Super Mario Bros. Wonder Gets Even More Wonderful

Arriving March 26, the Switch 2 Edition of Super Mario Bros. Wonder is far more than a simple port. The upgraded version includes Meetup in Bellabel Park — a substantial new expansion that adds entirely new worlds, power-ups, and the kind of inventive level design that made the original a critical darling. Running at a locked 60 frames per second with noticeably sharper visuals, the Switch 2 hardware finally gives Wonder room to breathe in a way the original console never could. For players who experienced Wonder on the first Switch, the upgrade is significant enough to warrant a return trip. For newcomers, this is arguably the definitive way to experience one of the best 2D platformers of the decade.

Life is Strange: Reunion Steps Into the Unknown

Also landing on March 26, Life is Strange: Reunion marks the franchise’s boldest departure yet. Details have been carefully guarded, but early previews suggest a story grappling with themes of reconnection, lost time, and the consequences of choices made years ago. The series has always excelled at emotional storytelling, and Reunion appears poised to deliver something more mature and ambitious than anything the franchise has attempted before. The simultaneous multiplatform launch — including a Switch 2 version — signals confidence from the developers that this installment will find its audience regardless of platform.

The Supporting Cast — and Why This Week Matters

The week is rounded out by several noteworthy releases. Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage brings the legendary fighting franchise to Switch 2 on March 26, offering a tournament-ready experience that could become a staple of competitive gaming on the platform. Disney Dreamlight Valley’s Switch 2 Edition arrives March 25, taking advantage of new hardware for a smoother, more visually polished cozy experience. Meanwhile, Xbox Game Pass subscribers receive Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth on March 24, adding another massive RPG to an already overflowing library. Release weeks like this one define a console generation — and the Switch 2 is following its predecessor’s playbook with devastating efficiency. Between a flagship Mario title, a major narrative adventure, a legendary fighting game revival, and quality ports, this is the week that answers every skeptic who questioned whether Switch 2 could live up to its predecessor’s legacy. The answer is emphatic.

The post The Switch 2’s Most Stacked Week Yet — From Mario Wonder to Life is Strange: Reunion appeared first on Bizznerd.

However, despite its ongoing success, the Nintendo Switch faces the challenge of aging hardware. Sadly,  the faults are becoming increasingly apparent. During an earnings call last May, Nintendo’s president, Shuntaro Furukawa, acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining sales momentum for the aging console in its seventh year.

Nevertheless, the anticipation for a successor, the Nintendo Switch 2, is tangible. Recent positive sales figures prompted Nintendo to revise its 2024 hardware sales forecast upward by half a million units.

When’s the release date going to be?

Speculation surrounding the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 has persisted for years. Almost immediately after the debut of the original Nintendo Switch, discussions among leakers commenced regarding a potential successor. Many anticipated a new console, dubbed the Nintendo Switch Pro. They hoped it would come with boasting upgraded hardware, with initial expectations pointing towards a 2021 release.

However, Nintendo’s announcement that year didn’t unveil the long-awaited Switch Pro. Instead, on July 6, 2021, they introduced the revised Switch OLED console. Thus, offering a modest enhancement over the original model with a slightly larger OLED display. As of now, the pursuit of the elusive Switch Pro continues.

Throughout 2023, numerous reports surfaced hinting at Nintendo’s preparations for the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2.

According to a news report, the delay of the console is attributed to Nintendo’s focus on developing stronger first-party software. The outlet speculates that the release timeline for the Switch 2 might align with that of the original Switch, which was announced a year before its March 2017 release. If this holds true, we might get a glimpse of the Nintendo Switch 2 this year. However, it won’t be available for purchase until early 2025.

Price of Nintendo Switch 2

Leaker Zippo, along with his “numerous sources” at Nintendo, suggests that the Nintendo Switch 2 might come with a considerably higher price tag compared to the original Nintendo Switch at launch. They speculate that the Switch 2 could be priced at $399. This aligns with the launch price of the Nintendo Switch OLED, which was £309.

All of the upgrades we’ll see in Nintendo Switch 2

Final thoughts

In conclusion, the anticipation surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 continues to grow. While concrete details remain scarce, the prospect of upgraded hardware, enhanced performance, and potential innovations such as OLED displays and multiple editions has captured the imagination of gamers worldwide. As we await official confirmation from Nintendo, one thing is certain: the gaming community eagerly anticipates the arrival of the Nintendo Switch 2 and the exciting possibilities it may bring to the gaming landscape.

The post Nintendo Switch 2 – Here’s everything we know appeared first on Bizznerd.

The best part about Mortal Combat 1

Without a doubt, the strongest aspect of MK1 is the storyline. With this installment, it undergoes a dramatic reset, with Liu Kang assuming the mantle of Earthrealm’s guardian and guiding its champions into a seemingly less perilous Mortal Kombat tournament. However, the tranquility is short-lived as mysterious and malevolent forces disrupt the peace, plunging the realm into chaos once more. Liu Kang’s carefully cultivated utopia is threatened as these usurpers seek to transform it into a battleground soaked in blood and gore.

Returning to the roots of the franchise, Mortal Kombat 1 embraces the classic “kung-fu flick” aesthetics, shedding the modern military themes of its predecessors. Instead, the narrative weaves a thrilling tale of ninjas, sorcery, and treachery, punctuated by deadly alliances and unexpected twists. The story campaign unfolds with stellar cinematography, delivering authentic moments of drama and comedy. Also, it included a long-awaited return of characters such as Sindel, Reptile, Mileena, and Raiden.

Visuals and animation

Mortal Kombat 1 boasts stunning visuals that capture the essence of its dark and fantastical world. The game’s graphics are undeniably impressive, showcasing detailed character designs and richly rendered environments. Each fighter is meticulously crafted with distinct features, from the imposing stature of Goro to the agile movements of Liu Kang. Vibrant colors and dynamic lighting effects further enhance the visual spectacle, immersing players in the intense combat experience.

On the other hand, Mortal Kombat 1, as a recent release, features animations that we can definitely call lacking, to say the least, compared to its competition. The character movements appear stiff and unnatural, with animations that sometimes feel rigid and dated. Jumping animations, in particular, seem clunky and lacking in fluidity.

NetherRealm Studios’ strongest point

Mortal Kombat 1’s stage design stands as a testament to the game’s captivating atmosphere and immersive world-building. NetherRealm Studios meticulously crafted each arena to reflect the diverse settings of the Mortal Kombat universe, from ancient temples shrouded in mystery to eerie wastelands teeming with danger. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, with background elements that breathe life into the environment and enhance the sense of immersion. Whether it’s the haunting silhouette of Shang Tsung’s throne room or the perilous cliffs of the Pit, every stage serves as a dynamic backdrop to the intense battles that unfold within. The stage design not only adds visual depth but also contributes to the storytelling, offering glimpses into the lore and mythology of the Mortal Kombat world.

Soundtrack of Mortal Kombat 1

The soundtrack of Mortal Kombat 1 serves as a powerful nostalgia-inducing element, transporting players back to the golden era of arcade gaming. Composed by Dan Forden, the iconic tunes are instantly recognizable, evoking memories of intense battles and adrenaline-fueled victories.

And of course, the gameplay and fighting

Mortal Kombat 1 delivers a familiar fighting experience that reminds us of the 90’s with its’ trademark 5-button fighter mechanic. However, some frustrations arise, such as the lack of player position resets, which can disrupt the flow of combat. Despite these setbacks, the introduction of the Kameo mechanic brings a notable evolution to the gameplay, reminiscent of the classic Kings of Fighters Striker system. While Kameo combatants add variety, they often feel like empty avatars, lacking the depth and personality of the main roster. Nevertheless, as this mechanic evolves over time, it holds promise for making a significant impact on the competitive scene.

The introduction of the new invasion mode and the implementation of the battle-pass style system known as “Mastery” represent attempts to provide players with additional content and rewards. The invasion mode promises dynamic challenges and seasonal updates. It offers players opportunities to engage in fresh experiences and earn rewards for their favorite fighters. However, some players find this mode lacking compared to the beloved MK Deception. It has a feeling that it fails to fully capture the excitement and depth of previous iterations. Despite its potential, the invasion mode may need further refinement to fully satisfy the expectations of fans.

Final thoughts

Overall, Mortal Kombat 1 was neither a hit or a miss. It does have excellent parts like the storyline, the soundtrack, the visuals and stage design. However, in parts where it doesn’t excel, it really messes up. The training, tutorial and online parts feel not finished. Same thing with the Invasion mode and Kameo mechanic. Although, I cannot beat them up about it since it is freshly added and will need some time to perfect. All in all, those who have loved previous installments will probably enjoy this one. Despite the fact that some parts are looking increasingly dated. In my opinion, it is not worth the full-priced fighter tag that it has.

The post Mortal Kombat 1 – Review appeared first on Bizznerd.

Tons of Customization Options

At the start of the game, players have many character customization options. We now get to play as an Octling or an Inkling with nine different skin tone choices. For an Inkling, there are 16 unique hairstyles, and 8 for Octling. We can even customize our character’s legwear: with 14 different options. If you decide you want to try a different look after finishing your customization, don’t worry, you can always go back and change your character. You can even change from an Octling to an Inkling and vice versa.

Splatoon 3 Story Mode

Further exploring the Splatoon lore, taking where we left off in the Octo Expansion, the single-player mode in Splatoon 3 is called the “Return of the Mammalians”. Although we only saw a teaser for the single-player mode, we can assume it will be the finale of the Splatoon lore. Regardless, after the positive feedback for the previous story modes, we can expect something even greater than before as the grand finale.

Splatoon 3 Weapon Additions

The Splatana

A melee Splatoon weapon? Nope. Although this looks like a katana, it has an impressive range where it shoots slashes in quick succession. To shoot a charged slash, hold the shoot button before releasing. Quick slashes are horizontal, while the charged ones are more vertical.

The Stringer

It is a new type of Splatoon bow that shoots three balls of ink at release at medium succession. Players can change the shot depending on if they jump while shooting or stand. While standing, it shoots horizontally; and vertically when jumping.

Tacticooler

The first special weapon on this list is the Tacticooler. The Tacticooler is a dispenser that drops beverages that grant a speed boost. Each Tacticooler can dispense up to four cans so the entire squad can grab one.

Reefslider

This unique weapon is a summonable ride that allows players to charge and slam into an area to explode, splatting ink in a wide radius and dealing lots of damage.

Wave Breaker

The Wave Breaker is another special weapon that, when summoned, will send sonar waves around itself to find players. Upon detecting enemies, the Wave Breaker will damage them. Players can avoid the Wave Breaker by jumping over the waves.

Crab Tank

The Crab Tank is another special ridable. It’s an assault vehicle that can rapidly shoot small ink shots and slowly shoot powerful ones at a long distance.

Trizooka

The Trizooka is a special that fires three powerful arcing ink shots that can travel through players.

Ink Vac

Arguably one of the best support special weapons, the Ink Vac is capable of stopping any ink that is shot toward its vortex. The vortex will also slow any enemy player, making the Ink Vac essential when pushing deep into enemy territory.

Triple Inkstrike

The Triple Inkstrike is a special weapon that shoots three sticky beacons that each summon a temporary ink tornado once stuck to a surface.

Big Bubbler

Another very powerful support special weapon is the Big Bubbler. The Big Bubbler summons a bubble that only lets ally ink shots through- making it crucial in defensive plays.

New Maps in Splatoon 3

Although we haven’t seen all the maps, Nintendo confirmed that there are at least 12 maps. Half of these will be popular maps from Splatoon 1 and 2 and the other half will be completely new.

Tableturf Battles

By far the most unique feature of Splatoon 3, the Tableturf Battle is Splatoon’s own competitive card game. Each card on the board represents a part of the game. The goal of the game is to cover the majority of the board with your cards. 150 confirmed cards will be released, with new ones being added as updates roll out.

The post All the New Features of Splatoon 3 appeared first on Bizznerd.

The story in Xenoblade Chronicles 3

This plot is so complete that even people who have never played a Xenoblade game before will find it enjoyable. There are undoubtedly allusions and connections to Xenoblade Chronicles 1 and 2, but they are not particularly important. Also, you are unlikely to notice the parallels unless you know what to look for. There is much to enjoy if you have been following the series from the start. By the time you are done, you will feel like you just received a pleasant reward for sticking with it all these years

Bad things about the story

However, despite the universe and the story being delightfully bizarre, they aren’t always employed well. That can particularly be felt when it comes to hit-or-miss writing that has characters repeatedly repeating plot developments. It’s not always told with finesse, and frequently, three protracted cutscenes are utilized to accomplish what could have been accomplished with just one line of conversation. However, the concepts and characters nearly never stop shining. 

Not to add that virtually every trope from an anime story has been used in the maximum amounts allowed by law. With so much filler padding out the journey, combined with some serious pace issues, the game may feel long. One segment where you must go undercover to complete mundane duties or another where you must travel the globe collecting metal bits is pure proof of bad writing. While some of that is acceptable, it might have been preferable to omit some of the unnecessary details from a game that took 150 hours to complete.

Characters in Xenoblade Chronicles 3

The good news is that, with very few exceptions, the characters shine brightly even when the tale drags a little. It is quite challenging to resist developing a love for the motley crew of misfits and ne’er-do-wells that make up your group, whether you’re hanging out with the loud meathead Lanz and his basic charms or spending time with the serious bookworm Taion. 

They may not be the most original character. However, after spending so much time with them, trust me, they will become like family. This is particularly true when each character receives so much screen time. Each party member is given in-depth biographical biographies. Also, optional side quests that are completely voiced over and offer further depth to the characters’ backstories.

Combat

Similar to the fighting system, various upgrades have been made that make it feel significantly less monotonous and more exciting than its predecessors. While the basic idea of combining auto-attacks, super-powered Arts, and attack combinations hasn’t changed much, a ton of new possibilities have been added. They’ve managed to keep the action fresh for more than 100 hours. Among other things, it is achieved with the return of chain attacks, which let you deal a ton of damage by engaging in a straightforward minigame, new transformations that combine two characters into their Ouroburos form for a limited time, and six playable characters plus a guest NPC that can be swapped out.

Closing thoughts

The voice acting, soundtrack, story, and characters are all excellent. I can only promise you that this game will give you serotonin if you can look past the archaic graphics. Without a doubt, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a masterpiece. We are interested to see where Monolith Soft plans to take the franchise in the future.

The post Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Review appeared first on Bizznerd.

Developed by MercurySteam in partnership with Nintendo EPD and was originally planned for a release on Nintendo DS back in 2005, however, technological limitations lead developers to a dead end. More than ten years later during the company’s E3 2021 Nintendo Direct presentation on June 15th, the company officially announced that Metroid Dread was already in development.

What’s it all about?

Metroid Dread is a single player sci-fi action adventure the that was released on Nintendo Switch on the 8th of October this year – and just like every other Metroid title that came before it, Metroid Dread follows the interstellar adventures of EMMI (Extraplanetary Multiform Mobile Identifiers) robot, Samus Aran.

This time, The Galactic Federation  deployes her to the planet ZDR to investigate suspicious events around a group of EMMI bots that were sent ahead of her and the possible presence of The X – a parasitic species that were thought to have gone extinct.

The gameplay

Playing Metroid Dread is much like playing any of its predecessors, however, this installation is richly layered. The maps feel significantly bigger with more exploration options and allow more movement between the different sectors of the planet.

Furthermore, the added layering goes beyond the scenery and extends to the special abilities and the array of weapons that Samus builds and gathers as players progress through the game. Without omitting the classics like the Screw Attack and Varia Suit, Metroid Dread brings in a wider range of suit upgrades, missiles, beams to suit different situations and preferences.

That said, this iteration of the Metroid series is decidedly focused on combat more than it does on exploration – the attack focused upgrade list is proof of this, even though Samus has a Phantom Cloak ability for added stealth. More evidence of Metroid Dread’s pro-action orientation can be seen in the game’s boss encounters, where developers chose to follow a “the more the merrier” philosophy – more frequent, more intense and more time consuming.

Key features

In many ways, Metroid Dread has stayed true to the Metroidvania sub genre that it has always been a central figure in. Looking for unlockable areas, hidden treasures and collectibles by blasting at textures that seem a little off is rewarded in this game.

Another key feature of Metroid Dread is the addition of unkillable enemies – those aforementioned EMMI robots that went to planet to ZDR, which are an important part of the story and add a new dynamic to the “final” installation of the Metroid series.

Closing thoughts

After more than three decades entertaining Nintendo players and keeping fans waiting for more than decade for this latest addition, Metroid Dread still manages to captivate with it simplistic genius, from the weapons and abilities, to Samus’ movements and the maps that players gradually unlock – Metroid Dread is a pleasurable final salute to a Nintendo classic.

The post Metroid Dread: A Nintendo Classic’s Last hurrah appeared first on Bizznerd.

There are two titles in the genre, Splatoon, and Spellbreak, which are so different from any other game that they deserve special mention. More than a special mention, they ought to be put against one another to see which is best.

They stand out so starkly from everything else, in terms of concept, that the games are unique, and not much else out there can even come close enough to compete. Splatoon is a lighthearted tale about underwater creatures, squids and octopuses, who battle it out in cartoon-like environments, for control of the turf. Spell break, on the other hand, is a battle royale title in the traditional sense, but does away with guns and grenades and replaces weapons with magic.

Both titles offer unique takes on the traditional battle royale shooter, which gives them their unique appeal. Here is a more detailed look at each.

Splatoon

Developed and owned by Nintendo, Splatoon is a third-person shooter title that first saw release in 2015, for the Nintendo Wii U gaming console. The gaming series – which has seen two releases, with a third scheduled for release in 2022 – features anthropomorphic cephalopods or squids and octopuses with the ability to turn into humans.

Said cephalopods can – as cephalopods – swim away from brightly coloured ink clouds, or hide in them, as the situation calls. They can also – at will – morph into humanoid form, which allows them to hold guns that fire differently coloured ink.

Though the game has a storyline, it is mainly focused on its online multiplayer offering, which spawned an export tournament circuit. Its matches are quite compact, having 8 players split into teams of 4 for a match to begin.

The Turf Wars are won by the team that covers the most turf in their team’s ink. Players have the option of using an ink bomb, or primary weapon to accomplish this end. The title is brightly coloured, and designed to look more fun than other games in the genre, which focus heavily on graphical presentation.

Spellbreak

Spellbreak is more battle royale-based than Splatoon and spans more platforms than the Nintendo exclusive. This title is available on PC, PS4, Nintendo Switch, as well as Xbox One.

This game is basically with guns and mechanical weapons and, instead, has experimented with elemental magic to battle it out for the title of top battlemage. One can choose between one of six elemental types – Fire, Wind, Earth, Ice, Poison or Lightning.

One chooses their base element before the beginning of a match, while a secondary power is added during play. Each element has 2 attack types, a Spell, and a Sorcery, which can be combined to create devastating mixed attacks which may turn the odds in one’s favour.

The game allows up to 45 players per match while dropping them onto wide maps, which allow for exploring, collecting items, and battling. One can also develop flight as the match progresses, though equipped through scrolls, increasing mana. The title is incredibly engaging and aesthetically pleasing enough to keep one playing over time.

The Verdict

Bog titles are engaging enough and offer, simple enough, gameplay to easily master in no time at all. Which one a gamer ought to pick depends on the available console, and desired depth of engagement.

Splatoon is light enough for simple, casual play, offering a fun twist to weapon weapons-based which can be enjoyed by a family, or among friends. Spellbreak is a more serious title, which may require as much focus as any other battle royale title. The mixing of magical elements to form unique attacks and having more opponents to contend with makes for more serious gaming sessions.

Ultimately, it all depends on one’s goals. Splatoon for lighthearted, simple gaming, Spellbreak for more serious, engaged play sessions.

The post Spellbreak VS Splatoon appeared first on Bizznerd.

Under the leadership of Jeff Kaplan, a director at Blizzard at the time, the team pulled it off. The gaming world welcomed it. Naturally, fans are eager to get more details about the upcoming sequel and what to expect.

There are some confirmed changes in Overwatch 2

Overwatch 2 is set to release across a good selection of platforms – Nintendo Switch, PC, Playstation, and Xbox (Series X/S included), making it a readily available game for the already massive following. However, there has not been any confirmation as to whether or not Overwatch 2 will feature crossplay.

As far as confirmations go, the biggest known changes to expect in Overwatch 2 are in the gameplay and they have left fans polarized. One of them is the changing of team structure from 2-2-2 to 5v5. Each team will then be made up of 2 damage heroes, 2 support heroes, and a singular Tank hero as opposed to the equal split that fans have gotten used to over the years.

Overwatch 2 will also come with new game modes to keep players entertained, the most notable being the addition of PvE story-based single-player modes. It made up for what many gamers have criticized about the first Overwatch game.

Another hot topic regarding Overwatch 2 is the addition of new heroes, expanding the current and the addition of new maps – Monte Carlo, New York, Rio de Janeiro, Rome, and Toronto are certain additions.

On the downside, the one bit of information that might be the most important hasn’t yet been announced. This is the ever so secretive matter of the actual release date. When it comes to this matter, Blizzard has masterfully sidestepped the question and speculation around this specific aspect of Overwatch 2’s development. The only confirmed information about the release came from J. Allen Brack, Former President at Blizzard, who stated during a February earnings call that “no release is expected anytime soon”.

Closing thoughts

The announcement of Overwatch 2 back in 2019 generated a lot of hype, which has been persistent ever since. Spurred on by Blizzard’s willingness to release tantalizing trailers of the game. However, without a confirmed release date, the waiting game can feel like forever.

But that is just what we’ll have to endure until Blizzard actually drops Overwatch 2, trailers, forum discussions, and the good old original to keep enjoying.

The post Overwatch 2; Here’s Everything We Know So Far appeared first on Bizznerd.

Apex Legends Mobile announced in April of this year the game becoming open for regional beta-testing (beginning with the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and recently, Hong Kong). In May of 2021, it is making its slow creep onto mobile. The online multiplayer Battle Royale shooter developed by Respawn Entertainment, and published by Electronic Arts (EA) is slated to see full-scale release in 2022. It will also support cross-platform play.

Apex Legends Gameplay

Based on Respawn Entertainment’s Mech-Battle title, Titanfall, Apex Legends is more Battle Royale oriented. Instead of piloting Mechanical Amours, players take control of one of 18 precast characters. Each of them possesses their own unique abilities (Legends,) and weaknesses. You can customize characters through found or bought cosmetic changes.

https://youtu.be/uV0UGM2Nfas

The premise of the game is rather uncomplicated. Players take each other on in teams of three, in a format similar to other shooters; Counterstrike, and Valorant, for instance. General Apex Legends matches (in their current format,) feature 20 squads. Those squads consist of three players, each. Players then enter a match by joining teams, or being randomly matched by the game’s system. After which they’re airdropped onto a location of the playing map.

Where, on the map, the team lands is up to a single player, who assumes the role of “jumpmaster”. Though, you can deviate from the intended landing trajectory. Apex Legends’ gameplay is set up so that no two members on a squad can play as the same character, which keeps the game dynamic.

Once players land on the playing map, they search for weapons and other useful equipment. They ‘scavenge’ through crates and buildings, stacking their inventory, while also keeping watch for rival crews.

What makes this game different?

The game allows similar movement to other titles in the shooter genre. However, it also features additional movement options derived from various versions of Apex Legends, Titanfall. Said movement options enable players to slide down inclined surfaces, climb over low obstacles, as well as zip-line across wide areas to shorten travel time. Allowing players to employ a diverse set of strategies during play, while using the game’s non-verbal “ping” based communication system.

The playable area on the in-game map gradually shrinks as the match continues. It shrinks around a randomly selected point, a process aimed at forcing players into encounters. Any player remaining outside the “safe zone” will incur damage. Being unable to get back into the safe zone will result in a player dying.

Death isn’t the absolute end during Apex Legends gameplay, though there are some time-sensitive conditions. When someone makes you incapacitated (Knocked Down), squad members can revive you. A player who is killed can be brought back into the action. Only if said player’s teammates retrieve the Respawn Banner that appears at the spot where the player has died. With a given time limit, of course.

Currently, in its 10th season, the game introduces new characters, weapons, and gameplay additions. The previous season of the games introduced the ‘Arena’ gameplay mode. It has players team up in a 3 vs 3 match, over a period of rounds.

Team’s with a 2 or 3 point lead are crowned the winners of the given match. Should a match go to a 9th round – meaning teams are evenly matched.

Seasons?

Like Valorant, Apex Legends calls its updates Seasons. Each season is usually accompanied by the introduction of a new playable character, weapons, cosmetic upgrades, new gameplay changes, and events, as well as alterations to playing maps. The latest (at time of writing) Season came with the introduction of a character known as Seer, along with the Rampage LMG weapon, among other gameplay augmentations.

Public Support

Taking a page from musical artist Beyonce’s playbook – also hoping to avoid negative backlash from Titanfall loyalists – Respawn, and publisher, EA opted to go for a surprise release. Only having 100 internet influencers tease the game during half-time of the Super Bowl, a day before its official release, the publisher created a lot of hype for the online shooter.

Critics received the title rather favorably, with many going as far as claiming it to be a worthy challenger to Fortnite’s dominance over the Battle-Royale genre. Though players decried the absence of some of Titanfall’s in-game mechanics, they praised the title’s gameplay, as well as called its non-verbal communication system innovative.

Us sports Egaming-oriented Channel has broadcasted its live tournament. As of April of this year, Statistics report Apex Legends to have over 100 million registered users, with EA reporting that the title adds 8 -10 million players a week.

The game broke records at release, registering over a million players within the first 8 hours of release, and going on to clear $92 million in revenue – across all platforms – within the initial month of release. This set a record as the highest sum for a newly released battle-royale game within the first month of release.

The post Apex Legends Goes Mobile appeared first on Bizznerd.

Nintendo’s wish

In combating what it calls, “serious, worsening international problem.”, one of Nintendo’s earliest and most prominent court battles happened in 2018. During that year, the corporation filed a lawsuit against Sergio Mojarro Moreno. He was a reseller of pirating tools created by the now infamous Team Xecutor.

On the back of a victory on that front, Nintendo and its legal team set their sights on RomUniverse. A website that enabled the downloading of pirated Nintendo Switch games, among others. Once again, the multinational came out victorious. The skirmishes between Nintendo and the defendant culminated in the defendant being ordered to pay the company more than $ 2.1 million in damages.

However, in an interesting twist, the defendant – Matthew Storman – convinced the court that he is unemployed. In response to this, an agreement to make $50 per month payments was reached. However, it is reported that the defendant had failed to make the first payment. This is part of the reasoning behind Nintendo’s continued pursuit of RomUniverse, this time pressing the courts to issue a  permanent injunction – which the company had not secured against the website in the first judgment.

Nintendo’s endless lawsuits

Since then, Nintendo has gained a bit of a reputation for its crackdowns on video game pirates. They were now going after the alleged leader of Team Xecuter, Gary Bowser, and one of his associates – Max Louran. Referring to Bowser’s and Louran’s endeavor as “an international pirate ring”, Nintendo filed a lawsuit – one copyright infringement charge and two counts for trafficking.

According to Nintendo’s filing, Bowser has been active in pirating their products since 2013. That’s when the company launched the Nintendo 3DS. Bowser was selling a device designed to hack the 3DS. The court filing also gives a detailed account of Bowser’s history of Nintendo Switch hacking. The company’s legal team also states that Bowser’s hacks “continue to put more than 79 million Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite consoles at risk from piracy.”

Nintendo wants $2500 for each device sold and $150 000 for every copyright. Naturally, the company would also like to see Bowser’s operation shut down for good.

Closing Thoughts

It will be interesting to see how this particular case plays out in the courts. It will be even more interesting to see how this will affect the rest of the industry. Will other gaming and consumer electronics corporations like Sony’s PS division and their counterparts at Microsoft follow suit?

That said, it looks as though the glory days of Nintendo hacking are soon to come to an end, or at least a rather dramatic slowdown as some individuals try to keep a low profile.

The post Nintendo’s War Against Copyright Infringement appeared first on Bizznerd.