master a variety of abilities and overcome diverse challenges while jumping between sci-fi and fantasy worlds.EA Sports FC + Madden NFLSubscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kEA promised that we will see both EA Sports FC and the Madden NFL series on Switch 2.Hogwarts Legacy - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kAvalanche Games announced that Hogwarts Legacy will be arriving as a Switch 2 launch title. This new edition packs in mouse controls, improved visuals and seamless world transitions.Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 - July 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kThe much-anticipated Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 remasters are coming to Switch 2 at some point this July.Hitman: World of Assassination - Signature Edition - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kIO Interactive, the independent video game developer and publisher behind, among others, the internationally acclaimed HITMAN franchise, announced that HITMAN World of Assassination will be available for the Nintendo Switch 2 in June 2025. HITMAN World of Assassination - Signature Edition includes HITMAN World of Assassination as well as premium content and extra locations and missions, for +100 hours of content to play through.Project 007Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kIt's a very similar teaser to the reveal one we saw four years ago, but IO Interactive revealed that the James Bond-starring title 'Project 007' is still very real, and it will be coming to Switch 2 at some point. Agent 47 and 007 are coming to Switch 2Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kBRAVELY DEFAULT, the first title in the BRAVELY series, comes to Nintendo Switch 2, remastered in high definition on June 5th, 2025.Discover the origins of the classic Brave and Default battle system alongside new and enhanced features , including all new mini-games!Yakuza 0: Director's Cut - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kYakuza 0 Director's Cut, the definitive edition of the critically acclaimed origin story is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5.- Never-before-scene cutscenes- Red Light Raid online 4-player online mode with up to 60 unlockable characters- French, Italian, German, Spanish Text- English Voiceover Launches alongside the consoleHyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment - Winter 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kExperience the untold story of the Imprisoning War when Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment releases exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 this winter! Takes place before Tears of the KingdomNintendo Switch Online GameCube LibrarySubscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kNintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will be getting a new service exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2 users: Nintendo GameCube - Nintendo Classics.The following titles will be available when the service launches on June 5, 2025: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker SOULCALIBUR II F-Zero GXAdditional titles will be added to the service later.Enjoy clearer image quality, with higher screen resolution than the original GameCube releases. Up to 4 players can play together in supported titles, either locally or online with friends. Including Zelda: Wind Waker!Deltarune Chapter 3+4 - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kContinue Kris, Susie and Ralseis adventures in the all-new Chapters 3 and 4 of DELTARUNE, coming to Nintendo Switch 2 June 5th.Borderlands 4Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kGearbox announced that "the most ambitious Borderlands game we've ever made", Borderlands 4, will be launching on Switch 2. This one is still in development, but the studio promised that more information will be coming our way in future months.Civilization VII: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition - 5th June 2025Image: Epic GamesFiraxis announced that a special edition of Civilization VII will be launching on Switch 2. This new version includes mouse controls and a purchasable upgrade will be available for all those who own the original Switch 1 game.WWE 2K + NBA 2KSubscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801k2K Games announced that both the WWE 2K and NBA 2K series will be cropping up on Switch 2 in the future.Survival Kids - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kTeam up with up to three other players to collect, cook, craft and survive together to escape the islands! Survival Kids arrives on Nintendo Switch 2 June 5th!Enter the Gungeon 2Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kEnter the Gungeon 2 is a reloaded, high-caliber sequel to the iconic bullet hell dungeon crawler, reinforced with a new 3D art style, new weapons and enemies, and expanded gameplay.Battle through areas familiar and unknown as the ruined Gungeon reveals its secrets to those brave enough to enter. Discover, unlock, and master fantastic weaponry within its procedurally-generated halls and destroy the legions of Gundead pouring forth from within. Charge into dynamic battles against devilishly cute enemies, previously confined to the 2D plane, and delight as they are knocked around, tossed into the air, and thrown deep into pits.Choose from an expanding roster of Gungeoneers full of both familiar and new faces as you rescue and extract marooned heroes from the depths of the Gungeon. Become mighty through unexpected combinations of powerful passive items, explosive active items, blessings, curses, and your own mastery over an impressive armory of weapons.And seek to understand why you find yourself under assault in the Gungeon once again...Starseeker: Astroneer Expeditions - 2026Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kExplore star systems and worlds unknown in this co-op adventure set in the Astroneer universe. STARSEEKER: Astroneer Expeditions is coming soon to Nintendo Switch 2.Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kCD Projekt Red revealed that it's bringing Cyberpunk 2077 to Switch 2. This ultimate edition version of the 2020 action RPG includes all of the game's content to date. Coming to a Nintendo system for the first timeFinal Fantasy VII Remake IntergradeSubscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kSquare Enix is bringing the first entry in the Final Fantasy remake series to Switch 2 under the new title of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade. There's no release date at the moment, though we were told to look out for more updates in the future. On Cloud nineKunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kExperience Capcom's unique action and strategy game - acclaimed by fans and critics as one of 2024's hidden gems - wherever you go, now with added features:- New extra content: Otherworldly Venture- New mouse controlsAlready own the game? Existing owners can play the new extra content, Otherworldly Venture via a free update that will launch alongside the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 version. Stay tuned for more info in the future.Hollow Knight: Silksong - 2025Image: Take-Two InteractiveTeam Cherry didn't provide much information, but it did give Hollow Knight: Silksong a 2025 release window and confirm that it's coming to Switch 2. Still no specifics, mind youStory of Seasons: Grand Bazaar - 27th August 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kZephyr Towns bazaar was once one of the grandest in the world, drawing customers and peddlers from all four corners of the globe. These days, though, the bazaar has more tumbleweeds than customers. Its up to you to turn its fortunes around! Raise animals, harvest crops, craft rare delicacies, and then sell your wares at your very own stall in the bazaar. As the bazaar business grows, new goods and services will arrive, which you can use to improve your farm. Help return prosperity to the bazaar, and Zephyr Town will thrive once again!Goodnight Universe - 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kGoodnight Universe is the next game from the critically acclaimed independent game studio behind Before Your Eyes. Goodnight Universe is a game in which you are a 6-month-old baby, developing mysterious psychic powers.Two Point Museum - 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kCoordinate Experts on expeditions to uncover exciting artefacts from far-flung locations. Strategically decorate and plan your exhibits to engage and immerse guests. Ensure your staff are happy and trained, achieve objectives to unlock new expedition locations, secure donations, and try your best to keep children away from the dinosaur bones- Curate and design your very own museum!- Explore on expeditions to discover new exhibits- Enhanced management - provide guest tours, optimise prices and organise staff zones- Excite guests by providing top-notch entertainment and useful exhibit information- Manage mayhem - care for carnivorous plants and deter thieves whilst maintaining your museum- Creative freedom - build internal walls, customise item colours, splash paint and lay carpet as you lovingly arrange each prehistoric fernAre you ready to dust off your management tools before the grand opening?Wild Hearts S - 25th July 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kMaster ancient tech to hunt down giant beasts inside a fantasy world inspired by feudal Japan! Hunt in a pack of up to four players in seamless co-op or play as a lone wolf as you fight fearsome beasts infused with the ferocious power of nature itself.Craft your hunting grounds and weapons, gear up to hunt, then take down the massive monsters in this chaotic world gone wild.Witchbrook - Holiday 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kDiscover the magic around you and spark life into a charming seaside community when you become Mossports new resident witch. Master spells at Witchbrook College, craft goods to grow your witch business, participate in seasonal events, and customize your charming cottage and garden to suit your style. Make friends, find love, and discover a world filled with wonder on the road to graduation and beyond!Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kPacked with all the content from Puyo PuyoTetris2, this classic duo is back with 12 different ways to play Puyo Puyo and Tetris. What's more, this latest installment introduces Puyo Tetris Doubles: a two-player co-op mode where two friends can work together on the same board to organize, stack and chain Puyo pairs and Tetriminos as they fall.Spectators watching the game locally can now use their Joy-Con 2 controllers to point on the players' board to provide support and join in on the fun!Both Puyo Puyo and Tetris can be played both offline and online too, with competitive and co-op modes for up to 4 players available. Hop online to play with others from around the world!Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma - 5th June 2025The classic action-RPG and life-simulation gameplay beloved by Rune Factory fans the world over is boldly reimagined in Guardians of Azuma, an all-new adventure set in the eastern lands of Azuma. A once-thriving land, this never-before-seen region was struck by a terrible calamity. The gods of nature vanished, causing the land to wither and the people to suffer. For the very first time, play as an Earth Dancer and call upon unique powers to battle blighted monsters and restore the land, people, villages, and even gods to their natural glory. "If I'm forced to say..."Marvel: Cosmic Invasion - Holiday 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kAfter Annihilus has launched an unprecedented attack across the galaxy, all life hangs in the balance. Nova, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Phyla-Vell, Captain America, and many more heroes, both earth-born and cosmic, will join forces in a star-spanning brawling adventure against the deadly Annihilation Wave.From New York City to the depths of the Negative Zone, the future of the universe will be fought for across the stars in MARVEL Cosmic Invasion! I could play this all dayStar Wars Outlaws - 2025Experience the first-ever open world Star Wars game, set between the events ofThe Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Explore distinct planets across the galaxy, both iconic and new. Risk it all as Kay Vess, an emerging scoundrel seeking freedom and the means to start a new life, along with her companion Nix. Fight, steal, and outwit your way through the galaxys crime syndicates as you join the galaxys most wanted. The force is reportedly strong with this oneNobunaga's Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kConquer Warring States Japan under one banner.NOBUNAGA'S AMBITION: Awakening Complete Edition is coming June 5, 2025 to Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation5!This edition includes the base game and additional content,and includes additional content such as new scenarios and other elements.Fast Fusion - 5th June 2025Hypersonic SpeedThe fastest racing game you may have ever experienced! Non stop adrenaline pumping action at 60 fps in up to 4K HDR.Antigravity JumpsFAST Fusion vehicles are equipped with antigravity hyper jump technology. Cut corners and get ahead of your oppenents by jumping and boosting over them.Vehicle FusionCreate hundreds of new Racing machines by fusing your favorite vehicles.Hyper tracksZoom through Redwood Forest, Alpine peaks, futuristic cities and many more breathtaking landscapes.Motion Controls, HD RumblePlay with smooth motion controls, enjoy immersive HD Rumble and customize the buttons.Shadow Labyrinth - 18th July 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kPhase shift between Swordsman No. 8, Mini PUCK, and GAIA to discover secrets and consume your foes in this genre-twisting take on PAC-MAN. On this mysterious world, its eat or be eaten, to survive you must consume darkness. Including a "Secret Edition"RAIDOU Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army - 19th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kThe beloved supernatural action RPG from ATLUS returns! Experience the story of Raidou Kuzunoha XIV, apprentice detective and Devil Summoner. Undertake the case of the century and uncover the secrets of the Soulless Army with the aid of your demons.With revamped visuals, quality of life updates, new voiceover, and an overhauled battle system, an exciting and unexpected journey awaits both veterans and newcomers alike. I ain't afraid of no ghostNo Sleep For Kaname Date - From AI: The Somnium Files - 25th July 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kUncover the truth hidden in reality and in dreams! Join Special Agent Kaname Date on the case to discover the whereabouts of internet idol Iris, who has been trapped in a mysterious escape game.Reanimal - 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kA brother & sister go through hell to rescue their friends in this terrifying horror adventure. Either solo or in local and online co-op, use your wits to survive and escape this twisted island.Fortnite - 5th June 2025Image: Team CherryShocking absolutely nobody, Epic Games revealed that Fortnite will be arriving on Switch 2 as a launch title.Arcade Archives 2 Ridge Racer - 5th June 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801k"RIDGE RACER" is a racing game released by NAMCO (Bandai Namco Entertainment) in 1993. Experience the essence of virtual reality with the 3D CG system, "System 22." This title offers four game modes, including three difficulty levelsBeginner, Intermediate, and Advancedas well as Time Trial (T.T.), where you compete one-on-one against a rival car to achieve the best time. Additionally, a DX version featuring support for an H-shifter and clutch is also included.Professor Layton and the New World of Steam - 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kLayton and Luke's next adventure, Professor Layton and the New World of Steam will be arriving on Switch 2 at some point this year. As puzzling as everTamagotchi Plaza - 27th June 2025The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Tamagotchi Plaza adds three exclusive shops that can be played with mouse controls!Players can upgrade from the Nintendo Switch version of Tamagotchi Plaza with the "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack"!Nintendo Switch 2 console and Joy-Con 2 will be required to play this upgrade pack.Human Fall Flat 2Team up and let your creativity run wild in Human Fall Flat 2, the outrageous new sequel to the much-loved capers of everyones favourite physics-based human friends.Human Fall Flat 2 is the bigger, better and clumsier sequel to the puzzle platformer global sensation featuring brand new levels, customisable characters, and even wilder physics-based fun.Each intricate level comes packed with new toys and devices to fiddle with as you'll solve a range of fiendish puzzles on your own or in teams of up to eight friends.A new physics-engine, new gameplay interactions and new mechanics will make every session uniquely silly and more dynamic than ever before. Along with refined controls, visuals and music, Human Fall Flat 2 is a slapstick experience unlike any other!The Duskbloods - 2026Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kThe moontears will flow for one and one alone when The Duskbloods, a brand-new multiplayer game by FromSoftware, is coming exclusively to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026! How do you make Soulslikes more terrifying? Add PvPvE, of courseKirby Air Riders - 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kKirby Air Riders is a brand-new title directed by Masahiro Sakurai. The original Kirby Air Ride game was originally released on Nintendo GameCube over 20 years ago. Star of the showDonkey Kong Bananza - 17th July 2025Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kExplore a vast underground worldby smashing your way through it! Bash, throw, and climb through just about anything in DKs brand-new 3D platforming action-adventure game! Finally!The Thick Red LineHardware OptionsTo wrap things up, Nintendo revealed that you will be able to purchase Switch 2 in two different packages. You'll be able to pick up the console on its own for $449.99 / 469.99 / 395.99, or get it bundled with a digital copy of Mario Kart World for $499.99 / 509.99 / 429.99. Pre-orders open 8th/9th AprilOur Reaction To The Switch 2 Direct April 2025It wouldn't be a Nintendo Direct without a reaction video from our lovely video team, so here it is:Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube801kHey, we said it was a big one! There's lots to tuck into there, from much-discussed hardware specs to some tasty-looking upcoming games 2025 is looking set to be a big one!What did you make of the Nintendo Switch 2 April 2025 Direct? You can let us know by visiting our poll article, but also take to the comments and let us know which announcement has you the most excited. Welcome to the partyUp Next: 27th March (Switch 1)See AlsoShare:420 Jim came to Nintendo Life in 2022 and, despite his insistence that The Minish Cap is the best Zelda game and his unwavering love for the Star Wars prequels (yes, really), he has continued to write news and features on the site ever since. Hold on there, you need to login to post a comment...Related ArticlesNintendo Switch 2 Direct: Time, Where To Watch, What To ExpectIt's time for Switch 2Metroid Prime 4: Beyond's Official Switch Box Art Is Absolutely StunningAhhhh we want itNintendo Direct Confirmed For Today, 27th March 202530 minutes of news for OG Switch games

When OpenAI unveiled its o3 reasoning AI model in December, the company partnered with the creators of ARC-AGI, a benchmark designed to test highly capable AI, to showcase o3s capabilities. Months later, the results have been revised, and they now look slightly less impressive than they did initially.Last week, the Arc Prize Foundation, which maintains and administers ARC-AGI, updated its approximate computing costs for o3. The organization originally estimated that the best-performing configuration of o3 it tested, o3 high, cost around $3,000 to solve a single ARC-AGI problem. Now, the Arc Prize Foundation thinks that the cost is much higher possibly around $30,000 per task.The revision is notable because it illustrates just how expensive todays most sophisticated AI models may end up being for certain tasks, at least early on. OpenAI has yet to price o3 or release it, even. But the Arc Prize Foundation believes OpenAIs o1-pro model pricing is a reasonable proxy. For context, o1-pro is OpenAIs most expensive model to date.We believe o1-pro is a closer comparison of true o3 cost [] due to amount of test-time compute used, Mike Knoop, one of the co-founders of The Arc Prize Foundation, told TechCrunch. But this is still a proxy, and weve kept o3 labeled as preview on our leaderboard to reflect the uncertainty until official pricing is announced.A high price for o3 high wouldnt be out of the question, given the amount of computing resources the model reportedly uses. According to the Arc Prize Foundation, o3 high used 172x more computing than o3 low, the lowest-computing configuration of o3, to tackle ARC-AGI.Moreover, rumors have been flying for quite some time about pricey plans OpenAI is considering introducing for enterprise customers. In early March, The Information reported that the company may be planning to charge up to $20,000 per month for specialized AI agents, like a software developer agent. Some might argue that even OpenAIs priciest models will cost well under what a typical human contractor or staffer would command. But as AI researcher Toby Ord pointed out in a post on X, the models may not be as efficient. For example, o3 high needed 1,024 attempts at each task in ARC-AGI to achieve its best score.

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney, whose company makes Fortnite and tools for other developers, including Unreal Engine, called out Apple and Google as gangster-style businesses engaged in illegal practices while speaking at a Y Combinator event on Wednesday. The executive also emphasized how the big tech companies practices directly affected his own business by scaring away users from installing Epics Games Store software and preventing Epic from attracting developers to its offerings.Notably, Epic Games has played a big role in the fight against big tech monopolies over the past several years. The company sued both Apple and Google for monopolistic practices over their respective app stores. Epic won its case with Google but not with Apple. However, the court did require Apple to open up to more competition by forcing a change to its App Store rules. The court said app developers should now be able to link to other purchasing mechanisms besides Apples own. (Unfortunately for app developers, Epic is still battling with Apple in the courts over this change, as it alleges that Apple violated the court order by allowing developers to process their own payments, but only with a small, 3% reduction in commission, which doesnt make it worth their while.)On stage, Sweeney again called out the big tech companies for their practices and their malicious compliance with the courts decisions. The sad truth is that Apple and Google are no longer good faith, law-abiding companies, Sweeney said. Theyre run, in many ways, as gangster-style businesses that will do anything they think they can get away with. If they think that the fine is going to be cheaper than the lost revenue from an illegal practice, they always continue the illegal practice and pay the fine. The gaming executive pointed to how the tech companies practices hurt his business. For instance, when users on Android try to install the Epic Games Store on their smartphone, Google warns them that the software is from an unknown source and might harm their device. This scare screen, as Sweeney calls it, is meant to warn users about the dangers of installing non-Play Store apps. But he says the screen results in 50-60% of users abandoning their attempt to install the software. A similar drop-off rate is found on iOS. In Europe, the Epic Games Store is allowed thanks to new regulations, but Apple displays a warning to users who try to install it. Again, this leads to drop-off rates of 50-60%, Sweeney said.He calls the use of these screens textbook self-preferencing, noting that the companies are getting away with it. Crime pays for big tech companies, he said. Obviously, we shouldnt expect that to change until enforcement becomes much, much more vigorous, he told the audience. In addition, the Fortnite exec said that because of the friction and the associated fees with third-party app stores on iOS, no major game developers has been willing to distribute games through the Epic Game Store. Instead of its usual 30% fee, Apple reduces the fee but collects a core technology fee of 50 cents per install per year for any app with more than 1 million downloads.Unless your app is enormously high grossing per user, any free-to-play game is largely dissuaded from that, Sweeney explained. Its too expensive for them. Apple would bankrupt them if they did that. He did note that the Epic Games Store on iOS has managed to attract some back-catalog games. Meanwhile, the Android version will open up to developer submissions later this year, which Sweeney hopes will boost the catalog further.

Lighting & Rendering using KeyShot & Photoshop with Neville PageCharacter design is only part of the equation; presentation is what sells an idea. In this second volume on Virtual Makeup Design, Film and TV creature and concept designer Neville Page focuses on how to present character designs in a way that ensures clarity, realism, and approval from decision-makers.InVolume 1, Neville presented how to create designs that can be turned into practical makeup, working from head scan data to demonstrate how to work on top of it in ZBrush, the same as if you were working with a physical life cast. In this second volume, Neville takes the two character designs created in Vol. 1 and, using digital tools, he demonstrates how to apply color, texture, and materials that accurately represent not only the final look of a character but also the real-world materials that would be used in practical makeup effects, such as foam latex, silicone, and paint.By showcasing multiple character designs, Neville illustrates his key professional techniques for making digital concepts feel tangible and production-ready, empowering artists to present their work professionally and precisely. The methods taught follow the same workflow that Neville uses when designing for sci-fi movies and TV series.WATCH NOW

Designing Characters in ZBrush with Neville PageFilm and TV creature and concept designer Neville Page shares his complete workflow for designing characters for practical makeup FX. In this comprehensive 3.5-hour workshop, Neville discusses and demonstrates a process that he has termed Virtual Makeup Design, showcasing exactly how he designs makeup for films includingStar Trek, as well as the TV seriesStar Trek: Discovery,Picard, andStrange New Worlds.In this insightful workshop that teaches how to create virtual designs that will be turned into practical makeup, Neville begins with the skin: a head scan of himself. Using this head scan data, he demonstrates how to work on top of it in ZBrush, just as he would if he were working with a physical life cast; only, rather than working with real clay, hes using digital clay to build up the design. Artists can follow along as he designs and builds a character from the ground up, ensuring anatomical believability, practical feasibility, and a strong design foundation while also seeing how he tackles mistakes and happy accidents along the way.The goal with Virtual Makeup Design is to be able to present to clients i.e. a film/TV director what a character will look like, so as well as exploring the design itself, Neville also considers the materials a makeup artist may use, such as latex or silicone. This workshop discusses all of these considerations as he progresses through the design process. InVolume 2, Neville will focus on the presentation of the final design, including a focus on color, materials, lighting, and rendering. The goal will be for a director to see the final presentation and fully understand how the character will look on set.This workshop is invaluable for any artist looking to create characters that not only look compelling in concept but can also be realized in a real-world makeup application. Artists looking to develop their digital sculpting skills, in general, will also benefit from Nevilles professional workflow and industry experience using ZBrush.WATCH NOW