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.

**Women in Gaming: Overcoming Obstacles and Honoring Achievements**

The experience of women in the gaming sector has been characterized by challenges and victories, mirroring wider societal changes in gender equality. Traditionally, women have encountered barriers in education, the workplace, and even within gaming communities. Nevertheless, the environment is slowly transforming, with an increasing number of women discovering their roles and voices in this vibrant domain.

In the early stages, women in gaming frequently faced doubt and discrimination. Pursuits like gaming were regarded as childish, and career options were scarce. Yet, those who endured paved the path for subsequent generations. Nowadays, women are not just participating but excelling in diverse positions within the field.

Gameforge, a prominent gaming firm, exemplifies this encouraging transition. Discussions with Gameforge staff Yuka Chen, Sarah Müller, and Johanna Gielen reveal the nurturing and inclusive atmosphere the company cultivates. These women have established successful careers, contributing to game development, localization, and community engagement.

Yuka Chen, a software engineer, stresses the significance of enthusiasm and genuineness. Although she was the only woman on her team at first, she discovered a friendly culture at Gameforge. Her progression from a computer science scholar to a pivotal figure in backend development illustrates the potential for women in technical positions.

Sarah Müller, Head of Localization, recounts her journey from a community manager to heading a department. Her narrative highlights the increasing acknowledgment of women’s contributions and the necessity of creating environments where varied voices are acknowledged.

Johanna Gielen, a Community Manager, emphasizes the importance of confidence and respect. Her experiences demonstrate a wider industry trend towards equality and teamwork. Gameforge’s dedication to cultivating an equitable work environment has played a crucial role in her positive journey.

While obstacles continue to exist, the advancements are unmistakable. Women like Yuka, Sarah, and Johanna are not only thriving but also motivating others to explore careers in gaming. Their counsel to aspiring women is straightforward: remain authentic, embrace growth, and seek supportive communities.

The gaming industry, once regarded as a male-centric domain, is transforming. Women are now essential to its development and creativity. As more companies emphasize diversity and inclusion, the prospect appears bright for women in gaming. The journey may still present challenges, but the road is increasingly adorned with opportunities for those who dare to aspire and shatter ceilings.

The Steam Summer Sale 2025 has commenced, and as in previous years, the annual discount event for Steam software showcases incredible games at fantastic prices.

If you haven’t yet caught wind of it, the Steam Summer Sale is currently active. For those unfamiliar, the Steam Summer Sale is a promotion on the Steam platform that allows gamers to purchase software for a fraction of the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). This sale is also one of the most significant platform promotions of the year, aside from the chilly holiday period, providing players with a reason to remain indoors during the summer heat. These discounts are an excellent opportunity to tackle game backlogs while keeping finances intact.

This year’s sale runs from June 27 to July 10, and there’s a multitude of titles that have been significantly reduced from their typical prices. CGMagazine’s review of Monster Hunter Wilds describes it as “a conflicting experience, but it was consistently the only game I wanted to play, even after I finished reviewing it,” highlighting its positive reception. During the sale, this Capcom-developed game is priced at $55.99 (a 20% discount), allowing fans to take advantage before the arrival of the second free title update.

In addition to Monster Hunter Wilds, the Steam Summer Sale of 2025 offers discounts on Game of the Year nominees such as Kojima Productions’ original Death Stranding and Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, providing both variety and quality options for gamers. Below are some remarkable deals from the sale that are hard to ignore.

Steam Summer Sale 2025: Top Deals

Deep Discounts

– Star Wars Jedi: Survivor – $13.99
– EA FC 25 – $13.99
– Need For Speed Unbound – $9.79
– Immortals of Aveum – $8.99
– House Flipper – $2.49
– Crash Bandicoot: N’Sane Trilogy – $3.99
– Jurassic World Evolution 2 – $2.99
– Red Dead Redemption 2 – $14.99

Critically Acclaimed Savings

– Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth – $41.99
– Final Fantasy XVI – $32.49
– Spider-man 2 – $47.99
– Monster Hunter Wilds – $55.99
– Blue Prince – $25.49
– Baldur’s Gate 3 – $47.99
– Phasmophobia – $14.99
– Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – $44.99

More Steals

In addition to the discounts mentioned above, the Steam Summer Sale 2025 will continue until July 10, allowing fans to explore the extensive array of sales available directly on the storefront here.

At Game Con Canada, the unexpected highlight was an open dialogue with Steven Ogg, an actor celebrated for his portrayals of tough characters such as Simon in “The Walking Dead,” Mean Joe Lean in “Dark Match,” Rebus in “Westworld,” and most notably, Trevor in “GTA V.” In contrast to his rugged on-screen roles, Ogg shared a profound admiration for acting, art, and Canadian musician Dallas Green. This adaptability in his skill set emphasizes his capability to inhabit various characters, a talent he attributes to the essence of acting itself, underscoring, “It’s acting…It’s not documentaries.”

Ogg’s attendance at Game Con Canada was facilitated by a personal invite from his friend Aleks Paunovic, reflecting the bond they forged during their collaboration on “Snowpiercer.” Ogg conveyed a preference for engaging in conventions across Canada, considering it a return to his origins and a source of inner tranquility. His recent journeys included a “Walking Dead” family reunion in Europe, highlighting the strong connections he forged with his co-stars.

In contemplating his career, Ogg shared thoughts on the acting industry, pointing out the myths regarding actors’ financial status and the complications brought about by industry strikes. Despite these challenges, he remains thankful for his profession, finding happiness in literature and reading, which he regards as an essential component of his existence. Ogg’s enthusiasm for language and art influences his creative process, where music, especially from Dallas Green, plays a significant role in influencing his performances.

Ogg’s engagement with fans at conventions unveils an unexpected facet of his career: the resonance of his work on people’s lives. He shared poignant moments with fans who recounted personal narratives, demonstrating the deep impact his roles have had beyond mere entertainment. This connection with audiences, combined with his sincere appreciation for his profession, shapes Ogg’s outlook on both his work and life.

In conclusion, Steven Ogg’s presence at Game Con Canada provided insight into the individual behind the roles, unveiling an artist profoundly dedicated to his craft and grateful for the relationships cultivated through his work. His musings on acting, literature, and personal connections sketch a depiction of an actor who cherishes authenticity and emotional richness, both in front of and behind the camera.

The Gayming Awards 2025, the sole LGBTQ+ video game awards event globally, is scheduled to debut worldwide on July 8. As the date approaches, organizers have revealed thrilling details to gear up fans for the festivities. Returning for its second edition, the Gayming Awards 2025 is set to be an incredible display of diversity and skill within the gaming community.

This year’s gala will feature a dynamic assortment of hosts, including DEERE, Milady Confetti, Morgan McMichaels, and Rebecca Heineman. DEERE, a celebrated drag queen and content creator, makes her way back to the stage with her distinctive mix of charm and gaming knowledge. Accompanying her is Milady Confetti, recognized for her promotion of inclusivity in gaming and geek culture. Morgan McMichaels, a renowned LGBTQ+ figure from RuPaul’s Drag Race, will contribute her unique touch to the occasion. Rebecca Heineman, a trailblazing game designer, will be recognized with the Gayming Icon Award for her significant impact on the industry.

Rebecca Heineman’s journey in gaming commenced in 1980 when she earned the title of the first national video game champion by clinching victory in a Space Invaders tournament. Her journey as a self-taught programmer and designer encompasses contributions to legendary games like The Bard’s Tale, Wasteland, and Wolfenstein 3D.

The Gayming Awards 2025 will also shine a light on the LGBTQ+ Streamer Rising Star Class of 2025, celebrating the up-and-coming queer content creators. This year’s class features Twitch streamers BoyeFran, Bvssykatdoll, Mynxie666, and WillJinkies, who will be awarded a prize package from sponsor Elgato along with additional rewards.

Robin Gray, Founder of Gayming Magazine & Gayming Awards, shared her enthusiasm for the event, vowing it to be the largest edition yet. With returning hosts, special guest Morgan McMichaels, and a theme song by Bentley, the showcase promises to be a notable celebration of LGBTQ+ accomplishments in gaming.

The Gayming Awards 2025 will debut on Tuesday, July 8, exclusively on WOW Presents Plus. Fans can find additional details by visiting the official website.

**FBC: Firebreak’s Launch and Perk System Revamp**

FBC: Firebreak has created a remarkable effect with its debut, attracting 1 million players. Nevertheless, the game has faced some hurdles, especially with its intricate perk system. Remedy Entertainment is working on these issues with forthcoming revisions intended to improve player enjoyment.

In a recent post on Steam, the developers described significant alterations to the Perk System, highlighting enhanced player autonomy and customization. The intent is to offer greater diversity and personalization choices for players’ Firebreakers.

Notable modifications consist of changes to the Perk economy, facilitating easier unlocking of perks. Certain Perk sets will become less expensive, while some may see price increases. While the total duration to unlock all perks remains constant, players will experience earlier access to the resonance system across a wider selection of perks.

The post elucidates the mechanics of the Perk system: players utilize Lost Assets and Research Samples to acquire perks, which can be upgraded from Level 1 to Level 3. Higher-tier perks take up more slots in the nine-perk inventory.

The Resonance System, a sophisticated component, enables fully upgraded perks to aid nearby teammates. This mechanism promotes collaboration by allowing players to share loadout enhancements and recharge their Resonance Shield more rapidly when close to allies.

Additional information and complete patch notes will be shared next week. FBC: Firebreak is accessible on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

With the immense popularity of the Final Fantasy Universes Beyond still at a fever pitch, Wizards of the Coast takes advantage of the momentum for MTG x Sonic the Hedgehog, a partnership that introduces the SEGA icon to Magic: the Gathering.

Magic: the Gathering continues the wave of crossovers, and following the inclusion of Deadpool, Sponge-Bob, and Final Fantasy in SecretLair, they’ve re-opened the lair for an upcoming MTG x Sonic the Hedgehog three-set SecretLair release. Wizards of the Coast has disclosed that the release will consist of three distinct sets, and as has become standard with recent SecretLair releases, one set will showcase a brand-new unique card featuring the Blue Blur himself, while the other sets will include notable reprints from the existing Magic: the Gathering roster.

## MTG x Sonic the Hedgehog Card List

**Secret Lair x Sonic: Friends & Foes** – $39.99 for non-foil, $49.99 for foil versions

– 1x Super State
– 1x Knuckles the Echidna
– 1x Amy Rose
– 1x Dr. Eggman
– 1x Miles “Tails” Prower
– 1x Shadow the Hedgehog
– 1x Sonic the Hedgehog

**Secret Lair x Sonic: Turbo Gear** – $29.99 for non-foil, $39.99 for foil versions

– 1x The Reaver Cleaver as “Knuckles’s Gloves”
– 1x Swiftfoot Boots as “Air Shoes”
– 1x Myr Battlesphere as “Egg Hammer”
– 1x Hammer of Nazahan as “Piko Piko Hammer”
– 1x Lightning Greaves as “Power Sneakers”
– 1x Weatherlight as “Tornado, Sonic’s Biplane”
– 1x Myr token as “Egg Pawn”

**Secret Lair x Sonic: Chasing Adventure** – $29.99 for non-foil, $39.99 for foil versions

– 1x Generous Gift
– 1x Open the Armory
– 1x Fabricate
– 1x Deadly Dispute
– 1x Unexpected Windfall
– 1x Sol Ring
– 1x Treasure token

All of the MTG x Sonic the Hedgehog releases will be accessible at MagicSecretLair.com starting on July 14, 2025, at precisely 12:00 p.m. EST. Recently, acquiring Magic: the Gathering SecretLair drops has become challenging, as fans have grown frustrated with the ‘queue’ system Wizards of the Coast continues to utilize for SecretLair. Fans eager to secure the new Sonic the Hedgehog drop should visit the site promptly on July 14 before the release commences to maximize their chances, although Final Fantasy forum testimonies have cast doubt over the overall experience.

It has been four months since Capcom’s *Monster Hunter Wilds* debuted, and today marks the announcement of the second free update, adding additional content to the game.

The Forbidden Lands have become even wilder. Capcom announced that they are releasing yet another free title update for *Monster Hunter Wilds* during their [Capcom Spotlight Digital Showcase](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/everything-shown-at-the-capcom-spotlight-digital-showcase/) this morning, featuring new weaponry, new quests, a new support hunter, and of course, new colossal creatures to hunt down. The update includes a trailer that highlights all that Hunters can expect to face, available for viewing below.

The *Monster Hunter Wilds* free title update adds two gigantic new beasts to pursue. The Leviathan, Lagiacrus, has emerged in The Forbidden Lands; this enormous serpent is a sovereign of the sea and scorches the surrounding waters by releasing intense currents of electricity to harm players. This challenge can be taken on by achieving HR 31 after completing the “A World Turned Upside Down” main quest and the “Forest Doshaguma” side mission.

The second free title update for *Monster Hunter Wilds* introduces hunters to a new hunt featuring the aerial wyvern, Seregios. Seregios is a nimble flying monster that shoots sharp blade scales, causing bleeding status on hunters and compelling even the most experienced hunters to manage battling a formidable foe while utilizing replenishment items. Quests to hunt Seregios become available to hunters at HR 31 or higher, with the prerequisite being the completion of the “A World Turned Upside Down” main mission.

The free title update 2 for *Monster Hunter Wilds* also [enhances](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/monster-hunter-wilds-event-quest-schedule/) character customization, unveiling the new Layered Weapon system, which allows players to adopt the appearance of any weapon while retaining the statistics and abilities of another. Each Layered Weapon can be unlocked by crafting the final weapon in that particular weapon’s upgrade path. Artian Weapons can also serve as layered weapons by fully reinforcing a Rarity 8 Artian weapon and applying the layered design. Lastly, for weapons that change appearance upon upgrading, Layered Weapons grant players the flexibility to use any design within that weapon’s upgrade tree.

The [free title update](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/palworld-tides-of-terraria-update-patch/) arrives at a time when *Monster Hunter Wilds* is experiencing a surge of negative reviews on the [Steam](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2246340/Monster_Hunter_Wilds/) platform, with fans criticizing the game for performance problems and the absence of new monsters and endgame content. Players have turned to [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/gaming/comments/1lg5ptd/monster_hunter_wilds_reviews_hit_overwhelmingly/) to voice their concerns, highlighting that the title’s performance has deteriorated since its launch.

What was initially a favorable reception has shifted dramatically into negative territory, with recent Steam reviews indicating an “Overwhelmingly Negative” sentiment from over 13,000 fans. One Reddit comment states, “Can’t argue with performance. I just stopped playing because of all the frame drops and crashing,” which led to a reply of “Same Here.”

The second free title update for *Monster Hunter Wilds* could not arrive sooner for frustrated fans, launching on June 30. Further details can be found in the official [PlayStation Blog post](https://blog.playstation.com/2025/06/26/monster-hunter-wilds-second-free-title-update-brings-fierce-new-monsters-and-more-june-30/) concerning the free update.

With Summer Game Fest now behind us and numerous significant announcements on the horizon, Capcom delighted fans with a concise Digital Showcase that revealed some insights into its newly announced titles. Here’s a brief summary of everything presented during the Capcom Spotlight Digital Showcase.

## Pragmata

In an unusual and alarming trailer, Capcom commenced the showcase by offering the first glimpse at its brand new IP *Pragmata*. The trailer showcased a detailed view of the game’s distinctive combat system, which demands a challenging mix of hacking mini-games and third-person shooting. While no release date was specified, *Pragmata* is set to debut on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S in 2026.

## First Look At Sagat in Street Fighter 6

To initiate Season 3, the legendary Sagat will be added to the character roster in *Street Fighter 6*. Accompanied by his recognizable fallen Buddha stage aesthetic and exclusive Tiger fighting style, Sagat will also appear in World Tour. In celebration, Capcom plans to launch the “Sagat Arrives Fighter Pass” on July 4th, 2025. Sagat will make his debut in *Street Fighter 6* on Aug 5th, 2025.

## Resident Evil: Requiem

Capcom unveiled more gameplay from the upcoming main entry in the *Resident Evil* series—*Resident Evil: Requiem*. The game directors elaborated extensively on the central theme for the game, which is “Addictive Fear,” along with how they evolved Grace as a character and the development of Raccoon City. The game will offer both Third-Person and First-person perspectives, allowing players to engage with the horror in a manner that best suits their preferences. *Resident Evil: Requiem* is set to release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S on Feb 27th, 2026.

## Monster Hunter Wilds Showcase

Capcom presented a new trailer for the latest addition to *Monster Hunter Wilds*—the formidable Lagiacrus, along with enhanced underwater actions that felt thematically akin to combat in *Monster Hunter 3 Tri*. Additionally, Seregios will be joining the Wilds for players to hunt. Players can also face off against an Arch-tempered Uth Duna. This accompanied a new partnership with Fender to introduce guitar-based emotes, the addition of Layered Weapons, the new seasonal event Festival of Accord: Flamefete, and much more. The next title update is scheduled to be released on June 30th, 2025.

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is commemorating an extraordinary achievement this year as it reaches its 50th anniversary. In line with the celebrations, TIFF 2025 has revealed its initial five world premieres, ensuring an exhilarating lineup for cinema lovers this September. Renowned for its worldwide cultural insight and artistic brilliance, TIFF has been a foundational element of the film sector for half a century.

Cameron Bailey, the CEO of TIFF 2025, conveyed enthusiasm regarding the festival’s Official Selection, emphasizing the creativity and passion that have defined TIFF throughout the years. Among the first five films unveiled is “Mile End Kicks,” directed by Canadian filmmaker Chandler Levack. The narrative revolves around Grace Pine, a young music critic from Toronto, as she explores life and romance in Montreal.

Accompanying “Mile End Kicks” are four additional world premieres: “The Captive” by Alejandro Amenábar from Spain/Italy, “The Christophers” by Steven Soderbergh from the UK, “Good News” by Sung-hyun Byun from South Korea, and “Hedda” by Nia DaCosta from the USA. These features showcase the variety and international essence that TIFF is celebrated for.

Alongside these premieres, the festival will kick off with “John Candy: I Like Me.” TIFF 2025 will take place at prestigious venues such as the TIFF Lightbox, Roy Thomson Hall, and various other distinguished sites throughout Toronto.

The 50th iteration of TIFF will occur from September 4 to September 14, 2025. The TIFF Tribute Awards Gala is set for September 7, 2025, at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. The complete festival lineup will be unveiled on August 12, with tickets going on sale to the public starting August 25. For further details, fans can check the official TIFF 2025 website.