Nintendo Switch Sports Resort brings the series’ iconic motion-fueled gameplay to the Switch 2 with polished visuals, a couple of new sports and, of course, the return of fan-favorites like golf and bowling.

Instead of reinventing the wheel, this new, tropical-themed entry in the series builds on the groundwork laid by 2022’s Switch Sports. Of the 12 total activities in Switch Sports Resort, seven are directly from its predecessor. While Miis make a return as well, so too do Nintendo’s more modern and detailed Sportsmates avatars. However, instead of grinding online to earn Spocco Points to unlock new outfits and in-game items, you can now do so through both single-player and local multiplayer too.

In addition to changing its look and layout, Nintendo has added new ways to explore Wuhu Island. While you can fly around the island in a prop plane, you can also do so by water on a jet ski or even on the ground with your skateboard. Although these various traversal methods provide a nice break from the action, I still wish we had some other new sports besides skateboarding, thumb wrestling and the warm-up game jump rope. We might see some additional sports and activities added in a future update, though.

Having spent the past five days putting the game through its paces, Nintendo Switch Sports Resort is an absolute blast for both returning players and newcomers alike. But is it one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 games and a must play? Find out in my full review.

Nintendo Switch Sports Resort: The Basics

• What is it? The latest motion-party game in Nintendo’s popular sports franchise, packing 12 different events across the iconic Wuhu Island.
• Who is it for? Series veterans looking to revisit classic sports with upgraded visuals, as well as newcomers wanting an active, motion-controlled showcase for their Switch 2.
• What’s the price? Nintendo Switch Sports Resort costs $49 for the digital version or $59 for the physical edition.
• What other games has the developer made? Nintendo Switch Sports Resort is from the same internal Nintendo team behind 2022’s Nintendo Switch Sports and other active Switch titles like 1-2-Switch and Ring Fit Adventure.
• What games is it similar to? It combines the modern structure of 2022's Nintendo Switch Sports with the tropical setting, island exploration, and event roster of Wii Sports Resort.

Seeing Wuhu Island with new eyes

Although Switch Sports on the original Nintendo Switch was a massive visual leap, taking in the revamped Wuhu Island on Switch 2 in crisp 4K at a steady 60 fps is even more impressive.

From the first time I booted up the game, it was clear that Nintendo put a lot of polish into the visuals—from the island’s vibrant scenery all the way down to its crisp menus.

Switch Sports Resort retains the fun, cartoony look of its predecessor, but details like clothing textures and water reflections really pop on the new hardware. Character models feature noticeably smoother edges, and the courses you compete on look cleaner than ever thanks to enhanced anti-aliasing.

While this is fundamentally a return to Wuhu Island, the care and attention to detail across the board almost make it feel like you’re experiencing this classic tropical resort for the first time, even as a veteran player.

Exploring by air, land and sea

Taking to the skies in Prop Plane to shoot down balloons was first introduced in Wii Sports Resort, but thanks to key tweaks and more responsive controls, it feels even better than before. This time around, you also collect photographs of key landmarks around Wuhu Island while holding a single Joy-Con 2 flat in your hand like a paper airplane.

Both my 4-year-old son and I had a lot of fun trying to see and collect everything in Prop Plane. However, this isn’t the only way to traverse Wuhu Island. Aboard a jet ski in Power Cruising, you can do the same thing on the water while holding two Joy-Con 2 controllers extended in front of you like handlebars. Twisting one controller up like a throttle for a quick speed boost never got old, either.

Finally, you can take to the streets (and even the grass) on your skateboard to explore Wuhu Island from the ground. This uses a Joy-Con 2 in mouse mode, and my son took to this control scheme almost instantly after playing Drag x Drive on the Switch 2. Far from an accurate portrayal of skateboarding, this activity’s arcadey feel provided a great break from competing in the rest of the game’s traditional sports.

Sharper slices, tighter controls

There have been plenty of games — from Donkey Kong Bananza to the excellent port of Cyberpunk 2077 — that showcase the Switch 2’s added power and graphical capabilities. However, Switch Sports Resort is the first to really highlight what its Joy-Con 2 controllers can do.

Much like the jump from Wii Remotes to the original Joy-Cons, the Joy-Con 2’s enhanced motion tracking makes every sport and activity in this game feel significantly more responsive. Outside of my time on the golf course, this upgrade stood out most while playing Table Tennis. Quick wrist flicks to return a fast serve felt almost instantaneous, and thanks to the tighter tracking, shots I didn't think I'd reach somehow landed right on my opponent’s side of the table.

Chasing the Island Crown

One of the biggest criticisms of Switch Sports was how the game focused heavily on online multiplayer. Though you could play by yourself, there wasn’t much incentive to do so — you couldn't collect Spocco Points unless you were playing in the game’s restricted Trial Mode. Fortunately, Nintendo Switch Sports Resort fixes this with a dedicated single-player mode that offers a clear progression path.

In Island Crown mode, you take on increasingly difficult CPU opponents across nine different sports — from Archery to Volleyball — to boost your rank. Once you reach the top of a sport's ladder, you go head-to-head against formidable Island Champions, including returning Wii Sports Mii legend Matt.

While you can occasionally jump multiple spots when playing particularly well, each sport features 20 distinct opponents to defeat. Given the sheer depth across all nine sports, I focused primarily on Golf. Climbing the bottom ranks by playing three-hole matches was breezy enough, but things got noticeably tougher — though never unfair — as I closed in on the Island Champion.

Even if you don’t have family or friends nearby or an active Nintendo Switch Online membership, Island Crown mode delivers a beefy single-player campaign to keep you coming back for more. It’s also a good way to practice before your next game night.

Local parties, global lobbies

With just a single Switch 2 console, you can play Switch Sports Resort locally with up to four players. When playing head-to-head sports like Tennis, Table Tennis, and Volleyball, a single Joy-Con 2 per player is all you need. If you don’t want to pick up an extra pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers, you can also use Joy-Cons from your original Switch to play every sport except Skateboarding — which makes local couch co-op a whole lot more accessible.

Even though this was his first time using motion controls, my son took to Switch Sports Resort quickly. After trying out a few activities on his own, we each grabbed a Joy-Con 2 and played through several matches together. While we had a blast with Table Tennis, his favorite was Boxing. There’s a fair bit of strategy with blocking and weaving, but he happily delivered punch after punch until both he and his avatar were out of breath.

Given that I played Switch Sports Resort ahead of its official launch, my online multiplayer sessions were spent alongside fellow journalists and Nintendo representatives. We had a great time bowling, golfing, aiming for targets in Archery, and stepping into the boxing ring. In Golf, for instance, I joined an eight-player match and managed to come out on top after a few tight holes. Then in Knockout Bowling, a full 16-player roster was whittled down round by round until I once again emerged victorious.

Whether I was on the golf course — playing classic holes from Wii Sports mixed with courses from Switch Sports — or on the lanes, I really enjoyed watching other players take their turns while throwing up emoji-style reactions between shots. Online play felt remarkably smooth without any noticeable lag, offering a fun, lively change of pace from local co-op and Island Crown mode.

Nintendo Switch Sports Resort review: Verdict

Nintendo Switch Sports Resort is a triumphant return to form for Nintendo’s active, motion-based gameplay, complete with crisp, upgraded 4K visuals. Exploring the redesigned Wuhu Island by air, land, and sea helps break up the action, while the new Island Crown mode gives you a genuine reason to keep playing when friends go home or you're offline. While I certainly would’ve liked to see a few more sports added to the initial lineup, Thumb Wrestling is a blast and the way Skateboarding utilizes the new Joy-Con 2 is genuinely clever.

Although you can play several of these activities in Switch Sports, Wuhu Island’s tropical resort setting ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re a seasoned Wii Sports veteran or looking to introduce your own kids to the joy of motion gaming, Nintendo Switch Sports Resort is a delightfully polished experience — one that will likely only get better as future updates arrive.

Halloween is almost here! Considering Nintendo's family-friendly reputation, you might not think there are a ton of good horror games to play on Switch or Switch 2, but you'd be wrong. From Resident Evil Requiem to Luigi's Mansion 3, some of the absolute best Nintendo Switch games are of the spooky variety.

Whether you're looking to be glued to your seat in fear or just want a short and sweet creepy gaming experience, I'm sharing 13 Switch and Switch 2 games that are perfect to play this Halloween. Grab a few ASAP so you can make the most of the spooky season.

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Earlier this year, Capcom brought the modern Resident Evil trilogy (Biohazard, Village and Requiem) to the Nintendo Switch 2. And if three excellent Resi titles to play weren’t enough, how about six?

Capcom’s Switch 2 support this year has been phenomenal, and that continues with the acclaimed remakes of Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3, and Resident Evil 4, all launching on Nintendo’s second-generation hybrid console this week (October 16).

These are three of the finest remakes ever made, bringing three unquestionable survival-horror classics into the modern age. They were already essential games on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC, and that remains true with these new Nintendo Switch 2 versions.

I’ve now tested all three Resident Evil remakes on the Nintendo Switch 2 and compared them to the same games on the PS5 Pro. You won’t be surprised to hear there have been a few technical sacrifices, but the good news is that, overall, all three Resident Evil remakes remain as essential on Switch 2 as they are anywhere else.

Resident Evil 2

Resident Evil 2 kicked off the modern remakes in style. It set the blueprint, replacing the PS1 original's fixed camera with a third-person over-the-shoulder perspective that brings the horror into sharper focus. Plus, the iconic Raccoon City police department building has never been more unnerving, yet fun to explore.

On Switch 2, the game looks excellent. For starters, it runs at 60 fps even in handheld mode, and I strongly recommend enabling HDR. Texture quality takes a hit compared to the native PS5 version; this is most noticeable in character hair — a slight annoyance, since you spend the whole game looking at the back of Leon or Claire’s head!

Objects and environments in the distance also lose some detail, but up close they snap into focus. Crucially, I didn’t encounter any texture pop-in, even when quickly shifting my crosshair between in-game objects. Overall, it’s an impressive port of an already impressive game.

On the Nintendo Switch 2, you get the “Deluxe Edition” as standard, which includes a load of character costumes and a few extra weapons. It’s nice cosmetic DLC, but nothing substantial, and really, you’re going to play the whole game in Leon's cop outfit anyway.

Resident Evil 3

Resident Evil 3 remake is more of the same as Resident Evil 2 remake, which makes sense; the second modern remake reportedly began as a DLC for its predecessor before being spun off into a separate release.

Everything I said above applies to Resi 3. It looks great and runs well (again, 60 fps, even handheld, is a boon). I should note that the Switch 2’s HD rumble is used to great effect in these remakes. The trigger jolts when you fire a pistol, which I found satisfying.

Resi 3 moves into larger city street environments, but I didn’t notice any reduction in image quality. The neon signs, flashing lights, and raging fires of a Raccoon City plunged into chaos all look great. But you do get a slightly cleaner look on the more powerful PS5 Pro, as expected; it's got beefier components.

The “problem” with Resident Evil 3 Remake (and I use that word loosely; it's still great) is baked into the core game, like its short length (an average playtime is a breezy six hours), and this 2020 remake removes several sections from the PS1 original.

Resident Evil 3 didn’t receive much in the way of post-launch DLC, so on Switch 2 you get the standard addition and a single cosmetic costume for each of its characters, Jill and Carlos. At least its smaller scale and scope are reflected in a lower price point.

Resident Evil 4

Resident Evil 4 Remake is the best of the bunch for many Resi fans, a stunning reworking of one of the most influential video games in history.

Disappointingly, it’s also the most technically compromised of these new Switch 2 ports. In handheld mode, environment textures are noticeably downgraded compared to Resi 2 and Resi 3 on Switch 2. Even objects in close proximity are a little blurry, but they sharpen when you focus your crosshair on them. Plus, the fuzziness of Leon’s hair intensifies, and the problem extends to foliage, which is a frequent sight in Resident Evil 4’s initial rural village setting.

The framerate is mostly stable, though I’ve experienced occasional drops. I haven’t seen the adventure through to its conclusion on Switch 2. These might become more frequent in the game’s back half, when the action gets even more intense.

Still, it’s a perfectly playable port, even if the visual downgrades on the Switch 2 are apparent. You’re getting the Gold Edition as standard, which includes the must-play Separate Ways story DLC, The Mercenaries mode, and a long list of outfits and extras.

Which Resident Evil remake should you buy?

When I covered the modern Resident Evil trilogy arriving on Switch 2 in the spring, I cheated this question by saying you should get all three via the Resident Evil Generations Pack. Disappointingly, there’s no bundle here, though I am still tempted to say you should buy all three. Each remake is amazing and plays well on Switch 2.

However, if you’re pushing me for a definitive answer, Resident Evil 2 is the standout, given both the base game’s quality and its excellent transition to the Nintendo Switch 2. Resident Evil 4 is a close second, but the visual and performance downgrades are more noticeable. Resident Evil 3 isn’t far behind, but its short length and lack of incentive to replay see it settle for the bronze medal.

Overall, I’m thrilled that Capcom’s impressive Switch 2 support continues, and every modern Resident Evil game is now available on the platform. If six Resi games in a year aren’t enough for you, it’s been confirmed that next year’s RE: Code: Veronica remake is headed to Nintendo. The Switch 2 is rapidly becoming a Resi machine.

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Black Friday is the next big sales event! Deals are already popping up here and there, so now's the time to check out what's available early and beat the rush.

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My days as a PlayStation fanboy in the mid-to-late ‘90s put me in the crosshairs of Nintendo diehards.

My grade school lunch breaks and recess sessions were filled with passionate debates about Crash Bandicoot vs. Super Mario 64, why the PS1 is the ultimate RPG console while the N64 isn’t and how Nintendo’s 3D console was the king of wrestling games (unlike the PS1).

At one point, I finally abandoned my fanboyish ways and tried the N64 at my best friend’s house. One of the first games I played was The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask.

I know that sounds insane—playing the second N64 adventure in Link’s famed series before the first one, which is regarded as the GOAT, is wild. What’s even crazier is that I didn't play The Ocarina of Time until this year, through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. After making my way through Hyrule Field and Kakariko Village, I finally realized all the hype about the quintessential action/adventure game was well warranted.

With fresh memories of the original swirling around in my head, I went into the Switch 2 remake of Ocarina of Time with extremely high expectations. And after making my way through three sections of the game, I walked away with even more anticipation for its November release.

Searching for a sword and a shield

The start of my foray into Link’s remade adventure kicked off with me helping Link search for his first sword and shield.

As I ran (and jumped!) around Kokiri Forest, I compared the graphical presentation of the remake to the N64 original and even the 3DS version. The porcelain doll look of Link and the rest of the Kokiri people felt a bit off to me at first when I watched the initial reveal trailer for this remake. But seeing Young Link and his fellow forest denizens in motion convinced me that the remake’s visual presentation looks pretty damned good. The forest’s more detailed woodland locales are equally impressive, as are the inner sanctums of the village’s populace.

Watching the initial cutscene unfold where Navi navigates toward Link’s hut is a bit different this time around, as the first-person viewpoint gets switched to a third-person one. I have no qualms about that one bit, especially cause the instance of Navi flying into a gate comes off a little bit more humorous with that viewpoint switch up (no pun intended). All the familiarities of this section, such as dodging that massive boulder to pick up the Kokiri Sword and buying the Deku Shield he needs to get past Mido, are intact as expected.

And thankfully, the spruced-up visuals do enough to make those nostalgic activities feel a bit fresh while retaining what made them so endearing in the first place.

Venturing through Hyrule Field and Hyrule Castle Town

Once I made my way out into the iconic Hyrule Field, I couldn’t help but be taken aback by just how much more expressive it looked this time around.

Fully detailed shrubs of grass, the presence of a noticeable mist floating through the air, patches of colorful flowers, towering trees and dirt roads make up the entirety of this remake’s newly realized pasture.

The same feelings of excitement and amazement remained intact once I finally entered Hyrule Castle Town.

I couldn’t help but crack a nostalgic smile at the sight of that dancing couple near the watering hole, who looked expectedly better than their N64 and 3DS variations. The use of loading screens between the town’s many areas wasn’t much of a bother, even though I’d prefer it if there were seamless navigation in this remake. Hyrule Castle Town’s vibrancy is on full display and is proof of just how jaw-dropping this new version of Ocarina of Time truly is.

I’m sure I’ll spend a few moments watching the NPCs move through their daily routines, chat with them to see what new bits of dialogue they may have and roll & jump around every corner of their wholesome town once I get the full game in my hands.

Exploring the Forest Temple

The furthest I made it into the OG version of Ocarina of Time thus far is the famed “Forest Temple,” so I was pretty hyped to find out I’d be getting the chance to hop into its remade rendition.

I was surprised by just how amazing it looked on the inside and outside. Coming to blows with rabid Wolfos, using Link’s trusty Hookshot to knock Blue Bubbles out of the air and carefully picking my spots to do damage on Stalfos soldiers felt good from a combat standpoint.

Landing precise sword swings, blocking and flinging bombs brought with it a nice sense of impact, which appeals to someone like me who’s big on action games that deliver an appropriate sense of combat feedback. I spammed Link’s spinning sword attack far too many times than I can count, which is proof of just how much more I liked smacking around his foes in this remake compared to the original.

Running through the Forest Temple showcased a much moodier atmosphere, thanks to the remake’s darker lighting. That brooding feeling I couldn’t shake was even more apparent once I ran through the temple’s signature twisting hallway, which led to another moment where I was more than impressed with the remake’s visual flair.

While I didn’t have enough time to solve all of Forest Temple’s puzzles and clash with Phantom Ganon, I got more than enough of a sense of just how much better this area looks and sounds in its remade form.

Final thoughts

It’s funny to think that playing the Ocarina of Time remake now has me excited to jump back into the original, so I have even more of a memorized reference guide to go to once this Switch 2 exclusive arrives on November 5, 2026.

I have a few weeks to get it done so I can hop right into one of the most anticipated video game remakes ever made.

The porcelain doll-like characters, revised musical arrangements, eye-popping graphical presentation and impactful combat all came together during my demo time to convince me Nintendo has something special in its hands that I can’t wait for you all to experience for yourselves.

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Ever heard of Silent Hope? It’s a 2023 video game for Nintendo Switch and PC that is, in my opinion, extremely underrated. I barely hear a word uttered about it. Although it’s apt, considering the title and themes of the game, I’m here to bat for its corner — here’s why you need to play Silent Hope right now.

Silent Hope is on sale for $21 at Walmart (a digital copy costs $29 at the Nintendo Store.) Or if you’re a PC gamer, you're in luck — you can get 70% off Silent Hope at Steam, bringing its price down to just $8. That's a lot of game for your money!

I can't stay silent about this one

This RPG deserves way more love, because it’s one of the most enjoyably addictive Nintendo Switch games I’ve ever played. In short, there's an abyss full of monsters that you must dive into — and on each run, you need to try and get deeper and deeper into the abyss without falling in battle. You’ll need to dodge your foes, make the best use of each character’s unique abilities, and manage the cooldown times of your attacks to survive.

There are seven unique heroes to choose from, including a well-rounded swordsman, a fast-footed boxer, and a powerful, slow-moving magician who can teleport through enemies. You can only heal your character twice per run, so if your health is low, you can either return to the surface or swap to another character and keep going.

But the thing that kept me playing long into the night was the fact that if you level up, your health is refilled. That’s right, I was constantly living on the edge, battling foes with one sliver of my health bar left in order to gain enough experience points for a free heal. Hit-and-run combat is the name of the game in Silent Hope, so my reckless playing style worked surprisingly well most of the time and kept me absolutely hooked. I especially loved playing as the Archer, since his long-range bow attacks keep him well out of harm’s way for the most part.

Only one hero can enter the abyss at a time, so while you're out adventuring, the other six characters will be waiting back at base camp. This brings a charming, cozy-game element to Silent Hope: as well as being skilled fighters, the other characters will also help you out by making crafting materials, tending to farm animals and growing crops. If you get stuck on a tough battle in the abyss, by the time you return to the surface, there’ll probably be a new weapon or type of armor you can craft to give you a better shot on your next attempt. And the crops can be used to cook dishes that give you buffs, like extra attack or faster recovery.

I really enjoyed the subtlety of the game’s storytelling. None of the main characters can talk, but the game is narrated by the Princess who watches over the heroes. Her father is missing, having plunged himself into the depths of the abyss for unknown reasons. As you descend, you’ll gather bits and pieces of the story and learn about the King’s motivations. I won’t spoil what happens, but the story went to a place I wasn’t expecting, and I really enjoyed the surprising turn that the game takes midway through.

Unfortunately, everything isn’t all perfect. Silent Hope is a combat-heavy game, but the variety comes primarily from learning the strengths and weaknesses of the different playable characters rather than the enemies. So, when you see the same monster pop up for the third time in a different color, things can start to feel repetitive. It can also be overwhelming to manage inventory and craft gear and armor for seven different characters at once.

The Nintendo Switch is an RPG lover’s paradise, and there are so many other options that I’m not surprised that Silent Hope gets lost in the shuffle. But Silent Hope deserves its time in the spotlight. I can’t stop playing it and I hope more people join the movement.

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Like most gamers, I have a list of personal gaming blind spots. Long-running franchises I’ve always wanted to dip into, but have never gotten around to actually playing.

Without question, at the very top of my "list of gaming shame" is Kingdom Hearts. For years, I’ve been curious about this action-RPG mash-up of Disney and Final Fantasy — which has now morphed into its own beast since its 2002 debut on PlayStation 2 — but at some point, I started to feel like the Disney-shaped ship had passed me by.

But when Square Enix announced the Kingdom Hearts Collection, it felt like a package designed for somebody like me, and I got hold of the collection on Nintendo Switch 2 a little early. I can now officially say that I have played a Kingdom Hearts game. Okay, so I’ve only played a handful of hours of the very first one, but it's a start!

Kingdom Hearts has spawned an extraordinarily passionate following, so I have little doubt that dedicated fans will flock to this new collection for an excuse to replay the series. But if you’re in a similar boat to me and have never played Kingdom Hearts before, let’s dive into why this collection is the perfect opportunity to give the series a shot.

So, I guess this is Kingdom Hearts…

The opening to Kingdom Hearts is rough. Obviously, it looks and plays like a PS2 game. Even if the Final Mix version, which is what’s been ported to Nintendo Switch 2, bumps the resolution and framerate, it’s not a ground-up remake; Kingdom Hearts looks and feels its age.

But this didn’t bother me; I started playing games during the PS1 era, and still regularly replay some of my childhood favorites in 2026. No, Kingdom Hearts’ less-than-stellar introduction comes down to some questionable level design. You start the game by being introduced to young protagonist Sora, as he dreams of escaping his small island.

And from there, you are forced to complete a series of dull fetch quests to retrieve a host of items for your friends. It’s not exactly a thrilling introduction to the sprawling Kingdom Hearts universe. I wasn’t totally sure what to expect when playing Kingdom Hearts 1 in 2026, but collecting a stockpile of coconuts and looking for old rope wasn’t it.

Mercifully, after a little trouble locating a seagull's egg (another item on my checklist), things began to pick up. Soon darkness spread over the tropical island; Sora was entrusted with the series’ iconic Keyblade, and the spiked-haired character was quickly transported to a new setting.

It’s here, in the new location of Traverse Town (which serves as a sort of hub), that it feels like Kingdom Hearts truly begins. Sora meets a couple of iconic Disney characters, and a few familiar faces from Final Fantasy VII as well. At this point, the ponderous opening section faded from my memory, and I found its narrative hooks starting to latch onto me.

A couple more hours later, and these hooks are only embedding deeper the more I play. Even if the gameplay, which feels particularly clunky compared to modern action-RPGs, adds a degree of friction, the intriguing story and lovable characters, both familiar and original to the game, have me invested. Even if the game feels mechanically dated.

And from what fans tell me, the best is certainly yet to come. I hear the later games are a real step up in terms of gameplay. Particularly 2005's Kingdom Hearts 2, which many consider the best Kingdom Hearts title.

Kingdom Hearts Collection was made for players like me

I’m still a Kingdom Hearts newbie. There’s a long road ahead before I can consider myself well-versed in this franchise. But that’s what makes the Kingdom Hearts Collection so appealing. It includes basically everything released to date, from the three mainline games to the numerous spin-off titles, which I’m informed are all canonically key.

The collection covers 10 Kingdom Hearts titles. 7 are fully playable games, each remastered to varying degrees, while 3 have been reworked into HD movies. Considering Kingdom Hearts games aren’t exactly short either, with an average playtime of about 30 hours per title, for $74, that’s an awful lot of game crammed into a collection.

In fact, there’s so much to experience that, to start, it's more than a little overwhelming. I imagine this must be what it feels like to be somebody trying to catch up on the MCU before “Avengers: Doomsday.”

Kingdom Hearts also feels at home on the Nintendo Switch 2. As there’s so much content to experience here, being able to chip away at a title while playing in the console’s handheld mode is a huge selling point compared to picking up the collection on PS5, Xbox, or PC.

While I can speak to performance on later titles (I’ve heard the newest title, Kingdom Hearts 3, is a little spotty on Switch), the first game runs great on Nintendo’s system. But then again, it is a remastered PS2 title.

Kingdom Hearts 4 is currently set for a late 2027 release, which is helpful because it might take me the best part of a year to make my way through the collection. So, if you’re a newcomer to the series like me, this collection was basically designed for us. It offers the perfect opportunity to dive into Kingdom Hearts and get all caught up.

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Prime Big Deal Days, or October Prime Day, is finally here. Fortunately, if you're looking to upgrade your gaming set up there are great saving to be had.

Just about every console has deals right now including PS5 games and accessories are on sale from $6, and you'll find Xbox Series X games and accessories from $9. More of a PC gamer? Amazon has gaming laptops, monitors and keyboards on sale from $36.

If you haven't picked up the Switch 2 yet, right now the Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World Bundle is available for $549. The recent price increase sucks, but you're still saving $37 with this bundle versus buying each item separately.

Keep reading to see all of my current favorite Prime Day gaming deals. (And don't forget to sign up for an Amazon Prime membership to get ready for more discounts!)

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• See all deals in the Prime Day sale
• All headphones on sale at Amazon

October Prime Day is certainly bringing the good when it comes to Nintendo Switch 2 deals. Nintendo's second-generation hybrid console celebrated its first birthday over the summer, which means we're far enough away from launch to start seeing some really strong discounts.

Okay, so first the bad news: the Switch 2 itself isn't on sale. In fact, it got a price increase earlier this year, so it's now more expensive than it was at launch in June 2025. However, you can still save some money by picking up a bundle; there's Mario Kart or Switch Sports Resort. Each costs $549, with the Mario Kart World bundle saving you $37 total.

• Shop all October Prime Day deals

The best deals of this seasonal event can be found on Switch 2 software and accessories. In particular, some of our picks for the best Nintendo Switch 2 games are on sale, including Resident Evil: Requiem, Mario Tennis Fever, Cyberpunk 2077 and Pokémon Legends Z-A. There are also savings on Switch 2 controllers, cases and SD cards.

I'm a day-one owner of the Nintendo Switch 2, and play my console for hours upon end every week. I know what games and accessories you need. So, I'm rounding up the best Prime Day Switch 2 deals right now.

Best Prime Day Nintendo Switch 2 deals today

• shop all Amazon Prime Day deals
• Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart Bundle: $549
• Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade: was $39 now $24
• Belkin Switch 2 Slim Carrying Case: was $29 now $23
• Cronos The New Dawn: was $39 now $24
• PDP Afterglow Wave Wireless Controller: was $59 now $28
• Pokemon Legends Z-A (Switch 2 Edition): was $69 now $39
• Mario Tennis Fever: was $69 now $49
• Resident Evil Requiem: was $69 now $49
• SanDisk 512GB microSD Express Card: was $199 now $129

Nintendo Switch 2 console bundles

Nintendo Switch 2 game deals

Switch 2 accessory deals

We're tracking all the best Prime Day gaming deals

There’s an argument that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt didn’t need a remaster. The 2015 original holds up extremely well even more than a decade later, and the acclaimed RPG has already been refreshed once in the form of a "next-gen" upgrade for PS5 and Xbox Series X released in December 2022 (with these improvements also brought to PC).

The newly released The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Remastered is arguably more of an exercise in giving players an excuse to rewalk the path ahead of its surprising (but very welcome) third major expansion, Songs of the Past, which is due to launch next year before the next mainline entry in the Witcher saga, the aptly titled The Witcher IV, arrives in (a tentative) 2028.

Heck, looking at visual comparisons between the “next-gen” version and Remastered on PS5, Xbox Series X and PC, some online commentators have even questioned whether this new port actually looks better. But one platform where there is no debate is on the Nintendo Switch 2. The Witcher 3 Remastered on Switch 2 is a night-and-day difference compared to the compromised port of the original that released on Nintendo Switch in 2019.

I’ve dived back into The Witcher 3 on my Switch 2, even picking up my progress from a previous PS5 playthrough thanks to cross-save, and have been particularly impressed with this remastering effort on Nintendo’s latest hybrid console. The good news is that Nintendo finally has a version of The Witcher 3 that I can wholeheartedly recommend you experience.

The Witcher 3 experience Nintendo players deserve

The Witcher 3 on the original Nintendo Switch was an impressive demonstration of technical wizardry. The vast RPG already had some performance quirks on PS4 and Xbox One, so making it run on less powerful hardware was commendable. But frankly, I found The Witcher 3 on Switch 1 to be so compromised that I abandoned my playthrough before leaving White Orchard (the starting area). Too many sacrifices had been made.

Flash forward to the Switch 2 generation and The Witcher 3 Remastered, and Nintendo players now have a version of this RPG masterpiece that is not just technically impressive but a genuinely great way to experience Geralt of Rivia’s sprawling quest to locate his young ward, Ciri.

Naturally, The Witcher 3 Remastered on Switch 2 is not the premiere port; that’ll be found on PC. For starters, the framerate is capped at 30 fps (on PS5/Xbox Series X and PC, you have the option of 60 fps), and there is a noticeable blurriness in the distance, with background structures and objects lacking sharp definition. But these gripes really are nitpicks.

Actually, playing Witcher 3 on Switch 2 is as absorbing as it’s ever been, and I’ve been particularly impressed with the framerate, which largely hits the 30 fps target (at least, to my eyes). Even in the map’s dense city locations, Novigrad and Oxenfurt, drops are minimal. The Witcher 3 Remastered is the portable edition of this game that Nintendo fans deserve.

The Witcher 3 on Switch 1 was a version of the game I could only recommend if you could not play anywhere else, and had no plans to pick up a PlayStation/Xbox or gaming PC in the future. That's not the case with Remastered on Switch 2, which makes a compelling case for itself.

It might not be the most visually detailed, but having such a grand adventure available on a console that doubles as a handheld is enticing, and the visual/performance sacrifices aren’t so great this time around to effectively outweigh the portable advantage as they did on the Switch 1.

Witcher 3 has been refined, not overhauled

Developer CD Projekt Red has been eager to point out that The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Remastered isn’t just about enhancing visuals across platforms, but also brings a wealth of changes to the experience. These are detailed in a lengthy list on CDPR’s official website.

In truth, this is not an overhaul of The Witcher 3. The changes merely refine the base game. It adds several nice-to-have features, such as “transmogging” (setting your outfit's appearance independent of stats) and the option to remove inventory weight restrictions. Combat has also been sharpened with new animations, and your horse, Roach, controls a little less like a tank.

Perhaps the single biggest change is an entirely reworked skill tree, though I can’t say much about how this “upgrade” affects Geralt's power curve. I’ll need to dive into a fresh playthrough to really see whether it’s an improvement over the previous skill system available in the base game.

Ultimately, this is still The Witcher 3 — Wild Hunt, a game released in 2015 at its core. It’s not a complete remake that reshapes the RPG in numerous ways. But I don’t think many players were asking for such radical alterations. The Witcher 3 remains one of the yardsticks modern RPGs are measured against, and Remastered buffs out a few minor blemishes.

For anybody who still hasn’t played this masterpiece in the past 11 years, The Witcher 3 — Wild Hunt Remastered is a well-timed excuse to fill that gap in your gaming backlog. And this time around, playing on Nintendo hardware is a viable choice, rather than a last resort for those who didn’t have access to a more powerful console or a PC, as it was on Switch 1.

Best of all, returning to The Witcher 3 via Remastered on Switch 2 has reminded me just how special this fantasy RPG truly is. And now, in a fall season packed with new releases (not to mention the spectre of GTA 6 looming large), I’m trying to figure out if I have the time to squeeze in a full run over the next few weeks. At least on Switch 2, I can play it anywhere!

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Remastered is out now as a free upgrade for existing owners on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch 2.

More from Tom's Guide

• Best Nintendo Switch 2 games in 2026
• Early Prime Day Nintendo Switch deals
• Fortune's Weave is the best Fire Emblem yet

I’ve been playing Fire Emblem since I was about 12 — a terrifying 19 years ago. Over that time, I’ve gone back to play the old games alongside the new releases (I daren’t think about how many hours I’ve spent staring at grids). I was a loud voice of request during the series dry spell, and I’ve eaten very well as it has found a new audience in the 3DS, Switch and Switch 2 generations.

So you can imagine how excited I was to get my mittens on Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, the latest Nintendo Switch 2 title in the series. The extra power of the system would give Nintendo more space to innovate in a series that’s rarely seen any new features, I thought. The reveal trailer looked promising. The character reveals were tempting.

And then it arrived in my hands. I’ve now played more hours than I care to admit, and I’ve got an idea of how the game fares compared to its older siblings.

In a few words — very well. In a few more, Fire Emblem Fortune’s Weave does a great job of bringing loads of cool new stuff to the table. But the best parts are the solidification and perfection of features we’ve been playing for a long time. And that’s pretty cool.

The biggest world map so far

Fire Emblem has had some form of map for a long time, and each title has treated it slightly differently, for better or worse. Some have made the map a path your party automatically follows, never allowing you to strengthen your forces beyond the main story missions. Some have given you too much in the world map, allowing you to make your army as overpowered as possible, trivialising the main battles. I’d argue that no game has ever gotten the balance perfect.

Fortune's Weave gets closer than ever. The refresh to the turn system means you need to make more decisions about how far to go around the map, adding an extra layer of thought to proceedings. The time you don’t spend in battles is now more tactical as a result.

Rather than the free battles seen in Fire Emblem: Three Houses and Engage, you have to think about how to strengthen your forces. Do you do battle, or use the new “auto free time” feature to gain those precious levels? After all, you could be using those turns for vital exploration, or finding items that might be useful down the line.

But that takes turns — and turns are money. Watching that timer go down before the next mission, knowing you’ve side quests to do and stuff to find for your soldiers, makes it a whole lot more engaging than it has been before.

It’s not perfect. Sometimes you feel like you want more turns, and sometimes you want fewer. And remembering to go to the spot where your next mission takes place is irritating — especially when letting those turns run out before the mission time means you have to start a section all over again. But it's the best world map I've experienced in a Fire Emblem game for some time.

The best those battles have looked

Everything feels better balanced this time around. While enemy unit placement still isn’t perfect (no Fire Emblem ever is), which can make for comical conical feeding of sword-based opponents coming up against a one-shot from your perfectly placed armored spearman (called a “guardian” this time around), the battles are more engaging than ever.

Everything looks slicker and smoother than previous titles. The information you’re given is not only easier to read than in the smaller boxes from old games, but also useful in working out how your tactics are going to play out.

There’s only so much you can do with a grid, but this is the best that Fire Emblem has ever played or looked. Small things, like improved unit movement prediction, make playing the game more fun than frustrating.

The routes work better than ever

Fire Emblem has long flirted with routes that tell different stories with the same characters. There were the Fates games, which let you play different routes depending on the version of the game you bought. It was fine — but it wasn’t perfect. Then Three Houses launched, a fan favorite. As much as I adore that game, the routes system still wasn’t the best; character arcs felt rushed at times, and playing through all of them took ages.

Fortune's Weave trims down the length of each route by quite a margin, and then brings everything together towards the end of the game. There are four routes this time, each with their own main characters and story beats, even though they occur in the same place. You can even recruit characters from one route while you play another — it’s pretty cool.

It’s also well worth playing through each one. Their unique stories are engaging and interesting, and watching everything fit together as you play feels great.

It’s not all good news

Some things are missing here. As much as the new dungeon-crawling sections are fun, they are extremely simple and a bit of a drag after a while. There are far fewer support conversations between characters, meaning fewer combat bonuses and less story content.

The graphics are good, but I don’t feel like I’m playing the Fire Emblem game of the future. The system feels like it's got more to give. The different classes your characters can be feel more restrictive than before, which is annoying.

But those are minor frustrations in what is otherwise a great game. I’ve already put too many hours in — I can’t wait to add even more.

More from Tom's Guide

• Best Nintendo Switch 2 games in 2026
• I just played Elden Ring on Nintendo Switch 2 — it was worth the wait
• Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake is $10 off at Amazon and Walmart

Despite the Nintendo Switch 2's recent price hike, September is a surprisingly good month for Nintendo Switch deals. Firstly, you can save a ton on games and accessories in Nintendo's customer appreciation sale. This sale ends at 8.59 pm PT on September 26, so act fast. And secondly, Amazon is offering early deals for its Prime Big Deal Days October event.

My favorite deals right now are the Nintendo Switch 2 + Nintendo Switch Sports Resort bundle for $529 and the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle for $549. These bundles include a Nintendo Switch 2 console, a game, and a 3-month Nintendo Switch Online membership; and will net you savings ($27 and $37 respectively) compared to buying the items separately.

Keep scrolling to see all my favorite deals!

Quick Links

• shop Nintendo Switch game deals at Amazon
• Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Gaming Headset: was $27 now $17
• Sonic X Shadow Generations: was $49 now $24
• Nintendo Switch Sports: was $49 now $34
• Pokémon Legends Z-A: was $59 now $49
• Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: was $79 now $55
• The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time: was $69 now $59
• Nintendo Switch Joy-Con (L-R): was $89 now $62
• Nintendo Switch 2: now $499
• Nintendo Switch 2 + Switch Sports Resort bundle: now $529 [save $27!]
• Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle: now $549 [save $37!]

Nintendo Switch 2 consoles

Nintendo Switch accessory deals

Nintendo Switch game deals

Nintendo Switch 2 game deals

Happy birthday to Nintendo! The world-famous gaming company turns an astonishing 135 years old today. As the home of Mario and Luigi, Zelda, Donkey Kong, and countless other iconic characters it is undoubtedly one of the most important video gaming brands of all time.

For this article I've pulled together a list of essential Nintendo products that you can buy right now on Amazon. There's the company's latest console, the Switch 2, plus a selection of accessories. I've also picked out six great games for the console, and a few of my favorite sets from the ever-growing Nintendo Lego collection, too.

Any one of these would make a great buy for the gamer in your life, or if you fancy treating yourself. So many happy returns, Nintendo. Here's to another 135 years!

Nintendo consoles

Nintendo Switch 2 games

Nintendo Lego

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake is landing exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on November 5, just two weeks before GTA 6 hits rival consoles. And while pre-orders of Link's remastered adventure are already live, there's currently a $10 price cut on the game's physical editions at both Amazon and Walmart.

This brings the price down to $59, which is in line with the digital version of the game. You need to add the game to your cart to see the discount. If you're a physical game collector, you'll want to act fast to snap one up. Nintendo has announced that the first print run of the physical version features "special packaging that features textured foil cover art." (For more deals, check out our early Prime Big Deal Days roundup).

Quick Links

• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: was $69 now $59 @ Amazon
• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: was $69 now $59 @ Walmart

Nintendo's recent Zelda Direct gave us our first look at the remade N64 classic, and it looks simply jaw-dropping. The deliberate art style was designed to invoke nostalgia while also bringing the game up to a more modern standard. Beyond the improvements in graphics, there are a few additional features, such as a new Threads of Time feature in the pause menu. It's used to track your adventures across Hyrule. Essentially, it's a quest log, but it'll surely be a useful QoL feature.

Nintendo is also marking 40 years since the original Legend of Zelda was released in Japan with a limited-edition Switch 2 console. It's the same great console, but Nintendo has given it a Zelda makeover with the golden TriForce emblazoned on the Switch 2’s dock.

Meanwhile, the console’s Joy-Con controllers have also been given a Zelda look. They come in contrasting shades of green, with golden highlights underneath the joy-sticks.

This is the first limited-edition Switch 2 console, and Nintendo definitely hasn’t skimped on the design. Pre-orders are already available at a range of retailers for the console. Here's the full list of links to check:

• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Amazon
• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Best Buy
• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Target
• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Nintendo
• Switch 2 Pro Controller – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Best Buy
• Switch 2 Pro Controller + display stand – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Nintendo

This limited-edition console really celebrates Zelda's storied history. It's just a shame it doesn't come packaged with the Ocarina of Time remake!

Shop more deals

The Nintendo Switch 2 recently got a price hike to $499. While that price increase stings, there are two big ways to save right now: Nintendo's customer appreciation sale, and Amazon's early Prime Day deals.

That's right, Prime Big Deal Days will return in October, but there are already early savings you can take advantage of. I doubt that the Nintendo Switch 2 will see a price cut during this event, but there are plenty of opportunities to get your Nintendo Switch and/or Nintendo Switch 2 consoles kitted out with savings on games and accessories.

I'm sharing all the best deals you can shop right now, so keep scrolling to check them out!

Quick Links

• shop Nintendo Switch game deals at Amazon
• Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Gaming Headset: was $27 now $17
• Sonic X Shadow Generations: was $49 now $24
• Nintendo Switch Sports: was $49 now $34
• Pokémon Legends Z-A: was $59 now $49
• Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: was $79 now $55
• The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time: was $69 now $59
• Nintendo Switch Joy-Con (L-R): was $89 now $62
• Nintendo Switch 2: now $499
• Nintendo Switch 2 + Switch Sports Resort bundle: now $529 [save $27!]

Nintendo Switch 2 consoles

Nintendo Switch accessory deals

Nintendo Switch game deals

Nintendo Switch 2 game deals

The Legend of Zelda is celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year, and Nintendo isn’t letting the occasion quietly pass. Zelda fans are being treated to a stunning remake of one of Link’s most beloved adventures, Ocarina of Time, alongside a limited-edition Switch 2 console and a Zelda-themed Pro Controller. These in-demand items are available to pre-order now.

• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: $519 @ Walmart (IN STOCK NOW)
• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Amazon

Rather than holding a specific pre-order drop, Nintendo made the Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 console and Pro controller available shortly after the Zelda Direct concluded. I’m expecting these items to be popular, and retailers like Best Buy and Target are already sold out.

The console (and Pro controller) launch on October 29, exactly one week before Ocarina of Time Remake releases exclusively on Switch 2. But don’t expect stock to hold until then; use our handy retailer links below to lock in your pre-order now. This limited-edition Switch 2 will be popular; after all, anything Zelda-themed tends to be snapped up by fans very quickly.

Quick links

• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Amazon
• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Best Buy
• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Target
• Switch 2 – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Nintendo
• Switch 2 Pro Controller – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Best Buy
• Switch 2 Pro Controller + display stand – Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Nintendo
• The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time (Switch 2): $69 @ Amazon

Switch 2 console pre-orders

Pro controller pre-orders

Zelda: Ocarina of Time pre-orders

U.K. pre-orders

U.K. retailers were a little slow off the mark, but as of September 9, pre-orders for the Switch 2 Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition are going live

• Switch 2 — The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition:  check stock @ Amazon
• Switch 2 — The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: £429 @ Nintendo
• Nintendo Switch 2 — The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: £429 @ Smyths Toys
• Switch 2 Pro Controller — The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Nintendo
• Switch 2 Pro Controller — The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition: check stock @ Smyths Toys

FAQ

What is Switch 2 Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition?

The Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. It’s the same great “Editor’s Choice” Nintendo Switch 2 console, but with a delightful Zelda-themed makeover.

The design highlights the iconic Triforce, with the golden triangle emblazoned on the Switch 2’s dock. Meanwhile, the console’s Joy-Con controllers have also been given a Zelda look. They come in contrasting shades of green, with golden highlights underneath the joy-sticks.

This is the first limited-edition Switch 2 console, and Nintendo definitely hasn’t skimped on the design. It’s a stunning-looking limited-edition console that celebrates the beloved franchise’s storied history.

Does the Zelda Switch 2 include Ocarina of Time?

Curiously, no, it doesn’t. To confirm, the Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 console does not include a copy of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. You’ll need to pick up the game separately, either physically (launch pre-orders come with textured foil packaging) or you can purchase the game digitally via the Nintendo eShop. The choice is yours.

It might seem strange that the Zelda console doesn’t come bundled with the new Zelda game, but Nintendo has done similar in the past. The Animal Crossing: New Horizons Switch 1 console didn’t include a copy of the game either. It’s a move that feels very Nintendo!

More from Tom's Guide

• Zelda Nintendo Direct recap — everything announced
• Best Nintendo Switch 2 games in 2026
• PS5 Pro restocks — latest updates as retailers sell out ahead of GTA 6

The Nintendo Switch 2 now costs $499. That's right, the $50 price hike that was announced earlier this year has hit. If you already bought one, congrats! If not, there's still plenty of fun to be had with your original Nintendo Switch.

To help you get the most for your money, I'm sharing the best Labor Day Nintendo Switch deals. Essential games are discounted, and you can also find Switch accessories on sale from $13 at Amazon.

Keep scrolling for all my favorite deals!

Quick Links

• shop Nintendo Switch game deals at Amazon
• Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Gaming Headset: was $27 now $17
• PDP Afterglow Wave Wired Controller: was $29 now $24
• Sonic X Shadow Generations: was $49 now $24
• RDS Game Traveler Deluxe Case: was $29 now $26
• Nintendo Switch Sports: was $49 now $37
• Pokémon Legends Z-A: was $59 now $49
• Kirby Air Riders: was $69 now $51
• Nintendo Switch 2: now $499

Nintendo Switch 2 consoles

Nintendo Switch accessory deals

Nintendo Switch game deals

I'm buying a Nintendo Switch 2 today and you should too. I haven't purchased a gaming console since the Xbox 360, but I'm snagging a Switch 2 today because starting September 1st Nintendo is increasing the console's price to $499.

As much as I'd like to hate on Nintendo for jacking up the price, they're not the only company that's stuck it to consumers this past summer. Amazon, Google, Apple, and even the price of toilet paper has increased in the past few months.

So consider this your final warning: right now you can get the Nintendo Switch 2 for $449 at Amazon. Unfortunately, the Switch 2 Choose Your Game Bundle — which includes the console and a game download — has been out of stock for days and will likely remain that way. So your best bet is the standard console for $449.

You might be wondering — with Labor Day sales around the corner, is there a chance we'll see the Switch 2 selling for $449 later this week. Unfortunately, I doubt it. There's just no incentive for retailers to discount the Switch 2. At least not until Black Friday. (And even then I doubt we'll see lots of Switch 2 discounts over the holiday season).

Bottom line: get your Switch 2 today. My colleague Millie Davis-Williams is a huge Switch 2 fan, so I'm also sharing some of her favorite games and accessories below. Otherwise, my first game purchase will likely be Donkey Kong Bananza ($69 at Amazon). If you have any other gaming or accessory recommendations, feel free to let me know in the comments below.

Quick Links

• shop Switch game deals at Amazon
• Nintendo Switch 2: now $449 @ Amazon
• Turtle Beach Rematch Controller: was $59 now $29 @ Amazon
• Mario Kart World: for $79 @ Amazon

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If you need another excuse to (re)play the GOTY-conquering Elden Ring, here comes the Tarnished Edition on Nintendo Switch 2, which brings FromSoftware’s open-world masterpiece to the Nintendo platform for the first time. And after getting early access to this new version of the game, I’ve completely fallen down the Elden Ring rabbit hole all over again.

If you’ll indulge my nostalgia for a moment, it remains surreal to me that we live in an age where games of Elden Ring’s scale and scope are playable on handheld devices. I recall when portable gaming meant stripped-back multi-platform releases or smaller titles designed to suit the hardware limitations. Not anymore. Now you can play a massive action-RPG like Elden Ring on a plane, at the beach, or literally anywhere else.

Of course, this isn’t the first time that Elden Ring has been made available on a portable device. The game was already “verified” for the Steam Deck and playable on multiple handheld gaming consoles. But having now experienced Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition on Nintendo Switch 2, I think this might be the best portable version of the modern classic.

Elden Ring on Switch 2 looks excellent, and runs well too

When I got my Steam Deck OLED in late 2024, Elden Ring was one of the very first games I installed. After all, it was my personal GOTY in 2022, and the game that truly sold me on the Soulslike genre (which I’m now obsessed with). I couldn’t wait to play it on a portable device.

While Elden Ring is certainly very playable on the Steam Deck OLED with default settings, I did find the low image resolution a little jarring. Not deal-breaking by any means, but not quite sharp enough for my tastes. Which is why when I stepped into the Lands Between for the first time in the Tarnished Edition on Switch 2, I had a true “wow” moment.

I wouldn’t go as far as declaring it matches the image quality you’ll find on PS5, Xbox Series X or one of the best gaming PCs, but it’s a noticeable step up from what I experienced on the Steam Deck OLED. Looking out over the intro zone of Limgrave, textures weren't as fuzzy in the distance, and the imposing figure of the Tree Sentinel had significantly increased definition.

When Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition was first showcased to the public at Gamescom 2025, reports weren't very encouraging, and the game was delayed into 2026, presumably for additional polish. It seems that extra development time was worthwhile, because Elden Ring on Switch 2 looks great in handheld mode — which is where it needed to shine the most.

The framerate on Switch 2 appears to be targeting 30 fps, and while I’m a staunch believer in 60 fps supremacy, I can accept 30 fps if it’s solid. And fortunately, so far, that has been the case in the Tarnished Edition. I’m still making my way through the early portion, so perhaps deeper into the game, when the bosses get bigger and have more elaborate move sets, the Switch 2’s framerate will buckle, but from what I’ve played, it’s keeping up.

In comparison, Elden Ring on the Steam Deck OLED (again, in default settings) targets a slightly higher 40 fps, but the drawback here is that it’s very unstable. Regular enemy mobs can cause the framerate tumble down towards the 30 fps mark, or even lower. It’s a matter of personal preference, but I’d take a locked 30 fps over a temperamental 40 fps.

Tarnished Edition is the full Elden Ring package at a fair price

It’s also worth noting that Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition is the full experience. It offers the complete base game and the equally essential Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, plus a small smattering of new content, including two new classes (Heavy Knight and Idus Knight), four additional armor sets, and three skins for Torrent, your trusty steed.

This new content isn’t exclusive to Switch 2; you can pick it up on other platforms as part of the Tarnished Pack DLC, which drops on the same day the game comes to Switch 2 (August 28), for the modest price of $5. But it’s a nice little perk that it’s included as standard on Nintendo Switch 2.

I’ve seen some online grumbling about the Tarnished Edition’s $79 price tag, but this is comparable to the Elden Ring + Shadow of the Erdtree bundle on other storefronts like Steam. Plus, when you factor in that the Tarnished Pack is included at no extra cost, you actually save $5!

For your money, you’re getting one of the defining games of this current generation, playable at home on your TV or on the go via the Switch 2’s handheld mode. That’s a great value proposition, in my eyes. Elden Ring is a truly special game, and I’m delighted that it looks and runs so well on Switch 2. I didn’t need an excuse to embark on yet another Elden Ring playthrough, but I’m delighted the Tarnished Edition has given me one.

More from Tom's Guide

• The game I’ve been obsessed with for 3 years is now on Switch 2
• Best Nintendo Switch 2 games in 2026
• 5 essential Nintendo Switch 2 tips you need to know

It's your very last chance to buy a Nintendo Switch 2 — unless you want to spend $50 more than you have to. That's right, the Nintendo Switch 2 price hike is confirmed for September 1, after which you'll have to spend $499 to get a console.

For now, you can still get the Nintendo Switch 2 for $449 at Amazon. If you want one, don't wait any longer to pick one up.

To score yourself a saving, you can also buy the Nintendo Switch 2 Choose Your Game bundle for $499 at Amazon. This bundle gets you a console and a game — either Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza or Pokémon Pokopia — and will save you between $20 and $30 compared to buying the items separately. You really can't go wrong with this choice because all three games are excellent.

To get your system kitted out, I'm also sharing discounts on essential games and accessories for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.

Quick Links

• shop Nintendo Switch game deals at Amazon
• Nintendo Switch 2: now $449
• Nintendo Switch 2 Choose Your Game Bundle: now $499 up to $30 off!

Nintendo Switch 2 consoles

Nintendo Switch accessory deals

Nintendo Switch game deals

Don't wait any longer to pick up a Nintendo Switch 2 — the console is going to get a price increase next month. It's your very last chance to grab one at the launch price!

Even better, you can actually save money on the Switch 2 via the Nintendo Switch 2 Choose Your Game bundle for $499 at Amazon. This bundle comes with a Nintendo Switch 2 console and your choice of one of the system's best games — either Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza or Pokémon Pokopia. Depending on your choice, you'll save between $20 and $30.

There are also tons of discounts on games and accessories for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, and I'm sharing the best of the best below.

Quick Links

• shop Nintendo Switch game deals at Amazon
• Super Mario RPG: was $59 now $33
• Nintendo Switch 2 Choose Your Game Bundle: now $499 up to $30 off!

Nintendo Switch 2 console bundles

Nintendo Switch accessory deals

Nintendo Switch game deals