Category: Nintendo

MicroSD Express vs microSD card: What’s the difference?

It comes down to speed, price, and compatibility

MicroSD Express vs microSD

(Image credit: Petapixel)

For about two decades, traditionalmicroSD cardswere the storage solution of choice for portable devices like mobile phones andhandheld consoles.

However, the evolution of storage solutions has led to the development of microSD Express, an advancement over its predecessor.

While microSD cards and microSD Express appear the same, their specifications and applications differ. You may be wondering why you haven’t heard about microSD Express – that’s because the technology is not only relatively new, but its adoption has been quite slow.

microSD Express vs microSD card – the basics

microSD Express is an advanced version of microSD that uses PCIe and NVMe interfaces similar to high-end SSD storage solutions to achieve significantly faster transfer speeds of up to 985MB/s.

This storage format was first released by the SD Association in 2019, and since then, several brands have developed cards with guaranteed minimum speeds of 150MB/s, 300MB/s, 450MB/s, or 600MB/s, as indicated by the “E” symbol on the card label. These cards, however, have not seen wide usage until recently, when Nintendo announced plans to use them for expanded storage in the upcomingSwitch 2.

On the other hand, a microSD card is a small, removable storage device that has been widely used in smartphones, tablets, cameras, and gaming consoles. Originally launched in 2005, the format has evolved into SDHC, SDXC, and SDUC variants, with capacities up to 2TB.

These cards use the SD interface and are classified based on speed. Most consumer devices today support UHS-I cards, with read speeds up to 100MB/s. Less common UHS-II and UHS-III cards can reach speeds of up to 300MB/s and 600MB/s, respectively.

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Speed and performance

The obvious advantage of microSD Express over microSD is transfer speed. Its interfaces enable faster write speeds, allowing for seamless recording and quicker file transfers. Another key benefit is reduced latency, thanks to NVMe technology.

Unlike traditional microSD cards, which rely on older interfaces, microSD Express offers lower response times when accessing data. This leads to faster system responsiveness, especially when opening large files, running applications, or switching between stored media.

Backward compatibility concerns

One major drawback of microSD Express is its lack of full backward compatibility. If you use a microSD Express card in an older device with a traditional microSD slot, the transfer speed drops to UHS-I levels, which can be disappointing. In addition, devices made for microSD Express are exclusive, meaning regular microSD cards will not work in them.

This compatibility issue is clear with the Nintendo Switch 2, which only supports microSD Express cards. Users now need to purchase new storage solutions, even if they have plenty of data on older microSD cards from previous Switch models. This shift has caused frustration among users who expected backward compatibility to be preserved.

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Use cases and adoption

microSD Express cards are not designed for all use cases. If you mainly store regular photos and videos on mobile phones or cameras, a standard microSD card will do just fine.

microSD Express shines in scenarios where high-speed data transfer is critical, with one key example being gaming.

Games are data-intensive, and faster read/write speeds reduce load times, improve performance, and make gameplay smoother. This is likely a key reason why the Nintendo Switch 2 adopted microSD Express.

Standard microSD cards often struggle with large files, leading to dropped frames or slow transfers when dealing with high data rates, such as4Kor8Kvideo. This makes microSD Express especially valuable for filmmakers and content creators.

Cost and availability

That all said, getting a microSD Express card isn’t easy. Few brands currently produce them, and availability may be limited in some regions.

Also, because the technology is still developing and uses more advanced components, microSD Express cards tend to be more expensive. For example, a 1TB microSD Express card from Lexar costs around $200, while a standard 1TB microSD card from the same brand is priced under $70.

Should you upgrade to microSD Express?

Whether to switch to microSD Express depends on your needs and device compatibility. If your device requires it, like the Nintendo Switch 2, then upgrading is necessary. But if your device only supports standard microSD cards, there’s little benefit, as speeds will drop by almost 90%. That said, if low latency is a priority, it may still be worth considering.

For general users who want affordable storage for smartphones, cameras, or other devices, traditional microSD cards remain a practical choice. Professionals working with high-speed applications, may find microSD Express to be a worthwhile investment.

Future of microSD Express

Portable computing devices, including laptops, tablets, and handheld gaming PCs, now use high-grade hardware and often rely on expandable storage for larger apps and media. For example, some mobile phones and cameras can now record in 8K, which puts a lot of pressure on storage performance.

A one-minute 8K video can be as large as 20GB. Saving this to a regular microSD card could take around four minutes, while a microSD Express card could do it in about 30 seconds. That is a significant difference that could drive the adoption of microSD Express.

Still, the future of microSD Express really depends on how many device manufacturers choose to support it. If more consoles, cameras, and portable devices integrate the format, prices may come down and the market could expand.

Nintendo says Game-Key Cards are not tied to accounts and can be loaned or resold

Game-Key Cards for the Nintendo Switch 2 are like physical game cards but without the game on them, and will prompt owners to download the game digitally. Now, Nintendo clarifies that they can be loaned or resold like regular game cards.

The Game-Key Card is always required to play a game. (Image source: Nintendo)

The Game-Key Card is always required to play a game. (Image source: Nintendo)

Alongside a new type of Game Card, Nintendo also announced that the Switch 2 will support what is calledGame-Key Cardswhich look like Game Cards but don’t contain an actual game. Instead, they are described as a key todownloading the full gameto your Switch 2. Now, Nintendo has provided new information about the Game-Key Cards.

When a Game-Key Card is purchased, buyers will have to insert it into the console and then proceed to download the game. An internet connection will be required the first time you launch the game for the first time. Subsequently, players will only need to insert the Game-Key Card into the Switch 2 to play, just like they do with a Game Card.

While that might sound as if the Game-Key Card is tied to a console, that isn’t the case. According to Nintendo’s Testuya Sasaki, the Game-Key Card isn’t tied to a console or Nintendo account, as they can be loaned, rented, and resold just like a regular Game Card.

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An example of the packaging for a Nintendo Switch 2 Game-Key Card. (Image source: Nintendo)

An example of the packaging for a Nintendo Switch 2 Game-Key Card. (Image source: Nintendo)

Apparently, the reason for Game-Key Cards according to information provided by Nintendo America’s president, Doug Bowser, to The Verge, is so that publishers can sell physical copies of games that are larger than the 64GB capacity of the Nintendo Switch 2 Game Cards. However, it is impossible to rule out that some publishers will opt for Game-Key Cards even if their games don’t reach the 64GB max file size of a Switch 2 Game Card.

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Despite the clarification that Game-Key Cards are not tied to accounts as is the case with digital downloads,  there are those who are concerned about the future of these type of games several years into the future if the servers are shut down.

Considering owners of theNintendo 3DSandWii Ucan still redownload previously purchased games and download updates for their games despite theclosure of the eShopfor these consoles, it is safe to assume that those who purchase Game-Key Cards will always have access to download their games years down the line.

Mario Kart World – everything we know so far

What we know about the new Mario Kart game

Mario Kart World

(Image credit: Nintendo)

MarioKart Worldhas now been revealed, having been showcased during the recent Nintendo Switch 2 reveal event. From what we’ve seen so far, the newMarioKart looks primed to push the franchise forward, with a new art style, and seamless racing between tracks across a large map.

Of course, we’ve known about a new Mario Kart game for a while, as it was teased during the initial Nintendo Switch 2 event back in January. This full reveal is no doubt music to your ears, given just how long it’s been since we got a brand new Mario Kart game on consoles. We’ve even played it, and you can read what we thought in ourMario Kart Worldpreview.

Now we know that it’s coming toNintendo Switch 2, as well as some new details on what to expect. The promise of a new Mario Kart has certainly convinced us here at Oriccabattery to stay up to date withNintendo Switch 2 pre-orders.

Following its reveal,Mario Kart Worldis easily one of the most highly anticipatedupcoming gamesfor 2025. Hopefully, it’ll end up on our list of thebest Nintendo Switch gamesby the end of the year. Who knows, maybe it’ll even dethrone its predecessor after many, many years at the top of sales charts? Rather big shoes to fill indeed.

Here’s everything we know so far aboutMario Kart Worldso far, including a look at gameplay, as well as all of the latest news and trailers. As new info drops this page will be updated.

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Mario Kart World: cut to the chase

  • What is it?The next entry in the legendary Mario Kart series
  • When does it come out?June 5, 2025
  • What can I play it on?Nintendo Switch 2 (exclusively)
  • Who’s making it?Nintendo

Mario Kart World release date and platforms

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Mario Kart Worldwill launch on June 5, 2025, for Nintendo Switch 2, alongside the main console.

This newMario Kartis going to be an exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2.

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Mario Kart World trailer

So far, we’ve only received one trailer forMario Kart World. It was revealed during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct on April 2, 2025. This reveals the game’s name and gives us our first look at the new 24-player races.

Mario Kart World – Announcement Trailer (Nintendo Switch 2)

We’ll likely hear more aboutMario Kart Worldin the coming months. To keep up to date with every trailer release for the game, be sure to check out theofficial Nintendo YouTube channel.Alternatively, you can stay up to date with all things Nintendo using theNintendo Today app.

Mario Kart World gameplay

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Mario Kart Worldgameplay was shown off during the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal event that aired on April 2, 2025. In it, we see that all tracks in the game lead into one another, in a large interconnected world map. This allows players to drive between tracks during Grand Prix. In addition, you can drive anywhere on a track, even outside of the guidelines.

From what we’ve seen so far,Mario Kart Worldfeatures a bunch of new mechanics. The first is the ability to grind, which is shown in the reveal trailer. Players can seemingly drive into larger vehicles and take them over as well. There are new items to play with too, like a burger seen in the aforementioned trailer. There’s wall-riding, and an expanded flying mechanic as well.

Races can now contain 24 players, the largest in the series so far. We’ll have to see how this works in action, but given the larger scope of the game’s world, we think it’ll be just the right mix of chaos and fun.

Mario Kart World characters

(Image credit: Nintendo)

So far, the following characters have been confirmed forMario Kart X:

  • Baby Daisy
  • Baby Luigi
  • Baby Mario
  • Baby Peach
  • Baby Rosalina
  • Birdo
  • Bowser
  • Bowser Jr.
  • Cataquack (new)
  • Chargin’ Chuck
  • Cheep Cheep (new)
  • Coin Coffer (new)
  • Conkdor (new)
  • Cow (new)
  • Daisy
  • Dolphin (new)
  • Donkey Kong
  • Dry Bones
  • Fish Bone (new)
  • Goomba
  • Hammer Bro.
  • King Boo
  • Koopa
  • Lakitu
  • Luigi
  • Mario
  • Monty Mole (new)
  • Nabbit
  • Para-Biddybud
  • Pauline
  • Peach
  • Peepa (new)
  • Penguin (new)
  • Pianta (new)
  • Piranha Plant (new)
  • Pokey (new)
  • Rocky Wrench (new)
  • Rosalina
  • Shy Guy
  • Sidestepper (new)
  • Snowman (new)
  • Spike (new)
  • Stingby (new)
  • Swoop (new)
  • Toad
  • Toadette
  • Waluigi
  • Wario
  • Wiggler
  • Yoshi

Mario Kart World tracks

(Image credit: Nintendo)

We’ve only seen a fewMario Kart Worldtracks in action – also called courses – with some returning from previous titles, while others are brand new to the series. Here’s what’s been revealed so far:

  • Mario Bros. Circuit
  • Crown City
  • DK Spaceport
  • Whistlestop Summit
  • Desert Hills (DS)
  • Shy Guy Bazaar (DS)
  • Wario Stadium (N64)
  • Airship Fortress (DS)
  • DK Pass (DS)
  • Starview Peak
  • Sky-High Sundae (Tour)
  • Wario Shipyard (3DS)
  • Koopa Troopa Beach (SNES)
  • Faraway Oasis
  • Peach Stadium
  • Moo Moo Meadows (Wii)
  • Bowser’s Castle

Mario Kart World: FAQs

Is Mario Kart World Nintendo Switch 2 only?

Yes,Mario Kart Worldis being developed exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2. It will not be available on the previous console.

Can you pre-order Mario Kart World?

You can now pre-orderMario Kart Worldin select region. Currently, it’s the UK that’s seeing the most Mario kart pre-order pages going live. We’ll update once we see it come to the US and other regions. For now, check out ourhow to pre-order the Switch 2article for more details.

Does Mario Kart World have splitscreen?

Mario Kart Worlddoes indeed have splitscreen. You can also play online, though a Nintendo Online subscription will likely be required.

Mario Kart World news

Nintendo confirms the Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con controllers have been ‘designed from the ground up’ and I couldn’t be happier
Nintendo has confirmed thatthe Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 controllers have been redesigned, hopefully, to avoid potential stick drift.

During anexclusive hands-on preview of the Nintendo Switch 2, TechRadar Gaming asked Technology Development Division general manager Tetsuya Sasaki if any improvements have been made to prevent Joy-Con stick drift.

Sasaki responded, confirming that the new magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers have been completely redesigned for smoother gameplay.

Mario Kart World has been revealed
Mario Kart World has now been officially revealed, and it’s a launch title!

Mario Kart World teased
What we now know to beMario Kart Worldwasfirst teased during the first look at Nintendo Switch 2 event. We only saw a brief glimpse of gameplay, but it certainly got the internet talking.

Nintendo Switch 2 Doesn’t Have Hall Effect Sticks, But Nintendo Still Thinks Joy-Cons “Feel Really Good”

Connected Nintendo Switch 2 joy cons in front of Mario Kart 9 gameplay.

While the Nintendo Switch 2 will be a significant jump over the original console in many respects, Nintendo has confirmed that the system’s controllers won’t be receiving a specific type of upgrade. A common pain point of the original Switch’s Joy-Cons and, to a lesser extent, even the Pro Controller, was that their control sticks were prone to drifting after prolonged use — and while the Switch 2’s controllers might prove to be better in that respect, they won’t be implementing a much-requested feature.

As confirmed in aNintendo Lifeinterview with Nintendo of America executive Nate Bihldorff,neither the Switch 2’s new Joy-Cons nor the Switch 2 Pro Controller will make use of Hall effect sticks— though Bihldorff stated that the Joy-Cons have been “designed from the ground up” and “feel really good.” While Bihldorff didn’t specifically address the issue of stick drift, he did make sure to stress that the Switch 2’s Pro Controller “is one of the quietest controllers[he’s]ever played.“

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Nintendo Promises Joy-Con 2 Is A Big Improvement

The Switch 2’s Controllers Come With Notable Upgrades, But Not Hall Effect Sticks

Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller's Audio Jack.

For reference, Hall effect sticks are control sticks that make use of magnets and electric conductors, eliminating the usual kinds of wear-and-tear that cause stick drift to develop in standard analog sticks. Notably, however, Hall effect sticks can have other issues, usually requiring larger dead zones and being somewhat susceptible to interference from external magnetic fields — the latter of which could possibly have been a concern for the Switch 2’s Joy-Cons, which already use magnets to snap onto the console.

Additionally, though Nintendo has yet to state whether the Switch 2 will improve on the original’s stick drift issues,there are some tangible upgrades being made to the systems’ Joy-Cons and Pro Controller. Most notably, the new Joy-Cons coming with the Switch 2 can function as a mouse, and the magnetic attachments should be less prone to wear and tear than the original Switch’s rail attachments. The Switch 2’s Pro Controller also includes “GL” and “GR” back buttons, which can have inputs from other buttons assigned to them for easier access, and an audio jack.

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It’s Hard To Trust Nintendo On Analog Sticks After Drift Issues

The First Switch’s Stick Drift Issues Might Cause Buyers To Doubt The Switch 2

Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2

While Hall effect sticks may or may not have been the right solution to the Switch’s drift issues,it can be hard to trust that the Switch 2’s controllers aren’t just repeating the mistakes of the first console. Presumably, Nintendo would want to avoid a repeat of the original Joy-Cons drift issues, which at one point had users threatening a class-action lawsuit and caused Nintendo to have to set up a repair service. But before users can get their hands on the products for long-term use, it’s hard to say whether any tangible improvements have been made.

At the moment, the Switch 2 is facing larger issues, as the pricing of the console and its exclusive games are causing widespread backlash from potential buyers. With those prices unlikely to change, however, the next best step would be to make the console a quality, durable product worthy of its premium price point. For now, it’s uncertain whether the Nintendo Switch 2‘s controllers will suffer from stick drift as badly as the first console did, but the lack of Hall effect sticks might be a bad sign.

Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders open ahead of schedule at one optimistic Dutch retailer

Nintendo has hardly revealed anything about the Switch 2 yet. Nonetheless, one Dutch retailer has already opened pre-orders for the console and is charging people €499 for the privilege of being first in line.

Nintendo should reveal more information about the Switch 2 in a little over a week's time. (Image source: Nintendo)

Nintendo should reveal more information about the Switch 2 in a little over a week’s time. (Image source: Nintendo)

Numerous unknowns remain about the Switch 2, even two months after Nintendoofficially unveiledthe device by way of a short YouTube video. Officially, the company has outlined that it will be revealing more information on April 2 during its next Nintendo Direct event. There are suggestions thata separate eventfocusing on launch titles could occur between now and April 2, though.

Similarly, Nintendo has not confirmed how much the Switch 2 will cost yet. Nonetheless, evidenceemerged last monththat the console could cost upwards of CAD$499.99, which currently converts to around $349.99. With that being said, various analysts anticipate the Switch 2 costing$400 or more.

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To that end, a Dutch retailer has opened pre-orders for Nintendo’s long-awaited console. While the original Switch(curr. $299 on Amazon)sells for just under €300 in the Netherlands, Game-stock has priced the Switch 2 at €499 (~$539). However, the disclaimer on its listing clarifies that this pricing is an estimate and not final. Game-stock also expects the Switch 2 to reach at least Belgium and the Netherlands ‘in mid-June’, although this is speculative too. As a result, it appears this early pre-sale is more optimistic than anything else. The full quote from Game-stock is as follows:

Please note: This is a Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order. The exact delivery date, price and how many will be delivered is not yet known. Our current estimate is that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be available in the Netherlands and Belgium in mid-June this year.

Delivery is done in order of order: whoever orders first will receive his console first on the day of release. As soon as there is more information, we will update our page immediately.

If we cannot deliver all orders or if you want to cancel the order, you will immediately receive a refund. The price for the pre-order is 499 euros, if the console is cheaper in the end, you will of course be refunded the difference.

(Image source: Game-stock)

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Source(s)

Game-stock

LEGO Super Mario Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart (72037) Officially Announced

For MAR10 Day, LEGO has officially revealed their newest LEGO Super Mario set with the Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart (72037). Releasing on May 15, the set has 1,972 pieces and will retail for $169.99. It features a poseable figure of Mario along with his Standard Kart from the games.

CELEBRATE MAR10 DAY WITH THE NEW LEGO SUPER MARIO:
MARIO KART – MARIO & STANDARD KART SET

10th March 2025 – The LEGO Group is excited to unveil the latest addition to the LEGO® Super Mario™ collection: the Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart set. This detailed, build-and-display model is a perfect gift for fans of the iconic Mario Kart series from Nintendo, offering a captivating building experience and a dynamic way to showcase the brick-built Mario in his Standard Kart.

This 1,972-piece set allows builders to recreate Mario in his Standard Kart and features a posable figure with a movable head and arms. The included stand enables fans to display the kart at dynamic angles, as if Mario is speeding through a high-stakes race or drifting in true Mario Kart fashion.

The LEGO Super Mario: Mario Kart set provides a fun and rewarding building experience, designed for both seasoned LEGO enthusiasts and newcomers to the brand. Step-by-step instructions are available both in the box and on the LEGO Builder app, which offers intuitive tools like 3D rotation and progress tracking for an interactive building experience.

Once complete, the Mario Kart set makes a bold statement in any fan’s home, whether as part of a game room, living room, or office decor. It’s more than just a model – it’s a celebration of the Mario Kart series.

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The LEGO Super Mario: Mario Kart – Mario & Standard Kart set is available for pre-order now, and will be available for purchase from 15th May 2025 atwww.LEGO.com/MarioKartand LEGO Stores, priced at €169.99 /$169.99.

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Nintendo is set to discontinue Gold Points rewards a week before the Switch 2 Direct

Is Nintendo planning a replacement?

  • Nintendo is set to discontinue its Gold Points rewards scheme
  • From March 24, 2025, you’ll no longer be able to earn them
  • However, points you earn now will be redeemable for another 12 months

Nintendo has confirmed it will be winding down its eShop Gold Points rewards scheme next month.

The announcement was made over on the officialMy Nintendo website, confirming that the earning of Gold Points will be discontinued on March 24, 2025. At the time of writing, the website is currently returning an error for that page. But an FAQ (sourced byGo Nintendo) provides more details, reading:

“Beginning at 9:30 p.m. PDT on 3/24/2025, users will no longer be able to earn My Nintendo Gold Points. Gold Points will no longer be earned for digital purchases on Nintendo eShop after 9:30 p.m. PDT on 3/24/2025.

“Gold Points will no longer be earned on physical games that release after 3/24/2025. For physical games that released on or before 3/24/2025, Gold Points may still be earned by registering eligible titles within one year from the original release date of the game.

“All earned Gold Points will continue to be valid and redeemable for 12 months after they are issued. Please note that there are no changes to how you redeem the Gold Points you already earned.”

Suspiciously, this is happening about a week and a half ahead of April 2’s scheduledNintendo Switch 2Direct. Nintendo currently hasn’t announced a replacement for the Gold Points rewards scheme, but there is a chance the company could be implementing a new system for when its new console arrives later this year.

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If not, then that’s definitely a shame. Gold Points are a pretty great way of saving cash on digital eShop purchases. Like PlayStation Rewards, Gold Points are added to your Nintendo account after registering a physical game or purchasing a game digitally on the eShop. Over time, this lets players save a substantial amount on thebest Nintendo Switch games.

Nintendo has confirmed that Nintendo accounts will transfer to Nintendo Switch 2, so, could a bigger Nintendo eShop overhaul be on the way? Let’s hope so, because it definitely needs one.

Nintendo Patent Confirms Switch 2 Joy-Con’s Most Innovative Feature

The controllers will function like PC gaming mice, opening up tons of new possibilities

A Switch 2 patent appears on the screen of a Switch 2.
Fans have been speculating about PC gaming mouse-like functionality for the Switch 2 ever since optical sensors appeared in leaks last month. Nintendo then teased the feature in the new Switch’s reveal trailer shortly after. Now the potential game-changer has been all but officially announced thanks to a new patent breaking down how the Joy-Con mouse functionality will work.

The patent documents were filed back in 2023 andpublished on Thursdaybefore being shared on social mediaby Wario64. “This input device comprises a front surface, an upper surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, a direction input unit, a first upper surface button, and a sensor for mouse operation,” it reads.

The patent description continues, “The sensor for mouse operation detects reflected light from a detected surface, the light changing by moving over the detected surface in a state in which either the first side surface or the second side surface is placed on the detected surface.”

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This confirms what many fans suspected upon seeing the Joy-Con controllers sliding around a surface on their sides during the announcement trailer last month. Presumably, the “mouse operation” feature will allow some games on Switch 2 to be played with either traditional controller inputs or mouse inputs.

That could make it ideal for games likeCivilization 7and potentially shooters likeFortniteandCall of Duty, which Microsoft is expected to begin porting to the Switch 2 at some point in the future. Other Microsoft shooters likeHaloandDoomare also expected to get ported at some point, and the new Joy-Con could let players aim with traditional PC mouse precision while moving and strafing with a controller thumbstick.

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Even more exciting is how Nintendo might find ways to use a dual-mouse feature for creative new gameplay. One of the patent drawings shows both Joy-Con being used as mice simultaneously.On his podcast,Giant Bombco-founder Jeff Gerstmann speculated that dual mice might let players control something like a mech with two reticles for aiming arm-mounted weapons. Or it could be used for some very weird, innovative launch game only Nintendo would think of. We’ll know better when theSwitch 2 Nintendo Direct airs in April.

Mario Kart 9 should step it up a gear by celebrating more of Nintendo’s biggest franchises

Opinion | Mario Kart 9 could do so much more when it comes to tracks themed after the Nintendo’s most iconic series

Mario racing on a desert track during the Switch 2 reveal trailer.

(Image credit: Nintendo)

One of my favorite tracks in Mario Kart 8 is Hyrule Circuit. The inventive course cuts through Hyrule Castle which houses the Master Sword at its center, and instead of featuring the standard gold coin collectibles and Piranha Plant hazards, it stays on theme by swapping them out with Rupees and Deku Babas. It’s such a playful and engaging circuit that beautifully plays homage to one of Nintendo’s most iconic and enduring series, The Legend of Zelda.

Last week, that very racetrack was front of mind when I clapped eyes on the tailend of theSwitch 2first-look trailer. Because not only did Nintendo at last show off the long-awaited new console, but it also appeared to teaseMario Kart 9playing on its display. While we’re still awaiting an official announcement, I can’t help but hope the next racing game taps into what makes the likes of Hyrule Circuit so magical. With Nintendo’s extensive repertoire, there’s so much more potential to get creative and deliver more tracks that celebrate its most beloved game series.

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Fueled by themes

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Switch screenshot showing Link racing through Hyrule Castle on a motorcycle(Image credit: Nintendo)

Hyrule Circuit is by no means the only example of a themed track in Mario Kart 8. Another personal favorite is the one set in the world of Animal Crossing, which features a host of different villagers, familiar stores, and four different seasonal variations – which loads in at random each time you race through it. Mute City based on the F-Zero series is yet another example, and there’s also a neat Splatoon-themed Battle Stage, but there’s so much scope for Nintendo to deliver more themed tracks in Mario Kart 9.


With such a rich tapestry of games making up Nintendo’s storied history, there’s no shortage of series to draw. Over Christmas, my sister and I even waxed lyrical about which game characters we’d love to see as new racers in a theoretical Mario Kart 9, as well as what games would make for perfect circuit fodder. Just imagine, for example, a track based on Paper Mario that captures its playful paper-y style and sense of humor. The recent re-release of A Thousand Year Door – aka one of thebest GameCube gamesof all time – provides the perfect excuse to design a course around the classic RPG, and it would undoubtedly be a real delight to speed through. Some of the biggest upcoming Switch games we know about, such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, also beg to be paid homage to on the tarmac. I mean, a track themed around Samus and the Metroid series?Yes please.

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And what about everyone’s favorite pink puffball Kirby? With so many games under his belt, there’s no end of possibilities when it comes to designing a racetrack that pays homage to one of Nintendo’s most beloved characters. So much fun could be had incorporating his signature copy abilities in the item boxes, or working in some of the famous foes in Kirby’s platforming adventures. Heck, if I had it my way, Kirby would also be a new racer, complete with a little star car modelled after his own racing game, Air Ride. I could go on and on with ideas, with everything from Pokemon to Pikmin and Starfox to Fire Emblem, which just speaks to how much fun Nintendo could and should have with its tracks in the next installment.

Honestly, I’m still kind of reeling over the fact that Mario Kart 9 could finally speed onto consoles in the future. It’s been such a long time since we’ve had a new instalment, with Mario Kart 8 originally coming out all the way back in 2014 on the Wii U. After it got the Deluxe port over to the Switch some years later, 48 additional tracks have since been added to round out the experience, with nostalgic circuits and more recent racetracks plucked from various Mario Kart iterations across console generations. As my go-to game to play with my sister, I’ve lost count of the amount of hours I’ve sunk into the racer over the years.

But even if Mario Kart 8 continues to be one of thebest racing gamesaround, a new entry feels well overdue, and I can’t think of a better way to kick things off for the Switch 2. If that does end up happening, as the recent trailer seems to suggest, I hope we see Nintendo seize the opportunity to make the most of its history and iconic series in whatever Mario Kart 9 ends up being. If more tracks like Hyrule Circuit come our way, you better believe I’ll be revving up my engine to be the first one at the starting line of the new entry.

The Nintendo Switch 2 has been revealed, here’s everything we know so far

Expect to get the full lowdown during a Nintendo Direct on April 2.

Nintendo

As the world turns, so do the console generations. The Nintendo Switch is over seven years old, so it’s due for a refresh. Nintendo Switch 2 rumors have been swirling for years, but now we have some signs of life. The company officially revealed the sequel to its most successful home console ever in a brief trailer on January 16.

The Switch 2 looks functionally very similar to the original system, albeit with a larger display, magnetic Joy-Cons and a sleeker design. The company also reaffirmed that the upcoming console will be backwards compatible with Switch games.

While the reveal did confirm some rumors and have a few interesting details for those who were paying close attention, Nintendo is still largely keeping its cards close to its chest. We’ll have to wait until a special Nintendo Direct on April 2 for all the juicy information. Annoyingly, that date is a Wednesday and not a Two-sday.

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The Nintendo Switch 2 was announced on January 16

Nintendo Switch 2 – First-look trailer

The rumor mill had heavilysuggested that Nintendo would pull back the curtain on the Switch 2 on January 16, and that turned out to be the case.

The company hasn’t changed the core form factor. It’s a portable console with detachable Joy-Cons. The Switch 2 can be placed in a dock for big-screen gaming. There are some significant differences from the original console, however.

The most obvious one is that the next-gen Joy-Cons will no longer slide into place mechanically. Instead, they’ll attach to the main unit magnetically. There is a small connector that’s likely used to charge the controllers and perhaps remove the need to link them via Bluetooth. It’s unclear at this point if Joy-Cons from the original system will be compatible with the Switch 2.

One other big (and very welcome) change is the addition of a second USB-C port on the top of the device. That should make it much easier to plug in accessories while the Switch 2 is docked. It’s great to see that Nintendo has kept the headphone jack as well. Let’s just hope that Bluetooth headphone support is live from the jump this time and Nintendo doesn’t leave everyonewaitingfour years for that feature.

The kickstand is getting an upgrade as well. As with the Switch OLED, it spans the length of the console. But, according to the trailer, this one looks fully adjustable, so you can tweak the viewing angle to one that works for you.

However, there are still a great many unknowns regarding the upcoming console. We don’t really know the specs yet, or what type of display it uses. We also don’t know anything about battery life, the UI or launch games. We’ll likely learn a whole lot on April 2.

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When willthe Nintendo Switch 2come out?

2025. That’s all we know for sure at this point.

It’s highly unlikely that Nintendo will release the console before the dedicated Direct on April 2, and not only because that’s at the start of Nintendo’s next financial year. However, accessory manufacturer Genki, which has been a major source of leaks in recent months,claims the console will be released in April.

In any case, we should learn the release date during the April 2 Direct if we haven’t already by then.

When can I try the Nintendo Switch 2?

Nintendo is planning a worldwide roadshow to let gamers go hands-on with the console. These events start in New York and Paris on April 3-6, with others taking place throughout the following two months. That lends credence to some suggestions that Nintendo will release the Switch 2 in June.

Ticket registration for the Switch 2 Experience events in the US (in New York, Los Angeles and Paris)starts on January 17 at 3PM ETand will remain open until January 26. A Nintendo Account is required to sign up. Nintendo will randomly select the recipients of the free tickets.

The full list of Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events is as follows:

North America:

  • New York, April 4-6, 2025
  • Los Angeles, April 11-13, 2025
  • Dallas, April 25-27, 2025
  • Toronto, April 25-27, 2025

Europe:

  • Paris, April 4-6, 2025
  • London, April 11-13, 2025
  • Milan, April 25-27, 2025
  • Berlin, April 25-27, 2025
  • Madrid, May 9-11, 2025
  • Amsterdam, May 9-11, 2025

Oceania:

  • Melbourne, May 10-11, 2025

Asia:

  • Tokyo (Makuhari), April 26-27, 2025
  • Seoul, May 31-June 1, 2025
  • Hong Kong, To be announced
  • Taipei, To be announced

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Will the Nintendo Switch 2 have some weirdness?

Everything we’ve seen and so far about this console has been fairly, well, traditional. It looks like the original Switch, but better. That’s awesome, but will there be any of that unpredictable Nintendo magic? Maybe! There are two puzzling additions that folks can’t make hide nor hair of.

Keen eyes will have noticed a new button on the bottom of the right Joy-Con. It it not yet clear what this does. Could it initiate voice chat during gameplay? Could it calibrate the controllers? Could it create a room-sized hologram of Bowser in your living room? We’ll have to wait and see.

Now onto the updated Joy-Cons. There appears to be a new sensor on the connecting side of each controller. It looks awhole lot like an optical sensor, which is what a computer mouse uses. This has led to speculation that players will be able to flip the Joy-Con over and use it like a mouse. Of note: the trailer shows the Joy-Cons moving along a flat surface, connector side down and looking suspiciously like a mouse.

But why would anyone even want this? I can think of three words. NewMario Paint.

Isthe Nintendo Switch 2backwards compatible?

The company confirmed in November 2024 that theNintendo Switch 2 will be backwards compatible.It will also feature access to Nintendo Online, so users will be able to play all of those old retro titles.

In the initial Nintendo Switch 2 press release, Nintendo reiterated that physical and digital Switch games will work on the new system. However, it noted that “certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2.” More details about which games those are will be revealed later.

What about specs?

The rumors regarding specs are all over the place, so it’s tough to pin down. We know one thing for sure: It’ll be more powerful than the ancient Switch hardware, which was already antiquated back in 2017. One analyst allegedly got a hold of a spec sheet from theKorean United Daily Newsthat said the Switch 2would boast an eight-core Cortex-A78AE processor, 8GB of RAM, and 64GB of internal eMMC storage. This tracks for me, as these specs are about as underpowered in 2024 as the original Switch was in 2017. However, some reportsdo indicate that the consolewill include 12GB of RAM.

Another source suggests that the eight-core CPU will be packaged inside an NVIDIA-producedTegra239 SoC (system on a chip). Given the current Switch runs on an NVIDIA chip, that makes a lot of sense. The CPU will be more powerful, but it’s the Switch 2’s new GPU that will be a major differentiator. It’s all-but-confirmed that the Switch 2 will support DLSS, NVIDIA’s “deep learning supersampling” upscaling tech, which would allow the console to render games at a low resolution internally while outputting a high-resolution image. (Fun fact: We actually wrote abouthow perfect DLSS was for the Nintendo Switch 2when the technology was announced alongside the RTX 20 series back in 2018.)

There are still questions about the Switch 2 and DLSS: Will the system supportnewer DLSS features like frame generation? Will existing games be automatically tidied up by NVIDIA’s algorithm? Regardless of the exact implementation, DLSS upscaling will be a huge leap over the rudimentary techniques available to Nintendo Switch developers.

As for the display, there are many conflicting rumors. Early reports from solid sources suggested the Switch 2 would have an 8-inch display LCD display. The Switch 2’s display certainly looks larger than that of the original Switch in a side-by-side comparison in the reveal trailer.

Some analysts have suggested this would be an OLED screen, while others have said it would be aMini-LED display. A Mini-LED display is basically an LCD display that has a backlight made of (surprise!) mini-LEDs rather than edge lighting. This allows for local dimming, making the blacks more black. I’m hedging my bets here. I think it’ll be a standard LCD, to cut costs, with an OLED or Mini-LED model coming later down the line. However, Mini-LED screens are slightly cheaper than OLED displays, so that’s certainly a possibility at launch.

As for resolution, recent reporting suggests that the console will output 1080p in handheld and 4K when docked. That’s much better than the OG Switch. Meanwhile, it’s not yet clear if the Switch 2 will deliver performance or visual upgrades to original Switch games.

How much will the Nintendo Switch 2 cost?

We don’t have too much information regarding price but we do have plenty of history to work with. The original Nintendo Switch launched at $300, which is pretty much the “magic number” when it comes to Nintendo console releases in recent years. The Wii U also came in at $300.

However, there are plenty of rumors circulating that Nintendo could be upping the asking price for the Switch 2. Numerous outletshave reported it’ll be $400, or potentially even more expensive. However, the same analysts who say the console will be $400 were also fairly certain it would be out by the end of 2024 and, well, that didn’t happen.

Dipping back into history, there is some precedence for a price uptick. The GameCube was $200 and the Wii was $250. The Wii U and Switch increased to $300 and, well, numbers like to go up. A $400 price tag would make it nearly as expensive as a PS5 and Xbox Series X. That would also put it at the same price as the 256GB LCD Steam Deck.

Again, we should get confirmation of the price during the April 2 Nintendo Direct.

Do we know about any launch games?

Mario Kart 9 Leak Reveals Release Date Surprise

Not so much. The reveal trailer offered a peek at a new Mario Kart game. Nintendo releasedMario Kart 8on the Wii U over a decade ago and it’s been milking that cash cow ever since, having sold more than 64 million copies of the game across that console and the Switch. It’s definitely time for a new entry!

It’s certainlybeen a long time sincewe’ve gotten a proper 3D Mario adventure as well, so a new one could be a launch title. That would be one heck of a system seller. Other than that, your guess is as good as mine. Past as prologue, we can expect something from Ubisoft and an off-the-wall title like1-2-Switch.

If there’s a gimmick or hook involved with the console, we’ll also get a game that takes advantage of that. A dual release ofMetroid Prime 4, just likeBreath of the WildandTwilight Princessbefore that, is also a possibility.

It’s all but nailed on that we’ll learn much more about the Switch 2 launch lineup during the April 2 Nintendo Direct. You’ll definitely want toset your Alarmofor that one.