Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (3rd May)
By We’re yet another week closer to the Switch 2, everyone! We can almost sense the new cartridges… (yuck!)
Anyway, let’s explore what’s transpired this week. To start, we had the major 20.0.0 update for Switch, which introduced Virtual Game Cards and GameShare, along with a few other minor features. On a related note, it appears that more and more developers are adopting Game-Key Cards for Switch 2, and Nightdive’s CEO expresses that this is “disheartening”.
Meanwhile, a trailer for Donkey Kong Bananza might be hinting at Rambi’s comeback, which is delightful. A new Nintendo Magazine has been published focusing on the Switch 2 (and we’re optimistic that an English version will come soon), while Xbox startled everyone by increasing its prices globally, making the Switch 2 appear a tad more budget-friendly, somehow.
This week’s reviews feature the following:
That’s all, folks!
Ollie Reynolds, Staff Writer
It’s all about The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy, my friends. I haven’t been this engrossed in a game in ages; I truly love it. I have a feeling it’s going to be quite lengthy too, which may keep me entertained until the Switch 2 debuts.
That’s all from me this week! I would like to dive back into Pikmin 2 very soon, though.
Take care, everyone.
Kate Gray, Contributor
I’m really enjoying Clair Obscur. I’m not usually into JRPGs, but there’s something about the mix of rhythm-based turn combat a la Paper Mario and meticulous skill and strategy management like Slay the Spire that just resonates with me. Plus, the writing feels so refreshing — it’s quirky and self-referential, but not in a Marvel-esque way where it’s all “well, that just happened.” It’s also delightfully silly with how French it is — it’s all baguettes and Eiffel Towers as far as the oeil can voir.
This year has been filled with hits so far, and now I’m just hoping Fantasy Life i doesn’t break the streak (or my heart)…
Gavin Lane, Editor
After setting up my equipment a couple of weekends ago, I’ve been indulging in a Rock Band marathon with the family. There’s still an appealing sense of togetherness in gathering the band and playing through familiar songs. The Overdrive on my Gretsch is malfunctioning due to some faulty internal switches (do I feel like ordering new ones and soldering them in?), but it’s still a fantastic time even if I’m not maximizing my points. We started with Lego, then moved on to 3 via The Beatles, and we’re currently enjoying 2’s impressive playlist.
Additionally, Oliver’s recent Kablasta article had me pulling out the Labo cardboard again and introducing it to the kids. The VR game is still a blast, and I’m pleased I kept the blaster assembled. Maybe I’ll explore some more minigames before packing it all away for another five years.
PJ O’Reilly, Staff Writer
This weekend’s agenda involves collecting all the stars across every course in Mario Kart 8’s 200cc and mirror modes with my kids. I promised them we’d complete the game before Switch 2 launches, and I intend to keep my promise.
Aside from that, I plan to invest some serious time into Shotgun Cop Man, which looks like a perfect fit for me. I can’t wait!
Alana Hagues, Deputy Editor
I’m finally at the conclusion of Xenoblade Chronicles X. And it only took 100 hours. Yikes. I still face significant issues with the game overall, but I enjoy it much more than I did during my first playthrough. Hopefully, the new chapter won’t leave a sour taste…
I’m also approaching the end of Ender Magnolia, wrapping up everything before achieving the “true ending,” and I have relished every moment. Thus, I’ve decided that before the Switch 2 arrives, it’s time to finish another 2025 indie — Citizen Sleeper 2. I picked it up on sale and I’m eager to see how it expands the themes and mechanics of the original.
Gonçalo Lopes, Contributor
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition endgame is approaching! Chapter 12 is ready, all my skells are level 50 flying machines, my avatar has mastered all classes and is now a DPS powerhouse! More thrilling than witnessing the conclusion again is the extra Chapter 13 that unlocks immediately after what was previously the Wii U’s original ending that still lingers in my memory. After this, the game will resemble Monster Hunter for skells and over-the-top skells weapons. These weeks on Mira were a blast!
This year’s Wrestlemania felt more like “mehmania,” so I’m back on GameCube’s WWE Day of Reckoning for my virtual wrestling antics. I discovered a fan-made mod that adds a ton of content from previous games, transforming this already fantastic title into something truly remarkable. Tossing your opponent from a 100+ meter drop in a triple cage match followed by a flying elbow drop? Just another day!
I’ve been neglecting my physical Switch arrivals such as Pocket Bravery, and I’m probably missing out on some eShop spoils like Blazing Trail. I better dive into these soon because the Switch 2 is just a month away…
That wraps up our weekend plans, but what about you? Share with us in the following poll which games you’re planning to dive into over the next couple of days.