Alright, here we are. The last hurrah for the Nintendo Switch solo. It’s like that final stretch at a concert when they’re about to close with the big hit but instead of a song, it’s a whole new console — the Switch 2. So, soak it in, folks. We’ve got a quirky mix of retro vibes, pre-orders, sales, and yeah, some sweepstakes jazz. Let’s wander through it.
First off, the Nintendo Switch Online stash is expanding. Four Game Boy games arrive this week, including the somewhat obscure Survival Kids, a quirky Kirby spin-off, and some sci-fi shooter called Gradius. It feels like there’s something for everyone here. I might’ve rambled on about these on my podcast last week, or maybe it was just in my head.
Switch 2 is dropping on June 5, and folks are buzzing like bees. If you’re feeling all antsy, there are titles you can pre-order right now. Rune Factory, something called Sonic X Shadows, and Fast Fusion. Are any of these calling your name for when the console finally lands?
Sales? Oh boy, there’s a slew this week. Notably, a Dragon Quest series discount, slashing prices up to half off. Picture last year’s epic Dragon Quest III HD-2D remake, now it’s kinda tempting, right? Discounts are a friend when your wallet’s feeling light.
And hey, are you feeling lucky? Enter the sweepstakes for a chance to snag a Mario Kart LEGO set. I mean, who doesn’t love LEGO? It’s a nostalgia trip wrapped in fun.
Now, if you’re still eyeing what’s new on the eShop before Switch 2 takes over, let me know what catches your fancy!
Game Boy – Nintendo Switch Online
SURVIVAL KIDS – So, here’s where you play as this explorer kid who ends up on a deserted island after a storm. Search for food, combine random stuff to make tools, and if you’re persistent (or just plain stubborn), you might escape. I have this odd memory of struggling to crack coconuts in this game!
GRADIUS THE INTERSTELLAR ASSAULT – Imagine this: alien goo crusting on your gear, your fingers twitch subconsciously as if your ship’s trigger is still warm. Then, chaos. You’ve got missiles, doubles, lasers. But caution, you can’t grip both double and laser together. Game’s available if you wanna relive that adrenaline rush.
The Sword of Hope – Dive into this tale of Prince Theo. A chosen one, they say, with a dagger-shaped mark. You’ll hunt down the Sword of Hope to purge some possessed king. It’s classic RPG action. Look, Open, Hit — simple commands that could lead to mysterious or, let’s face it, frustrating scenarios. Available now, if you dare.
Kirby’s Star Stacker – Kirby and buddies stacking stars. Sounds simple? Maybe. But Dedede’s there to flip things up. It’s a race against, well, cascading blocks and time itself. Think Tetris but with more whimsy. Available now on Nintendo Switch Online.
Pre-orders
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma – Here, you’re an Earth Dancer trying to restore Azuma. It’s where nature meets romance meets farming… Not your usual combo, right? Launching June 5; pre-orders are live!
SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS – Talk about a throwback. Sonic’s back, but with a twist! Play as Shadow saving the world through hub-world exploration. Plus, the iconic Sonic Generations reimagined. Launches June 5, don’t sleep on those pre-orders.
Fast Fusion – Fast-paced antigrav racing on tracks like Redwood Forest or sheer heights of Yama Crest. Craft myriad racing machines, take leaps of faith with hyper jumps. Pre-orders up before its June 5 release. Get revved up!
Activities
My Nintendo – LEGO Mario Kart Race to Win! Sweepstakes – Vrooom into fun with a shot at winning the LEGO Super Mario Kart set. Contest ends Sept. 3. Everything’s better when LEGO’s involved, right?
So, whether it’s gaming nostalgia, diving into another world, or crafting with LEGO, there’s a little gem for everyone. How’re you navigating these choices?