Nintendo announces Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 2 Edition for Switch 2 with higher-resolution visuals, new interior-design controls and a Megaphone item, plus expanded online play (up to 12 players online with GameChat and 8 locally). Existing players can upgrade. A free update adds a resort hotel, dreamscape Slumber Islands, DIY items, LEGO collaborations, amiibo-based visitor interactions, and, for Switch Online members, in-game access to select classic Nintendo titles via console items.
Rumors suggest Xbox may eliminate online multiplayer fees with its next-gen console, potentially pressuring Sony to keep charging for PS6 multiplayer. While many players enjoy free online games on PC and some free-to-play titles, PS Plus offers additional benefits that may justify its cost. The decision could influence consumer preferences, but the impact depends on how Sony responds and the value of PS Plus perks.
The article discusses the potential upgrade of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, highlighting improvements like enhanced online play with rollback netcode, better visuals, and the addition of new characters to keep the game fresh and competitive on the new console.
NBA The Run, developed by former EA developers, is a modern arcade-style online basketball game inspired by classic titles like NBA Street and NBA Jam, featuring streetball flair, big risks, and modern NBA stars, aiming to revive the casual, showmanship-focused basketball gaming experience.
Xbox's upcoming next-gen console is rumored to eliminate the paywall for online multiplayer, support all Xbox generations and Steam, and function more like a PC, potentially costing around $1,500, signaling a shift towards a PC-like hybrid device.
The next Xbox is reportedly planning to eliminate the paywall for online multiplayer, potentially making PS6 the only upcoming console charging for online access via PS Plus, which could lead Sony to reconsider its online multiplayer policies.
Kirby Air Riders for Nintendo Switch 2 introduces new features like Road Trip and Top Ride modes, customizable options, online play, amiibo support, and a global test ride demo scheduled for November, with the game launching on November 20.
Mario Kart World has been updated to version 1.3.0, introducing new online multiplayer features like joining friends in Knockout Tour and waiting in Free Roam, improvements to Free Roam map and item box replenishment, increased frequency of three-lap races in wireless play, and numerous bug fixes to enhance gameplay experience.
Mario Kart World has released its version 1.3.0 update, adding features like online multiplayer for Knockout Tour with friends, improved Free Roam map features, increased race frequency, and various bug fixes to enhance gameplay on Nintendo Switch.
EA's Skate has launched into early access with high demand causing long queues and server issues. Players are discovering unconventional ways to traverse the game world, such as jumping and belly flopping, which resemble gameplay mechanics from Mario 64. The developers are working to improve server capacity and wait times, emphasizing the game's always-online design for a dynamic multiplayer experience.
Kirby Air Riders for Nintendo Switch 2 has confirmed support for splitscreen multiplayer, including two-player options with vertical or horizontal split, as well as local wireless play for up to eight players and online multiplayer for up to sixteen players, with GameChat support. The game is set to launch on November 20, 2025.
Darksiders 4, the upcoming sequel, is expected to feature both online and split-screen co-op modes, allowing up to four players online and two players locally, although official details are yet to be confirmed by the game's website. The game will let players control any of the Four Horsemen and offers a classic Darksiders experience with combat, traversal, and puzzles.
An Xbox exclusive rhythm game, Taiko no Tatsujin: The Drum Master, will be permanently removed from sale on September 30, 2023, due to the costs associated with maintaining its online servers, despite its moderate sales and positive reviews. The game will still be downloadable and playable offline, with DLC remaining available for purchase.
Anthem, an online multiplayer game by EA and BioWare, will be discontinued in January 2026 as part of its end-of-life process, raising questions about how to handle the closure of online service games.
Drag x Drive™ is an upcoming 3-on-3 sports game for Nintendo Switch 2, releasing on August 14, 2025, featuring motion controls with Joy-Con controllers, online multiplayer, and various tricks and gameplay modes, with pre-loading available now.