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The Best Deals Today: INIU Power Banks, Steam Deck Games, and a ReFantazio Statue

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

If your phone battery is the kind of drama queen that dies at 40%, today’s INIU power bank deals on Amazon are going to feel like a much-needed intervention. I’m talking real savings on chargers that actually do what they claim. No overheating, no slow trickle charging, and no clunky bricks taking up half your bag.

INIU Power Bank Sale

I’ve rounded up the best picks from INIU’s lineup, including the thinnest 10,000mAh power bank I’ve seen, a laptop-grade 100W beast, and everything in between. These are well-rated, fast-charging, and surprisingly affordable today. And yes, they all come with a 3-year warranty, because INIU apparently believes in accountability (what a concept).

INIU Portable Charger, Slimmest 10000mAh 5V/3A Power Bank

This is the one I’d keep in my bag daily. It’s half an inch thick and can charge an iPhone 8 about 3.6 times or a Galaxy S22 almost twice. The USB-C port handles both input and output (a rarity at this price), and the dual USB-A ports mean you can charge multiple devices without carrying five bricks. It’s cheap, sleek, and has a literal paw print on it. Adorable and useful? Yes, please.

INIU Power Bank, 20000mAh 65W USB C Laptop Portable Charger

I think this is the sweet spot if you bounce between devices. You get three outputs, including one that’ll fast-charge a MacBook Pro 14″ or your Steam Deck while you’re multitasking. There’s even a pop-out phone stand built in. It’s like if your power bank also respected your time and your binge-watching habits. At under $40, it feels like a steal.

Great On The Go Humble Sale

I picked up Death’s Door for five bucks and didn’t even hesitate. The Humble Store’s latest sale is packed with portable-friendly gems, perfect for a Steam Deck or travel laptop situation. Highlights include Dead Cells: Road to the Sea Bundle for $16.49 (50% off), Detroit: Become Human for just $11.99, and Dying Light Definitive Edition at $14.99. If your backlog needs more chaos, this is how you feed it on a budget.

INIU Portable Charger, 22.5W 20000mAh

This is my pick for weekend trips or carry-on duty. It’s got solid charging speed, a clean LED display that shows exactly how much juice is left, and enough capacity to last through a few full phone charges. It even handles smaller accessories like AirPods or smartwatches without flinching, which is more than I can say for some people.

Metaphor ReFantazio – Gallica – Statue

This Gallica statue is up for preorder at $129.99, and yes, I want it just for the wings. It’s 8.9 inches tall with glossy clear parts and Magla particles swirling on the base. The sculpt is absurdly detailed, which probably explains why I’ve already mentally cleared shelf space despite the fact it doesn’t ship until November 2025. Patience is hard, but preorder now, panic later.

INIU Power Bank, 25000mAh 100W USB C Laptop Portable Charger

If I’m packing a laptop, a tablet, a phone, and something else probably unnecessary but still USB-powered, this is what I’m bringing. It hits 100W output, recharges itself fast via USB-C, and can handle charging multiple high-power devices at once. It’s a bit of a tank, but in the way you want when you’re relying on it to keep everything alive.

INIU Portable Charger, Smallest 22.5W 10000mAh Power Bank

If I had to pick a favorite just for everyday carry, it might be this one. It’s compact, fast, and charges three devices at once. I love the built-in phone stand, especially for killing time in waiting rooms or pretending I’m not watching TikTok in public. For $20, it’s a little charger that does a lot.

Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet – Surging Sparks Booster Bundle

I don’t need six booster packs, but these are usually in and out of stock. This Surging Sparks Booster Bundle has some fantastic chase cards, we’re talking $400+ chase cards that could be in this Booster Bundle. It’s under $50, which in Pokémon terms is basically a clearance sticker. I’m not saying it’ll change your life, but it might improve your afternoon.

Insignia – 55″ Class F30 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV

This is the TV I’d buy if I wanted something that works without having to pretend I care about specs. It turns on, the picture’s 4K, it has Alexa so I don’t have to get off the couch, and it costs less than my last grocery run. Honestly, that’s more than enough.

Outright Games Game On! Bundle

I don’t usually gravitate toward games based on cartoons, but this bundle is stacked if you’ve got kids or just want a break from games that scream at you. Bluey, PAW Patrol, My Little Pony — the whole crew’s here, and honestly, they’re better made than half the AAA titles I’ve rage-quit. Pay $20 or more, get a pile of games, and support charity. Seems like a win for everyone except your free time.

Insignia – 65″ Class F50 Series LED 4K UHD Smart Fire TV

I like this one because it feels unnecessarily large in the best way. You get Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and it still costs less than a concert ticket and a hoodie. If you want to make movie night feel intentional without spending your life savings, this does the job.

Death Stranding 2 – DHV Magellan – Model Kit

I want this on my shelf mostly so people ask what it is and I can pretend I understand Death Stranding 2. It’s a 1/350 scale model of a massive mobile base from a game that hasn’t even released yet, and I respect the level of commitment required to care this much. It’s $69.99, which is fair for something this weirdly specific and detailed — and yes, the railgun is included.

LG – 65” Class UT70 Series LED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV (2024)

This is the kind of TV I’d get if I wanted it to last longer than my attention span. It’s a 2024 model, has LG’s updated processor, and handles all the streaming stuff without having to download three extra apps just to log in. Feels like someone at LG actually thought it through.

Samsung – Galaxy Watch Ultra Titanium Smartwatch 47mm LTE

I think this is what happens when Samsung realizes not everyone wants to spend $650 to track their steps. The titanium build is overkill in a good way, and the battery life means I don’t have to charge it every time I blink. It finally dropped to a price where it makes sense to buy one without feeling like I’m auditioning for a tech influencer role.

Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Journey Together Elite Trainer Box

i’ve been watching the Journey Together Elite Trainer Box like a hawk, and somehow it’s actually in stock at Amazon for $70.31. That’s 30% off apparantly, but it’s not at all. It includes nine booster packs, a full-art N’s Zorua promo, sleeves, and the usual accessories, Most people just want the packs and the promo. If it’s gone when you check, keep trying. I’ve seen stock randomly reappear in the mornings and lunch time, just like Target’s Journey Together stock.

Pokémon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Paldean Fates Booster Bundle

Then there’s the Paldean Fates Booster Bundle at $69.77. Six packs inside, and the draw here is the return of shiny Pokémon. I like that it cuts straight to the good stuff — no sleeves, no dice, no cardboard fluff, just a clean bundle of packs ready to be cracked open. If you’re chasing shinies, this is where the hunt begins.

Best of Boomer Shooters 4: Badda Bing Badda Boom

Humble Bundle’s “Best of Boomer Shooters 4” is live right now, and I love how chaotic it is. For $16, you get $174 worth of retro-inspired FPS games like Turbo Overkill and Forgive Me Father 2. I think of it as therapy, just with more blood and less talking about my feelings. You also support some good causes, so now your nostalgia trip is technically altruism. You’re welcome.

Pokémon TCG: Scarlet and Violet Shrouded Fable Elite Trainer Box

Shrouded Fable ETB is holding steady at $54.96, and I think it’s slept on. It has nine packs, a Pecharunt foil, some sharp sleeves, and a player’s guide that you’ll absolutely ignore until you pull something weird and have to look it up. This set’s all about the Legendary trio—Okidogi, Munkidori, and Fezandipiti—and if you’re into building themed decks or hoarding off-meta cards, this one hits.

Street Fighter TCG Alpha Warriors Dreams Preorder

Finally, if your card obsession extends beyond Pikachu, the Street Fighter Alpha: Warriors’ Dreams trading cards are now up for pre-order on the IGN Store, starting at $20. I already pre-ordered a box because the idea of serial-numbered Chun-Li cards is somehow more exciting to me than it should be. Rare pulls, killer art, and a chance to relive the 90s one Hadouken at a time — I’m in.

Pokémon TCG: Paradox Clash tin: Iron Leaves ex or Walking Wake ex

I picked up one of the Paradox Clash tins just for fun and honestly, no regrets. For $39.96, you get five booster packs and either a Walking Wake EX or Iron Leaves EX promo, chosen completely at random. It’s a bit of a gamble, but opening tins is half the fun anyway. The promos are clean, the packaging is slick, and I think it makes a solid gift for anyone getting into the game

Pokémon TCG: 3 Booster Packs & 1 Random Foil

For a cheaper fix, I’d go for the $12.25 blister pack with three random boosters and a foil promo. It’s 39% off, which is honestly kind of wild, and it’s one of those no-risk purchases you can talk yourself into without too much guilt. The listing shows Silver Tempest Boosters, so there’s a good chance of pulling some Sword and Shield chase cards here.

This one’s for the people who want it all: QLED, anti-reflection, studio-calibrated modes, and picture quality so good I paused a show just to stare at a lamp. I think my eyes are spoiled now.

Christian Wait is a contributing freelancer for IGN covering everything collectable and deals. Christian has over 7 years of experience in the Gaming and Tech industry with bylines at Mashable and Pocket-Tactics. Christian also makes hand-painted collectibles for Saber Miniatures. Christian is also the author of “Pokemon Ultimate Unofficial Gaming Guide by GamesWarrior”. Find Christian on X @ChrisReggieWait.

The AndaSeat April Sale Starts Now: Racing-Styled Gaming Chairs From $179

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

AndaSeat isn’t as big of a name in the congested gaming chair market as some other brands like Secretlab, DXRacer, or Razer, but rest assured it makes some high-quality gaming chairs. Right now, there’s an AndaSeat April Sale going on with up to $220 off gaming chairs. These instant discounts stack with our 10% off IGN code “AndaIGN“.

Andaseat Kaiser 3 Gaming Chair

Use 10% off code: AndaIGN

The Kaiser 3 offers great value for a high-end gaming chair that competes with other chairs that cost $500 or more. The base model currently costs $386.10, which is about $60 cheaper than the Kaiser 4, and shares most of the same features. You lose out on the 5D armrests and the lumbar is less adjustable, but that’s about it.

In his Andaseat Kaiser 3 review, Mark Knapp wrote that “The AndaSeat Kaiser 3 makes some meaningful improvements to the series’ design, including a wide seatbase that does away with metal bolsters for hours-long comfort and a flexible lumbar support built in. It uses magnets here and there in a gimmicky but not useless way, and it offers all the premiums that one should expect at this price in a well-polished package. It’s not quite perfect, still suffering some from the aggressive racing-style design, but it proves a great chair nonetheless.”

Andaseat Novis Gaming Chair for $179.10

Use 10% off code: AndaIGN

For 2025, AndaSeat has just released a new line of gaming chair that’s sure to be a hit with the budget-minded audience. The Andaseat Novis gaming chair – which retails for just $199 – is now shipping. Even better, you can use our 10% off IGN code “AndaIGN” to drop the price further to $179.10. The Novis looks like it has most of the comfort, features, and styling of other high-end gaming chair minus some of the more common gimmicks (like “4D” armrests).

Andaseat Kaiser 4 Gaming Chair

Use 10% off code: AndaIGN

The Kaiser 4 is AndaSeat’s flagship chair. The price normally starts from $569 but this sale drops it to $476.10 after the IGN code. It’s only available in Extra Large with a weight capabity of 395lbs so this is a very spacious chair. You can choose among eight different color options in PVC leather or two different color options in fabric. It has all of the creature comforts you’d expect in a quality gaming chair, like a unibody 2mm tubular steel frame, one-piece high density foam with a plush seat bottom (softer, in my experience, than the very firm Secretlab seat), four-way lumbar adjustment system, 5D armrests, up to 135 degrees of recline and a rocking toggle, included magnetic armrests, and more. This chair sounds a lot like the Titan Evo, and you’d be right; the design, features, and build quality are very similar, minus the price tag.

Overall, Mark Knapp didn’t like it as much as the Kaiser 3, however. In his Andaseat Kaiser 4 review, he wrote that “The AndaSeat Kaiser 4 has great lumbar support and one of the best headrest pillows you’ll find on the market, but its janky armrests are a major blemish on the overall design, and its firm seat won’t be for everyone. If you have the AndaSeat Kaiser 3, everything but the lumbar support may feel like more of a downgrade than an upgrade – and if this is your first gaming chair, you can do much better within the premium market.”

Andaseat X-Air Mesh Chairs

Use 10% off code: AndaIGN

If you don’t care for the distinct styling of gaming chairs, Andaseat also recently released a traditional-style task chair model called the X-Air. It’s also less expensive, with the standard model starting at only $341.10 after the coupon is applied. This chair features a softer suede-like material that feels more comfortable than traditional mesh chairs. It comes standard with plenty of adjustability, but you can upgrade to the Pro model to get the dynamic lumbar adjustment, 5D armrests, and a 3D headrest. The Pro model also comes in a couple of very unique colors.

Another Alternative: Secretlab

Both the Andaseat Kaiser 4 and 3 are excellent gaming chairs that are on par with the quality you’ll find from more expensive chair manufacturers. That said, if you’re willing to spend substantially more, Secretlab is still our favorite gaming chair brand. Secretlab recently released its flagship Titan Evo chair in a “Nanogen” edition and it is, in our opinion, the new best gaming chair. In our Titan Evo Nanogen Edition review, Chris Coke wrote that “the Secretlab Titan Evo Nanogen Edition deserves every bit of the overwhelming praise I’ve given. Granted, at $799 it’s significantly more expensive than the original and not far off from an entry-level Herman-Miller. But the return it offers in comfortable, supportive gaming is well worth the extra cost thanks to dramatically improved materials in both the fabric and multi-layered padding. The Titan Evo Nanogen Edition is class-leading, and is hands-down the most comfortable gaming chair I’ve ever used.”

Secretlab also released a new recliner add-on to anyone who already owns the Titan Evo chair, and it has turned out to be a very practical addition that’s worthy of its lofty $200 price point. In our recliner add-on review, Chris Coke wrote that “while both comfort and value are subjective things, the recliner is able to take the Titan Evo and transform it from one of the best racing style gaming chairs to standing head and shoulders above the competition at its price point. It’s novel enough that I wouldn’t be surprised to see other brands following suit in the near future. If you don’t mind paying for it, it’s an absolutely killer upgrade for your gaming chair.”

Eric Song is the IGN commerce manager in charge of finding the best gaming and tech deals every day. When Eric isn’t hunting for deals for other people at work, he’s hunting for deals for himself during his free time.

How Nintendo Switch 2 Will Improve Switch 1 Games

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here and as previously reported the Switch 2 will be largely backwards compatible with Switch 1 games. However, there appears to be a concerted effort from Nintendo to introduce specially enhanced versions of Switch 1 games to the Switch 2. And these seem to go beyond just a graphical boost and framerate bump.

What Games are Playable on Switch 2?

As Nintendo breaks down, there will be primarily three types of games playable on the Switch 2. Native Switch 2 games that are developed for the system and cannot be played on the original Switch. Compatible Switch 1 games whose cartridges can slot right into the Switch 2 and be played natively on the console. And Switch 2 Edition games which are Switch 1 games that will receive new features and performance enhancements when played on Switch 2.

This doesn’t include classic games that are available through Nintendo Switch Online which includes a library of games from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, and now GameCube.

So What Comes in a Switch 2 Edition Game?

The main takeaway from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct is that Nintendo appears to be trying to throw in a little extra for anyone playing a Switch 2 Edition of a Switch 1 game.

For example, Super Mario Party Jamboree was a Switch game and the Switch 2 Edition will come with a new suite of content called Jamboree TV that will take advantage of the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls, Switch 2 microphone, and the Switch 2 USB-C camera that will be sold separately.

Along with upgraded resolution up to 1440p in TV mode and better frame rate, there will be new minigames and online functions as well.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, which will be a cross-gen game, will support mouse controls with Joy-Con 2, and multiple display modes like Quality Mode which runs at 60fps in 4K when docked, or 1080p at 60fps on handheld; or Performance Mode which runs a 120fps in 1080p when docked, or 120fps in 720p in handheld mode. All modes will support HDR.

Other Switch 2 Edition titles will get new story content like Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s Star-Crossed World add-on, while The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will gain additional support for the Zelda Notes service in the Nintendo Switch App that will give you guides and game help.

Some games, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A will only feature performance and resolution bumps as part of the Switch 2 Edition label.

When are the Switch 2 Edition Games Coming?

The Switch 2 is set to be released on June 5, 2025 and that’s around when the first batch of Switch 2 Edition games will arrive.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will get Switch 2 Editions on the day of the console’s launch on June 5, 2025.

Switch 2 Editions for Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV will arrive a little later on July 24, 2025. Same for Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s update which will arrive on August 28, 2025.

Neither Metroid Prime 4: Beyond of Pokemon Legends: Z-A have release dates yet so both Switch 2 Editions are scheduled for sometime in 2025.

How Much Will Switch 2 Editions Cost?

That depends. If you don’t own the Switch 1 version of the game, then you can purchase the Switch 2 Edition at retail, which will be distinct thanks to the new red-colored physical game case. The digital versions will also feature a prominent Switch 2 logo so you know you’re buying the right edition for your Switch 2.

If you own the game on Switch 1 and want the upgrades that will be added in the Switch 2 Edition you will need to purchase an upgrade pack from Nintendo. The upgrade packs will be available at select retailers, the official My Nintendo Store, and Nintendo eShop. However, Nintendo has not revealed how much an upgrade pack will cost just yet.

Some upgrade packs, like the upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will be included in a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. This is the same membership that gives Switch owners access to online features and the classic library.

So there you have it, that’s everything you need to know about the Switch 2 Editions of a game. We’ve detailed previously how Nintendo is making the jump to the Switch 2 fairly seamless thanks to its backward compatibility stance, and it looks like Nintendo is looking to bolster its launch library with improved versions of Switch classics.

For more on Nintendo Switch 2 check out all the news announced during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct as well as how much it costs, and when pre-orders go up.

Matt Kim is IGN’s Senior Features Editor.

Nintendo Confirms Some Switch 2 Game Cards Will Only Include a Download Key

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

Nintendo has confirmed that those sleek new Switch 2 game cards won’t always carry an actual game and will, instead, sometimes simply contain a key for a game download.

The Super Mario Bros. company detailed how it will update its approach to physical game cartridges in a customer support post published shortly after this morning’s Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. It explains that, when the Switch 2 arrives this June, you’ll be able to carry on purchasing physical Switch games just as you’ve done for the last eight years, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

The post in question focuses on game-key cards: physical cards that only contain a key to download your chosen game. That means there’s no actual game data on the card you insert into your Switch 2, so you’ll need to download it once the card is inserted. Every game-key card case will be appropriately labeled on the lower portion of the front of the box, so if you’re concerned about what exactly you’re purchasing, you should have a heads-up right away.

News that Nintendo will utilize these game-key cards for Switch 2 has already taken hold of physical gaming fans who prefer the simplicity of plug-in-play without the need for lengthy download periods and an internet connection to get set up. The concern is that these are little more than fancy key holders that will soon replace all standard cartridges, but there are few reasons to believe this is actually the case for now.

Many have already taken to social media to point out that, while some early looks at Switch 2 box art, including covers for games like Street Fighter 6 and the Bravely Default remaster, do indeed feature that game-key card disclaimer, others, such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, do not.

It appears the game-key card approach will likely be reserved for a few especially hefty games that might benefit from the key strategy, such as something like Hogwarts Legacy or Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Even then, developer CD Projekt Red has already confirmed Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will ship with a game card that comes in at a whopping 64 GB on the Switch 2’s launch day.

Additionally, as explained during the Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo seems pretty proud of the new tech its upgraded red game cards support. They’re said to come with faster data reading speeds than what was seen with the original hybrid console from 2017, a fact the company wouldn’t need to point out if all of its cartridges were simple key containers. Let’s not forget that Nintendo has bent the definition of what a game card offers before, with some notable original Switch examples being LA Noire and NBA 2K18, which both required additional downloads out of the box.

It’s far too soon to tell just how many Switch 2 games will rely on game-key cards, but we know all will be revealed as launch draws closer. For now, the Nintendo Switch 2 is primed to click into action come June 5, 2025. For everything revealed during today’s all-encompassing Direct, click here. For a better look at all of the new tech Nintendo’s new hardware brings to the table, you can click here.

Michael Cripe is a freelance contributor with IGN. He’s best known for his work at sites like The Pitch, The Escapist, and OnlySP. Be sure to give him a follow on Bluesky (@mikecripe.bsky.social) and Twitter (@MikeCripe).

AU Deals: Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Are Go in Australia – Here’s How to Nab One!

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

We just got a Super Smash Bros.-sized info drop on the Nintendo Switch 2 during the latest Nintendo Direct, so let’s-a-go with a lot to cover! From where to lock in your preorder to the power-ups this next-gen console is bringing, here’s everything you need to level up your knowledge before launch.

Where to Preorder the Nintendo Switch 2

Mark your Mushroom Kingdom calendars—Nintendo Switch 2 launches in June 5th, 2025, for A$699. Whether you’re going solo with the base console or grabbing a bundle with Mario Kart World for A$769.99, you’ll want to act fast before your preorder opportunities vanish quicker than a karter overshooting a Rainbow Road corner.

Why the FOMO? There’s a decent chance that unscrupulous, Bowser-like scalpers will descend on these. So, please, don’t feed them by sticking to reputable retailers and avoid suspicious third-party sellers. We’ve got some green pipe-esque hyperklinks that’ll zip you straight to a legit preorder place right here.

Where to preorder:

  • Amazon – A$699 Solo / A$769 Bundle
  • JB Hi-Fi – A$699 Solo / A$769 Bundle
  • EB Games – $A$699 Solo / A$769 Bundle

What’s New with the Switch 2? A Power-Up in Every Way

  • Magnetic Joy-Cons – No more rail-riding woes! These controllers snap on like a Boo latching onto Mario’s back, making them easier to attach and detach.
  • Mouse-Like Functionality – Clickity-click! These Joy-Cons can be used like a computer mouse, hinting at possible PC game ports on the Switch 2.
  • New “C-Button” – Nintendo was playing it coy about what this new button does, but we now know it is a chortcut for the new GameChat function (think: built-in mic with noise-cancelling tech).
  • Virtual Game Card System Update – Like a Link Between Worlds, Nintendo is making it easier to share games across multiple consoles.

Switch 2 Games Worth Eyeballing

Nintendo is dropping a Poké Ball full of heavy hitters at launch. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the must-have games: While some of these games will also be playable on the original Switch, the Switch 2 will offer the best performance, visuals, and buttery-smooth stability. Nintendo has also confirmed a Nintendo Treehouse: Live Switch 2 showcase on April 3 and April 4 at 7 AM PT, featuring hands-on gameplay.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Samus’ Biggest Adventure Yet

After spending years in development hyperspace, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is finally deploying alongside the Switch 2! The latest trailer showcased Samus sporting a sleek red-and-purple suit while wielding psychic-infused powers.

With a setting on Planet Viewros—a world shrouded in mystery, towering trees, and hints of intelligent life—this adventure is primed (get it?) to be one of Samus’ most intense missions yet. Just be sure to re-preorder if you jumped on the hype train back in 2017—those orders were likely cancelled!

Mario Kart 9 – A New Twist on a Classic

How do you follow up the sixth best-selling game of all time? Nintendo’s playing it close to the chest, but Mario Kart 9 promises a game-changing “twist”. Could it be anti-gravity hover battles? A Smash-style crossover roster? Time travel? Whatever it is, fans are revving their engines in anticipation.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Catch ‘Em Where You Least Expect!

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is taking the wild Pokémon concept to the next level—literally! Now, you’ll find them perched on rooftops, lurking in alleyways, and causing a ruckus throughout Lumiose City. Plus, a mysterious Z-A Royale battle mode has been teased, adding a competitive edge never seen before.

Whether you’re a seasoned Pokémon trainer or just getting started, this title is shaping up to be a Gym Leader-level challenge.

Power-Up Your Play: Switch 2 Accessories

A great gamer is only as strong as their gear, and the Switch 2 accessories are coming in hot. Here are the must-haves:

  • New Joy-Cons – Featuring magnetic attachment and mouse-like precision, these Joy-Cons are more versatile than ever.
  • dbrand Killswitch Case ($TBA) – A durable, ergonomic case designed to protect your Switch 2 from accidental Game Over moments.

The Killswitch case features an impact-resistant shell, rubberised grips, and even a dock-friendly adapter. If it’s anything like dbrand’s Steam Deck case (which got rave reviews), it’s a must-have for serious gamers. Reservations are open now at dbrand!

Adam Mathew is our Aussie deals wrangler. He plays practically everything, often on YouTube.

James Bond Origin Story Game Project 007 Officially Coming to Nintendo Switch 2

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

GoldenEye hive, it’s time to rise up — because IO Interactive is officially bringing its upcoming James Bond game to the Nintendo Switch 2.

According to IO Interactive’s website, Project 007 will focus on an entirely new story in the Bond universe.

“Players will step into the shoes of the world’s favorite Secret Agent to earn their 00 status in the very first James Bond origin story,” the developer said about what to expect for the game’s story.

Head of IO Hakan Abrak opened up to IGN about building a brand new origin story for the beloved spy back in October. “What’s exciting about that project is that we actually got to do an original story. So it’s not a gamification of a movie,” he told IGN.

“It’s completely beginning and becoming a story, hopefully for a big trilogy out there in the future. And equally important and exciting, it’s a new Bond. It’s a Bond we built from the ground up for gamers. It’s extremely exciting with all the tradition and all the history there is there together to work on this together with the family of creating a young Bond for gamers; a Bond that the gamers can call their own and grow with.”

As for a release date, though, the jury is still out on that one. You can catch up on everything announced at the Nintendo Direct today right here.

Lex Briscuso is a film and television critic and a freelance entertainment writer for IGN. You can follow her on Twitter at @nikonamerica.

Next Guy Ritchie Movie Fountain of Youth Debuts Trailer That Gives Big Indiana Jones and The Mummy Vibes

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

Filmmaker Guy Ritchie has long been known for his engaging and stylish British crime dramas and gangster films — not to mention his two Sherlock Holmes films starring Robert Downey Jr. — but the writer-director is officially trying something new. The trailer for his upcoming film Fountain of Youth has been released, and gives us a glimpse into a new world for Ritchie, one that is ripe with thrills and adventure in the style of Indiana Jones and The Mummy.

The movie stars John Krasinski and Natalie Portman as estranged siblings Luke and Charlotte who reunite to search for the legendary Fountain of Youth (hence the title, of course). The trailer also shows Eiza González, Stanley Tucci, Domhnall Gleeson, Laz Alonso, and Arian Moayed along for the ride — and it seems that not all of their characters are working with Krasinski and Portman’s.

The trailer makes it clear that there are two opposing sides trying to get their hands on the fountain, and for good reason. “There’s a power beyond any of our comprehension,” Krasinski’s character says of the relic in the trailer. “One story, five continents, dozens of cultures, and over a thousand years.” Sounds like the battle for this thing is going to be pretty intense, but then again, that always makes for some great movie action, which, with Ritchie’s rep, we’ll have in spades for sure.

Fountain of Youth is set to be released on May 23, 2025 on Apple TV+ — which means this one will most likely not see a theatrical run, a disheartening problem we continue to run into as the streamers ratchet up their dominance in the industry more and more. That said, we’re just as excited to see this one at home as we would be in the theater.

Lex Briscuso is a film and television critic and a freelance entertainment writer for IGN. You can follow her on Twitter at @nikonamerica.

A Minecraft Movie Review

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

A Minecraft Movie immediately creates a sticky paradox for itself. Clearly hoping to follow in the footsteps of a project like The Lego Movie, this video-game adaptation wants to pay tribute to the open-world flexibility and creativity of Minecraft while staying well within the framework of the game itself, which means including all of the expected blocky visual touchstones and including an obligatory number of cutesy gamer in-jokes. The surprise of the movie is how long it’s able to delay the latter material – long enough, it turns out, for Napoleon Dynamite director Jared Hess to get his foot in the door, expertly adapting his deadpan comic-strip style for a children’s fantasy.

Hess’ foray into big-time franchise filmmaking reunites him with Jack Black, the star of his 2006 slapstick adventure, Nacho Libre – and no one can accuse Black of half-assing his way through a paycheck job here. As Steve, a man who “yearned for the mines” as a child and discovers a portal into the magical Overworld as an adult, he throws off the shackles of workaday existence with such relish that his torrent of movie-opening narration feels enthusiastic, rather than blandly explanatory. The short of it: Bad-guy pigs covet the “orb” (like everything else in the Overworld, it’s block-shaped, not an actual orb) that Steve has discovered, so he sends his faithful wolf-dog, Dennis, to hide it in the real world.

Hess really connects with his Dynamite roots – throwback fashions, drier-than-dry non sequitur – and setting in that real world, where he pauses Steve’s story to follow siblings Natalie (Emma Myers, from Wednesday) and Henry (Sebastian Hansen) as they relocate to a small town in Idaho. There, creative, school-age misfit Henry clicks with Garrett Garrison (Jason Momoa), a former gaming champion who now runs a retro pop-culture junk store on the verge of foreclosure. Natalie, meanwhile, meets Dawn (Danielle Brooks), a friendly real estate agent who moonlights as a kind of mobile zookeeper.

In a movie for grown-ups, this litany of quirk might seem a bit much: Natalie is a young woman of indeterminate age who gets a job running social media for a local potato-chip factory; Henry tinkers with his design for a working jetpack. For a kid picture, though, it’s sweetly silly, even distinctive; the kitschy tater-tots-and-alpacas ambience is pure Hess. Momoa in particular makes a surprisingly good fit for the filmmaker’s sensibility, playing a less bullying version of the blustery Napoleon Dynamite sensei Rex Kwon Do. In fact, the first 30 to 40 minutes of A Minecraft Movie have enough big laughs that it’s almost a disappointment when Henry, Garrett, Natalie, and Dawn stumble upon the orb and wind up accidentally sucked into the Overworld.

Eventually they meet up with Steve, who provides some standard gameplay tutelage in advance of their quest. The quest itself is conceptually muddy, confusingly and erratically presented as some combination of saving Steve’s beloved Dennis, protecting the orb, and eventually bringing the four displaced travelers home. The seams of the six-writer screenplay show frequently, like when characters make plans and then deviate from them without comment as if the actors are all working from different versions of the script. Based on the uninspired action sequences – digital hordes running and flying around in a manner better suited for an in-game Lord of the Rings fan film – there aren’t many big-budget fantasy epics in Hess’ future. But A Minecraft Movie stays light on its feet nonetheless by continually pausing for slapstick silliness and cartoonish little sketches like an ongoing and delightfully pointless subplot involving Jennifer Coolidge and a resident of the Overworld.

Eventually, the more antic side of things takes over, and the various CG landscapes populated by blocky people and creatures start to feel repetitive. It’s like a slightly more polished version of someone’s playthrough video, only with a couple of big stars getting thrown around the screen. What A Minecraft Movie misses from Minecraft the game is its combination of minutiae and vastness; as much as the movie advertises its subject’s creative flexibility, it shortchanges any potential obsessiveness in favor of making the Overworld look a little more like something out of a Mario game. The parallels to Black’s other video-game-movie gig – and aspirations to its popularity with the playground set – become especially clear when Steve chases the next “Peaches” by riffing out no fewer than three little songs. (On the other hand, it’s hard to resist Black bringing his goofball-rock-star shtick to Gen Alpha.) As with so many game-based movies, the mismatch between what each medium does best isn’t really reconciled by A Minecraft Movie. But turning the world’s best-selling video game into Jared Hess’s best feature in years is, admittedly, a pretty creative undertaking.

Nintendo Switch 2 Tech Specs: Battery Life, 4K and Up to 120fps, Storage, and More

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

Nintendo just revealed so much about the Nintendo Switch 2 during its latest Direct, but we have learned even more since the hour-long presentation ended, including the new console’s tech specs. While we still have a lot of questions, let’s break down what’s new with the Switch 2.

This had been touched on before, but Nintendo reiterated that this new system will feature a 7.9-inch wide color gamut LCD screen that is capable of outputting at 1080p (1920×1080). This is a big upgrade from Switch 1’s 6.2-inch screen, the Switch OLED’s 7-inch screen (although we will miss OLED!), and the Switch Lite’s 5.5-inch screen.

There is also support for HDR10 and VRR up to 120 Hz, which means games can jump up to 120fps if they and your setup allow it.

It was also confirmed that slotting the Switch 2 to its new dock will allow games to be played in 4K (3840×2160) at 60fps or 1080p/1440p (1920×1080/2560×1440) at 120fps. We know these higher-end graphics are made possible by a “custom processor made by NVIDIA,” but sadly we are currently given no further details in regard to Switch 2’s CPU/GPU.

What was revealed, however, was the battery life. The Switch 2’s internal battery is a Lithium-ion battery with 5220mAh, and this will allow for approximately 2 – 6.5 hours of battery life and a charge time of three hours when in Sleep mode. Nintendo noted these are “rough estimates” and that the “battery life will depend on the games you play.”

This battery life is just about the same as the launch model Switch 1 as it boasted a range of 2.5 – 6.5 hours. On the other hand, the Switch 2’s battery life is a downgrade from the three newer Switch models – Nintendo Switch (4.5 – 9 hours), Nintendo Switch – OLED Model (4.5 – 9 hours), and Nintendo Switch Lite (3 – 7 hours).

Elsewhere, we learn that the Switch is approximately 4.5 inches tall x 10.7 inches wide x .55 inches thick with the Joy-Con 2 attached. This translates to a weight of roughly .88 pounds without Joy-Con 2 and 1.18 lbs with them attached.

The weight of the Switch 2 is an exact match for the current Switch 1 model, but it is both taller and longer than any current model with Joy-Con attached;

  • Nintendo Switch 2 – 4.5 inches tall x 10.7 inches wide x .55 inches thick / .88 lbs
  • Nintendo Switch – 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x .55 inches thick / .88 lbs
  • Nintendo Switch – OLED Model – 4 inches tall x 9.5 inches long x .55 inches thick / .93 lbs
  • Nintendo Switch Lite – 3.6 inches tall x 8.2 inches long x .55 inches thick / .61 lbs

Speaking of Joy-Con, we sadly don’t get the confirmation that they are using Hall Effect joysticks that would likely prevent the drifting issues many Switch owners experienced. They very well may use them, as it was hinted at in a patent from 2023, but we’ll have to wait to find out for sure.

On the audio front, the Switch 2 supports linear PCM output 5.1ch. If you want a surround sound effect, that can also be enabled via headphones of the built-in speaker after a system update.

For storage, the Switch 2 will feature 256 GB of internal storage, which is another upgrade from the 32 GB available on the Switch and Switch Lite and the 64 GB on the Switch – OLED Model. Another big difference here is that the Switch 2 will require microSD Express cards for up to 2TB of extra storage, meaning the microSDXC cards the current Switch models support will not be able to be transferred over to the new console.

To wrap up, it was also revealed the Switch 2 will support Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi 6), it will have 2 USB-C ports, a 3.5mm 4-contact stereo mini-plug (CTIA standard), and a built-in monaural microphone with noice cancellation, echo cancellation, and auto gain control.

For more, check out our recap of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, how much the new system will cost, a list of the launch games we know so far, and when Switch 2 pre-orders start.

Adam Bankhurst is a writer for IGN. You can follow him on X/Twitter @AdamBankhurst and on TikTok.

Pick Up a Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card Before the Inevitable Price Increase

Filed Under: ENTERTAINMENT, IGN

I’ve had a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription for little over a year now and it’s been great. I’ve been able to play some older Game Boy Advance games I never got to experience as a kid as well as revisit classic N64 games like Banjo-Kazooie. Now with the Switch 2 on the horizon, the Switch Online subscription is going to start including GameCube games – plus be required to use the new GameChat function – and I couldn’t be more excited. What I’m not excited about is the increased prices for the new console and games.

The price of the Switch 2 was revealed to be $449.99 and the new Mario Kart game is going to cost $80 at launch. These price increases make me think that a Nintendo Switch Online price increase is probably inevitable. If you are looking to pick up a subscription for the first time, there are still gift cards available at some retailers that you can purchase now instead of later. These are only available for new subscribers and do not stack upon existing subscriptions.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Gift Cards – 12 Months

These gift cards are currently available at Walmart and Target, but sold out at Amazon. These are e-gift cards that will be sent to your email where you’ll be able to add the subscription to your account via code. The 12 months don’t start counting down until you actually access the membership, so there’s some leeway about when you start it. If you redeemed the membership right now, you would still have access when the Switch 2 launches in June this year.

Will there be a NSO price increase with the Switch 2?

Although Nintendo has not mentioned anything about a price increase to any of the Switch Online membership plans in the U.S., it seems likely that it will happen. Prices have already started to increase in some regions outside of the U.S. in 2025 and with the Switch 2 looming, it’s likely we will see the same thing occuring here.

What Does the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Include?

The gift card we’ve featured above is specifically for an individual membership. Here’s everything that has been confirmed to be included as we head into the Switch 2 era.

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