In a thrilling development for gaming enthusiasts, Nintendo’s flagship titles, Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, have both been shortlisted for the prestigious ‘Console Game of the Year’ at the Golden Joystick Awards. This recognition not only highlights the innovative gameplay and design of these titles but also underscores the impact of the newly launched Switch 2 on the gaming landscape. The competition is fierce, with both games facing off against heavyweights like Death Stranding 2 and Ghost of Ytei.

Recently, Nintendo made headlines by formally denying claims that it was lobbying against generative AI in Japan. This unexpected move came after Satoshi Asano, a member of Japans House of Representatives, suggested on social media that Nintendo was avoiding the use of generative AI to protect its intellectual property (IP) and was engaging in lobbying activities with the government. Nintendo’s swift denial highlights the company’s commitment to transparency and its proactive approach to IP protection.

In a significant legal development, Nintendo has secured a $2 million settlement from Ryan Daly, a Michigan-based seller of modded Switch consoles. This case highlights the ongoing battle between gaming companies and those who exploit their hardware for unauthorized uses. Daly, who operated Modded Hardware, previously denied any wrongdoing but ultimately agreed to the settlement rather than face a lengthy court battle. The lawsuit, initiated by Nintendo in July 2024, accused Daly of selling modded consoles and devices that enabled piracy, including pre-installed copies of popular Nintendo games.

Japan’s National Diet Library (NDL) has made a significant decision regarding the preservation of video game media, stating that it will not include Nintendo’s Switch 2 Game-Key Cards in its collection. This choice highlights the evolving nature of digital content and the challenges libraries face in preserving modern media formats. The NDL, established in 1948, is responsible for archiving all new publications in Japan, including physical video games since 2000. However, the Game-Key Cards, which serve merely as keys for downloading games rather than containing the actual game data, do not meet the library’s criteria for preservation.

If you’re a fan of the Metroid series, you might be intrigued to know that linking Metroid Zero Mission to Metroid Fusion can unlock a hidden treasure: the Metroid Fusion picture gallery in Zero Mission. This unique feature not only enhances your gaming experience but also serves as a nostalgic nod to the interconnectedness of the Metroid universe. To access this gallery, simply connect your Game Boy Advance with a link cable and hold down START + SELECT while booting up Fusion.

In a recent interview, Kosuke Yabuki, the producer of Mario Kart World, revealed a fascinating insight into the game’s character selection process: the decision to exclude crossover characters from other Nintendo franchises was intentional. Yabuki explained that the development team felt that introducing characters from other games would disrupt the cohesive Mario-themed universe they aimed to create. This focus on the core Mario experience allows players to immerse themselves fully in the vibrant world of familiar characters and settings.

The gaming community is buzzing with excitement as rumors circulate about a potential Switch 2 Direct that could unveil a slew of highly anticipated game announcements. According to sources from the Nontendo Podcast, hosted by Wood Hawker, fans may soon see beloved titles like Pokémon Colosseum and a new Animal Crossing installment slated for 2026. This could be a pivotal moment for Nintendo, especially as they aim to capture the attention of both hardcore and casual gamers alike.