Mario Kart Tour, Nintendo's mobile racing game, will shut down on September 29 after a 7-year run, with no offline version offered to players. The game, which initially sparked controversy with its gacha-style mechanics, contributed to the development of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe's Switch expansion pass. Players will enjoy subscription-level benefits until the shutdown.
Nintendo confirms the Switch 1 will continue sales in North America, Japan, and other regions beyond Europe, where it will be phased out by mid-February 2027. Despite its aging hardware, the Switch 1 remains an affordable option with ongoing game support, including titles like Rhythm Heaven Groove. The decision contrasts with Europe's transition to Switch 2, which features user-replaceable batteries to comply with EU laws.
The original Nintendo Switch model will no longer be produced or distributed in Europe, marking a significant shift in the region's market. This move follows the launch of the Nintendo Switch OLED Model and growing demand for enhanced gaming experiences. Players in Europe will soon only have access to the newer Switch variants.
Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa has pledged to address the rampant scalping issue plaguing the Pokémon Trading Card Game, acknowledging the crisis at a recent AGM. Despite printing 10 billion cards in 2025, demand outstrips supply, fueling a lucrative resale market marked by scams and violence. Furukawa promises tighter platform cooperation and enhanced delivery methods to combat these issues.
Rhythm Heaven Groove for Nintendo Switch is a delightfully addictive blend of rhythm-based mini-games, offering a fun, challenging experience with its unique blend of quirky charm and engaging gameplay. Despite some minor flaws in level enjoyment and length, the game's strengths make it a compelling purchase at $40. With its nostalgic feel and addictive flow state, it's a perfect diversion for the summer.
Professor Ryuta Kawashima, renowned for Nintendo's Brain Age and Dr. Kawashima’s Brain Training series, reveals driving a manual transmission car benefits the brain, potentially preventing dementia. His study shows manual driving activates the prefrontal cortex more than automatics, enhancing memory, decision-making, and attention. Engaging in such activities can contribute to maintaining mental health and cognitive function, especially in aging populations.
Discover why Oracle of Ages and Oracle of Seasons, developed by Capcom for the Game Boy Color in 2001, stand as the most inventive and memorable 2D Zelda games, outshining even Nintendo's own titles. These games infused the series with fresh life through innovative mechanics like time and season manipulation. Despite not being developed by Nintendo, they offer an unparalleled 2D Zelda experience.
Discover the unexpected archival treasure of Nintendo's 90s era: 35mm film slides containing high-resolution images of Super Mario 64, potentially unlocking new gaming history insights. These slides, equivalent to 4k-6k digital resolution, are surfacing in online auctions for hundreds of dollars. For gamers and archivists, this find promises a clearer look into the past, beyond the somewhat muddy native resolution of the Nintendo 64.
Nintendo is revolutionizing its game pricing strategy with a multi-tier system, setting more competitive prices for upcoming titles on Switch and Switch 2. Games like Star Fox ($50) and Rhythm Heaven Groove ($40) showcase this shift. Additionally, digital versions on the eShop are $10 cheaper than their physical counterparts, a first among console platform holders.
Discover the top Switch 2 accessories on sale during Prime Day, including a 50% off microSD Express Card and reliable third-party controllers. Upgrade your gaming experience with these genuinely useful deals. From storage solutions to protective cases, we've got you covered.
