Nintendo
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Nintendo.
Consoles continue their trend of just becoming worst PCsThe article argues that modern consoles like PlayStation and Xbox are becoming inferior versions of PCs, losing their unique advantages. Factors like the shift to digital-only, rising prices, and the diminishing value of exclusives are making PCs a more compelling and flexible gaming platform.
PlayStation to end physical disc production in 2028Sony Interactive Entertainment announced that PlayStation will cease production of physical game discs in January 2028, shifting entirely to digital sales. This move aligns with consumer trends favoring digital distribution and follows similar strategies from Xbox and PC gaming. The decision raises concerns for physical media retailers and game preservation.
Xbox is reportedly testing a feature to digitize physical game collections as PlayStation decides to phase out discsXbox is reportedly testing a "Disc to Digital" feature that would allow users to convert their physical game collection into digital entitlements. This comes as PlayStation plans to phase out disc-based games by 2028, and other publishers like Take-Two are opting for digital-only releases, signaling a significant shift in the industry away from physical media.- More Metroid games are apparently in the works other than Metroid RavenousAccording to VGC's Andy Robinson, Nintendo has multiple Metroid games in development beyond the recently discovered Metroid Ravenous. While specific details remain undisclosed, it is suggested that more than one new Metroid title is planned.
This Week In Games Was Bad, But Next Week May Be WorseThe gaming industry experienced a particularly bleak week with multiple significant layoffs, studio closures, and price increases. Microsoft's Xbox division saw widespread job cuts, while Sony announced plans to end physical disc production for PlayStation games by 2028. These events, coupled with delays and the ongoing impact of AI discussions, paint a grim picture for the industry's immediate future.
Next-Gen Xbox May Not Have Disc Drive, Disc-To-Digital Feature Coming, Reports SayReports suggest Microsoft's next-generation console, codenamed Project Helix, may omit a disc drive, following similar trends from Sony. Microsoft is reportedly testing a "disc-to-digital" feature that would allow users to convert physical Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S discs into digital entitlements tied to their Microsoft account.
Nintendo shows no signs of following PlayStation’s physical media death even though Switch 2 and Switch rumored to have much higher production costsDespite Sony discontinuing physical releases for PlayStation 4 and 5, Nintendo shows no signs of abandoning physical media for the Nintendo Switch or the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Although Nintendo Switch cartridges have higher production costs, the company continues to manufacture significantly more physical games and is placing value on premium physical editions and game-key cards.
Rumor: Metroid Ravenous leaked for Nintendo Switch 2A listing for a game titled Metroid Ravenous has reportedly surfaced in Brazil's Ministry of Justice and Public Security system, suggesting a potential leak for the Nintendo Switch 2. The classification indicates a 2026 production year, and speculation points to MercurySteam as a possible developer, given their previous work on Metroid Dread and Metroid: Samus Returns.- PlayAsia lists The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake at $60Retailer PlayAsia has listed a remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for the Nintendo Switch at a price of $59.99. Nintendo has not officially announced the remake or its pricing.
Mario Kart World gets two new Knockout Tour routes and a new Photo Mode feature in latest updateMario Kart World has received update version 1.7.0, introducing two new Knockout Tour routes: Drill Rally and Boomerang Rally. The update also enhances Photo Mode with new stickers and improves acceleration and gliding speeds for certain characters and vehicles. Additionally, several gameplay fixes and optimizations have been implemented to enhance the overall player experience.- Surprise Mario Kart World Update Ends A Drought Of New ContentNintendo has released update 1.7.0 for Mario Kart World, adding two new Knockout Tour routes and enhancing the photo mode with sticker functionality and touchscreen support. While no new tracks or open-world expansions were included, the update signals continued support for the game, with more routes planned for future releases.
Sony to discontinue physical discs for new games launching on PS consoles from January 2028Sony Interactive Entertainment will cease physical disc production for new games launching on PlayStation consoles starting January 2028, citing shifting consumer preferences towards digital formats. This transition means games will only be available digitally through the PlayStation Store and other retailers from that date. The company stated this move aligns with the majority of its community's preferred method of accessing and playing games.
Video: European eShop highlights – June 2026Nintendo released a video highlighting European digital game releases for June 2026. Featured titles include Star Fox, Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. The video serves as a roundup of notable digital titles available on the European eShop for the month.
Nintendo president talks indie games, says they’re “extremely popular” on its systemsNintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa stated that indie games are extremely popular on Nintendo platforms, including the Nintendo Switch. He highlighted Nintendo's support for indie developers through initiatives like Indie World and emphasized the company's efforts to encourage earlier releases on their consoles.- Why Sony Is Killing Disc-Based PlayStation Games And The Implications For PS6 And BeyondSony will cease releasing PlayStation games on physical discs starting in 2028, a move industry expert Piers Harding-Rolls suggests will likely delay the PlayStation 6's launch until at least that year and will result in a disc-less base model. This transition to all-digital is driven by shifting consumer preferences towards digital downloads, which now account for 80% of PlayStation game sales, and aims to streamline retail and improve profit margins by reducing costs associated with disc manufacturing and physical distribution.
A Nintendo Switch 2 with a new screen may be incoming, but don't get your hopes up for an OLED panelA listing for a new LCD panel, potentially manufactured by Sharp, suggests an upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 model may feature an updated display. While this panel is not an OLED, it could address issues like ghosting experienced by some players. Nintendo has also announced a new Switch 2 model with a replaceable battery for February 2027 in Europe.
Rhythm Heaven Groove reviews roundupRhythm Heaven Groove is launching on Nintendo Switch this week, with early reviews praising its collection of over 80 solo rhythm games and over 30 multiplayer modes. The game features new tracks by Japanese musician Tsunku and is compatible with the upcoming Switch 2. Reviews from IGN, GameSpot, and Game Informer are generally positive, with scores ranging from 8/10 to 9/10.
Recension – Rhythm Paradise GrooveRhythm Paradise Groove is a new rhythm game for the Nintendo Switch, marking the series' return after 11 years. The game features over 80 mini-games with a focus on rhythm and colorful visuals, offering a challenging yet engaging experience similar to Wario Ware. It includes extensive unlockable content and a multiplayer mode, making it a budget-friendly addition to Nintendo's catalog.
Rhythm Paradise Groove Review - Get into the grooveRhythm Paradise Groove for Nintendo Switch offers over 80 new solo levels and 30 co-op/competitive games, building on the franchise's signature rhythm-based gameplay. While praised for its charming art style and accessible difficulty curve, the game suffers from noticeable input delay when played docked on a TV, making handheld mode the preferred experience. An additional Beatspell mini-game provides a unique RPG-like diversion.
Rhythm Paradise Groove Review – Minigame heaven?Rhythm Paradise Groove offers a collection of diverse minigames and a unique rhythm-based RPG mode called Beatspell. While the solo minigames provide varied challenges and the multiplayer modes enhance replayability, the game's true standout feature is its exceptional accessibility options, including read-aloud settings and audio descriptions.