Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate (PBBGU) marks a triumphant return for the cult-classic side-scrolling beat ’em up, now reimagined for modern platforms with a host of technical and gameplay enhancements. Developed and published by Rocket Panda Games, this ambitious remaster leverages the power of Unreal Engine 5 to deliver a visually stunning, mechanically refined, and content-rich experience across all platforms.
A Franchise Reborn
The Phantom Breaker franchise began as a 2D fighting game in 2011, with its beat ’em up spin-off, Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds, debuting in 2013. Over a decade later, Rocket Panda Games has revitalized the series, acquiring the IP and committing to expanding its global reach. PBBGU stands as the most expansive entry yet, combining the nostalgic charm of the original with modern sensibilities and a wealth of new features.
The reveal started off strong with Mario Kart World, which looks absolutely stunning! It features 24-player online play and a massive open world where you can drive anywhere you want. And yes, there’s even a cow riding a bike! The only downside? The price. The digital version costs €80, while the physical version is a record-breaking €90.
The All-New Joy-Con 2
Nintendo has redesigned the Joy-Con controllers, now called Joy-Con 2:
Larger size for better ergonomics
Magnetic attachment to the console
New “C Button” added
Bigger SL and SR buttons for improved usability
Integrated mouse sensor, allowing the Joy-Con to function as a mouse
The C Button and Game Chat
The C Button introduces an exciting new feature: Game Chat. This is Nintendo’s answer to Discord, enabling:
Voice chat
Screen sharing
Camera support (sold separately for €60)
Automatic face tracking and cutout
Built-in Microphone & Headset Support
The Switch 2 includes a built-in microphone, so you can chat without a headset. However, for better audio quality, the Pro Controller now has a headset port. Game Chat requires an online membership, but it will be free for all users until March 31, 2026.
Download Play is Back!
Game Share allows players to play a game together with only one copy of the game. The game will be wirelessly downloaded to nearby consoles for local play. The first game to support this is 51 Worldwide Classics, with more to follow. Even better, this feature will also be available on the original Switch!
The Console: Bigger and Better
New Display and Hardware Upgrades
7.9-inch screen (previously 6.2 inches)
1080p HDR 120Hz display
Louder, clearer speakers with 3D audio (headphones supported at launch, speakers in a future update)
Built-in noise-canceling microphone
More versatile kickstand (similar to the OLED model but thinner and more adjustable)
Two USB-C ports (both support charging!)
Charge while in tabletop mode!
The second USB-C port is perfect for the optional camera accessory
256GB of faster storage (only supports SD Express cards, not standard microSD cards)
New Dock with 4K Support
The new Switch 2 dock features:
4K HDR output (up to 60fps)
1080p 120fps support
Built-in cooling fan
Integrated Ethernet port
Backward Compatibility
The Switch 2 supports physical and digital Nintendo Switch games, though not all games are compatible. A compatibility list will be available.
“Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour”
Nintendo introduced “Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour”, a game designed to showcase the console’s new features. However, in true Nintendo fashion, this is a paid game.
New Game Cards
Switch 2 game cards are physically identical to the original Switch cartridges but are now red and feature faster storage.
System Transfer
You can transfer save data, digital games, and more from the original Switch to the Switch 2.
New Pro Controller
The updated Pro Controller features:
C Button for Game Chat
New back buttons (GR and GL) that can be remapped
Smoother control sticks
Headphone jack for Game Chat
The original Pro Controllers and Joy-Cons are also compatible with the Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch 2 Game Upgrades
Some existing Switch games will receive paid or free Switch 2 upgrades. Examples:
Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom (performance upgrades + mobile app support)
Super Mario Party Jamboree+ Jamboree TV (new graphics, gameplay, camera & microphone support)
Kirby and the Forgotten Land+ Star-Crossed World (enhanced visuals)
Metroid Prime 4 (4K 60fps or 1080p 120fps, mouse support)
Pokémon Legends Z-A (improved graphics and performance)
New & Third-Party Titles
Several new and third-party games were announced:
DragXDrive – A unique game using Joy-Cons as mice
Elden Ring
Hades 2
Street Fighter 6
Cyberpunk 2077
Borderlands 4
Final Fantasy VII Remake
Hollow Knight: Silksong (2025 release!)
Nintendo Switch Online: GameCube Games!
First games: Zelda: Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, Soul Calibur 2
New Wireless GameCube Controller announced
The Grand Finale
Nintendo closed the Direct with two massive reveals:
Duskbloods – A Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive from FromSoftware (totally not Bloodborne?)
Donkey Kong Bonanza – A physics-driven adventure launching July 17
Additionally, Kirby Air Riders (essentially Kirby Air Ride 2) was announced, directed by Masahiro Sakurai.
Pricing & Release Date
The Switch 2 will launch in two bundles on June 5:
Base Console: €469
Mario Kart World Bundle: €510
Lesser-Known Facts
A “Secret” Japan-Only Budget Model – This version only supports Japanese and requires a Japanese Nintendo account.
Physical vs. Digital Pricing – Physical copies cost €10 more than digital.
Anti-Scalper Measures – To pre-order, you must have an active Nintendo account with substantial playtime.
Supports 1440p – As seen in the trailer.
Virtual Game Cards – A new way to own digital titles physically.
Game Key Cards – A new system for digital-only games that lets you sell and trade them like physical games.
That wraps up everything revealed about the Nintendo Switch 2. With a huge lineup of games, exciting new hardware features, and some controversial pricing decisions, this next-gen Nintendo console is shaping up to be something special. Are you excited for the Switch 2? Let me know in the comments!
Forestrike, the latest creation from Japanese developer Skeleton Crew in collaboration with Devolver Digital, promises to deliver a unique and captivating experience for fans of martial arts and strategic gameplay. Set to release in 2025 on PC and Nintendo Switch, this game introduces a revolutionary approach to kung fu combat that blends meticulous planning with flawless execution.
Cuisineer is a charming game that combines the excitement of roguelite dungeon crawling with the warmth of restaurant management. Developed by BattleBrew Productions, it offers a unique blend of genres that will appeal to fans of both action RPGs and simulation games.
Gameplay
The gameplay loop in Cuisineer is engaging and addictive. Players take on the role of Pom, a catgirl tasked with restoring her family’s restaurant to its former glory. This involves two main activities: managing the restaurant and exploring procedurally generated dungeons to gather ingredients.
Restaurant Management: Running the restaurant feels akin to playing Overcooked on easy mode, where customers order dishes that you must prepare using enchanted kitchen tools. The simplicity makes it accessible, but occasionally lacks depth.
Dungeon Crawling: The roguelite aspect involves exploring different biomes like Green Ruins or Frozen Fjord, battling monsters for ingredients. Combat is responsive but can feel simplistic at times.
Cuisineer. Pic: Marvelous Europe
Visuals and Audio
Cuisineer is visually stunning, with beautifully drawn characters and detailed recipes that will tantalize your taste buds. The pixel art style imparts a cozy addition to the game’s vibrant world.
Cuisineer. Pic: Marvelous Europe
Performance
While Cuisineer generally performs well on Switch, there are some minor issues with loading screens between areas or buildings. These delays can be frustrating during extended play sessions but do not significantly detract from the overall experience.
Cuisineer. Pic: Marvelous Europe
Conclusion
Cuisineer offers an enjoyable experience despite some limitations in depth for both its combat and management aspects. It’s perfect for those looking for a light-hearted roguelike or simulation game without overwhelming complexity. Fans of cozy games will appreciate its colorful visuals and engaging gameplay loop.
Our thoughts
If you’re interested in trying out something new that blends genres uniquely, Cuisineer might be worth picking up—especially if you enjoy cooking simulations or beginner-friendly roguelikes. However, hardcore fans of either genre might find it lacking in depth compared to more complex titles.
This review highlights both the strengths (engaging gameplay loop, charming visuals) and weaknesses (simplicity in combat/management) of Cuisineer. Overall, it provides an entertaining experience suitable for casual players seeking something fun without too much complexity.
The Plucky Squire is an innovative Action-Adventure game developed by All Possible Futures. Released on September 17, 2024, this charming title takes players on a linear, puzzle-filled adventure that draws clear inspiration from classic Zelda titles, especially Link’s Awakening. It blends various gameplay elements from different genres and offers a mix of 2D and 3D segments, all within an imaginative and colorful storybook world.
At Gamescom 2024, THQ Nordic invited me for an exclusive sneak peek into Epic Mickey Rebrushed, a highly anticipated remake of the beloved Epic Mickey. This isn’t just a simple remaster; it’s a full-fledged remake that breathes new life into the original game, combining nostalgic elements with contemporary upgrades.
Jamestown+ is a co-op friendly shoot ’em up for all gamers and casual players alike. Sir Walter Raleigh, a disgraced knight, finds himself against the Mars warriors and the Spanish Conquistador. Do you have what it takes to save the last British colony on Mars and win the war for the New World?
As a guy who likes playing Mini Golf, I was excited to hear that Atomicom is developing a golf game for the Nintendo Switch and I had to give it a try.
In a world of heroes and assassins, our hero/assassin Travis Touchdown finds himself sucked into the world of video games with Badman, a guy who came to kill Travis for revenge of his daughter. Developed by Grasshopper Manufacture and published by Grasshopper Manufacture and Marvelous Inc. This game really makes you wanna keep on going with its funky music and hilarious conversations.
The Legend of Zelda Link’s Awakening was released 26 years ago for the original Gameboy. Now it’s time for a new generation to experience one of the beloved games in the franchise with updated graphics, improved mechanics and a beautiful world to explore. Are you ready to wake up the Wind Fish?
