Gait Games

**Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Development Insights and Challenges**

Following its initial announcement in 2017, *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* has finally been released on the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 earlier this month. The game has received positive reviews, yet also encountered backlash from players concerning its open-world desert hub. Recent discussions in an interview with the development team at Retro Studios have illuminated the difficulties they encountered during the game’s development.

### The Shift Towards Open-World Design

The choice to adopt an open-world format in *Metroid Prime 4* was motivated by the success of games like *The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild*. An unnamed member of the Retro Studios team pointed out that the audience showed a preference for an open-world *Metroid* adventure. Nevertheless, the fundamental mechanics of the *Metroid* series—unlocking new areas by gaining abilities—are not seamlessly aligned with the free exploration typical of open-world titles.

To tackle this, the team decided on a restricted area that permits exploration while linking to other zones, forming what they described as a hub. However, this concept faced hurdles as development took longer than anticipated, and the original developers, Bandai Namco, were succeeded by Retro in 2019. Regrettably, by the time Retro assumed control, player opinions on open-world frameworks had already evolved, leading to a disparity between the developers’ goals and player expectations.

### Returning to the Drawing Board

Upon realizing that the open-world concept might not resonate with fans, the team confronted a pivotal choice. A complete project reset was considered “out of the question,” prompting them to continue with the existing design despite burgeoning dissatisfaction among players. Retro also recognized that the landscape of shooters and action titles had shifted towards faster-paced gameplay, yet they opted to maintain what they believed was a more calculated tempo appropriate for an adventure experience. According to the developers, the final product is a game that feels somewhat detached from modern gaming trends.

### Incorporating Player Movement Solutions

One of the more debated aspects of *Metroid Prime 4* is the introduction of a motorcycle named Viola. The inclusion of this feature arose from worries regarding player movement in the expansive open desert regions, where conventional character movement felt sluggish. Retro clarified that while Samus possesses high-speed capabilities, the motorcycle offered an intriguing method to traverse the vast environments swiftly and stylishly.

The designers felt that the bike would create a balance between the essential demands of exploration and the visual appeal of movement, ultimately improving the game’s pacing.

### Conclusion

While gaining insights into the decision-making processes and obstacles encountered during the development of *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond* is informative, it does not alter the feedback received from fans concerning the efficacy of the open-world hub. As players continue to evaluate the game, the insights gained from its development may shape future installments in the *Metroid* franchise and the broader action-adventure gaming environment.

**Assemble the Ultimate Holiday Package with the Samsung P9 Express microSD Card**

Everyone appreciates a fantastic gift package, particularly during the holiday period. If you’ve already bought a Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch 2 to give as a present, there’s still an opportunity to elevate your gift by incorporating the Samsung P9 Express microSD card. The 256GB variant is presently available on Amazon at a 40% markdown, but supplies are rapidly depleting.

### Exceptional Speed and Versatility

The P9 Express microSD card goes beyond being just a gaming accessory. While it’s perfect for expanding storage on popular handheld consoles such as the Switch 2 and Steam Deck, it also accommodates a wide range of devices including tablets, drones, and digital cameras. What makes it stand out is its remarkable transfer speed of up to 800 MB per second, which is four times quicker than standard Samsung microSD cards. This speed is essential for managing games and downloadable content, facilitating faster load times and smooth installations.

### Samsung: A Pioneer in Flash Memory

Samsung has maintained its status as the world’s premier flash memory brand since 2003, a fact often eclipsed by their extensive technology range. The P9 Express microSD card, which measures merely 0.59 by 0.43 inches and weighs less than one-hundredth of an ounce, delivers impressive performance. With its high sequential read speed of 800 MB/s, this microSD card revolutionizes the experience, ensuring that games and downloadable content are stored efficiently and securely.

### Engineered for Durability

While the speed is unquestionably a key benefit, the resilience of the P9 Express microSD card is equally impressive. Samsung has equipped this card with six protective features, making it incredibly robust. It functions in extreme temperature ranges from -13°F to 185°F, can be submerged in seawater for up to 72 hours, offers resilience against airport x-ray machines, withstands magnetic forces up to 15,000 gauss (comparable to a powerful MRI machine), survives drops from heights of up to 16.4 feet, and endures up to 10,000 swipes. This level of durability ensures it can handle the rigors of daily use in handheld gaming.

### An Ideal Gift Enhancement

The Samsung P9 Express microSD card not only serves as a useful stocking stuffer due to its broad compatibility, but it also amplifies the experience when combined with a handheld gaming console. With the current price set at $33 after a 40% discount on Amazon, it offers an excellent chance to not just enrich your gift package but also to provide the recipient with a dependable storage solution.

In summary, if you’re aiming to assemble an outstanding holiday present for a gamer, consider including the Samsung P9 Express microSD card in your package. Its speed, compatibility, and durability make it a remarkable addition that will undoubtedly impress.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6411/)

The holiday season is coming to a close, making it an ideal moment to consider if you received all that you desired. For those who possess a Switch or Switch 2, there remains an opportunity to indulge yourself with attractive sales on some of this year’s finest games available on the eShop. This encompasses not only the newest favorites but also older titles that warrant a place in any portable gaming collection.

Currently, Nintendo is not providing major discounts on its exclusive games. While well-known titles like *Mario Odyssey* and *New Super Mario Bros. Deluxe* have been marked down by $20, it’s probable that many gamers already have these timeless classics. Nonetheless, there are some significant discounts on Switch 2 titles, including *Street Fighter 6* for only $20 (50% off), *Star Wars Outlaws* at $40 (a $20 cut), and *Cyberpunk 2077* for $40 (reduced from $70).

For those who only have a Switch, here’s a list of the top deals currently up for grabs on the eShop for games that work on both consoles:

– **No Man’s Sky** – $24 (60% off)
– **Divinity: Original Sin 2** – $25 (50% off)
– **Hollow Knight: Silksong** – $16 (20% off)
– **Hades II** – $22.50 (25% off)
– **Ball x Pit** – $12 (20% off)
– **Prince of Persia The Lost Crown** – $12 (60% off)
– **Death’s Door** – $5 (75% off)
– **Hollow Knight** – $7.50 (50% off)
– **Hades** – $7.50 (70% off)
– **Baten Kaitos 1 & 2 HD Remaster** – $15 (70% off)
– **Tactics Ogre: Reborn** – $20 (60% off)
– **Monster Hunter Rise** – $8 (80% off)
– **Mega Man Legacy Collection** – $5 (66% off)
– **Final Fantasy VII** – $6.39 (60% off)
– **Sifu** – $10 (75% off)
– **Dead Cells** – $12.50 (50% off)

While the reductions on *Silksong* and *Hades 2* are not steep, they remain appealing considering their original prices. For newcomers, it would be wise to acquire the original titles—*Hades* and *Hollow Knight*—at a mere $7.50 each, both incredible bargains.

*Ball x Pit* offers a relaxed experience suited for casual gaming, whereas *No Man’s Sky* persistently broadens its universe with updates. The *Mega Man Legacy Collection* serves as an excellent way to prepare for the imminent launch of *Mega Man 12*.

A notable mention is *Divinity: Original Sin 2*, now at its lowest price ever and enjoying a free upgrade for Switch 2. It’s a perfect time to immerse yourself in this rich tactical RPG, paving the way for the next chapter in the series. Additionally, *Baten Kaitos 1 & 2 HD Remaster* is a beloved classic priced at only $15, making it essential for RPG fans. If you appreciated the *Final Fantasy Tactics* remaster, you might want to get *Tactics Ogre: Reborn*, which offers a comparably captivating experience.

As the season changes, these sales provide an excellent chance to enhance your gaming library at a fraction of the cost.

### A Late-Night Adventure in Detroit Metro Airport: The Pizza Cat Vending Machine Experience

Last week heralded an exhilarating journey to New York City, where I had the opportunity to visit the Kotaku office and engage with both current and ex-staff members. The experience in the city was wonderful, but my return to Kansas City took an unexpected turn, resulting in a seven-hour layover at the Detroit Metro Airport. While the wait was less than favorable, it led me to uncover a rather peculiar and fascinating vending machine—the Pizza Cat.

Upon arriving in Detroit around midnight, my wife and I swiftly sorted our new tickets for Kansas City and nestled into a comfy corner of our terminal. With time to spare before our flight, I took off to explore the airport. I wandered through a largely abandoned area filled with various vending machines, where I came across the Pizza Cat—a vending machine that promised hot personal pizzas in merely five minutes.

My stomach rumbled in anticipation. Faced with the option of more chips and jerky, the thought of hot pizza was alluring. As I approached the machine, I found I was not alone; a man with a large suitcase had bravely ordered his cheese pizza before me. I watched with interest as the machine sprang to life, producing a freshly crafted pizza soon after. Our brief interaction ended with the man offering a bemused shrug as I assisted him in balancing his belongings and hot pizza before he hurried off to savor his meal.

Encouraged, I decided to give the machine a try, selecting a pepperoni pizza. After a brief wait, I retrieved my long-awaited meal, only to notice a younger man who had just finished his own pizza, declaring that it was “pretty good, actually!” His praise was intriguing but left me feeling uncertain.

Returning to our corner, I opened the pizza box to unveil a thin, slightly greasy personal pizza. While the crispy crust appeared promising, the texture of the slices was somewhat soft and rubbery. The bland dough and minimal sauce left much to be desired, though the cheese was satisfactory and the pepperoni provided a welcome boost of flavor. Compared to the delicious pizzas from NYC I had relished just a day before, this airport offering was lackluster.

However, the convenience of a $13 personal pizza at such an hour was not lost on me. For those who find themselves stuck at the Detroit Metro Airport in the middle of the night, the Pizza Cat vending machine offers a quirky option. Though it may not achieve accolades for culinary excellence, it does fulfill the promise of a hot pizza pie—and for that, it merits a nod. So, if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, lower your expectations, seek out the Pizza Cat, and enjoy a slice of convenience amid the travel mayhem.

As the holiday week draws to an end, some of us on the east coast of the United States are eagerly anticipating a few inches of snow (and hopefully no rain). I’m likely not the only one excited for a peaceful weekend where I can manage to find an hour or two of enjoyable game time before the year-end celebrations and the rush back to the grindstone in 2026. If you’re seeking suggestions on what to play, here’s what we at *Kotaku* are planning to enjoy this weekend.

## *Cast n Chill*

**Play it on:** PC, Switch (also available on Switch 2 edition)
**Goal:** Capture the mythical King Salmon of Safety Cove

It’s that peculiar, transitional week between Christmas and New Year’s, a period when many of us, myself included, have a strong inclination to do as little as possible. And as if designed specifically for this occasion, *Cast n Chill* has recently come to Switch and Switch 2, allowing me to engage in something when I feel like playing while also *not* playing at all when I genuinely wish to do nothing. You see, *Cast n Chill* is a fishing game featuring an idle mode; if you’re not in the mood to actively play, you can let your little pixel-art fisherman handle the rod and reel independently, catching fish and selling them for cash, enabling you to return to the game with some extra money to spend on new fishing rods, boats, licenses, and the like.

However, what truly makes *Cast n Chill* so enjoyable is, well, how *chill* it feels, regardless of whether you’re actively playing. The landscapes around its various fishing locations are incredibly picturesque and richly detailed, and the natural sounds that accompany your time on these serene lakes and rivers are so calming that hearing them in the background while I sit here at my desk makes me feel as though a small part of me is out there on the water as well. Naturally, time spent with *Cast n Chill* counts as screen time, but it also serves as a genuine reminder that there’s an entire world of beautiful forests, crystal-clear lakes, and vast starry skies to appreciate, and that sometimes simply soaking in that beauty is a more worthwhile use of our time than anything that might appear on a productivity spreadsheet. – Carolyn Petit

## *Unbeatable*

**Play it on:** PC, PS5, Xbox
**Goal:** Give it another opportunity

As the end-of-year season concludes, I’m reflecting on a game I played and quickly became disillusioned with: *Unbeatable*. The opening hours of this anime-inspired rhythm game seemed badly tutorialized and its music failed to captivate me, but now that I have some free time, I feel that if any game I tried this year warranted a kind second chance, it would be this one. I have a passion for rhythm games, committing crimes, and *Unbeatable*’s punk vibe. Even if its narrative doesn’t ultimately engage me, there’s likely much enjoyment to be had in its arcade mode if I can discover songs that connect with me. What else am I going to do this holiday weekend? – Kenneth Shepard

## *The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered*

**Play it on:** Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC
**Goal:** Relish some nostalgic RPG vibes

*The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion,* Bethesda’s expansive open-world RPG from the Xbox 360 generation, will always be a Christmas game for me. I have vivid recollections of playing it on my Xbox 360 next to a crackling fireplace after tearing open my presents from Santa. So, I felt compelled on Christmas Eve to download this year’s remastered version of *Oblivion* and dive back in. I doubt I’ll complete this playthrough—I rarely finish Bethesda RPGs despite going back to them repeatedly—but it was delightful to spend a few hours back in Cyrodil during the holidays. – Zack Zwiezen

## *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*

**Play it on:** PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
**Current Goal:** Escape the Trosky zone

I purchased *Kingdom Come 2* for PS5 during Black Friday when it was half price, driven by a nagging suspicion that it might secretly be the best game of 2025, or at least among the top five. I didn’t engage much with the first game due to boredom and bugs and never revisited it. However, several Very Smart People™ in my life persuaded me that the sequel fulfills the promise of the original and could be the best first-person immersive sim RPG available. So far, I have no reason to doubt them, but I’m still in the early stages. I’m currently preparing for the

**The Future of Fallout: Perspectives on Fallout 5**

For years, fans of the Fallout series have been eagerly awaiting the next main installment, which is generally believed to be named Fallout 5. The buzz surrounding the possible launch of this game grew with the debut of Amazon’s television adaptation of the franchise, renewing interest in the post-apocalyptic story crafted by Bethesda. Although there has not been an official declaration regarding Fallout 5, Todd Howard, the creative director at Bethesda, has offered several insights into the series’ future throughout the years.

### Bethesda’s Timeline on Fallout 5

**June 2018: Commitment to Single-Player**
In an interview with German outlet GameStar, Todd Howard explained that while many of Bethesda’s upcoming titles would feature multiplayer elements similar to Fallout 76, the next Fallout game would stay true to its origins as a single-player journey. This assurance helped alleviate concerns among fans about a possible shift towards multiplayer gameplay.

**November 2021: Initial Planning Stage**
In a discussion with IGN, Howard disclosed that Bethesda had crafted a “one-pager” outlining the team’s vision for Fallout 5. However, he quickly pointed out that the studio was concentrating on imminent releases, particularly Starfield and Elder Scrolls VI, indicating that Fallout 5 was not yet a focal point.

**June 2022: Fallout 5 Following Elder Scrolls VI**
In a subsequent interview, Howard affirmed that Fallout 5 would be pursued post-Elder Scrolls VI, firmly placing it on the studio’s agenda of upcoming projects. This announcement elicited mixed responses, with some fans feeling reassured while others expressed concerns about the lengthy wait anticipated.

**June 2023: Clarification and Fan Concerns**
A year later, Howard somewhat revised his earlier comments, implying that while Fallout 5 would follow Elder Scrolls VI, it was unclear what Bethesda’s immediate project would entail. This vague reply left fans worried about possible setbacks in the game’s creation.

**March 2024: TV Show Influence**
As conversations about the Fallout TV series escalated, Howard noted that certain narrative aspects were deliberately omitted from the series to avoid conflicting with the plot of Fallout 5. This acknowledgement highlighted the interconnectedness of both the game and the show, enriching the storytelling across various platforms.

**April 2024: Evading Release Date Questions**
In another interview, Howard deftly navigated direct questions regarding the release date of Fallout 5, emphasizing the significance of not hurrying the creative process. He reiterated that while the emphasis was currently on Elder Scrolls VI, preparations for Fallout 5 were indeed in progress.

**June 2024: No Rush for a New Fallout**
In a YouTube interview, Howard conveyed that Bethesda was not hurriedly pursuing a new Fallout title. He shared the belief that a prolonged wait could ultimately enhance the game’s quality, aligning with fans’ aspirations for a substantial mainline single-player experience.

**October 2025: Hopeful Promises**
During a digital showcase for Fallout Day, Howard reassured fans by stating that Bethesda is “working on even more” and is keenly looking forward to the moment it can fully reveal their plans for the franchise, hinting at future advancements.

**December 2025: Integration with TV Show Events**
In discussions with BBC, Howard confirmed that Fallout 5 would incorporate events from the TV series, affirming the interconnected nature of the two storylines. He assured fans that the narratives would coexist smoothly, enriching the overall Fallout universe.

**December 2025: Ongoing Development**
In a conversation with Game Informer, Howard emphasized the ongoing evolution of Fallout projects at Bethesda, sharing that a dedicated team has been consistently developing Fallout content. He expressed excitement for the franchise and indicated that thrilling developments were on the horizon.

### Conclusion

Although the actual timetable for Fallout 5 remains uncertain, Todd Howard’s insights shed light on Bethesda’s dedication to upholding the legacy of the franchise while advancing the narrative. As fans continue to ponder the content and direction of the next installment, it is evident that the series will retain its hallmark features, which have been cherished by fans over the years. The journey ahead may be lengthy, yet the enthusiasm for Fallout 5 is only heightened by the conversations surrounding its future.

**Bungie’s Marathon: A Visual Transformation Ahead of Launch**

Bungie’s *Marathon* has sparked considerable anticipation after its recent re-reveal, which suggests a release timeframe in March 2026. This latest version highlights significant alterations in gameplay and a comprehensive visual redesign in contrast to its 2025 alpha test. Fans of the studio, recognized for *Halo* and *Destiny*, remain split on whether these modifications represent a beneficial change.

As part of its marketing strategy, Bungie has unveiled new gameplay footage, showcasing the advancements made since the game’s initial postponement and offering a glimpse into the aspects that boost its visual allure. Furthermore, leaks from recent closed beta tests have emerged, revealing a more refined gaming experience. Bungie has embraced this shift by releasing a before-and-after sizzle reel, prominently displaying updates in lighting—now warmer and marked by more pronounced shadows, enhancing the immersive ambiance.

Initial community responses have varied. Advocates of the visual alterations have shared their enthusiasm, with *Destiny* streamer Protheon noting the swift enhancement in aesthetics, while others echoed excitement for the game’s improved look. However, several voices within the gaming fraternity have expressed concerns regarding the transition from a distinctive aesthetic to one that appears more mainstream, likening it to standard AAA titles.

Critique largely pertains to *Marathon*’s previously unique “Graphic Realism” art style, likening it to visuals typically seen in early 2000s advertising campaigns. The original alpha footage, although regarded as incomplete by some, displayed a vivid color scheme featuring a striking contrast between vibrant hues and cooler shades, a quality that critics feel has lessened in the latest updates.

Feedback has spanned from commendatory to critical, with some reviewers deeming the new style overly generic. Notably, one notable social media comment humorously alluded to a viral parody, highlighting how the differing visual styles have incited spirited discussions among fans. Despite the dissenting opinions, many are convinced that the increased realism and grit resonate more effectively with player expectations articulated during development.

Bungie has encountered criticism before, with segments of the player base expressing strong viewpoints—both in favor and against—its direction. As the game approaches its launch, a significant development is the resignation of Senior Art Director Joseph Cross, a pivotal figure in crafting *Marathon*’s visual narrative. His departure raises concerns regarding the ongoing coherence of the game’s artistic vision as the release date looms.

In summary, while *Marathon* doesn’t require the approval of every critic to attract an audience, its progression from divisive alpha assessments to favorable reactions highlights the fluidity of game development. All eyes will be on how the game ultimately combines visual consistency with gameplay at its official launch.

### Anticipating the Minas Tirith Lego Set: A New Era for Lord of the Rings Fans

As we near the upcoming year, Lego fans are filled with enthusiasm regarding the latest speculation about an imminent set: the legendary Minas Tirith from J.R.R. Tolkien’s cherished realm in *The Lord of the Rings*. Expected to launch on June 1, 2026, this set is poised to be a remarkable addition to any collector’s assembly, boasting over 8,278 pieces and a projected price range between $600 and $650.

#### A Glimpse of Minas Tirith

The anticipated Minas Tirith set is likely to be a meticulously crafted miniature of the grand city of Gondor, skillfully depicted to mirror its representation in Peter Jackson’s film rendition of *The Lord of the Rings*. This colossal edifice, embedded within the mountainside, acts as the unwavering capital of Gondor, making it an ideal centerpiece for Lego aficionados who have a fondness for the saga.

If the rumors prove accurate, the Minas Tirith will rank as the sixth largest Lego set ever created, right behind the enormous *Star Wars* Death Star set. To illustrate its intricacy, it is claimed to contain a few thousand pieces more than the current *Lord of the Rings* Rivendell set, presenting an exhilarating challenge for dedicated builders.

#### Minifigures and Features

One of the most enticing elements of this set is its provision of 10 minifigures. As per sources like *Brick Tap*, collectors can look forward to prominent characters including Gandalf the White, Aragorn, Pippin, Denethor, Faramir, four Gondor soldiers, and the esteemed horse Shadowfax. However, it seems there is a notable absence of the orc army, which has been a mainstay in numerous Lego interpretations of the series. This may indicate that a distinct *Barad-dûr* set could be needed for those wishing to fully encompass the spirit of the epic confrontations at the gates of Minas Tirith.

#### A Renewed Interest in Middle-earth

The arrival of this new set is being closely monitored by fans, with many wishing that Lego’s dedication to *The Lord of the Rings* signifies a lasting partnership similar to its franchises like *Star Wars* and *Harry Potter*. Such progress could open avenues for additional themed sets in the future, enriching the overall inventory of Middle-earth Lego collectibles.

In a broader scope, there is also an increasing hope among fans that this resurgence of interest might result in the creation of a new *Lord of the Rings* Lego video game. Speculation indicates that a fresh open-world action-RPG could afford players an immersive adventure in Tolkien’s intricately crafted universe, akin to previous gaming experiences.

#### Conclusion

As the countdown to June 2026 commences, anticipation mounts not solely for collectors but for *The Lord of the Rings* enthusiasts as well. The Minas Tirith Lego set stands as a tribute to the lasting legacy of Tolkien’s creations and the artistry that the Lego brand is recognized for. With its grand design and beloved figures, this set is destined to captivate many and become a treasured highlight within the Lego realm.

### Level-5 CEO Akihiro Hino’s Perspective on AI in Game Creation

In a recent widely circulated interview, Akihiro Hino, the CEO and president of Level-5, explored the significance of artificial intelligence (AI) in game creation. Initially attracting media attention by claiming that AI contributed to 80% or more of the studio’s programming, Hino has since elaborated on his comments, responding to questions and misunderstandings with greater depth.

#### Explanation of AI’s Contribution

In a message dated December 26, 2025, Hino aimed to clear up the misunderstanding that Level-5 is fully dependent on AI for its programming needs. He pointed out that while various game studios are exploring AI technologies, Level-5 is not among those currently relying on generative AI for the bulk of its coding. His statements came in response to an increasing online debate triggered by a prior interview and the contentious application of AI in creative projects, such as the game *Clair Obscur*, which was disqualified from an award due to its AI usage.

Hino recognized that there is a project in progress themed around AI where a developer is purposefully employing AI for coding, but he clarified it does not signify a company-wide transition. He remarked, “They used that as an example to imply that such an era may be approaching, and that’s what was exaggerated.”

#### The Promise of AI in the Sector

Despite retracting his earlier claims, Hino remains hopeful regarding AI’s prospective role in the gaming sector. He suggested that should a company manage to produce 80%-90% of its code through AI, it would represent a remarkable milestone, positioning them among the leaders in the AI arena. However, he warned that the industry has not yet attained that stage of advancement.

Hino pointed out the time-saving advantages AI could provide, potentially changing the speed of AAA game development. He theorized that instead of the conventional 5-10 year development timelines, games could be launched every two years, thanks to the efficiencies offered by AI technology.

#### Clarifying Misunderstandings About AI

A pivotal aspect of Hino’s discussion was addressing the negative perceptions associated with generative AI, which he contended is often inappropriately likened to plagiarism. He expressed, “A knife can serve for cooking or be wielded as a weapon; a computer can facilitate game creation or foster cybercrime.” This analogy emphasizes the significance of how tools are employed, advocating for a constructive outlook on AI as a promoter of creativity rather than a hindrance.

He made it clear that he aims to enhance the gaming landscape with groundbreaking experiences that go beyond current AAA offerings. Hino cautioned that labeling AI as “malevolent” could hinder technological advancement and urged both creators and consumers to regard AI as a valuable asset in the creative realm.

#### Conclusion

Hino’s remarks showcase a thoughtful perspective on the relationship between AI and game development. While he acknowledged both the existing and prospective uses of AI, he also stressed the importance of human creativity and the necessity for a conscientious approach to technology in the gaming field. As discussions around AI continue to progress, Hino’s viewpoints may significantly influence how developers and audiences engage with these transformative technologies.

# The Switch 2: A Fresh Era for Nintendo’s Handheld/Console Fusion

Nintendo has officially introduced the Switch 2, signaling a fresh achievement for its groundbreaking handheld and console fusion system. Since its debut in 2017, the Nintendo Switch has created a distinctive niche in the gaming world, flourishing on less powerful technology while offering an engaging environment that differentiates it from its rivals.

Although the Switch may fall short of the visual capabilities of premium consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, or even its own successor, the Switch 2, it remains a remarkably adaptable choice for gamers. Providing the opportunity to enjoy console-quality games from nearly any location, whether at home or while commuting, the Switch continues to draw a varied audience. This adaptability is a primary factor in its status as one of the most affordable gaming options accessible today.

For gamers beginning their adventure with the Switch or Switch 2, there are plenty of outstanding titles to explore. Below is a selection of some of the top games to initiate your gaming journey on this exceptional system:

## Must-Have Nintendo Switch Games

### 1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Frequently hailed as one of the finest games ever, “Breath of the Wild” transforms open-world gameplay. Players traverse the expansive land of Hyrule, solving puzzles, battling enemies, and discovering secrets while immersing themselves in a beautifully designed world.

### 2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
In this charming life-simulation game, players design and oversee their own island paradise. Featuring delightful graphics and soothing gameplay mechanics, “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” serves as a perfect retreat for those looking for a more relaxed gaming experience.

### 3. Super Mario Odyssey
Embark on a globe-trotting journey with Mario in “Super Mario Odyssey.” This 3D platformer merges timeless gameplay with innovative mechanics, as players navigate various kingdoms to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser.

### 4. Splatoon 2
This lively, ink-splattering shooter provides a different twist on multiplayer gaming. With its vibrant art style and dynamic action, “Splatoon 2” immerses players in competitive team fights while delivering a distinctly Nintendo flair.

### 5. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
A necessary choice for racing enthusiasts, “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” elevates the classic kart-racing experience with an abundance of tracks, characters, and items. It’s the ultimate game for both solitary play and multiplayer excitement.

### 6. Fire Emblem: Three Houses
For fans of tactical RPGs, “Fire Emblem: Three Houses” offers a captivating narrative with profound character development and strategic combat. Players assume the role of a professor at a military academy, managing relationships and making decisions that affect the game’s outcome.

### 7. Hades
This lauded rogue-like dungeon crawler enthralls players with its compelling storytelling and engaging gameplay. “Hades” merges fast-paced action with RPG elements, enabling players to uncover the plot while fighting through the Underworld.

### 8. Xenoblade Chronicles 2
A vast JRPG, “Xenoblade Chronicles 2” presents an immersive realm populated with exciting combat and complex storytelling. Players embark on a grand quest filled with exploration, missions, and character-driven narratives.

### 9. Luigi’s Mansion 3
In this charming, spooky adventure, players take on the role of Luigi as he navigates a haunted hotel to rescue his friends. With clever puzzles, enchanting visuals, and lighthearted humor, it’s a delightful experience for all ages.

### 10. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Building on the legacy of Breath of the Wild, “Tears of the Kingdom” brings new mechanics and storylines, further immersing players in the realm of Hyrule. An essential title for both Switch veterans and newcomers, it’s a fantastic addition to any collection.

## Conclusion

As the Nintendo Switch 2 takes the spotlight, it highlights the progression of a cherished system that continues to connect with gamers. Its unique ability to merge home and portable gaming experiences, combined with a diverse and engaging library of titles, cements its status as an excellent choice for both newcomers and returning players. Whether you’re commuting or unwinding at home, the Nintendo Switch and its popular games are sure to deliver unforgettable gaming experiences.