Working closely with CISOs, chief financial officers can become key players in protecting their organizations' critical assets and ensuring long-term financial stability.

We have received numerous Christmas cards from architects, designers, architecture agencies, photographers, and organizations, all sending their best wishes for the new year. This year;s Christmas cards were filled with hope and joy despite the challenges of the previous ...

Bob Dylan may be a native of Minnesota, but he was born to be a part of New York Citys Greenwich Village scene in the early 1960s. Thats why, for the biopic A Complete Unknown (in theaters December 25), director James Mangold honed in on the music icon as he became a fixture in a neighborhood blossoming with artistic and bohemian energy. You had a collision of so many cultures meeting on these blocks, he tells AD. There was the folk scene, and the Beat scene with Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac, and the intellectual scene. There were street merchants selling pickles and knishes. It was a beautiful kaleidoscope of New York.To recreate the downtown vibe, Mangold and his longtime production designer Francois Audouy traveled across the Hudson River and shot almost exclusively throughout New Jersey. The reason wasnt just an economical one. To quote the legendplayed by a Golden Globenominated Timothe Chalametthe times they are a-changin. Just try and find a single city block that has the same bones as it did 60 years ago, Mangold says. Its also a logistical nightmare. Theres just no way to have that scope we wanted. Solution: Jersey Avenue in downtown Jersey City was transformed into the bustling MacDougal Street, with storefronts dressed as famous spots like The Kettle of Fish, Don and Elsies Music Box, Cafe Reggio, Minetta Tavern, and Cafe Wha? (The latter remains a live music venue in its original location.)Production transformed Jersey Avenue in downtown Jersey City into MacDougal Street circa the early 1960s.Photo: Franois AudouyThe real Cafe Wha? nightclub on MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village in 1966.Photo: Jack Manning/New York Times Co./Getty ImagesThe team also retrofitted the interiors of local Jersey spots into Dylans early performing haunts. The venues were all done on location, Audouy explains, adding that the three-story Elks Lodge 74 in Hoboken, New Jersey, that had not yet been ruined by time served multiple purposes. Its bar space in the basement became The Gaslight Cafe, where Dylan recorded the album Live at the Gaslight 1962. The main floor was repainted in warm, dark colors to resemble the coffeehouse Gerdes Folk Cityi.e., the site of Dylans first major professional gig. The top floor: a dressing room for folk singer Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro). But Gerdes exterior was located back in Jersey City. The movie is like a ransom note, Audouy says. We were cutting out little pieces and gluing them all together. But the locations were holistically connected.A rendering created when planning the set of Dylans Carnegie Hall debut.By Matthew J. SamaMost PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherArchitectureThe 10 Most Beautiful Luxury Cruise Ships in the WorldBy Rebecca Shinners Architecture + DesignAn Interior Designer Transforms Her Familys 19th-Century Vienna ApartmentBy Linne HalpernGreenwich Village is such a central character and integral to everything happening at the time, Audouy says.Photo: Macall PolayThe Ritz Theater in Jersey City, meanwhile, was a two-for-one. We had two sets of curtains and two sets of flooring and two sets of dressings in the wings, Audouy says. First the space became Town Hall, where, in one memorable scene set in 1963, Dylan sings the classic Blowin in the Wind. (The actual performance would be included in Dylans Live at Town Hall album.) Audouy also designed the interior space to look like the famed Carnegie Hall, relying on 3D scans of the famed venue on 57th Street in NYC to enhance some of the longer angles.But when it came to Columbia Records Studio A, the designer aimed for 100% accuracy. Its hallowed ground with a really cool history, Audouy notes. (Indeed, Dylan, Johnny Cash, Simon & Garfunkel, Patsy Cline, and Loretta Lynn all recorded on the premises.) He sifted through 400 vintage photographs of the studiosome of which were provided by Dylans manager, Jeff Rosen (a producer on the movie)to painstakingly make a forensic replica on a soundstage. Even the period-appropriate mic stands were perfectly arranged in the correct herringbone pattern against the wall. Its a wonderful contrast to MacDougal Street because this company was super-establishment, Mangold says. Dylan shows up at age 19 in his dirty jeans and long fingernails and beat-up guitar and finds himself playing in this space thats the bastion of mainstream American music.Most PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherArchitectureThe 10 Most Beautiful Luxury Cruise Ships in the WorldBy Rebecca Shinners Architecture + DesignAn Interior Designer Transforms Her Familys 19th-Century Vienna ApartmentBy Linne HalpernAudouy pored through 400 photos so he could recreate every square inch of Columbia Records Studio A on a soundstage. The real studio was sold to A&R in 1967 and demolished in 1983.Photo: Macall PolayThe real Bob Dylan at Columbia's Studio A in 1965.Photo: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty ImagesMost PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherArchitectureThe 10 Most Beautiful Luxury Cruise Ships in the WorldBy Rebecca Shinners Architecture + DesignAn Interior Designer Transforms Her Familys 19th-Century Vienna ApartmentBy Linne HalpernDylans rise culminates in a moment thats electrifying in more ways than one. At the 1965 Newport Folk Festival in Rhode Island, he plugs in his electric guitar onstage for the first time and sings his new anthem, Like a Rolling Stone, to a chorus of boos. The critical scene was filmed in a park next to a Little League baseball field in suburban Westfield, New Jersey. (Cape May subbed in for the rest of Newport.) And though the spot doesnt scream seminal spot in music history, Mangold notes, The only actual physical object that defined the space was the stage. We just had to find trees that looked like they could be in Rhode Island.Dylan famously went electric at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. To film the scene, Francois tried to find an area we could control, Mangold says. This turned out to be a park in Westfield, New Jersey.Photo: Macall PolayShop Open DoorLove celebrity homes? Shop some of our favorites from Diplo, Sofa Vergara, Sienna Miller and more.SHOP THE EDITThe man himself has already given his approval to A Complete Unknown, recently writing on X that Chalamet is a brilliant actor so Im sure hes going to be completely believable as me. Audouy hopes the film represents well Dylans journey on his own with no direction home. Im really proud of it, he says. Its really special and very heartfelt. And recreating that world was a huge effort.Most PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherArchitectureThe 10 Most Beautiful Luxury Cruise Ships in the WorldBy Rebecca Shinners Architecture + DesignAn Interior Designer Transforms Her Familys 19th-Century Vienna ApartmentBy Linne Halpern

While scandal doesnt hit architects quite as often as, say, politicians, the architecture profession is not immune from controversy, fraud, and even cold-blooded murder. The distinguished field has its share of bad actors who have made news with their professional or personal wrongdoings. In fact, one of the biggest scandals of the 20th century revolved around architect Stanford White, partner in the legendary firm McKim, Mead & White, which was responsible for some of New Yorks famous Beaux Arts buildings. Read on to discover 15 scandals that had the architecture communityand the worldtalking.15. DormzillaAn aerial view of the University of Californias Santa Barbara campusPhoto: Nik Wheeler/Getty ImagesDorm life isnt always luxe, but a proposed residence hall at the University of California at Santa Barbara drew fire for its lack of a essential amenity: natural light. In 2021, the university unveiled plans for a 12-story dorm, which would house 4,500 students in windowless single-occupancy rooms. The dorm was to be funded by the late billionaire Charles Munger, who designed the building with Van Tilburg, Banvard, & Soderbergh. The design sparked backlash from students and architectural critics alike, and prompted architect Dennis McFadden to resign from UCSBs design review committee. The design was abandoned in 2023.14. Denise Scott Browns Pritzker SnubDenise Scott Brown was awarded the Soane Medal in 2018.Photo: Gary Gershoff/Getty ImagesAs a leading figure of postmodern architecture, it was no surprise when Robert Venturi won the Pritzker Prize in 1991. What was shocking, though, was that the committee didnt give the honor to Denise Scott Brown, Venturis collaborator and wife, who had been a partner in their firm since 1969. While Venturi requested that Scott Brown be included, the Pritzker committee did not recognize her. In 2013, two graduate students at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design launched a petition asking the Pritzker Committee to correct the oversight and retroactively acknowledge Scott Brown, leading to a swell of press and support. The Pritzker Committee ultimately decided that it could not reopen the decision of a previous jury. Scott Brown was awarded the Soane Medal in 2018 and was honored alongside Venturi with the AIA Gold Medal 2016.13. Farnsworth House FeudView of architect Mies van der Rohes Farnsworth House in Plano, IllinoisPhoto: Carol M. Highsmith/Getty ImagesLudwig Mies van der Rohes Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois, is an icon of the International Style of architecture, but its construction also sparked a legal battle. Dr. Edith Farnsworth commissioned the house and intended to spend $8,000 to 10,000 to build it, but the home ended up costing $74,000 (over $850,000 today). The architect sued to attain his fee and Farnsworth countersued alleging malpractice. The pair had an intense relationship and there were rumors of an affair early in the project. Van der Rohe won in court and the architect and his client eventually settled for $2,500 four years later.12. Ocean ParkwayOcean Parkway, on Long Island, shows the area where the murdered bodies of four young women were found in 2023. Investigators connected at least three of those bodies to suspected killer (and architect) Rex A. Heuermann.Photo: John Paraskevas/Getty ImagesMost PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherAD-it-YourselfThese 17 Midcentury Modern Bathrooms Will Sell You on a Retro-Chic MakeoverBy Rachel DaviesArchitecture + DesignHow a Creative Couple Turned a 200-Year-Old Former Schoolhouse Into a Cozy HomeBy Lori KeongFor decades, the identity of the person who was responsible for the murders of a number of women found on the beach near Giglo in Long Island remained a mystery to police and the true crime devotees who devoured documentaries and podcasts about the unsolved murders. In 2023, architect Rex Heuermann was arrested for the alleged murders of three women and was later charged with three additional murders, one of which dates back to 1993. A resident of Massapequa Park, Long Island, the architect was the owner of Manhattan-based RH Consultants & Associates, which worked on projects throughout New York City. Heuermann has pleaded not guilty and is currently being held without bail.11. The Poulson AffairArchitectural designer John Poulson arriving at court in 1973Photo: Central Press/Hulton Archive/Getty ImagesBritish architect John Poulson caused an uproar in 1972 when it was revealed that he had been bribing public figures. He was arrested in 1973 on corruption charges, and his 52-day long trial cost 1.25 million British pounds. He was sentenced to five years in prison and later pled guilty to nine additional charges of corruption and conspiracy, which added two more years to his sentence. Two others were jailed and Home Secretary Reginald Maudling was forced to resign. Over 300 people were implicated in the affair.10. Eiffel Panama ScandalGustave Eiffel, French engineer and architectPhoto: Getty ImagesMost PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherAD-it-YourselfThese 17 Midcentury Modern Bathrooms Will Sell You on a Retro-Chic MakeoverBy Rachel DaviesArchitecture + DesignHow a Creative Couple Turned a 200-Year-Old Former Schoolhouse Into a Cozy HomeBy Lori KeongAround the time Gustave Eiffel was building his iconic tower in Paris, he was also embroiled in a scandal across the Atlantic. Eiffel had been hired in 1887 to design the locks for the Panama Canal, but by 1889 the Panama Canal Company had gone bankrupt after mismanagement by its leader, Ferdinand de Lesseps. Eiffel and members of the companys management were charged with raising money under false pretenses and misuse of funds. He was found guilty of the latter charge in 1893 and sentenced to two years in prison, but he was acquitted on appeal.9. Louis Kahns FamiliesThe Salk Institute, designed by Louis Kahn, in La Jolla, CaliforniaPhoto: Education Images/Citizens of the Planet/UIG via Getty ImagesArchitect Louis Kahn produced many iconic projects during his lifetime including the Yale University Art Gallery, the Salk Institute, and the Kimbell Art Museum. In 2003, his son Nathaniel Kahn released the documentary My Architect, which explored the personal life of Kahn, including the fact that he had three families. Kahn married his wife, Ester, in 1930, and they had a daughter, Sue Ann. He also had a daughter, Alexandra, with architect Anne Tyng, and a son, Nathanie, with landscape designer Harriet Pattison. The families knew about one another and lived a few miles apart, although the children did not meet until Kahns funeral.8. Murder at TaliesinFrank Lloyd Wrights rebuilt Taliesin residence in Spring Green, WisconsinPhoto: Danita Delimont / Alamy Stock PhotoMost PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherAD-it-YourselfThese 17 Midcentury Modern Bathrooms Will Sell You on a Retro-Chic MakeoverBy Rachel DaviesArchitecture + DesignHow a Creative Couple Turned a 200-Year-Old Former Schoolhouse Into a Cozy HomeBy Lori KeongFrank Lloyd Wrights personal life was almost as famous as his buildings. In 1909, Wright left his wife and children and ran off with Martha Mamah Cheney, a clients wife. In 1911, they settled at Taliesin, a retreat he was building in Spring Green, Wisconsin. Several years later, Wright took a trip to Chicago, leaving Cheney and her visiting children behind. While he was gone, a houseman set fire to the building and then murdered them with an axe as they tried to flee. Wright later rebuilt Taliesin and lived there with his third wife.7. John Hancock TowerThe John Hancock Tower in BostonPhoto: Paul Marotta/Getty ImagesBostons John Hancock Tower was plagued by controversy from the very beginning. Designed by Henry Cobb of the firm Pei Cobb Freed, the 60-story building faced initial opposition over concerns that it would cast a shadow on the historic Trinity Church. (The church later sued John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance for damage caused during construction of the tower.) But the real trouble started once the building was under construction. Glass window panes, each weighing 500 pounds, began to fall during high winds. The missing windows were temporarily replaced with plywood, earning the building the nickname Plywood Palace. All 10,344 windows were replaced. A tuned mass damper had to be installed when it was discovered that the building was swaying too muchcausing motion sickness in the upper floors occupants. But perhaps the most shocking issue of all was Swiss engineer Bruno Thurlimanns conclusion that, under certain rare wind conditions, the building could fall over. Five million dollars worth of steel braces were installed to ensure its structural integrity.6. Richard MeierArchitect Richard MeierPhoto: Gonzalo Marroquin/Patrick McMullan via Getty ImagesMost PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherAD-it-YourselfThese 17 Midcentury Modern Bathrooms Will Sell You on a Retro-Chic MakeoverBy Rachel DaviesArchitecture + DesignHow a Creative Couple Turned a 200-Year-Old Former Schoolhouse Into a Cozy HomeBy Lori KeongIn the wake of the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements, the architecture industry was forced to reckon with its own history of gender inequality and sexual harassment in the workplace. In March of 2018, Richard Meier was accused of sexual harassment by five women, including four that worked for his firm. Meier took a leave of absence and later stepped down from his eponymous firm.5. Japanese Building ScandalTokyos skylinePhoto: Getty ImagesIn 2006, a scandal erupted in Japan when it was discovered that the earthquake-resistance data had been fabricated during the construction of dozens of hotels and residential buildings. Architect Hidetsugu Aneha was found by the court to have falsified data since 1996. He was sentenced to six years in prison and fined 1.8 million yen. Several buildings have been torn down as a result of the scandal, and the countrys Architect Certification Law was revised.4. Operation Vandelay IndustriesThe buildings of Troy, New YorkPhoto: Getty ImagesMost PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherAD-it-YourselfThese 17 Midcentury Modern Bathrooms Will Sell You on a Retro-Chic MakeoverBy Rachel DaviesArchitecture + DesignHow a Creative Couple Turned a 200-Year-Old Former Schoolhouse Into a Cozy HomeBy Lori KeongPaul J. Newman had a successful and award-winning career in architecture in Troy, New York. But there was one problem: He wasnt a licensed architect. In 2017, then State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman indicted Newman on 58 counts, following a two-year investigation nicknamed Operation Vandelay Industries, a nod to George Costanzas fake latex company on Seinfeld. Newman pled guilty to six counts and was sentenced to two and a half to seven years in prison.3. Henri Patrick DevillersThe Phnom Penh home of French architect Patrick DevillersPhoto: TANG CHHIN SOTHY/AFP/GettyImagesFrench architect Henri Patrick Devillers became involved with an international scandal in 2012, when he was detained in Cambodia at the request of China for his ties to Chinese politician Bo Xilai and his wife, Gu Kailai. Devillers and British businessman Neil Heywood both served as fixers for Bo, and Heywood was found dead in a hotel room in China in 2011. Gu was charged with the murder and Devillers was a cooperating witness at the trial. Gu was found guilty and is serving a life sentence. The affair returned to the spotlight in 2016, when a real-estate transaction involving Gu, Heywood, and Devillers came to light during the leak of the Panama Papers.2. The CloudA rendering of The Cloud, at right, whose towers would resemble the collapsing buildings of New Yorks World Trade CenterPhoto: Getty ImagesMost PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherAD-it-YourselfThese 17 Midcentury Modern Bathrooms Will Sell You on a Retro-Chic MakeoverBy Rachel DaviesArchitecture + DesignHow a Creative Couple Turned a 200-Year-Old Former Schoolhouse Into a Cozy HomeBy Lori KeongThere are plenty of designs that cause debate, but every so often theres a design that causes an uproar. Back in 2011, Dutch architecture firm MVRDV unveiled the design for a pair of residential buildings called The Cloud in South Korea. The square towers were connected by a pixelated cloud, making the entire structure resemble the Twin Towers during the attacks of September 11. The firm apologized and the the complex still has not been built.1. The Crime of the CenturyHarry K. Thaw, taken when he was the center of the most sensational murder trial in New Yorks history (left), and Stanford White, the famous architectPhoto: Getty ImagesSix years into the 1900s there was already a murder so sensational it was dubbed the crime of the century. On June 25, 1906, architect Stanford White was murdered at the rooftop theater of Madison Square Garden by Harry K. Thaw, the husband of Evelyn Nesbit, model, actress, and chorus girl. White had sexually assaulted Nesbit when she was 15 or 16, and Thaw, a violent and mentally unstable man, had a long-standing grudge against him. The subsequent trial captivated the nation, and Thaw was eventually found not guilty on the grounds of insanity.Most PopularHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessBy Lindsey MatherAD-it-YourselfThese 17 Midcentury Modern Bathrooms Will Sell You on a Retro-Chic MakeoverBy Rachel DaviesArchitecture + DesignHow a Creative Couple Turned a 200-Year-Old Former Schoolhouse Into a Cozy HomeBy Lori Keong

Homes + Decor35 Soulful Rustic Kitchen Ideas Youll Want to CopyIn need of a design brief for your kitchen remodel? Embrace this inviting, time-worn style with our guide to rustic kitchen decorBy Kate JerdeCulture + LifestyleThe 47 Most Beautiful Beaches in the WorldFrom stateside dunes on Lake Michigan to exotic lava sand enclaves on the Galpagos archipelago, these awe-inspiring beaches should be on your bucket listBy Katherine McLaughlinArchitecture + DesignAD100 Interior DesignersThese talented studios are working at the forefront of interior design and decoration todayBy The Editors of ADcelebritiesDecorate for Christmas with Rosie Huntington-Whiteley & MoreAs Christmas approaches, AD joins Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Derek Blasberg, and more as they decorate and cook in preparation for the holiday season. Level up your hosting game as you learn how to set the perfect holiday table with interior designer Noz Nozawa and make a delicious meringue tumble with Chef Jeremy Lee.architectureInside a Legendary Modernist Home Designed to Flow Like a WaterfallToday, AD travels to Vancouver, Canada, to tour Eppich House II. Designed in the 1980s by renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson for businessman Hugo Eppich, this home uses rigid materials to create soft, organic forms. Curved steel layers cascade down the landscape like a waterfall, while an abundance of windows flood the home with natural light. Everything in the house, from the landscape to the furniture, was designed by Ericksons collaborators and has been beautifully preserved. This home is a feat in modernist architecture and is considered one of Ericksons best designs.celebritiesTouring the Doctor Odyssey Set With Joshua JacksonToday AD joins Joshua Jackson and production designer, Jamie Walker McCall, to tour the set of Ryan Murphys Doctor Odyssey. Bringing The Odyssey cruise ship to life was no mean featfrom a fully functioning pool on the leisure deck to the most stylish infirmary a doctor could ask for, this set creates a luxurious backdrop for all the shows medical drama.interiorsInterior Designer Answers Your Top Design QuestionsToday, AD100 designer David Netto joins Architectural Digest to answer your burning interior design questions. What color combinations should you avoid? Should you hang your TV over the fireplace? Netto shares his expertise to help solve any interior design problems you may face.Special thanks to EllsworthKellyFoundation and Gemini G.E.L. LLCcelebritiesInside Kendall Jenners Home at ChristmasToday, AD is welcomed back by Kendall Jenner to tour her LA home while its decorated for Christmas. Over the years, the Kardashian-Jenner clan has become known for their flamboyant Christmas decorations but Kendalls approach to holiday decorating is much more traditional. With the help of florist to the stars, Jeff Leatham, green garlands, a classic tree, and vintage decorations lace the halls of her home creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Much of this nostalgia stems from decorations from Kendalls childhood handed down from her mom Krismost notably her collection of Christopher Radko tree ornaments. Growing up with [those ornaments] every year, they became so special to me, she says. And I cant wait to share that with my kids one day, but I love sharing this with my friends. I love entertaining, I love hosting, and so these decorations get used really well.2024 Helen Frankenthaler Foundation, Inc. / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New YorkTravelThe 29 Most Incredible Overwater Bungalows in the WorldFrom islands in Indonesia and Belize to a slew of luxury properties in the Maldives, these chic retreats offer gorgeous accommodations as dreamily close as you can get to the seaBy Kathryn RomeynHomes + Decor17 Midcentury-Modern Living Rooms That Prove Why the Style is TimelessThough the look was popularized in the 1940s and 50s, its still one of the most sought-after design aestheticsBy Lindsey MatherAD-it-YourselfThese 17 Midcentury Modern Bathrooms Will Sell You on a Retro-Chic MakeoverDive into this timeless design inspo to make a your powder room a mid-mod masterpieceBy Rachel DaviesArchitecture + DesignHow a Creative Couple Turned a 200-Year-Old Former Schoolhouse Into a Cozy HomeRestraint is key to the open layout of this unusual property in the BerkshiresBy Lori Keong

In context: Google does not want to sell off Chrome, which the U.S. government has proposed, so it has countered with its own suggestion about how to remedy its outsized and according to a recent ruling illegal domination of the online search market. Google is proposing to modify its agreements with Apple and other partners regarding default search engine settings on new devices. This comes in response to a recent U.S. ruling that found the tech giant unlawfully dominating the online search market.Google's proposal, submitted to U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta in Washington, suggests a more limited approach compared to the government's push for more drastic measures. It aims to address the court's concerns while urging caution against interventions that could potentially stifle innovation, especially in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence and its impact on online services, including search engines.While the company plans to appeal the ruling that it holds an illegal monopoly in online search and related advertising, it suggests that the upcoming "remedies" phase should focus primarily on its distribution agreements.These agreements, which the judge found to give Google a "major, largely unseen advantage over its rivals," have resulted in most U.S. devices coming pre-loaded with Google's search engine. To address this, Google proposes making the agreements non-exclusive, particularly for Android manufacturers, and unbundling the Play Store from Chrome and search for Android phone manufacturers. Additionally, the company suggests allowing browser developers to annually reconsider Google as the default search engine.Notably, Google's proposal does not include ending revenue-sharing agreements, which provide a portion of ad revenue to device and software companies that set Google as the default search engine. These agreements have been crucial for independent browser developers like Mozilla, with Apple reportedly receiving an estimated $20 billion from its agreement with Google in 2022 alone.The proposal has already faced criticism from competitors. Kamyl Bazbaz, spokesperson for search engine competitor DuckDuckGo, argued that Google's suggestions attempt to maintain the status quo and fall short of truly restoring competition in the affected markets. // Related StoriesIn contrast to Google's more limited approach, the U.S. Department of Justice and a coalition of states are seeking more extensive remedies. These include forcing Google to sell off Chrome and potentially its Android mobile operating system, stopping Google from paying to be the default search engine, ceasing investments in search rivals and query-based AI products, and licensing Google's search results and technology to rivals.Google maintains that the government's proposed remedies are extreme and don't properly reflect the specific conduct found to be illegal by the judge. The company argues that courts have historically discouraged such drastic measures and that remedies should be of the "same type or class" as the violations.Lee-Anne Mulholland, Google's vice president for regulatory affairs, emphasized that the company's proposal would allow competing browsers like Apple's Safari to have the freedom to partner with any search engine they deem best for their users. Google also proposes allowing device makers to preload multiple search engines and not requiring them to include Chrome and Google search if they want to include other Google apps.As the case progresses, Judge Mehta has scheduled a proceeding in April to decide on appropriate measures to address the lack of competition in the industries Google has dominated. This trial will see prosecutors calling witnesses from OpenAI, AI search startup Perplexity, and Microsoft. A final decision is expected by August 2025.

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Image: Nintendo LifeDespite its advancing years, Nintendo's hybrid handheld showed that it wasn't going quietly into that good night in 2024, at least where great games were concerned.Nintendo's first-party output was mainly helmed by partner studios in 2024. with plenty of HD remakes and remasters in the mix. However, Switch did play host to a solo extravaganza from Princess Toadstool, an unexpected new chapter in the Famicom Detective Club series, a shiny new Mario & Luigi entry, yet another Mario Party, and a brand-new top-down Zelda. Not bad for a system in its eighth year with a much-talked-about successor eyeing its throne.Subscribe to Nintendo Life on YouTube789kWatch on YouTube Throw in a trove of iconic indie and third-party gems and, even as studios making the games continue to struggle through uncertain times, anyone just playing the games had a pretty great year.To celebrate the games, large and small, that moved us this year, we've compiled this list of the Top 50 best Switch games of 2024. So sit back, relax, and prepare to scroll through a bunch of the best, ranked for your pleasure.On this page: Best Nintendo Switch Games Of 202450. The Plucky Squire (Switch)Publisher: Devolver Digital / Developer: All Possible FuturesRelease Date: 17th Sep 2024 (USA) / 17th Sep 2024 (UK/EU)Performance issues on Switch, at least at launch, bury an amazingly clever and charming adventure that we would wholeheartedly recommend otherwise. The Plucky Squire is certainly playable on the Nintendo Switch, but in no way can we recommend picking it up here if you have other means to play it.The fact that the Switch-branded trailers looked so great and that advance review copies weren't available on the platform despite them being sent out for other systems indicates that this version of The Plucky Squire needed much more time on the drawing board before release.49. Darkest Dungeon II (Switch eShop)Publisher: Red Hook Studios / Developer: Red Hook StudiosRelease Date: 15th Jul 2024 (USA) / 15th Jul 2024 (UK/EU)Darkest Dungeon II may not be the sequel that ardent fans of the original wanted it to be, but its unique approach to that hard-edged, brutal roguelike gameplay is compelling all the same.A memorable art style, tons of replayability, and lots of mechanical depth make this one an easy recommendation to any roguelike fans, even if it can be a little grindy at times.If youve been looking for yet another tough roguelike to add to your collection, DD2 is certainly worth your time and your money.48. Penny's Big Breakaway (Switch eShop)Publisher: Private Division / Developer: Evening StarRelease Date: 21st Feb 2024 (USA) / 21st Feb 2024 (UK/EU)Pennys Big Breakaway is a tremendous achievement by Evening Star, expertly combining tight controls, excellent level design, and a raft of creative ideas, all while throwing in a hefty dose of pure speed. Though the Switch version can feel a little rough around the edges at times, this is still an easy recommendation to make to anyone who considers themselves a fan of Sonic, 3D platformers, or both.Pennys inaugural adventure has got it where it counts, and if youre looking for a challenging, yet approachable new 3D platformer to add to your library, it doesnt get much better than this.47. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate (Switch eShop)Publisher: Super Evil Megacorp / Developer: Super Evil MegacorpRelease Date: 17th Jul 2024 (USA) / 17th Jul 2024 (UK/EU)With a gameplay loop that effortlessly integrates the heroes in a half-shell into the world of roguelikes, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate is a fun and approachable 'Hades-like' that's best played with pals.However, despite the power of the IP and a co-op addition, it doesn't pack enough of a punch to avoid unfavourable comparisons to Supergiant's classic and constantly feels like it's on the back foot because of it. There is fun to be had here, but those who have spent time in the Underworld will find it hard to shake the feeling that this central loop has been done much better elsewhere.46. BAKERU (Switch)Publisher: Spike Chunsoft / Developer: Good-FeelRelease Date: 3rd Sep 2024 (USA) / 3rd Sep 2024 (UK/EU)Bakeru is a sweet, snappy, and satisfying linear 3D platformer that feels like a wonderful callback to a genre that doesnt get a ton of representation these days.Its really easy (although the Western version ups the difficulty slightly) and has some performance problems, but the gameplay variety, snappy combat, oodles of collectibles, and gorgeous art style all come together to make for an adventure that you wont want to miss out on.45. Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure (Switch eShop)Publisher: Furniture & Mattress / Developer: Furniture & MattressRelease Date: 25th Jul 2024 (USA) / 25th Jul 2024 (UK/EU)Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure dares to be different, and it succeeds with aplomb. By interweaving a heartwarming and inclusive story with addictive gameplay, Furniture & Mattress teaches us that puzzle games can be more than just a vehicle for making the cogs in your brain turn.If youre looking for pure puzzling, then the game wont be for you, but a simple story and simple gameplay loop are both elevated to new heights because of the thought and care thats gone into them.44. Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes (Switch eShop)Publisher: 505 Games / Developer: Rabbit & Bear StudiosRelease Date: 23rd Apr 2024 (USA) / 23rd Apr 2024 (UK/EU)Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is the epitome of a flawed gemthe kind of game that does a lot of things right and were sure will command a dedicated legion of fans, but has legitimate problems that are tough to overlook.The expansive narrative, gorgeous spritework, and addictive combat all help make it an easy recommendation to any classic JRPG fan, but bear in mind that it can feel dated in its design philosophy and that the Switch version had a lot of performance problems, at least at launch.If you can get past those issues, this is an enjoyable and immersive RPG that mostly achieves what it set out to do.43. Luigi's Mansion 2 HD (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Next Level GamesRelease Date: 27th Jun 2024 (USA) / 27th Jun 2024 (UK/EU)Luigi's Mansion 2 HD is Luigi's Mansion 2 with a fancy HD lick of paint. Surprise! It looks great, and the new models, animations, and revamped visuals make for a game that's close to the glorious Luigi's Mansion 3 in how modern and swish it all is. It also controls much nicer thanks to the second stick on the Switch.It's just a shame we haven't got any added extras, then, or any new means to save mid-mission, added content, or bonuses. This is 100% the best way to play the game as of 2024, there's no doubt, but it would have been nice to get something a little extra, especially given the price point. Maybe we'll get a Deluxe edition someday.42. Metal Slug Tactics (Switch eShop)Publisher: Dotemu / Developer: LeikirRelease Date: 5th Nov 2024 (USA) / 5th Nov 2024 (UK/EU)There is a good game here, sometimes a great one. Excellent art and animation, smart gameplay twists, and a genuinely refreshing, run-and-gun pace really add some exciting new depth to the tactics genre and are huge positives.But it takes a while for Metal Slug Tactics to smooth out and actually become enjoyable, and restrictive gameplay design choices dont do it any favours, either. This is one for the tactics fans looking for a fresh take, but just know youll have to put in some work to see the best parts of it.41. Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble (Switch)Publisher: SEGA / Developer: SEGARelease Date: 25th Jun 2024 (USA) / 25th Jun 2024 (UK/EU)If all you're looking for in a new Super Monkey Ball game is a selection of new single-player levels to tackle, then you're in luck, because Banana Rumble boasts some of the best stages we've seen in recent memory. The additional 'Spin Dash' ability makes traversal a lot more fun, and the physics feel as close to 'classic' Monkey Ball as the franchise has got in quite some time.Unfortunately, if you're looking forward to the multiplayer modes, then temper your expectations. They're simply not very good for the most part and are significantly hampered by the drop in frame rate. As a package, Banana Rumble is a mixed bag, then - though one absolutely worth delving into if you're itching for more single-player shenanigans.40. Pepper Grinder (Switch eShop)Publisher: Devolver Digital / Developer: Ahr EchRelease Date: 28th Mar 2024 (USA) / 28th Mar 2024 (UK/EU)Pepper Grinder is a wonderfully inventive and fun platformer. Channelling the spirits of several retro dig-based games, it may have a runtime that feels a little too short, but this is ultimately a deeply enjoyable, challenging, and highly replayable game with lots of personality.If any of that sounds interesting, wed suggest you pick up Pepper Grinder at the next opportunity - and there's a even downloadable demo if you're on the fence.39. Tomb Raider I-III Remastered (Switch eShop)Publisher: Aspyr / Developer: AspyrRelease Date: 14th Feb 2024 (USA) / 14th Feb 2024 (UK/EU)Tomb Raider I-III Remastered is one of Aspyr's most accomplished projects, successfully giving three of gaming's most iconic titles a much-needed lick of paint while upgrading the controls to give newcomers a welcome leg-up.Some of the lighting is a bit off with the new visuals, and the need to manually save your game is a big no-no for us these days, but a series of patches have addressed various issues since launch and if you're curious as to how Lara Croft got her start in gaming, this is an impressively faithful rendering of some classics - easily the best way to experience the original trilogy.38. Tetris Forever (Switch eShop)Publisher: Digital Eclipse / Developer: Digital EclipseRelease Date: 12th Nov 2024 (USA) / 12th Nov 2024 (UK/EU)Tetris Forever might not be the final word on the complete history of Tetris it's missing too many of the best versions but it's certainly a great breakdown of the franchise's creation and evolution so far. Digital Eclipse has truly mastered the art of the interactive documentary, and this one is absolutely filled to the brim with interesting videos, interviews, and archival material - not to mention Tetrises.The playable games don't necessarily represent the most varied selection across the Tetris franchise, but it's a comprehensive bunch of titles, including a recreation of the original Electronika 60 version, a whole bunch of Famicom and Super Famicom variants and spin-offs (many getting their first official release outside Japan), and a couple of MS-DOS entries, including Welltris.On top of that, newcomer Tetris Time Warp is a fantastic addition to a back catalogue that seemingly won't stop growing. All in all, a fascinating and near-essential round-up of one of gaming's most important series.37. Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster (Switch eShop)Publisher: Nightdive Studios / Developer: LucasArtsRelease Date: 28th Feb 2024 (USA) / 28th Feb 2024 (UK/EU)Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster brings back this 1995 'Doom clone' in style another resounding success for Nightdive Studios (who also handled the excellent Quake and Quake II remasters, among others). It returns LucasArts' curious, nostalgia-laced FPS with loads of new bells and whistles, including enhanced gameplay, revamped visuals, and a wealth of accessibility options.This is easily the best way to experience Dark Forces and revisit an oft-forgotten era of Star Wars before the prequel trilogy - and before the sequel trilogy booted the Expanded Universe out the 'Legends' airlock.36. Another Code: Recollection (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: CingRelease Date: 19th Jan 2024 (USA) / 19th Jan 2024 (UK/EU)Another Code: Recollection's biggest addition to the original DS and Wii experiences, besides the slick new graphics and fully explorable 3D environs, is its all-new navigation and puzzle aids.With the obtuse nature of some puzzles now a triviality should you find yourself stumped, there are now no difficulty spikes or annoying moments to hold you back from a two-part tale that's worth diving into for fans of slow-burn point-and-click titles.The pacing could have done with some more work, but this collection of cult classics is as good a return to Ashley's world as fans could have hoped for.35. Emio - The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: MAGESRelease Date: 29th Aug 2024 (USA) / 29th Aug 2024 (UK/EU)Pre-launch, Emio - The Smiling Man was hyped up a little too much in terms of how dark in tone the whole thing is. This is still silly, kooky stuff, just like its Famicom Detective Club predecessors. The sometimes frustrating core mechanics also haven't seen any refinement this time around, which is a shame.And so it's left to some top-notch writing to save the day, which it just about does. Once this troubling and intriguing story has its hooks in you (remember there are three demos to try if you're unsure), it's hard to put down. And that, at the end of the day, is all Tantei Club fans will be looking for.34. Mario & Luigi: Brothership (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: NintendoRelease Date: 7th Nov 2024 (USA) / 7th Nov 2024 (UK/EU)Mario & Luigi: Brothership takes this long-running RPG series to new heights in a high-seas adventure that's packed full of top-notch combat, inventive variety, a positive and thoughtful story, and lots of signature comedy from the dynamic duo themselves.This is a big game, packed full of surprises and fun, and the all-new Battle Plug system, alongside lots of flashy specials, a fittingly emotive art style, and a world that's brimming with puzzles and challenges, make for a must-play in our book. We hope this series is back for good with this one.33. Monster Hunter Stories (Switch eShop)Publisher: Capcom / Developer: CapcomRelease Date: 14th Jun 2024 (USA) / 14th Jun 2024 (UK/EU)Monster Hunter Stories, like its sequel on Switch, has some issues on the hardware; in this case, the problems are more related to 3DS-era design hangovers and simplistic porting. Yet when you put these issues to the side, we still have a charming, enjoyable experience either for young gamers or young-at-heart RPG / Monster Hunter fans.You can take or leave all that classic MH depth, and it won't take long to master the battle mechanics, but this is a game with enough silliness and earnest storytelling to deserve its second chance.32. Beyond Good & Evil: 20th Anniversary Edition (Switch eShop)Publisher: Ubisoft / Developer: UbisoftRelease Date: 25th Jun 2024 (USA) / 25th Jun 2024 (UK/EU)Nintendo has been getting heat for the pricing of its recent Switch remasters, so to see Ubisoft's Beyond Good & Evil so lovingly restored for a reasonable price is a true joy.The 20th Anniversary Edition boasts some lovely visual and auditory upgrades, an excellent gallery feature, and a whole bunch of meaningful extras that make this journey back into Hillys well worth taking.Granted, the 30fps performance on Switch is a bit of a bummer compared to other platforms, and there's no denying that the experience has aged considerably in certain areas, but the gameplay is so varied, and the world so unique, that you'd be remiss not to at least give it a shot. Welcome back, 'Yade'.31. Pocket Card Jockey: Ride On! (Switch eShop)Publisher: Game Freak / Developer: Game FreakRelease Date: 21st Feb 2024 (USA) / 21st Feb 2024 (UK/EU)Pocket Card Jockey: Ride On! does not come to Switch with a swathe of bells and whistles or make a host of changes to Game Freak's weirdest mash-up. It's a simple port of the Apple Arcade version which, in itself, made very few changes to the 3DS original but with a game this great, that's no bad thing.Sure, not much has changed since 2016 (even less since 2023), but this charming hybrid card-racer is absolutely worth taking for a ride wherever you can. Giddyap.30. Stray (Switch)Publisher: Annapurna Interactive / Developer: BlueTwelve StudioRelease Date: 19th Nov 2024 (USA) / 19th Nov 2024 (UK/EU)Stray wont challenge you, frustrate you, or take up too much of your time. Perhaps thats why we enjoyed it so much. It plays like an open-world point-and-click paired with largely on-rails action sequences.Some minor gripes and expected disparities between the Switch port and versions elsewhere aside, as we sauntered around its post-apocalyptic environments on all fours, Stray did an impeccable job of making us want to talk to everyone and explore everything it had to offer and we had an appetite for more once it was all over. To us, thats the mark of a compelling adventure.29. Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown Deluxe Edition (Switch)Publisher: Bandai Namco / Developer: Project AcesRelease Date: 11th Jul 2024 (USA) / 11th Jul 2024 (UK/EU)Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is the absolute pinnacle of the series and despite coming to Switch over five years after other platforms, this 'impossible' Switch conversion does very little to degrade the experience. Long-time franchise players and military aviation enthusiasts will be overwhelmed by the fan service at every turn, from craters on the ground to airplanes, liveries, callsigns, and emblems shouting out to previous entries.We understand the genre is uniquely niche, but if this is your first foray into the franchise, this conversion is a perfect gateway into this rich, revered series. You get tons of content and an epic single-player campaign wrapped up in triple-A presentation that delivers the most comprehensive portable experience ever from Project Aces.28. Little Kitty, Big City (Switch eShop)Publisher: Double Dagger Studio / Developer: Double Dagger StudioRelease Date: 9th May 2024 (USA) / 9th May 2024 (UK/EU)Little Kitty, Big City is an adorable adventure that will almost certainly turn you into a cat lover, if you're not one already. It oozes charm and the realistic cat animations are simply incredible, although for as fun as it is to wander about the city, the game leans heavily on fetch quests and gathering up collectibles, which can lead to repetition.If you're someone who thrives on that kind of gameplay, however, then you'll have an absolute blast with this one.27. Pizza Tower (Switch eShop)Publisher: Tour De Pizza / Developer: Tour De PizzaRelease Date: 27th Aug 2024 (USA) / 27th Aug 2024 (UK/EU)Pizza Tower is the rare sort of game that improves on its inspiration in nearly every way, building upon many of Nintendos Wario Land ideas with impressive results. This is an incredibly satisfying, creative, and addictive platformer thatll keep you busy for a long time if you want to 100% it.Anyone who loved the old Wario Land games will adore this, as will anyone whos looking for something new with a high skill ceiling and lots of technical depth. Pizza Tower has definitely got it where it counts - platformers dont get much better than this.26. SteamWorld Heist II (Switch eShop)Publisher: Thunderful / Developer: ThunderfulRelease Date: 8th Aug 2024 (USA) / 8th Aug 2024 (UK/EU)SteamWorld Heist II expands upon its predecessors solid foundation, offering a more complex and ambitious experience that rewards patience and careful planning. While the increased difficulty and expanded mechanics may deter some players, those willing to invest time and tweak things to suit their preferences will find a deeply satisfying tactical adventure.25. Thank Goodness You're Here! (Switch eShop)Publisher: Panic / Developer: Coal SupperRelease Date: 1st Aug 2024 (USA) / 1st Aug 2024 (UK/EU)Thank Goodness Youre Here! is a brief but oh-so-sweet romp into a world that simultaneously makes no sense and yet perfect sense to those familiar with British culture. Bursting with excellent humour, beautiful artwork, and fantastic animation, its a wonder the devs managed to pack as much as they did into its short runtime.Performance may not be 100% perfect on Switch, and if youve no funny bone in your body, youll wonder what the point of it all is, but its still some of the best and most intense fun weve had in years. Our faces hurt from laughing so much, and we dont think theres much greater praise than that.24. FANTASIAN Neo Dimension (Switch)Publisher: Square Enix / Developer: MistwalkerRelease Date: 5th Dec 2024 (USA) / 5th Dec 2024 (UK/EU)FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is Hironobu Sakaguchi and Mistwalker at their boldest and bravest, culminating in a JRPG love letter that both delights and frustrates.The stunning world and exploration are a true highlight, and the challenging and rewarding combat will enchant some, but it lacks some of the magic that the game is aiming for and the pacing is uneven. Normal difficulty makes things more accessible for the curious, but make no mistake, this is an RPG for those who want to lose themselves in the mechanics.23. Cat Quest III (Switch)Publisher: Kepler Interactive / Developer: The GentlebrosRelease Date: 8th Aug 2024 (USA) / 8th Aug 2024 (UK/EU)Cat Quest III is a familiar yet flawless action adventure with fluid and fantastic-feeling combat. Its charming story and witty writing bring life to the Purribean, one of the best-designed mini-open worlds in recent memory. That open world is packed with satisfying quests and engaging puzzles to solve that almost always throw some new idea or challenge at you.The progression here is smooth, and the entire experience is precisely paced with no performance issues at all. Some stunning animation work, accompanied by a gorgeous shanty-like pirate soundtrack tops off an excellent adventure.All of that together ensures that Cat Quest III is a pristine pirate adventure and action RPG.22. Sonic X Shadow Generations (Switch)Publisher: SEGA / Developer: Sonic TeamRelease Date: 25th Oct 2024 (USA) / 25th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)In what can only be described as a monumental return to form for both hedgehogs, Sonic X Shadow Generations combines two excellent campaigns to create what just might be the very best 3D Sonic game so far.The remastered Generations content remains a delight, taking you through some of the series' most iconic stages, but Shadow's new chapter represents the franchise's 3D gameplay at its very best. It introduces a bunch of awesome new abilities while showcasing some of the most creative stages we've ever seen.Alas, there's still no Chao Garden, but we'll keep hoping and praying for its inclusion in the future. Based on this, though, the future of 3D Sonic looks bright.21. Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy (Switch)Publisher: Capcom / Developer: CapcomRelease Date: 25th Jan 2024 (USA) / 25th Jan 2024 (UK/EU)We genuinely can't believe how lucky we are that the Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy games exist, let alone that they've been lovingly polished up for the Switch. Here is some of the best writing you'll find on the console, and it's a steal for all three games plus extras.A couple of bumps here and there are to be expected with such a wealth of content (three games, DLC, and extras), but they barely leave a dent on the brilliance of this well-written and beautifully illustrated trilogy.20. Neva (Switch eShop)Publisher: Devolver Digital / Developer: Nomada StudioRelease Date: 15th Oct 2024 (USA) / 15th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)Neva is a spectacular example of art in motion, delivering a thoroughly engrossing platforming experience thatll stick in your mind long after youve rolled credits. The incredible visuals, moving soundtrack, satisfying gameplay, and surprisingly touching story all come together to make for a game that shouldnt miss.A few frame drops aside, if youre looking for a new addition to your library thatll give you something to savour rather than just consume, look no further than Neva.19. Kingdom Come Deliverance: Royal Edition (Switch)Publisher: PLAION / Developer: Warhorse StudiosRelease Date: 15th Mar 2024 (USA) / 15th Mar 2024 (UK/EU)If you give yourself over to Warhorses muddy opus, it will reward you with a hundred hours of gruelling and enjoyable trial and error.Its buggy and rough around the edges on Switch, but Kingdom Come Deliverance is a singular RPG experience. The pacing and constant juggling of mechanics is not for everyone, but invest the time and youll experience an engrossing, grounded adventure.18. Yakuza Kiwami (Switch eShop)Publisher: SEGA / Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku StudioRelease Date: 24th Oct 2024 (USA) / 24th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)The Yakuza/Like a Dragon series has come a long way and this first instalment is a mixed bag; at times full of life and ambition, at others frustrating and too willing to draw things out in a slightly over-indulgent way.Yakuza Kiwamis pace-killing negatives, difficulty spikes, and diminishing returns of wandering the Tokyo streets hold it back from being an easy recommendation, then. We'd bet a few thousand yen that some of the less-streamlined elements will test your patience, but it's Yakuza and it's on Switch, finally.And by all accounts, this remaster of Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio's series debut now runs better following a performance patch, and sales have reportedly been extremely healthy. Fingers crossed we'll be seeing much more of Kiryu in the future.17. Ys X: Nordics (Switch)Publisher: NIS America / Developer: Nihon FalcomRelease Date: 25th Oct 2024 (USA) / 25th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)Adol's newest adventure Ys X: Nordics stands as another great entry in this long-running action series, bringing in some cool ideas of its own without straying too far from what made its predecessors so beloved.Enjoyable combat, another excellent soundtrack, and an engaging world to explore all make this easy to recommend to both long-time fans and newcomers, even when some of the new ideas don't totally stick the landing. And, as with the other Ys entries on Switch, it stumbles a bit with its performance. If you're looking for another solid action RPG on Switch, then look no further than Ys X.16. Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics (Switch)Publisher: Capcom / Developer: CapcomRelease Date: 12th Sep 2024 (USA) / 12th Sep 2024 (UK/EU)With Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics, there's a decade of gaming evolution here, including what is arguably the pinnacle of Capcom's fighting game craft. Perfectly preserved and presented, everything is beautifully formed and wonderful to play.Assembled with real clarity, Capcom has thoroughly delivered the goods, from its ton of bonus features to its rollback netcode, with years' worth of combative nuance to explore, learn, and exact in the online arena. Oh, and don't just get it for Marvel vs. Capcom 2; everything is excellent here, but The Punisher, in particular, is awesome.15. Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven (Switch)Publisher: Square Enix / Developer: Square EnixRelease Date: 24th Oct 2024 (USA) / 24th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a bit of an underwhelming RPG that has some unique gameplay mechanics. The open-ended world narrative structure feels freeing, but the characters are boring. The glimmer mechanic is fun, but the battle system lacks a strategic hook. Each of its gameplay systems is a double-edged sword, as wed find a particular aspect enticing while another was baffling.It feels like a slight step back from the other recent SaGa games, then, but if youre a fan of the series, Revenge of the Seven might resonate with you more than it did with us.14. Ace Attorney Investigations Collection (Switch eShop)Publisher: Capcom / Developer: CapcomRelease Date: 6th Sep 2024 (USA) / 6th Sep 2024 (UK/EU)Ace Attorney Investigations Collection is the last of the Ace Attorney Switch remakes, but certainly not the least of them. Just make sure you're up-to-date on Ace Attorney 1-3 first, or you'll miss out on half the fun.The first game doesn't quite feel up to par with the series' best, but Investigations 2 certainly does, and might even be one of our favourites. We'll hold it! (heh) in our hearts forever.13. Super Mario Party Jamboree (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Nintendo CubeRelease Date: 17th Oct 2024 (USA) / 17th Oct 2024 (UK/EU)Super Mario Party Jamboree is a fantastic new entry in the franchise that focuses on improving the core mechanics and experience, making for a more involving board game in the process, whilst also polishing everything to a slick sheen.Online aspects and modern stuff like the game's battle pass and collectibles are woven in smoothly, and the various new modes all have their place in a package that also delivers the goods in terms of minigame quality.For our money, Jamboree is the best Mario Party to date. So if your invite didn't come through, this is the party to crash.12. Pentiment (Switch eShop)Publisher: Xbox Game Studios / Developer: Obsidian EntertainmentRelease Date: 22nd Feb 2024 (USA) / 22nd Feb 2024 (UK/EU)Pentiment is a fantastic adventure RPG that revels in a studious approach to history and immaculate recreations of the styles and traditions of 16th-century Bavaria. There's a super smart, funny, and engaging murder mystery to investigate here, but it's how that mystery is so fully rooted in the world that's been lovingly crafted around it that really elevates this experience.It's one of the best games of the past decade, hands down, and to have it running and performing perfectly on Switch is a joyous thing it feels like it was made for Nintendo's console. This is about as essential as games get.11. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: NintendoRelease Date: 26th Sep 2024 (USA) / 26th Sep 2024 (UK/EU)With the titular princess taking a starring role in her namesake series for the first time, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom should be the new standard for top-down Zelda going forward.Rather than abandoning the classic formula, Zelda has shown that the old and the new can come together and produce wonderful results that reward experimentation and reinforce the joy of play.In our book, this is easily in contention with A Link to the Past and A Link Between Worlds as one of the best top-down adventures in the series, and we hope we dont need to wait another 35 years for Zelda to take the lead again.10. Library of Ruina (Switch eShop)Publisher: Arc System Works / Developer: ProjectMoonRelease Date: 25th Apr 2024 (USA) / 24th Apr 2024 (UK/EU)We wish we liked Library of Ruina more than we do; its world and characters touch on clever themes and storytelling devices, but slapdash pacing coupled with sluggish, nerve-wracking menus makes playing on Switch an exercise in courting digital whiplash as you cycle between tight story beats and glacially-paced menus.Unforgivable porting choices and grating performance issues make the most minuscule complaints much more severe thanks to the games long runtime and, in turn, kneecap a story that has so much going for it.If this unending deluge of compounding problems somehow doesnt bother you, Library of Ruina presents a spectacularly well-realised world and a memorable story whose characters will likely stick with you after the credits roll.9. Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake (Switch)Publisher: Square Enix / Developer: ArtdinkRelease Date: 14th Nov 2024 (USA) / 14th Nov 2024 (UK/EU)It's been a long time coming, but Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake largely lives up to expectations. Performance issues aside, this is a faithful adaptation of a treasured RPG classic that elevates its strongest aspects while doing its best to make up for any shortcomings. Some may be put off by its relative simplicity but, refreshingly, it neither overstays its welcome nor spreads itself thin with too many half-baked ideas.It goes without saying that fans of the original will want to snap this up, but if youre looking for a good entry-level RPG or you just want to know what the long-running franchise is all about, Dragon Quest III is the game for you. This is the definitive version of Dragon Quest III in our eyes.8. Animal Well (Switch eShop)Publisher: Bigmode / Developer: Shared MemoryRelease Date: 9th May 2024 (USA) / 9th May 2024 (UK/EU)Developer Shared Memory's stated goal was to craft complete experiences that will be playable long after the world loses its internet connection, and screen after screen, Animal Well excels in delighting your eyes and giving your brain something to stew on.Its a riposte against a culture of post-launch updates in favour of a meticulously crafted, singular vision with potentially years worth of discoveries baked in. By all indications, Animal Well delivers on that long-term promise and does so with a one-of-a-kind elegance.7. Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door (Switch)Publisher: Nintendo / Developer: Intelligent SystemsRelease Date: 23rd May 2024 (USA) / 23rd May 2024 (UK/EU)For years, Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door has been held as the best Mario RPG of all time, and the Switch remake proves it has earned that title.This is a fantastic RPG adventure, whether youre a Mario fan or not, with some best-in-class combat and brilliant writing. A fresh new localisation, beautifully enhanced visuals, and new quality-of-life features help iron out a few little creases to make this the definitive way to play a GameCube classic.6. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (Switch)Publisher: Ubisoft / Developer: Ubisoft MontpellierRelease Date: 18th Jan 2024 (USA) / 18th Jan 2024 (UK/EU)Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a slick return to the roots of this franchise that serves up clever 2.5D action wrapped up in a delightful art style and satisfying story.There's a smart balance here between old-school levels of action and challenge, moreish combat, and neat puzzles, all mixed with accessibility options and fine-tuning that open things up to newcomers and casual players.We knew Ubisoft Montpellier was a pair of safe hands and the (now sadly disbanded) team didn't let us down, serving up the first must-play of 2024 in a Switch port that absolutely does the business.5. The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak (Switch)Publisher: NIS America / Developer: Nihon FalcomRelease Date: 5th Jul 2024 (USA) / 5th Jul 2024 (UK/EU)Trails through Daybreak stands as another great entry in the storied Legend of Heroes series, making the most of its new setting with its memorable characters and engaging turn-based combat.Though its held back a bit by things like the awkward introduction of action-based combat and some irritating quirks (and nearly unreadable text in portable mode), this is still an entry that we would strongly recommend to both series fans and, yes, newcomers, too.Trails through Daybreak is a strong inaugural outing, offering another fresh start for this franchise; wed suggest you give it a shot.4. Castlevania Dominus Collection (Switch eShop)Publisher: Konami / Developer: KonamiRelease Date: 27th Aug 2024 (USA) / 27th Aug 2024 (UK/EU)Castlevania Dominus Collection is quite possibly the best compilation that Konami and M2 have produced to date. It presents three exceptional DS games that easily stand the test of time and provide just as much enjoyment now as they did back in the 2000s.Not only that, but the impossible has seemingly been achieved with the remarkable addition of Haunted Castle Revisited. Included as a fun little bonus, this revamped take on a reviled arcade curio is fantastic, and while it can't compete with the very best 'classic' games in the franchise, it's the closest we've gotten to a brand new Castlevania in years. An exquisite package.3. Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance (Switch)Publisher: Atlus / Developer: AtlusRelease Date: 14th Jun 2024 (USA) / 14th Jun 2024 (UK/EU)Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is a stellar example of an enhanced re-release done right - which is fortunate as the original version was delisted when this launched.Vengeance's comprehensive approach to improving the story and various gameplay systems of the original release makes for an experience thats even more engrossing. Though we were disappointed by the lack of any performance gains here, Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance is still an extremely easy recommendation for any RPG fans.Some may consider SMT to be Persona without the heart, but SMT V: Vengeance cleanly demonstrates that this old Atlus stalwart still has an abundance of fantastic gameplay and unique appeal. A wonderful game.2. Balatro (Switch eShop)Publisher: PlayStack / Developer: LocalThunkRelease Date: 20th Feb 2024 (USA) / 20th Feb 2024 (UK/EU)Balatro is a roguelike for gamers who don't like roguelikes... and then everybody else on top of that. It utterly nails what it sets out to do, providing an instantly accessible, satisfying, and addictive gameplay loop that anybody can grasp.It's an immensely enjoyable experience from the start, but as you get deeper in, there's really nothing else quite like it. Utterly sublime.1. Unicorn Overlord (Switch)Publisher: SEGA / Developer: VanillawareRelease Date: 8th Mar 2024 (USA) / 8th Mar 2024 (UK/EU)Even amidst a huge strategy-RPG boom, Unicorn Overlord stands out. Its a smorgasbord of visual delights, intricate systems, and addictive gameplay loops that all come together to create a delightfully thrilling and deep tactical RPG. Its so easy to get absorbed into everything the game offers, and we lapped it all up.Vanillaware has long been known for creating beautiful-looking games with unique twists on genres, but with 13 Sentinels and now Unicorn Overlord, this developer should be on absolutely everyones radar.Surprised by the result? Regardless of the exact order, there's so much quality here - a testament to a console that just keeps going!Image: Zion Grassl / Nintendo LifeFAQAnd let's answer a couple of questions before wrapping things up.What games won GOTY in previous years?As a reminder, here's a look at previous Switch GOTY winners on Nintendo Life (click the year if you'd like to see the whole list):Can I add a game to this article?Think something's missing? A late-year arrival that should get its GOTY dues? Use the search bar below to find all 2024 Switch games in our database and rate them as you wish.Note. To become eligible, a game needs to have been rated by a minimum of 30 users.If you're looking Team NL's personal highlights of the year, check out our round-up of 2024 Staff Awards. Our personal picks for the best Switch games of 2024See AlsoShare:141 Gavin first wrote for Nintendo Life in 2018 before joining the site full-time the following year, rising through the ranks to become Editor. He can currently be found squashed beneath a Switch backlog the size of Normandy. Hold on there, you need to login to post a comment...Related ArticlesPokmon TCG Pocket: Mew EX Deck GuideMew EX is here to keep the meta in checkPSA: Switch 2 Is Getting Revealed In The Next 100 DaysSet your AlarmosToby Fox Shares Another Development Update On Deltarune Chapter 3, 4 & 5"Progress has still been steady"'Switch 2' Is Projected To Be The "Clear Winner" In The Next Console GenerationWhile either Sony or Microsoft will "struggle mightily"

For the millions of people at home with friends and family for the festive season, its also the time of year where many get roped into fixing the houses spotty Wi-Fi or face a barrage of questions about tech.Instead this holiday season, give the gift of good security advice. This is the ideal time of year where you can get hands-on to help make meaningful changes that bolster the cybersecurity of your loved ones. This isnt to say fixing the family printer isnt worth your time, but sharing a little security advice goes a long way in protecting those you care about from the most common online threats.As someone whos covered hacks and breaches for well over a decade, I think of cybersecurity as an investment in something you hope never happens. Nobody wants to experience the oh st moment of realizing youve been hacked, or had your bank accounts or online wallets drained, yet many default to the mindset that it could never happen to me without realizing that their account passwords from yesteryear may not be a sufficient defense against todays hacking efforts.Oftentimes, taking a few minutes with friends and family can be the impetus that they need to get started with cybersecurity, and stay protected.As for what to suggest to your folks, I asked Rachel Tobac, CEO of SocialProof Security, a company that provides security awareness training to help people defend against cyber threats before they strike; and Caitlin Condon, the vulnerability intelligence director at cybersecurity firm Rapid7, for their top security advice to share with friends and family. Their recommendations are to focus on the security basics that do the most work to keep your online accounts secure.An important part of passing along effective security advice is helping your friends and family get started with the apps and security features they need to stay secure. This way, they can learn alongside you and build up those new habits and practices over time.Its often not enough to merely recommend or install security technologies; we need to help loved ones learn how to use these technologies to build confidence and trust, said Condon.Set up a password manager that stores complex and unique passwordsWhen we go home for the holidays, a lot of times our family asks us for things that actually arent the top thing that they need to focus on, said Tobac. Its no good giving a family member advice on cryptocurrency for example if they reuse the same password for every online account they have, Tobac said.The best password is one that you never have to remember, and thats where a password manager can help. Password managers save your login details, and can also generate and store complex and unique passwords, so you never have to remember the same password across your various online services. (Using the same password across the internet makes all of those accounts more vulnerable to being hacked if someone guesses or steals your password.)There are plenty of password managers out there to choose. Your browser may have one already, and iPhones and iPads have their own Passwords app. Bitwarden is also a popular free-to-use password manager that also lets you access your passwords from your phone.It can help to sit down with loved ones, particularly if they arent terribly tech-savvy, and walk them through setting up a master password, installing browser plugins, generating and storing new passwords starting with financial or healthcare sites and logging in and out of the password manager, said Condon.A common fear is forgetting or losing the master password that locks your password manager from outsiders, Condon said. Some people opt to have a copy of their master password written down and kept somewhere in their house for safekeeping.In my experience, its a lot less risky to write a master password down on paper and store that somewhere in your home than it is to reuse easily guessable passwords, said Condon.Multi-factor authentication can save the dayPasswords alone are not enough to protect your accounts from intruders. Some of the biggest hacks of 2024 were possible because corporate giants forgot to implement basic security features, like multi-factor authentication (or MFA), allowing hackers to walk right in with just a stolen password.Having a second layer of security like MFA (also known as two-factor) to your online accounts makes it far more difficult for anyone with just your password to access your account. MFA works by sending an additional second code by text message to a device that you own or prompting you to generate a code in an authenticator app.Help them turn on multi-factor authentication, whether thats a code, or text message, especially for the essential accounts like your email address account which is the key to the castle for all of your other accounts, said Tobac.Tobac also recommended locking down your phone providers account with MFA, because just like your email account anyone with access to your phone number could gain access to any linked online account in case you ever forget your password. Thats also why some prefer to use an authenticator app generated on a device instead of having a text message (which can be intercepted) sent to their phone.There are plenty of authenticator apps; a popular choice is Duo Mobile, a simple app that generates second-factor codes on the fly while having an optional cloud backup in case you lose access to your phone.Remember that any MFA is better than none.Be politely paranoid on the phoneAnother thing I see folks struggle with regularly is the wave of spam texts, calls, emails, and notifications designed to social engineer users into visiting malicious websites or giving away logins and personal data, said Condon.Oftentimes, letting a call go to voicemail can be an effective way of avoiding scams and fraud. Even with caller ID, phone calls inherently make it difficult to know for sure who the person you are speaking with is legitimate.Tobac suggests being politely paranoid, a way of verifying that people and companies are who they say they are by contacting them back using a different method of communication before ever handing over information that could do harm, like a credit card number or a password. Tobac explained that if you get a call purportedly from your bank to say there are strange charges on your account, you can politely hang up the phone and call back using the official number on your bank card.The same goes for anyone who calls you that might ask for information but you cant be sure who it is. You can check out the organizations website, app, or secure message inbox to check for yourself first before taking any action.Having those common websites bookmarked in the browser for easy access can help your relatives verify any suspect call in a matter of seconds.Help your loved ones bookmark official login pages they can visit safely to check secure messages or account transactions when theyre concerned there might be something amiss, Condon. Show them how to navigate to those sites via pinned bookmarks or browser shortcuts.A password manager, multi-factor authentication and being politely paranoid on the phone are by far the simplest, yet most effective roadblocks for malicious hackers. Ensuring the cybersecurity foundations in place (and your loved ones understanding their importance) is a great place to start with friends and family, Tobac said.Thats the best gift you could give them, said Tobac. The gift of not getting hacked.Topics

This year, my mannequin has been through quite a lot.But its Christmas, and were all feeling a bit kinder so no attacks this time, just a hint of fear! Lets give it one last scare (at least for 2024).Merry Christmas to the entire Real-Time Vfx community! Merry Christmas! - Unreal Engine VfxBreakdown: https://www.artstation.com/artwork/5W14lWLets connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacopo-iacolino/ 1 post - 1 participant Read full topic