Before *Monster Hunter World*, the franchise was akin to that eccentric yet brilliant relative at family gatherings — intense, niche, and perpetually discussing the art of crafting trousers from wyvern hide. It had devoted followers, certainly, but it hardly made a splash on the mainstream scene beyond Japan. Engaging with it required real dedication: mastering complex systems, tolerating clunky controls, and pretending to enjoy loading screens every few paces. But then *World* emerged, flung the door wide open, and proclaimed, “What if we made it *actually enjoyable to play*?”

And somehow, without simplifying it, Capcom succeeded.

## The Monster Hunter Overhaul (Without the Identity Crisis)

*Monster Hunter World* accomplished the unimaginable: it made the franchise approachable. Not easy, not superficial — merely comprehensible. Out of nowhere, there were tutorials that elucidated concepts without sounding like a tax guide. The maps had no loading areas. The weapons, while still delightfully bizarre, now clearly communicated their functions. And cooperative play didn’t necessitate a dissertation and a blood agreement.

If you purchased a *Monster Hunter World* Steam code, you likely experienced this equilibrium instantly. You weren’t being spoon-fed, but you also weren’t being launched off a cliff by a complex control scheme before learning how to consume a potion. It honored your time *and* your inquisitiveness — a rare combination in gaming, or life, honestly.

## Larger Beasts, Broader Appeal

Let’s discuss the monsters. They weren’t merely boss encounters — they were intense, unscripted occurrences. Witnessing a Rathalos swoop down mid-hunt and sabotage your strategy isn’t a glitch; it’s a characteristic. The game’s interactive ecosystem transformed every confrontation into a chaotic wildlife documentary, assuming the creatures were 30 feet tall and occasionally ablaze.

And that’s what captivated players — the spectacle. The *essence* of it all. You didn’t need extensive experience with the series to realize that using a ten-foot katana to conquer a lava dinosaur was awesome. It was immediate, visceral, and oh yes, online. Suddenly, your casual gamer friend could jump into your session and yell alongside you as a Nergigante reduced your tactics to tattered armor.

## The Hub Became the Social Spot

What was once menus transformed into spaces. *World’s* gathering hub was vibrant, inviting, and oddly filled with cats (as it should be). Between hunts, you weren’t simply adjusting loadouts — you were indulging in adorable animated meals, performing silly emotes, and showcasing your layered armor as if it were Paris Fashion Week for lizard slayers.

This social element converted grinding into a communal experience. Hunting didn’t feel like a chore because everything surrounding it was so refined and atmospheric. Even the crafting mechanism felt like a gratifying loop rather than a spreadsheet simulator. And for returning gamers, the enhancements weren’t betrayals — they were long-awaited love letters.

## From Niche to Worldwide

*Monster Hunter World* wasn’t merely an enhancement — it was an epiphany. It deciphered the formula for remaining faithful to a cherished concept while welcoming a wider audience. It didn’t trade depth for broad appeal; it simply conveyed itself more effectively.

And now, what was once a cult phenomenon is among Capcom’s top-selling titles. So, the next time someone asserts “accessibility ruins games,” remind them: *Monster Hunter World* broadened its audience without compromising its essence. And it achieved this one magnificent, thunderous, ecosystem-shaking behemoth at a time.

In a startling development regarding the recent layoffs impacting Microsoft employees, yet another studio has regrettably found itself on the list of cuts.

As reported by Windows Central, sources informed the outlet earlier today that, in addition to the cancellation of Rare’s upcoming IP Everwild, The Initiative—the studio responsible for the latest installment in the Perfect Dark franchise—will also be shutting down, with its project being cancelled as well. Windows Central has now confirmed this information.

An internal message from Xbox Game Studios leader Matt Booty was shared with Windows Central, stating: “We have reached the decision to halt the development of Perfect Dark and Everwild, as well as phase out several unannounced projects throughout our portfolio. Consequently, we are closing one of our studios, The Initiative.” Booty continued: “These choices, alongside various changes across our teams, signify a wider initiative to realign priorities and direct resources to better equip our teams for enhanced success amid a shifting industry landscape.”

As per Windows Central, one of the “unannounced projects” was ZeniMax’s anticipated MMORPG named Blackbird, which was expected to follow in the footsteps of The Elder Scrolls Online. Citing their informants, Windows Central disclosed that all content presented during the recent Xbox Showcase in June is “secure.” Nevertheless, Kotaku’s Ethan Gach has also indicated that Undead Labs, the studio behind State of Decay 3, has been impacted by layoffs.

These reductions are part of a wider layoff spree today, as Microsoft trimmed its workforce by four percent, which translates to around 228,000 employees. It’s a heartbreaking reduction that seemingly validates Microsoft Game Studios co-founder Laura Fryer’s recent video regarding Microsoft’s tumultuous business strategy. In 2023, Microsoft’s largest layoff involved roughly 10,000 individuals. The firm has laid off nearly 15,000 employees in 2025.

In a recently uploaded video on her YouTube channel, Laura Fryer, a veteran Xbox partner and executive producer on various Microsoft initiatives, conveyed her worries about Microsoft’s prevailing strategic choices. The video, shared on June 28th, 2025, emphasizes Fryer’s concerns regarding the company’s aspirations in hardware, recent mergers and shutdowns, and possible price increases, labeling Microsoft’s strategy as “disordered.”

Fryer particularly concentrated on the status of Xbox as Microsoft’s internal hardware, implying that the brand is essentially “no longer alive.” She talked about the collaboration between Xbox and ROG, especially the recently launched Xbox ROG Ally, sharing her apprehension that Xbox may be slowly withdrawing from the hardware sector. Fryer expressed, “I’m saddened because, from my viewpoint, it seems Xbox has no interest or simply cannot deliver hardware any longer.”

She raised doubts about the value offering of the Xbox ROG Ally, stressing that consumers require a strong incentive to invest in new hardware. Fryer reflected on the development of the original Xbox, observing that the Xbox ROG Ally may not entice buyers unless it competes well on price. Nonetheless, she was skeptical about this scenario, noting that the ROG Ally is merely a rebranded existing item, with its lowest variant priced at approximately $600. Fryer concluded that lowering the price is unlikely to be the element that motivates gamers to acquire the handheld.

Fryer also condemned Microsoft’s absence of attractive game exclusives, which she identifies as a vital factor for hardware purchases. She pointed out that numerous expected games, like “State of Decay 3,” “Perfect Dark,” and “Fable,” remain in the development phase without updates, despite being in the pipeline for over five years. Fryer candidly stated, “Xbox doesn’t do exclusives anymore,” and criticized the “Xbox Anywhere” project, suggesting it undermines the necessity for Xbox hardware as games can be accessed on other devices such as PC, PlayStation 5, or Nintendo Switch.

Fryer’s perspectives carry substantial weight given her vast experience in the industry. She was among the initial members of Microsoft Game Studios in 1995, held the position of Director of the Xbox Advanced Technology Group in 2000, and served as the General Manager of the Seattle Division of Epic Games in 2001. Her achievements include being recognized as one of The Hollywood Reporter’s “Top 12 Most Influential Women in Gaming” and one of Next Generation’s “Game Industry’s 100 Most Influential Women.”

Surgent Studios is creating considerable excitement within the gaming sector with their forthcoming psychological horror title, “Dead Take,” which will spotlight acclaimed video game actors Ben Starr and Neil Newbon in prominent roles. The revelation was made through a press release, emphasizing the studio’s partnership with these gifted performers. Fans will remember Ben Starr for his appearances in “Final Fantasy XVI” and “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33,” while Neil Newbon is recognized for his roles in “Detroit: Become Human” and “Baldur’s Gate 3.”

A recently unveiled teaser for “Dead Take” has heightened expectations, revealing the game’s unsettling ambiance and fascinating storyline. Set in an opulent yet isolated Hollywood Hills estate, players will take on the persona of an actor on a quest to locate a missing friend after an extravagant celebration. As players tackle escape-room-inspired challenges and assemble videos, they will reveal sinister secrets lurking beneath the glamorous surface of the entertainment industry.

Creative Director Abubakar Salim conveyed his excitement for the venture, highlighting the camaraderie and sincere authenticity that Starr and Newbon contributed to the project. Salim, who established Surgent Studios in 2020, aspires to expand the horizons of storytelling across diverse media platforms. The studio has already made its presence known with their award-winning short films and their debut video game, “Tales of Kenzera: ZAU,” which garnered nominations and honors at esteemed gaming ceremonies.

Although a precise release date for “Dead Take” has not yet been disclosed, the game is anticipated to debut this year on PC through Steam. As excitement mounts, fans are keenly looking forward to the chance to engage with the haunting narrative and outstanding performances that “Dead Take” is set to offer.

Walking into Summer Game Fest 2025, I anticipated the typical blend of intense trailers and eye-catching presentations. What I didn’t foresee was becoming utterly captivated by a stop-motion animated game centered on friendship and communication. *Out of Words*, the inaugural title from director Johan Oettinger and his team at Kong Orange, showcases something genuinely extraordinary in an industry frequently fixated on more grandiose, loud, and explosive engagements.

The game’s premise is deceptively straightforward, yet astonishingly relatable and moving. Players take control of Kurt and Karla, two best friends who unexpectedly find themselves whisked away to the enigmatic world of Vokabulantis after a moment of romantic tension leaves them literally speechless. Upon arriving in this peculiar realm, their mouths are entirely absent, compelling them to interact and tackle challenges purely through mutual cooperation and comprehension. Oh—and there’s a lovable new companion literally formed from their bond. There’s a great deal occurring here.

During my gameplay experience, the cooperative mechanics were both instinctive and emotionally impactful. It compels players to collaborate, and it’s this connection that renders everything remarkably fluid and distinctive. One particularly unforgettable moment situated both players within a colossal clay golem, with each controlling one of its gigantic hands as it attempted to pursue a tiny clay figure. It is both original and familiar, building on familiar concepts while introducing a co-op twist that necessitates communication. This kind of insightful metaphor permeates the experience, transforming what could have been straightforward puzzle-solving into something significantly more profound.

“Even from just watching the trailer for *Out of Words*, I was struck by how unique the game looked.”

While the gameplay does not revolutionize the genre, it provides enough for anyone to quickly grasp the essence of what’s transpiring. *Out of Words* achieves a fine equilibrium between accessibility and difficulty, allowing both newcomers and seasoned players to engage and uncover something extraordinary as they traverse the world.

Physics-defying puzzles necessitate genuine communication between players, whether they are exploring ancient catacombs or executing stunts amid the clay skyscrapers. One of the finest examples arises when players are tasked with manipulating gravity, requiring precise timing as one player falls normally while the other ascends towards the ceiling. These instances call for the type of unspoken comprehension that mirrors the game’s central theme: communication beyond words.

What truly resonated with me in *Out of Words* is the level of emotional depth the developers have infused into the experience, posing meaningful questions to the player without ever feeling like they are pushing a message or detracting from the gameplay. This isn’t a game about relationship-testing trials or competitive mechanics crafted to frustrate players. Instead, it emphasizes the real vulnerability that comes with expressing feelings for the first time. The *Alice in Wonderland*/*Wizard of Oz*–style descent that transports Kurt and Karla to Vokabulantis happens at the exact moment when they might have spoken something new to one another. It’s a metaphor that anyone who has struggled to articulate the right words will recognize instantly.

“*Out of Words* strikes a delicate balance between accessibility and challenge…”

Even from just viewing the trailer for *Out of Words*, I was impressed by how distinctive the game appeared. It intertwines the surreal, the humorous, and even the eerie into an experience that feels genuinely special, crafted by a team evidently thrilled to bring it to fruition. It very much resembles a passion project for everyone involved, and even from the brief time I spent with the game, I am eager to dive back in.

The technical accomplishment of translating stop-motion artistry into interactive entertainment cannot be emphasized enough. Cutscenes employ traditional stop-motion animation, while gameplay segments make use of those same handcrafted models to animate them through photogrammetry and light scanning. The seamless shift between these two techniques creates a unified visual language that feels both nostalgic and innovative.

*Out of Words* appears far more intricate than its charming exterior might imply. It tells a story about communication, vulnerability, and the bravery needed to express our most profound emotions. In a gaming landscape often ruled by conflict and competition, this lovingly crafted narrative offers something truly unique. When it debuts in 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via the Epic Games Store, it may redefine our expectations for cooperative gaming experiences, and I am keen for more people to engage with it and discover what it contributes to gaming.

A recent leak from the Alpha test of Battlefield 6 appears to affirm the comeback of one of the franchise’s most cherished online modes.

Shared on Twitter by an account named Rain—and on Reddit before moderators took it down—the video emphasizes the mode’s Attacker gameplay, highlighting the game’s destruction mechanics and an impressively smooth online experience (considering it’s an Alpha, at least).

The gameplay seems to originate from the Battlefield Labs Alpha Test, and it was not intended for public release, as the alpha requires players to agree not to distribute footage or details online. Nevertheless, this is just one of multiple leaks from the Alpha, as a video that surfaced in May featured former Battlefield producer David Goldfarb saying the game had “Bad Company 2 vibes.”

Many viewers who caught the footage on Twitter (X) expressed a blend of enthusiasm and doubt, with the leading comment stating, “How does it end up resembling MW2019 more each time something new leaks?” Others pointed out how firearms appear to have little recoil when fired and noted that movement speed seems significantly increased.

The anticipation for Battlefield 6 (which is not its confirmed name) has been quite extensive and challenging. A now-disproven “leak” claimed it was originally scheduled for reveal on June 9, 2021, with several subsequent leaks showcasing its ongoing development. Following Battlefield 1 and Battlefield V, which were set during WWI and WWII respectively, it has garnered praise from fans for its solid return to a more contemporary military shooter.

While definitive information from both DICE and EA regarding Battlefield 6 is sparse, or whatever it might be officially called, it is expected to release in March 2026. However, some have speculated that this could change with the launch of Grand Theft Auto VI in the same timeframe, yet CEO Andrew Wilson has assured that they do not plan on competing.

As we attempt to endure the relentless heatwave, Disney+ is set to roll out a plethora of new titles in Canada come July 2025, including *FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia* and *Washington Black*.

Enhancing Disney+’s extensive catalogue, the streaming platform is introducing fresh content for audiences to enjoy during the sweltering days, spanning genres from comedies to action-packed films and series. While you unwind this summer with bowls of tasty ice cream, viewers can look forward to the debut of *FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’s* 17th season, the *Transformer* series, *Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampire*, and much more.

With so much content set to arrive on Disney+ in July 2025, here are some key highlights for easy viewing.

## Born to be Viral: The Real Lives of Kidfluencers

After five years of filming, *Born to Be Viral: The Real Lives of Kidfluencers* reveals the offscreen lives of the first generation of children raised in the glare of social media. Throughout the documentary, the team aims to investigate the lengths families will go for likes and followers, and whether it will be worthwhile as the children grow older.

### FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

Since its debut in 2005, *FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia* returns to debut its 17th season, with The Gang continuing their pursuit of wealth and social status while managing their unsuccessful establishment, Paddy’s Pub. From visiting the Abbott Elementary school to organizing a slapping contest, what new plans will The Gang devise?

### Underdogs

Narrated by Ryan Reynolds, *Underdogs* spotlights the misfits of the animal world who typically don’t get the limelight. By highlighting their hidden abilities and questionable hygiene habits, the documentary honors the distinctive behaviors of these outcast animals.

### Washington Black

Inspired by the 2018 novel, *Washington Black* chronicles the journey of George Washington “Wash” Black, an eleven-year-old prodigy born on a sugar plantation in Barbados. After being compelled to escape due to an incident, Wash embarks on a global journey and must redefine his perspectives on family, freedom, and love. Although it is a daunting experience, Wash dreams of a brighter future ahead.

Check below for additional content debuting on Disney+ in July 2025.

## Arriving on Disney+ on July 1st

– *Critter Fixers: Country Vets* (Season 6, All Episodes)
– *Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights* (2004)
– *Marvel Television’s Ironheart* (New Episode, 6 PM PT / 9 PM ET)
– *Lost Treasures of Egypt* (Season 5, All Episodes)
– *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives: Reunion Special* (Season 2, New Episode)

## What’s coming to Disney+ from July 2 – 12

– July 2 – *ZOMBIES* (Sing-Along Version)
– July 2 – *ZOMBIES 2* (Sing-Along Version)
– July 2 – *ZOMBIES 3* (Sing-Along Version)
– July 4 – *Bob’s Burgers* (Season 15, New Episode)
– July 4 – *Criminal Minds* (Season 18, New Episode)
– July 4 – *Date Movie* (2006)
– July 4 – *Family Guy* (Season 23, New Episode)
– July 4 – *First Daughter* (2004)
– July 4 – *Just My Luck* (2006)
– July 4 – *Life or Something Like It* (2002)
– July 4 – *Our Movie* (New Episode)
– July 4 – *The Girl Next Door* (2004)
– July 5 – *Our Movie* (New Episode)
– July 6 – *Raging Bull Shark* (2020)
– July 6 – *Shark vs. Tuna* (2018)
– July 6 – *Sharkatraz* (2016)
– July 6 – *The Sharks of Hawaii* (2021)
– July 6 – *United Sharks of America* (2015)
– July 6 – *When Sharks Attack* (Season 4, All Episodes)
– July 6 – *World’s Biggest Great White?* (2019)
– July 8 – *Born to be Viral: The Real Lives of Kidfluencers* (All Episodes)
– July 9 – *People and Places – Camp Alec* (Short)
– July 9 – *People and Places – I Scream, You Scream* (Short)
– July 9 – *People and Places – The Academy* (Short)
– July 9 – *People and Places – Sophie and the Baron* (Short)

**Death Stranding 2: On The Beach – An In-Depth Exploration of Kojima’s Personal Imprints and Casting Decisions**

Hideo Kojima, famed for his distinctive narrative style and complex game mechanics, has once more infused his distinctive essence into his newest work, *Death Stranding 2: On The Beach*. Recognized for embedding a multitude of references to himself and his studio, Kojima has meticulously ensured that these aspects are incorporated into the game. In a translated conversation with Gamespark, Kojima amusingly stated, “I included all of these elements myself. Even if I told the team, ‘Please insert these,’ they would respond, ‘Huh?’ and feign ignorance.” He even went to the extent of featuring his likeness as a constellation in the night sky, admitting that “Some individuals might find it somewhat off-putting (laughs).”

Aside from these self-referential cues, Kojima has offered perspectives on his casting choices, particularly the scarce representation of Japanese actors in his titles, despite his studio being located in Tokyo. In a dialogue with IGN Japan, Kojima clarified the technical hurdles, stating, “It’s challenging to render Asians to resemble their actual CG versions.” He added, “Women and younger individuals especially display such an attractive, smooth complexion. Asians, and not merely Japanese individuals, are recognized for their beautiful, smooth skin, which often leads to a CG-like appearance.” However, Kojima emphasized the selection of Shioli Kutsuna as Rainy, highlighting her upbringing in Australia, fluency in English, and amiable nature as crucial factors in the choice.

Kojima has conveyed his continuous efforts to elevate the authenticity of character models, remarking, “I’ve attempted to utilize Japanese actors in the past, but it’s challenging to depict them accurately.” He pointed out that individuals with more defined facial characteristics tend to translate better in-game but expressed satisfaction with the advancements made utilizing new technology in *Death Stranding 2*. He remains hopeful for further improvements, stating, “Well, I aim to achieve even greater success next time.”

The game is abundant with whimsical references, featuring hats emblazoned with the company logo and a character named Dollman, who draws comparisons to the eclectic crew of *Moby Dick* and Kojima Studios. Players can also uncover a reference to singer Daichi Miura, which grants them a PlayStation trophy.

*Death Stranding 2: On The Beach* has received extensive critical acclaim. In a review, it was lauded for expanding upon its predecessor’s foundation, enhancing all elements that succeeded, and dramatically improving what did not. This sequel serves as a testament to Kojima’s groundbreaking vision and commitment to crafting engrossing gaming experiences.

The anime community makes its way back to Los Angeles for yet another year of festivities! The SPJA (Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation) has unveiled its comprehensive programming for Anime Expo 2025, showcasing prominent industry figures, esteemed guests, and various panels. Anime Expo 2025 is set to occur from July 3-6 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This year’s contributors facilitating this event include Aniplex of America, Arc System Works America, ATLUS/SEGA, Bandai Namco Entertainment, Crunchyroll, Funko, Hulu, KADOKAWA WORLD ENTERTAINMENT, INC, Konami, Netflix, Square Enix, Takaratomy, VIZ, Webtoon, and many more.

Launching the remarkable lineup of events and guests at Anime Expo 2025, the creative mind behind both FINAL FANTASY XIV and FINAL FANTASY XVI, Naoki Yoshida, will be a distinguished guest at the convention. The president of MAPPA Co., Ltd., Manabu Otsuka, along with Vice President Hiroya Hasegawa, will also be special guests, discussing Chainsaw Man—The Movie: Reze Arc and other related subjects.

The manga artist of The Summer Hikaru Died, Mokumokuren, will make an appearance to chat about the impending anime adaptation debuting on July 5th on Netflix. In addition, Netflix will showcase the premiere of SAKAMOTO DAYS Cour 2, Record of Ragnarok III, My Melody and Kuromi, along with additional surprises!

A multitude of significant events and panels will be held to honor some of the most popular anime series, like Jujutsu Kaisen, My Hero Academia, Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, among others. Anime Expo stands as one of the largest anime community gatherings worldwide, which is why the voice of Saitama, Makoto Furukawa, will share what One Punch Man enthusiasts can anticipate from Season 3. Moreover, the recently popular series, DAN DA DAN, will celebrate the premiere of Season 2 with Fuga Yamashiro from Science SARU and Abby Trott (Momo), A.J. Beckles (Okarun), & Aleks Le (Jiji) from the English voice cast. Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse as DAN DA DAN begins its second season.

Anime Expo 2025 also boasts an exhilarating SEGA and ATLUS panel that will reveal the behind-the-scenes narrative of Persona 5: The Phantom X’s creation. SEGA and ATLUS will celebrate its global launch with exclusive giveaways and a special live performance by Lyn Inaizumi, featuring original compositions from the Persona 5 series. On the gaming front, Konami will unveil SILENT HILL f—the latest installment in the SILENT HILL franchise, with producer Motoi Okamoto, writer Ryukishi07, and composer Akira Yamaoka each providing exclusive insights and never-before-seen clips from the game.

Spike Chunsoft Inc. will return to Anime Expo with an official panel focusing on its 2025 video game offerings, including No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES and SHUTEN ORDER. The panel will feature Director and Scenario Writer for No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES, Kazuya Yamada, along with the voice of Kaname Date, Greg Chun. This panel is scheduled for Saturday, July 5, at 10:30 AM PT, in the Diamond Ballroom. The company will be giving away a limited quantity of T-shirts at the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.

Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. is granting Anime Expo 2025 participants the opportunity to be among the first in the world to experience DIGIMON STORY TIME STRANGER and TOWA AND THE GUARDIANS OF THE SACRED TREE. The forthcoming PAC-MAN inspired 2D action game SHADOW LABYRINTH and the remaster of the beloved rhythm action-adventure series, PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY, will have their initial playable consumer demos at the event. Attendees will also step into the eerie world of the upcoming action RPG CODE VEIN II with a memorable photo opportunity, alongside playing various titles from Bandai Namco’s game collection. Explore all this at Booth #2106 in South Hall.

For the Hatsune Miku enthusiasts, the beloved rhythm game, HATSUNE MIKU: COLORFUL STAGE! will host a one-day fan meeting event exclusively at Anime Expo 2025. The gathering will feature a talk show with the voice actors from the game, musical performances, a special announcement, and more! Come meet special guests including the voices of Akito Shinonome, Toya A

With the launch of a new console arises the inevitable query regarding which accessories and peripherals are essential to grab alongside your shiny new system. The Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, and this truth resonates even more for the hybrid handheld, as you’ll want to equip it for outings.

Here are some of our top accessory picks for the Nintendo Switch 2:

One of the most noticeable enhancements you’ll observe with the Nintendo Switch 2 straight out of the box is its impressive 7.9” LCD display, which you’ll definitely want to safeguard during portable gaming sessions and also from frequent dock use, as it may be at risk for scratches or marks. There are numerous choices available when it comes to screen protectors, but one that stands out as both easy to apply and budget-friendly is the JSAUX Anti-Glare Screen Protector for the Nintendo Switch 2, which includes two glass screen protectors and a handy alignment tool that eliminates the guesswork during installation.

Naturally, if you’re willing to invest a bit more, another alternative that alleviates the worry of misapplication or bubbles underneath your brand-new Nintendo Switch 2 is another two-pack option, specifically the Spigen Tempered Glass Screen Protector. Like JSAUX’s offering, this also comes with an easy-fit installation and alignment tray that makes achieving a perfect fit a breeze every single time.

Depending on your location, the Nintendo Switch 2 retails at around $400+, making it essential to opt for a carrying case if you plan to take the handheld on the go, especially if, like me, you aim to bring along some physical games as well. For a comprehensive solution, Genki has you sorted with their Day 1 Kit, which includes screen protectors, a 36-game cartridge case, and what I received directly from Genki: their Attack Vector Modular case and Stealth case, featuring a sleek wool-covered grey design that complements the modern aesthetic of the Nintendo Switch 2.

While the Attack Vector case provides a detachable bracket for the Nintendo Switch 2 tablet to protect the back from scratches and smudges, it also comes with an integrated magnetic ring compatible with an upcoming portable battery, which will likely aid in addressing the Nintendo Switch 2’s mediocre battery life. Additionally, the Attack Vector modular case includes three distinct grips for your Joy-Con 2 controllers, adding three levels of weight to the base controllers, providing the perfect remedy for those seeking something more substantial in hand.

If you’re seeking a more rugged and less modular option, keep an eye out for the JSAUX Protective Case for the Nintendo Switch 2. This case offers durability with built-in slots for extra game cartridges, making it perfect for physical game collectors who also want the reassurance that your console is protected in case of a fall or bump.

Lastly, with all the added bulk of extra cases and accessories, a solid choice when taking your Nintendo Switch 2 out on lengthier trips is the System Organiser S2 from Snakebyte, which, much like the console itself, features a sleek modern design with various compartments ready to carry your Switch 2, docking station, all necessary cables, and additional controllers to ensure you’re ready to game away from home.

Nintendo has kindly permitted legacy controllers, including third-party options, to be compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2, meaning new accessories designed for Joy-Con 2 controllers hold just as much importance as legacy controllers intended for the original Nintendo Switch. This includes the newly released Rematch controller line from Turtlebeach, showcasing iconic Mario artistry that glows in the dark. More crucially, these controllers perform as well as OEM Switch Pro controllers while also incorporating new rear bumper buttons for extra remappable functionality.

Lastly, if you’re in a household with multiple individuals eager to engage with the Nintendo Switch 2’s motion controls, then the Snakebyte Twin Charge S2 charging dock for the Joy-Con 2’s presents a simple yet elegant solution for charging additional Joy-Con 2 controllers, enabling quick entry into a game of ARMs, one of the many titles launched alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 that received a performance patch to leverage Nintendo’s new hardware.

Despite its built-in 256GB storage, the Nintendo Switch 2 system can swiftly reach its storage limit due to games being larger on the new system and many releases now requiring the game Keycard method, which essentially obligates players to download the full game even when owning a cartridge, a situation that undeniably leads to the need for extra storage.