Tag Archives: Nintendo Switch

Civilization VII Showcased at Gamescom; Release Scheduled for February 2025

The highly anticipated Sid Meier’s Civilization VII is set to launch worldwide on February 11, 2025. This latest instalment in the acclaimed strategy game franchise promises to bring a whole new experience; reimagining the genre with its innovative features and captivating gameplay. The latest installation into the franchise was showed off at the recently held Gamescom.

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Developed by Firaxis Games, Civilization VII introduces a fresh perspective on historical strategy games. Players will embark on a journey through the Ages of human history; each offering unique civilizations, resources, and gameplay systems. The ability to shape your empire’s path by selecting different civilizations and leaders adds a layer of customization and strategic depth.

The game features a beautifully rendered world that comes alive with diverse cultural styles. You’ll witness your empire’s growth, interact with other historical leaders, and engage in diplomatic negotiations and warfare.

Civilization VII also offers a robust multiplayer experience, allowing you to compete against friends online and prove your strategic prowess. Whether you prefer epic campaigns spanning multiple Ages or focused single-Age battles, the multiplayer mode caters to various playstyles.

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII - Official Gameplay Showcase

The game is designed to be accessible to both new and returning players. A revamped tutorial system eases newcomers into the experience, while veteran players will appreciate the numerous gameplay improvements.

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII will be available in multiple editions, including the Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition, and Founders Edition. Each edition offers different content and perks, such as early access, additional DLC packs, and exclusive in-game items.

Key Features:

  • Distinct Ages of History: Experience unique gameplay and civilizations in each Age.
  • Evolving Empires: Shape your empire’s path by selecting different civilizations and leaders.
  • Visionary Leaders: Choose from a diverse roster of historical leaders with unique abilities.
  • Immersive World: Explore a beautifully detailed world and interact with other leaders.
  • Multiplayer Competition: Compete against friends online in epic campaigns or single-Age battles.
  • Accessibility: A revamped tutorial and gameplay improvements make the game accessible to all.

Civilization VII promises to be a captivating and engaging strategy game that will keep players entertained for hours on end. With its innovative features and stunning visuals, it is sure to be a hit among fans of the series and newcomers alike.

Pricing & Availability

Sid Meier’s Civilization VII will be available starting on February 11, 2025. It’s set for release on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, and Mac and Linux via Steam. It’s currently up for pre-order until 11 February 2025.

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The Standard Edition is priced at $59.99 (RM248.80), the Deluxe Edition at $89.99 (RM373.20), and the Founders Edition at $119.99 (RM497.60).

The Deluxe and Founder’s Edition will come with early access that kicks off on February 6, 2025 – 5 days before the official release. Both the Deluxe and Founder’s Editions will also give you access to the Crossroads of the World Collection; a post launch add-on that gives you access to 2 new leaders, 4 new civilizations, 4 new wonders, a special cosmetic bonus, and more. They also come with the Deluxe Pack which comes with 2 leader personas, 4 profile customizations and 1 alternate scout skin. In addition to this, pre-orders will also come with the Tecumseh and Shawnee Pack, a content pack that unlocks the Leader Tecumseh and the Shawnee Civilization. This also includes pre-orders of the standard edition.

Additional goodies can be unlocked through linking your 2K account to the game when you install it. More information is coming closer to the launch.

“Bleach: Brave Souls” Now Available on the Nintendo Switch

TOKYO, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — KLab Inc., a leader in online mobile games, announced that its hit 3D action game Bleach: Brave Souls is available on the Nintendo Switch from today, Thursday, July 11. See the original press release (https://www.klab.com/en/press/) for more information.

KLab Inc., a leader in online mobile games, announced that its hit 3D action game Bleach: Brave Souls is available on the Nintendo Switch from today, Thursday, July 11.
KLab Inc., a leader in online mobile games, announced that its hit 3D action game Bleach: Brave Souls is available on the Nintendo Switch from today, Thursday, July 11.

The Nintendo Switch version of Brave Souls supports English, Japanese, French, and Traditional Chinese, and can be enjoyed by players from around the world (excluding mainland China and other specific regions) with access to the Nintendo eShop.

Nintendo eShop
https://nintendo.com/us/store/products/bleach-brave-souls-switch

New Platform Release Gift Campaign

A repost campaign is being held where participants can win amazing prizes such as a Nintendo Switch and Brave Souls merch.

Be sure to repost the campaign post found on the Brave Souls official X account to participate.

Switch Release Gift Campaign Period:
Thursday, July 11 to Wednesday, July 24 23:59 (JST/UTC+9)

Bleach: Brave Souls Official X Account:
https://x.com/bleachbrs_en

*Please note that campaign contents and the campaign period are subject to change without notice.
*Please check the news on the official website for more details.

New Payment Service “Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store” Available from Thursday, July 11

The Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store will be available from Thursday, July 11 as a new payment service where players can find good deals for purchasing in-game currency and more.

A campaign is being held to celebrate the launch.

Campaign Period
Thursday, July 11 19:30 to Thursday, July 18 15:59 (JST/UTC+9)

How to Enter

  1. Click on the Newsletter Registration Campaign notice in the Bleach: Brave Souls app.
  2. Click on the link found in the notice and register a personal email address with KLabGames Info.

Rewards

  • Super Rainbow Link Slot Potion x250, Rainbow Link Slot Potion x1000
  • Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store 10% Discount Coupon

Prize

100 winners will be selected from those who made a purchase on the Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store during the campaign period to receive Brave Souls original merch.

Brave Souls Original Acrylic Block (10 winners)
Brave Souls Original Desk Mat (20 winners)
Brave Souls Original Magnet (30 winners)
Brave Souls Original Clear File (40 winners)

*Please note that campaign contents are subject to change without notice.
*Further details on the campaign will be announced at a later date on the official website.
*Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store is not available for PlayStation®4, PlayStation®5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox. Therefore, players on these platforms cannot participate in this campaign.

Thank you for your understanding.

Overview of Bleach: Brave Souls

Platform:                                   iOS /Android™/PC/PS4™/Nintendo Switch/Xbox One
Genre:                                       3D Action
Price:                                         Free-to-play (In-game purchases available)
Official Website:                       https://www.bleach-bravesouls.com/en/
Official X Account:                   @bleachbrs_en
Official Facebook Page:           https://www.facebook.com/BleachBS.en
Official YouTube Channel:       https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1QJ4uNQeijEx0jlo4nqauA
Official Instagram:                    @bleachbravesouls_official
Official Discord:                        https://discord.com/invite/bleachbravesouls
Official TikTok:                          https://www.tiktok.com/@bleachbrs_en_official
Copyright:                                 © Tite Kubo/Shueisha, TV TOKYO, dentsu, Pierrot
                                                   © KLabGames

Download Here:

App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1003168863
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.klab.bleach
Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1201240/BLEACH_Brave_Souls
PlayStation Store: https://store.playstation.com/concept/10002097
Nintendo eShop: https://nintendo.com/us/store/products/bleach-brave-souls-switch
Xbox Store: https://www.xbox.com/games/store/bleach-brave-souls/9nnrnx65nknb

Source: KLab Inc.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Xbox After the Xbox Podcast

Speculation has been rife since last week that Microsoft plans to move away from the current status quo of having exclusive games for its Xbox console. In fact, rumours hinted at the Xbox going the way of the dinosaurs. However, earlier this morning, Phil Spencer, Sarah Bond and Matt Booty – three of the top execs at Xbox – took to the Xbox Podcast to set the record straight. In the podcast, Phil Spencer stresses that the information was already in the pipeline to be shared but was expedited due to the leaks last week.

Updates on the Xbox Business | Official Xbox Podcast

There were a number of things discussed in the 23-minute episode of the podcast, but we’ve summarised everything here. So here’s what you should know:

1. Xbox Exclusives are Here to Stay… for now

Phil Spencer cut to the chase during the podcast and addressed the elephant in the room head-on. In a nutshell, Xbox exclusives are here to stay. Microsoft is not pivoting its strategy to get rid of platform exclusives. Phil Spencer stressed that exclusives remain a key component of Xbox’s go-to-market strategy. That said, he did highlight that the games market as a whole seems to be moving away from exclusive – hinting at a possible future without platform exclusives altogether. However, Matt Booty made one point very clear: GamePass will remain Xbox exclusive.

This isn’t too surprising though. We’ve seen platform exclusives slowly shift to timed exclusives. One of the most obvious examples of this is Sony itself with IPs like God of War, Final Fantasy and even Horizon making their way to the PC after a period of exclusivity.

2. Four Xbox Games are Heading to PlayStation 5 and the Nintendo Switch

With that said, four Xbox exclusives will be breaking exclusivity. These games will be heading to the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. While no specific names were given, the execs did highlight that these games are at least a year old and are – mostly – community-driven. Phil Spencer was very clear that Starfield and the upcoming Indiana Jones game will remain Xbox exclusives.

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Photo by Kamil S on Unsplash

The games that are making their way to other platforms are seen as either “smaller games that were never really meant to be built as kind of platform exclusives” or “first iterations of a franchise” that would benefit from being on other platforms. It seems pretty likely that these games are likely live-service games; particularly because Phil Spencer did mention that this move would justify further investments.

3. It’s All About Growth

The decision to take these games over to other platforms lies solely in growing Microsoft’s games business. With the closure of Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, the company is focusing on growing the business and sustaining the double-digit revenue growth it has seen. To achieve this, the four games need to grow their player base and that is only achieved through expanding the availability of these games.

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In addition to this, the move to make games more accessible is also aiming to create a larger awareness of the Xbox platform. Yes – they used the word “platform” instead of console. This is very likely how we can see the Xbox brand evolve in the future. Already, we have Xbox GamePass which covers the Xbox Console, XCloud and PC. The next generation of hardware is likely geared to take these experiences further. A cloud-based handheld Xbox anyone?

All in all, it seems like everything is still status quo at Xbox. However, it’s worth noting that the status quo at Xbox is very different than before thanks to the Activision Blizzard acquisition. The company’s growing footprint as a publisher is forcing it to grow beyond just Xbox exclusives. Studios like Activision Blizzard and Zenimax will continue to develop multi-platform games while Microsoft Game Studios continues to seek ways to grow its engaged user base.

Square Enix Unveils The Next SaGa Game – SaGa Emerald Beyond

Square Enix recently hosted the SaGa Glimmerfest 2023 34th Anniversary Livestream. During the livestream, the publisher surprised everyone with the announcement of the next game in the series – SaGa Emerald Beyond. The latest instalment of the SaGa franchise is set to launch on April 25, 2024, on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC (Steam), and iOS and Android devices.

SaGa Emerald Beyond follows two protagonists in search of answers. The first, Tsunanori Mido, hails from the esteemed Mido family and stands out with a unique ability to control kugutsu puppets. He joins the Cathedral Project, a group exploring other worlds, with the goal of repairing his city’s weakening barrier and recovering lost spiritual energy.

SaGa Emerald Beyond – Tsunanori Mido Character Trailer

The other, Ameya Aisling, operates under the pseudonym Yumeha Izumi. She is a Miyako City schoolgirl with a hidden identity. Originating from Pulchra, she is in search of her lost mana. She follows the mysterious emerald waves in search of it. The two characters are just the tip of the iceberg as long-time SaGa players will know. The game will undoubtedly feature many other characters for us to fall in love with.

SaGa Emerald Beyond – Ameya Aisling Character Trailer

The new game will also be introducing new mechanics. The new Glimmer system is a unique take on the traditional JRPG battle styles. It will incorporate turn-based combat for those wanting a more vanilla JRPG. Players will need to level up their characters to learn new moves as they take down new enemies. You can also use powerful United Attacks with the right skills, tactics and Formation.

If this is your cuppa tea, you can now add SaGa Emerald Beyond to your wishlist on the Nintendo Switch store, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Steam. Pre-order details will be unveiled at a later date.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Is Gonna Be As Powerful as the PlayStation 4

Nintendo is gearing up for the highly anticipated release of its next-gen console, currently dubbed ‘Nintendo Switch 2’ by the internet. If rumours are to be believed we could be seeing the Switch 2 hit markets in 2024. However, while the official name remains shrouded in secrecy, details about its power and performance have begun to surface, thanks to insider information from Activision.

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Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

But before we get into those details, it looks like the upcoming console made its debut behind closed doors at the recent Gamescom. In this sneak peek, Nintendo discreetly unveiled tech demos to specially invited developers, offering a tantalizing glimpse of what the future might hold for the gaming giant. During this closed-door showcase, it’s been reported that Nintendo showcased several games including an enhanced version of “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild”; all of which were running with high frame rates. However, what’s more interesting is that the console also ran the “Matrix Awakens” tech demo powered by Unreal Engine 5 which was used to demonstrate the capabilities of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X in 2021. It was able to deliver graphics on par with current-gen consoles complete with DLSS and ray tracing.

Keep in mind that Nintendo had filed patents back in March 2020 that hinted at potential AI upscaling technology, similar to the Switch’s core functionality. These patents, made public in 2021, describe a process where a game can run at one resolution while the device operates on battery power but can upscale to 1080p when plugged into a power source or connected to a TV. The patent even suggests that other upscaling processes, including upscaling to 4K, could be possible.

Recent developments, including Activision’s potential acquisition by Microsoft, have led to the revelation of confidential Activision emails that shed light on the Switch 2’s capabilities. Chris Schnakenberg, Head of Activision’s Platform Strategy and Partner Relations, delivered a briefing about the “Switch NG” (Switch Next Generation) to top-tier Activision executives, including CEO Bobby Kotick. In this briefing, Schnakenberg compared the Nintendo Switch 2’s performance to that of “Gen8 platforms,” referring to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.

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Photo by Michael Adeleye on Pexels.com

The information provided in these documents stems from Schnakenberg’s direct interaction with Nintendo in late 2022, giving weight to its credibility. Furthermore, Bobby Kotick leveraged this information as part of his preparation for a meeting with Nintendo’s CEO and President, Shuntaro Furukawa, on December 15, 2022, further reinforcing the reliability of these insights.

The Nintendo Switch 2’s performance, closely aligned with that of the PS4 and Xbox One, may raise questions about its competitiveness with current-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. However, this should not be a cause for concern for Nintendo enthusiasts. The unique appeal of the Nintendo Switch lies in its hybrid nature, allowing players to seamlessly transition between handheld and TV modes. Attempting to match the raw power of the PS5 would be an impractical endeavour for a portable device.

Nintendo has a track record of prioritizing gameplay experiences over cutting-edge graphics. The original Switch itself was technically a generation behind when it debuted over six years ago, yet it continues to thrive in the market. For Nintendo, graphical prowess has never been the primary focus.

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Photo by Mao Batista on Pexels.com

Nintendo’s success lies squarely in Switch 2’s improved performance and its potential to attract third-party developers. Currently, the Nintendo Switch struggles to handle modern games that are optimized for higher-end hardware, often necessitating significant compromises in graphics and performance. The Switch 2 has the potential to resolve this issue, making it a more attractive platform for developers and offering gamers a broader selection of titles.

Moreover, Nintendo has a rich library of exclusive franchises, including Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, Donkey Kong, and Metroid, which have consistently driven sales regardless of the console’s graphical capabilities. However, without third-party developers working on the new Switch 2, it would be a tough battle ahead for Nintendo. That said, the Nintendo Switch has already proven itself as a capable console even with its limited hardware. More and more developers are adopting the hardware as it gains popularity thanks to its hybrid nature.

Need Some Mystery and Intrigue? These Games Will Scratch that Itch

Missing something? Seeking excitement at home? Look no further than these Detective Games.

1. The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog.

Developer: SEGA
Platform:   Microsoft Windows, MacOS
Price: Free to play 

If you’re a fan of Sonic The Hedgehog then this is the game for you!

It is Amy’s birthday party! Things are swell and dandy until her beloved Sonic is murdered! From there it’s up to Tails and Amy to investigate this train murder-mystery theme party gone wrong and who’s the culprit among the guest. Look for clues, interrogate familiar faces, and piece together what has happened to find out who is the murderer.

This interactive novel, point-and-click mystery game is filled with many comical, suspenseful moments, and clues that will make you scratch your head. It’s bound to keep you busy as you venture forth in the game.

The best part of it all? It’s free! The game is free with no in-cost and if you are a Sonic fan it puts a twist to the normal platform with a fun twist.

Available on: Steam

2. Sherlock Holmes The Awakened

Developer: Frogwares
Platform:  PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S
Price: PC: RM 139, PlayStation: RM169, Xbox: RM156

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Want something with more action and suspense then why not go for a classic with some monstrous additions?

Frogwares’s take on Sherlock Holmes isn’t like any other. It’s a bone-chilling game that will puzzle you as you delve deep into Lovecraftian lore. Play as Sherlock and his sidekick to investigate mysterious cases of missing people plaguing Europe and the United States with the horrifying Cthulhu at the core of it all.

This game is story-rich with a horrifying twist and suspenseful revelations at every corner. The amazing graphics will have you on the edge of your seat.

 Available on: Steam, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox

3. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy

Developer: Capcom
Platform Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Android, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo 3DS, Steam
Price: PCRM 69, PlayStation: RM 129, Google Play: RM 59.90

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Doesn’t any of this sound good to you? If you like Law and Order and other shows about lawyers, you’ll like this game                                              

This is a visual novel series that fans of colourful characters and dramatic courtroom scenarios won’t want to miss out on! Play as Phoenix Wright and appear in court to advocate on behalf of your clients. But before that, make sure you know the case through and through as what you do and say could affect your outcomes.

Play all 14 episodes spanning the 3 games and become the best lawyer in court! With quirky characters and fun and exciting scenes, each one is more intense, and dramatic and will put your problem-solving skills to the test.

Available on: Steam, Nintendo Switch, Google Play, PlayStation

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe & Animal Crossing: New Horizons Get New Bundles – Again – for the Holidays

It’s that time of year again – new(ish) Nintendo Switch bundles are here. Starting from October 6, you can dive into the world of Super Mario with the Nintendo Switch™ Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe Bundle. This bundle includes a digital copy of the thrilling racing game and a three-month individual membership to Nintendo Switch Online, providing you with all the essentials to embark on your Super Mario adventures.

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However, one massive thing you have to take note of is that we’re not talking about the OLED version of the Nintendo Switch. We’re talking about the regular Switch which also means that the bundle is technically the same bundle that we’ve seen from Nintendo previously.

But that’s not all! October 6 also marks the arrival of two enchanting Nintendo Switch Lite system bundles. These bundles feature charming designs inspired by the beloved Animal Crossing™: New Horizons game and include a digital version of the game itself.

If you’re a fan of Animal Crossing, you’re in for a treat. The exclusive Nintendo Switch Lite bundles are inspired by the charming world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Nintendo Switch Lite Isabelle’s Aloha Edition – Animal Crossing: New Horizons Bundle (Target Exclusive): This bundle includes a coral-coloured system adorned with a leaf design on the front and a white leaf motif on the back.
  • Nintendo Switch Lite Timmy & Tommy’s Aloha Edition – Animal Crossing: New Horizons Bundle (Walmart Exclusive): Only available at Walmart, this exclusive bundle features a cool turquoise-coloured system with the same leaf-inspired design.

While these bundles are exclusive to the U.S., it wouldn’t surprise us to see these bundles come to Malaysia in stores like Impulse Gaming, Atlas Gamers and M4G.

It’s the perfect time to get your Switch or Switch Lite if you don’t already have one. Nintendo has had one of the best lineups for their hybrid console this year with games like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Metroid Prime Remastered. Let’s not forget the upcoming Super Mario Bros. Wonder game, set to launch on October 20.

Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch OLED Unveiled Ahead of Super Mario Bros. Wonder’s Release

Nintendo is hyping up its upcoming release of Super Mario Bros. Wonder with a brand new edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED. The Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch OLED is slated for release on October 6, 2023, in select markets.

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The new edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED was revealed during the Super Mario Bros. Wonder Direct. It will be released just in time for the highly anticipated Super Mario Bros. Wonder game, set for release on October 20. For Mario fans and Nintendo enthusiasts, the new colourway might just be that push to embrace OLED technology or dive into the Nintendo Switch ecosystem.

The Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch OLED is just… unghhhh… so pretty. The console, dock, and Joy-Con controllers are drenched in Mario’s signature red colour, with subtle details in a deeper red. The dock features a silhouette of Mario in action, while the back boasts a charming touch – a set of hidden golden coins. It’s a nod to the classic allure of Mario’s adventures.

This design is exclusive to the OLED model of the Nintendo Switch, aligning with Nintendo’s strategy of offering themed consoles alongside major game releases. While the package doesn’t include a copy of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, it’s a perfect way to welcome Mario back in his original 2D platformer glory.

Pricing & Availability

Pre-orders are available directly through Nintendo, and fans in the UK and Australia can expect availability soon. The new Mario Red Edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED will be priced at $349.99 (MYR1,626.47).

Pokémon Scarlet & Pokémon Violet Announced with Open World Gameplay

Pokémon Day commemorates the initial release of the, now, multimillion-dollar franchise. This year’s Pokémon Day was a little special with the unveiling of the next generation: Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

Pokémon Scarlet and Pokémon Violet | Announcement Trailer

The two new games mark the franchise’s 9th entry in its mainstream games. More significantly, it’s the first mainstream game to adopt an open-world adventure format. Before this, mainstream games had strict, linear gameplay that guided players from one town to another advancing the game’s plot. However, this changed with Pokémon Sword and Shield with small open world areas known as “wild areas”. Following this, Pokémon Legends Arceus advanced the franchise further into open-world gameplay. However, Scarlet and Violet will be the first to do it in a mainstream game.

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Pokémon Scarlet and Violet will take players to a brand-new region inspired by the real-world Iberian region which consists of Spain and Portugal. The Pokémon Company hasn’t yet revealed the name of the region. However, early game footage shows a vast, open-world with buildings and landmarks inspired by the Spanish and Portuguese. Together with these landmarks, we’re also treated to some familiar faces including Pikachu, Psyduck, Lucario, Stonjurner and Larvitar.

Meet Sprigatito, Fuecoco & Quaxly

However, the hallmark of any new generation announcement is the three “starter” Pokémon. Players will choose between them as they start their journeys. The ninth generation of mainstream games sees three new Pokémon: Sprigatito, Fuecoco and Quaxly. While they still follow the Grass-Fire-Water type triangle, the new starters give us a little insight into the style of the new series.

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Source: Pokémon Scarlet & Violet Official Website/The Pokémon Company

Sprigatito is a new cat Pokémon and the grass starter for the region. The official description lists it as the “Grass Cat Pokémon”. It’s the second feline starter in the franchise so far; the previous one being Litten of the Alolan region.

Fuecoco is a new crocodile inspired Pokémon and is the fire starter for the region as the name suggests. The new “Fire Croc Pokémon” is also the second crocodile starter in the franchise after Totodile in the Johto region.

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Source: The Pokémon Company

Quaxly, on the other hand, is the first duck starter Pokémon to date and is the water starter Pokémon of the new region.

That’s about all the information we have so far about the ninth generation Pokémon games. However, we can expect more information in the coming months as the game is slated to release on the Nintendo Switch later in 2022. Yep – that’s right, this year.

Kingdom Hearts’ Sora Wraps Up Smash Bros. Roster & Kicks Off Celebrations for Kingdom Hearts’ 20th Anniversary

The end of an era approaches as Nintendo’s Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is ending its run on the Nintendo. No – the game isn’t shutting down but there won’t be any new content after the 11th and final character pack. The studio behind one of the most popular Nintendo Switch games isn’t letting the game go out quietly though – they’re bringing one of the most beloved characters to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – Kingdom Heart’s Sora.

Screenshot 2021 10 06 at 13 11 12 Super Smash Bros ™ Ultimate – Battling with Sora – Nintendo Switch
Source: Nintendo YouTube

The character is one of the many non-Nintendo characters that have joined the game in the three years since its launch. Prior to this characters such as Terry Bogard of Fatal Fury, Sonic, Ryu of Street Fighter and Solid Snake from Metal Gear Solid have all been introduced to the game. However, the characters introduced so far don’t share the popularity of Kingdom Hearts’ Sora. The character is the lead in the series which has spanned multiple console generations and also traversed across consoles. Kingdom Hearts is one of the only franchises to have entries in nearly every console since its introduction on the PlayStation 2.

Kingdom Hearts holds a unique place in many players hearts as it was the first time two popular franchises – Disney and Final Fantasy collided. Sora’s many adventures with the Heartless saw him team up with Goofy and Donald and interact with titular characters such as Squall Leonheart, Ariel, Jasmine and more from both worlds. That said, his appearance in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate doesn’t bring along his Disney partners. Instead, playing as Sora allows players to use his signature keyblade and his elemental powers in battle. Sora will be available starting 18 October 2021.

Part of a Bigger Celebration for the 20th Anniversary of Kingdom Hearts

Sora’s appearance in Super Smash Bros isn’t the only piece of Kingdom Hearts coming to the Nintendo Switch. Cloud versions of the three main installations of the franchise – Kingdom Hearts, Kingdom Hearts 2 and Kingdom Hearts 3 – will be available for hybrid console.

KINGDOM HEARTS 20th Anniversary Trailer

Sora’s appearance in Smash and Kingdom Hearts’ availability on the Nintendo Switch comes on the heels of Square Enix’s announcement of the 20th anniversary celebrations of the franchise. The anniversary which falls on 28 March 2022 should be quite the extravangza with Square Enix announcing special merchandise as well an offline version of Kingdom Hearts: Union χ [Cross] for fans to relive the entire story in Theatre mode. Square Enix has only just teased the celebrations it has planned and is waiting to release more information at a later date.