The original Tron has a particularly interesting place in pop culture, delivering the first movie about video games and the hidden worlds within computers. So it's a wonder that the first film and its follow-ups still haven't made that many forays into video games proper after more than four decades since the 1982 original. Thankfully, recent attempts from developer Bithell Games have done more to push the concept of Tron beyond just the imagery of speeding light cycles and fast-paced identity disc combat to offer more of a look into the inner machinations of the Grid.
With Tron: Catalyst, we have a new action game set within The Grid's neon, grey-soaked setting to uncover a larger conspiracy involving the impending end of the computer world. There's so much detail to admire that's packed into Tron: Catalyst from my recent hands-on time, and with an interesting time-loop twist, it carries on the familiar Tron action from a new perspective.
Set after the events of both Tron: Legacy and Tron: Identity, you play as a courier program named Exo, who navigates the large megacity of the Arq Grid to complete her various routines. After discovering one of their packages was secretly a bomb which detonates while in the city, they're subsequently framed and imprisoned. As she plans her escape, she discovers glitches in the Grid that allow her to roll back time, letting her take information and skills backward in the timeline to a recent point. With a plan set, she seeks out the real culprit of the attack to clear her name and foil a larger plot that will disrupt the foundations of the Arq Grid.
Catalyst moves away from the static presentation of the visual novel and into fully explorable environments populated by programs.
The previous Tron game that Bithell Games worked on was Tron: Identity, a visual novel-style adventure game. Catalyst carries many concepts from its predecessor, particularly its investigation and character interactions. Exo even rubs shoulders with some notable returning characters from Identity – such as the previous protagonist Query. However, Catalyst moves away from the static presentation of the visual novel and into fully explorable environments populated by programs, making sense of the uneasy presence of security programs patrolling the city.
In a similar vein to games like Death's Door and Tunic, Tron: Catalyst has a balance between narrative-driven exploration and combat sequences within the larger city. As Exo, you'll be able to interact with a set of other programs going about their time in the town, and when the investigative element kicks in, she can engage in combat, exploration, and rolling back time to overcome the odds.
The combat style in Catalyst does well to capture the sense of precision and patience when using the iconic identity discs, which double as a close-range melee weapon and a long-range projectile that can depress enemies. The combat mechanics, while fairly simple during this opening chunk of the game, offered some fun when it came to carefully taking out squads of security officers. A particularly fun moment I had was nailing a parry and then unleashing some strikes before throwing the disc to finish them off. That said, I am hoping for the combat to really open up properly as the story goes on, as the action sequences can feel a bit one-note after some time.
While exploring the city, Exo can summon her lightcycle to explore and whizz through the streets freely. But with the increased presence of Grid security, Exo is constantly under watch and can easily catch their attention, which launches a GTA-style manhunt for her. While you do have the run of the city, Catalyst is not an open-world game but rather uses its scale to present the different layers of exploration for its missions. Still, exploring the city on the lightcycle was very satisfying, especially taking in those slick Tron vibes.
Much like Identity, Catalyst is propped up by impressive writing that gives nuance to the various characters living in the Grid. As the investigation escalates, opening up new pathways to complete objectives, you can rewind to an earlier point to take a more optimal approach. These moments gave me the same feeling of being Tom Cruise in Edge of Tomorrow, where I could do certain actions to learn some secret motives from characters holding back intel, or gain the upper hand in combat.
Tron: Catalyst certainly nails the look and feel of Tron, and it particularly captures the brighter and more visually alluring style of 2010's Tron: Legacy. But what I found interesting about Catalyst's style and storytelling was that its plot and focus on the inner society of the Grid scratch the same itch as the vastly underrated and short-lived series Tron: Uprising, which dealt with a similar storyline about programs within the Grid seeking to overcome an oppressive rule.
So far, Tron: Catalyst is an intriguing step in a different direction from Identity. While the latter game featured strong writing and plot, it lacked a more compelling package to contain its ideas, and I do like this upcoming turn with Tron: Catalyst that Bithell Games has in store. It's more of a stylish, if modest, action game, but seeing Exo maneuver through the city and fight through the different battles reminded me of some of the more daring moments from the films and animated series. It's always fun to see Tron showcase its rich and alluring world, which will build up throughout Catalyst's dive into the world of the Grid.
Amazon has restocked the Pokémon TCG: Journey Together Booster Bundle, and even though it’s up a dollar from its recent drop, it’s still the best value for this set on the market by far.
At $38.95, you get six booster packs from Scarlet & Violet: Journey Together, which, based on my pulls, is easily one of the most exciting expansions we've had in a while.
Sure, you’re not getting sleeves or a coin-flip die, but you also aren’t spending over $80 on a box that was under $40 just last week. The Elite Trainer Box is currently out of stock at Amazon, which isn’t surprising considering the price hit a new high of $99.49 before it vanished.
This isn't third-party gouging either. That listing was sold and shipped by Amazon, which makes it even more frustrating. Normally, Amazon adds its listing alongside the third-party offers, but this time, the Booster Bundle is quietly tucked away under a separate product page.
You have to dig to find the ETBs sold by Amazon ($81.79), but in my opinion, if you're buying Journey Together packs right now, the booster bundle is the right move. Better yet, grab two and get more booster packs than the ETB offers for less than it was priced at just days ago.
Journey Together Single Card Price Crash
Journey Together single card prices are settling down from their pre-restock panic, making this set very affordable to collect. Don't fancy spending money on packs for your chase cards? I've gathered them all right here so trainers can cherry pick what they need.
I opened 49 packs across all our preview products for my IGN Journey Together preview, and pulled 18 rare cards. Compared to sets like Prismatic Evolutions, feels downright generous. But it’s not just about quantity. The art and theme choices in Journey Together are incredible.
You’ve got illustration rares with full-scene designs that feel like storybook pages, Secret Rares with actual competitive value, and Supporters that do more than just draw cards and pass the turn.
Some of my favorites include the Spiky Energy Hyper Rare, which adds reactive damage every time your Pokémon gets hit, and Iono’s Bellibolt ex, a Lightning-type engine that fuels itself with unlimited Energy.
I also pulled N’s Reshiram and Articuno in gorgeous Illustration Rare formats — two cards that not only look great but bring real utility. Salamence ex is a heavy hitter with 300-damage potential, and Lillie’s Clefairy ex quietly punishes Dragon decks by giving them a surprise Psychic weakness. It’s not every day a booster pack feels like a mini narrative, but this set pulls it off.
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.
For over two decades, the LEGO and Star Wars partnership has endured and thrived. It is nothing if not consistent; the sets are geared toward every skill level, from beginner to advanced, and all of the sets – even the most rudimentary – are reliably high-quality. The massive ship and droid replicas get the most press. But even the more idiosyncratic sets – like the movie dioramas, for example – still capture the look, feel, and whimsy of their inspirations.
TL;DR: These Are the Best Star Wars LEGO Sets
LEGO is a costly hobby – one that requires a selective eye, so that only la crème de la crème makes it on your shopping list. Here are the Best LEGO Star Wars sets that you can buy in 2025. You can also check out our broader list of LEGO space sets for more science-focused options.
Jango Fett's Firespray-Class Starship
The largest iteration of Jango Fett's Starship to date, this vessel (better known to Star Wars diehards as Slave I), can be posed either in its landing mode or its flight mode. It comes with two minifigures of Jango Fett and young Boba Fett and possesses articulable blaster cannons.
Grogu with Hover Pram
This depiction of The Mandalorian's Grogu is not an exact duplicate of the show's depiction; rather, it's been exaggerated for maximum cuteness and presentability. The arms and head move, and the arms rotate via dials on the figure's back. The Hover Pram, Grogu's high-tech space bassinet, is mounted on a square black stand and completes the overall package.
The Droideka are notoriously tough. In The Phantom Menace, two of these droids were able to hold off Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi by themselves and force the two Jedi to retreat. This replica has the droid's classic battle pose, and like in the movie, it can also roll into a ball for additional mobility.
TIE Bomber
The TIE Bomber is a sturdy little build with a good price for its piece count. It has two play mechanics – first, stud shooters in its front that allow you to shoot "lasers," and second, a hatch underneath the vehicle, which that allows you to drop a payload for four torpedoes onto unsuspecting rebel scum.
Millennium Falcon
Smaller and more compact than its big brother (more on him later), this mid-sized Milennium Falcon is what most casual Star Wars fans are looking for. The quinessential Star Wars ship is mounted on a stand and includes all its signature exterior elements, including its satellite dish and cockpit.
AT-TE Walker
The new AT-TE Walker (from Revenge of the Sith) looks exactly like what it is: a heavy artillery unit with a massive cannon. The model has room to seat seven Clone Troopers as they take on the Separatist droid army. Its sturdy, bottom-heavy design makes it excellent for play or display.
A complementing, proportionally sized companion to the X-Wing Starfighter (#75355), this TIE Interceptor featured in Return of the Jedi as a defender of the second Death Star. We built this set at its launch, and it is currently available exclusively through the LEGO Store.
R2-D2
I previewed and photographed the LEGO R2-D2 set. It was one of the most challenging build experiences I've had since I started this hobby. The end result, however, is worth the effort. Just keep track of the front and the back of the model, and you'll be fine. R2-D2 has a retractable third leg, a fully rotatable helmet, and a flexible structure that allows it to jiggle back and forth, Kenny Baker-style.
X-Wing Starfighter
We built the X-Wing in celebration of Star Wars Day (2023). It is – by a considerable stretch – the most detailed, intensive model of an X-Wing ever built. It is for display only; make sure you have at least two feet of shelf space to do it justice. It was the most fun we'd had building a set in months, and it comes highly recommended.
Jabba's Sail Barge – Collectors' Edition
Jabba the Hutt is the slimiest, greediest gangster in the Dune Sea, and this Sailing Barge, which transports him and his cronies, is appropriately massive. It includes a full kitchen, an armory, and a prison cell for any disobedient servants. The set also comes with a Princess Leia minifigure in her slave costume, so you can recreate the iconic death scene from Return of the Jedi.
Millennium Falcon (Collector's Edition)
LEGO sets usually have a short production lifespan; the old sets get retired to make way for new ones. But the massive Millennium Falcon, which weighs in at 7541 pieces and launched in 2017, is still going strong. It's constantly on backorder, and for good reason; it's a modern classic amongst the LEGO faithful. It comes with two crews – the original crew, with Han, Luke, and Leia, and the sequel crew, with old Han Solo, Rey, and Finn. And it's got fully realized interiors in addition to its articulable exterior.
In 2017, back when this set launched, adult sets were the exception and not the rule. This was a groundbreaking testament to what LEGO could be. Today, with so many other sets that reach its level of complexity, it's a fulfilled example of what LEGO has become and one of the most expensive LEGO sets you can buy.
How Many Star Wars LEGO Sets Are There?
There have been a lot of Star Wars LEGO sets over the years and more and more new options arrive every year. As of April 2025, 87 LEGO Star Wars sets are available at the LEGO store, with options from pretty much every movie and show in the series.
Why Star Wars and LEGO is a Perfect Fit
Lots of times, when LEGO creates a set, it is an uncanny approximation of something real. The artistry is in making these bricks, rods, pins, and gears fit together and do something that perhaps, they weren't originally meant to do. But when it comes to Star Wars LEGO sets – especially the more massive ones – the vehicles and droids look unusually "native" – as if LEGO itself was conceived with Star Wars in mind. It's why the 4784-piece Imperial Star Destroyer looks more like a genuine Star Destroyer rather than a "LEGO" Star Destroyer.
This is part auspiciousness; the Star Wars universe is very angular, with clean lines that lend themselves to the LEGO aesthetic, And this also part effort; the designers put an outsized amount of time into "greebling" – the attention to micro surface detail that makes a monochromatic surface look layered, technically functional and interesting.
LEGO Star Wars sets, in other words, are in a class of their own.
Kevin Wong is a contributing freelancer for IGN, specializing in LEGO. He's also been published in Complex, Engadget, Gamespot, Kotaku, and more. Follow him on Twitter at @kevinjameswong.
LEGO Harry Potter faces a unique challenge, because the Warner Bros. media universe, upon which it is based, is limited – just eight core movies, the last of which debuted 14 years ago. The Fantastic Beasts films also take place in the Potter universe. But those films are divisive at best, and for the last one, Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore, LEGO didn't create any corresponding LEGO sets – a first for what has been, to this point, a successful partnership.
But in 2024, the LEGO designers injected new life into the Potter franchise, embarking on their most ambitious multi-year project to date – a brand-new, fully realized recreation of Hogwarts Castle. LEGO is releasing the minifigure-scaled model piecemeal – one building at a time – beginning with the new Great Hall and Boathouse released in 2025.
TL;DR: These Are the Best LEGO Harry Potter Sets in 2025
We've updated our LEGO Harry Potter guide to include all the LEGO sets you need to build the full castle as well as our other favorites from the franchise. Here are the best sets available now, each of which makes a great gift for Harry Potter fans.
Hogwarts Castle: Owlery
Although not a connected part of the new castle, the Owlery shares the same color scheme of the new designs. It comes with multiple owl figures, and it has a winter theme, with snow capping the windowsills and spires. It comes with two Minifigures – one of Harry Potter and one of Cho Chang.
Hogwarts Castle: The Great Hall
We built this set at its launch – a massive build that will crucially anchor the new modular Hogwarts Castle. The Great Hall sits on a rocky cliff, and the LEGO designers used this extra space to add in a girl's bathroom (massive troll included!) and a Hufflepuff common room at the base of the build.
Hogwarts Castle: Boathouse
The Boathouse is a small but important location in Potter lore. It's where Harry first arrives at Hogwarts in Sorcerer's Stone, and it's where an important character dies a violent death in Deathly Hallows. The LEGO Boathouse connects directly to the LEGO Great Hall via a narrow, rocky pathway.
Hogwarts Castle: Potions Class
A facsimile of Snape's dungeon, the Potions Class has rails on its sides, which allows it to "slot" into the Great Hall as an additional classroom. In addition to Hermione and Professor Snape, the set also includes minifigures for Seamus Finnigan and Pansy Parkinson, which is nice for anyone who wants to diversify their Hogwarts roster.
Hogwarts Castle: Charms Class
Another addition to the new modular Hogwarts Castle, this slot-in classroom allows you to recreate the 'Wingardium Leviosa' scene from Sorcerer's Stone. It also includes a rarely seen Filius Flitwick minifigure. If you're trying to collect all of the Hogwarts teachers, this is a must-have set.
Hogwarts Castle: Dueling Club
Another part of the eventual modular Hogwarts Castle, this set recreates the dueling club scene from Chamber of Secrets. The platform is gimmicked so that if you push the stairs on either side, the minifigure perched opposite will go flying.
Hogwarts Castle: Flying Lessons
A part of the modular Hogwarts Castle, Flying Lessons captures the moment Draco and Harry fought over Neville's Remembrall during their first year. The surrounding buildings include the Quidditch Trophy Room, the Transfiguration Classroom, and Professor McGonagall's office.
Hagrid's Hut: An Unexpected Visit
The new Hagrid's Hut is an upgrade over its predecessor; it sports more detail and a darker color scheme than the prior Hogwarts Castle sets. It's a fully enclosed set on all sides. and it comes with a separate doghouse for Fang.
Talking Sorting Hat
The Sorting Hat is the first LEGO set of its kind and we reviewed it when it first came out. It includes a "sound brick," and if you place the Hat on your head, it will utter 1 of 31 pre-planned phrases and sort you into Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin.
Hogwarts Castle and Grounds
We reviewed the Hogwarts Castle and Grounds set when it first came out an were thoroughly impressed. You could buy a bigger, 5500+-piece LEGO Hogwarts Castle with several fully realized interiors. But this smaller, prettier build will suit most Potter fans for a fraction of the price. While it isn't part of the LEGO Architecture line, it's defintely worth building and displaying in the same way.
Diagon Alley Wizarding Shops
This micro depiction of Diagon Alley pairs well with the Hogwarts Castle and Grounds we feature above, and it is of similar scale, detail, and scope. The buildings include Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlor, Ollivanders, Mr. Mulpepper’s Apothecary, Gringotts Wizarding Bank, the Leaky Cauldron, and The Daily Prophet. The set also comes with 12 microfigures, including the classic trio.
The Burrow – Collectors' Edition
We reviewed this set at launch and were impressed by both the level of detail and the scale. This 5-story building, which uses some clever techniques to tilt at an angle, is a completionist's dream. Befitting the Weasley home, this set includes minifigures for all nine family members including Charlie, who was in the books but never made it into the movies.
Hogwarts Icons - Collectors' Edition
This recreation of Hedwig is so accurate that it could qualify as an Owl build by itself – no creative license required. But the other life-sized, Potter-explicit artifacts make this set a must-have, and include Harry's glasses, a Golden Snitch, a chocolate frog, and a customizable letter from Hogwarts.
Gringotts Wizarding Bank – Collectors' Edition
A two-tiered build, the LEGO Gringotts Wizarding Bank has both the public-facing foyer, with its columns, Goblin employees, and massive chandelier, as well as an underground vault system, which you can explore with a minecart on a spiraling track. If you already have the Diagon Alley set, this fifth building is the perfect, accompanying centerpiece.
Diagon Alley
LEGO's modular building line is one of its most popular, and these Diagon Alley magical buildings, which compose the Wizarding World's shopping center, fit right in. LEGO Diagon Alley includes: Ollivander's Wand Shop, Scribbulus Writing Implements, Quality Quidditch Supplies, Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor, Flourish & Blotts, Weasleys Wizard Wheezes, and the Daily Prophet. The building facades and interiors match those from the movie and come loaded with obscure references. Especially impressive is Ollivander's, which has a suitably dusty, disheveled appearance.
Harry Potter is still incredibly popular, even if it's not as much of a cultural phenomenon as it was in its heyday; nowadays, it's more of an institution. And of course, there's the inevitable backlash – some of it the naturally-occurring type when something becomes this popular – and some of it self-wrought, by the author's rhetoric. Where you fall on that debate, and whether you separate art from the artist, is a personal decision. But if you do, there's a lot of LEGO sets that you might want to check out. And now, you know what they are.
Kevin Wong is a contributing freelancer for IGN, specializing in LEGO. He's also been published in Complex, Engadget, Gamespot, Kotaku, and more. Follow him on Twitter at @kevinjameswong.
For Nintendo fans in Japan, April 24, 2025 is a big day — with Nintendo set to reveal just who has been lucky enough to get the chance to snap up a Switch 2 via official My Nintendo Store pre-orders. But not only was Nintendo forced to shut down the My Nintendo Store website for maintenance due to too much traffic, it also issued a warning about phishing emails mimicking official Switch 2 pre-order lottery results.
Back on April 2, Nintendo started accepting applications for a Switch 2 pre-order lottery in Japan. Winners of the lottery would be able to purchase a Switch 2 from My Nintendo Store, to be delivered at launch on June 5.
According to Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa’s message yesterday, around 2.2 million people in Japan entered the first Switch 2 presale lottery. This demand far exceeded the company’s expectations, meaning that many entrants will have their hopes of obtaining the console on launch day dashed.
With results of the first Switch 2 presale lottery coming out today, it seems that many people rushed to access Japan’s My Nintendo Store, forcing Nintendo to take the site offline for maintenance. Scammers also took advantage of this Switch 2 fever by sending out fake lottery results.
Japanese speaking users on X also warned others, sharing screenshots of fraudulent emails and identifying several variations of the scam. At first glance, the subject line announcing “You have won the Switch 2 lottery” would likely have had many Nintendo fans jumping for joy.
The example emails either demand that the user click on a LINE messenger app link or pay the money today via a suspicious-looking url, and urge the user to act now to secure their coveted new console. It seems the phishing attempts range from more obvious emoji-riddled fakes to more sophisticated attempts with smaller errors like misspellings of Nintendo in email addresses, and non-Japanese URLs.
The official warning from the Japanese Nintendo Support account states: “Although we plan to send out the lottery result emails today (April 24), we have not sent them yet. Please be aware that any such emails that you have received up until now were not sent by Nintendo.”
As a result, invitation emails may arrive after the Switch 2 comes out. However, Nintendo said it will confirm your shipping date upon purchase. Nintendo is now saying you may have a better chance of getting a Switch 2 at launch by pre-ordering at a third-party retailer — a concerning suggestion given Switch 2 has already sold out following pre-orders going live overnight.
The struggle fans had to pre-order Switch 2 on April 24 coupled with this warning from Nintendo suggests the next-gen console will be very hard to buy at least in and around launch.
According to a FAQ posted to Nintendo’s website, the first batch of invitations will go out starting May 8, 2025 for the My Nintendo Store in the U.S. Additional batches of invitation emails will then be sent “periodically” until purchasing on My Nintendo Store is opened to everyone.
Initial invitation emails will be delivered on a first-come, first-serve basis to “eligible registrants who meet the priority criteria.” Invitees will have 72 hours from the time when the email is sent to complete their purchase.
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order invitation priority requirements:
you must have been the one who purchased any Nintendo Switch Online membership
you must have had any paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for a minimum of 12 months, and
you must have opted in to share gameplay data and have at least 50 hours total gameplay hours.
Photo by AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images.
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
With the Alien and Predator franchises now under the Disney umbrella, Marvel Comics has taken full advantage of the crossover opportunities. We've already seen bloody crossovers like Predator vs. Wolverine and Predator vs. Spider-Man. Now, IGN can exclusively reveal the latest and most blood-soaked Predator/Marvel crossover yet - Predator Kills the Marvel Universe.
This new series reunites Predator vs. Spider-Man writer Benjamin Percy and artist Marcelo Ferreira. In fact, Predator Kills the Marvel Universe serves as the culmination of Percy's overarching Predator Vs. saga. Having claimed Wakanda's vibranium and turned Earth into a hunting preserve, a Predator King will begin hunting Earth's heroes and villains en masse. Don't expect them all to survive this bloodbath.
“Over the past few years, I've been having the time of my life writing the Predator Vs. series,” Percy tells IGN. “The Yautja have hunted Wolverine across the decades. They've battled Black Panther and plundered Wakanda of its vibranium. And they've faced off against Spider-Man and Kraven during a blackout heat wave in New York. These stories have been patiently building toward something epic. Their interconnectedness will be revealed in this explosive, blood-drenched, five-part story.”
“That title? It's not misdirection,” Percy continues. “This one's gonna hurt. Your favorite heroes and villains will fall -- even as others rise up against this extinction-level event. The Predator King is here -- the Yautja are armed with vibranium -- and Earth is now a hunting preserve.”
On the surface, the idea of a Predator holding its own against powerful beings like Hulk, Thor, and Storm might seem like a stretch. But Percy hints that vibranium is the key to turning the tables, ensuring that Earth's defenders are thoroughly outmatched by this deadly hunter.
"The playing field has not only been leveled -- it's tipped in the favor of the Yautja. I can't tell you everything, because Predator Vs. Spider-Man hasn't released yet, but something game-changing happens at the end of it that will make people drop their jaws," Percy teases. "But here's something you've already clocked, if you've been following along. In Predator Vs. Black Panther (which is now available as a graphic novel collection), the Yautja raided the Wakandan mines. We all know how obsessed they are with tech and weaponry, so just imagine what they can do with the motherlode of what they refer to as 'godmetal.'"
Percy is adamant that fans should expect some major deaths on the Marvel side as this conflict plays out. Predator Kills the Marvel Universe is very much in the vein of Punisher Kills the Marvel Universe and Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe in that it's set in its own continuity and no one's survival is guaranteed.
"Every character is on the chopping block," Percy says. No one's safe. No one. The brutal and bloody first issue makes that immediately clear. We're not holding back, so armor up."
Predator Kills the Marvel Universe #1 will be released on August 13, 2025. You can find links to order the previous Predator vs. books below:
In David F. Sandberg’s lackluster Until Dawn, the horror game of the same name is transformed into an awkward hybrid of Groundhog Day and The Cabin in the Woods. This is far from a “two great tastes that taste great together” miracle: Unlike the source material, this movie doesn’t successfully unite various flavors of onscreen terror as much as it haphazardly smashes them together. That smashing can occasionally be a glorious, bloody, body-exploding blast, and there are plenty of moments where Sandberg, working again with Annabelle: Creation cinematographer Maxime Alexandre, stokes our anticipation for something horrible to leap out of the darkness. It’s nearly everything else – the painfully one-note performances, the clunky dialogue, the increasingly ineffective scares – that drags Until Dawn into a bottomless pit of its own making.
Most notably, this is a strange blend of wholesale reimagining and direct adaptation. The movie lifts some key elements from the game – including Peter Stormare as a menacing figure lurking in the shadows – while jettisoning its snowy setting, array of generically horny teens, and playfully cheeky tone. The loss of this last part is what makes Until Dawn unshakably strange: Without the goofiness, what we have here is a generic horror movie with the high-concept twist of five friends trying to survive endless variations on the same terrifying night. Sure, there are some gags, but none clever enough to cut through the shallow backstory of troubled Clover (Ella Rubin) searching for her missing sister. Where the flawed-yet-fun game gets its kicks from toying with scary-movie clichés, this self-serious adaptation only rarely feels like it’s in on the joke.
That’s not for lack of trying. Early on, as Clover and some superficially written friends drive through the rain and into the mysterious valley where they’ll soon be trapped, one of them points out that the car is the safest place they could be. The rest of the passengers then yell at him – a vehicle full of Randy Meeks types who know such hubris can only lead to a smiting from the horror gods. Maybe they’re right: Until Dawn is plenty mean-spirited and wrathful towards its characters, though these joyously macabre moments are too fleeting to inform the movie the way Randy’s horror-movie “rules” shape Scream.
In lieu of meaningfully skewering the tropes, Until Dawn leans into them, or worse: When the gang realizes they’re in a time loop, they allude, but don’t directly refer, to other movies with similar premises. (Best not to invite a bunch of unflattering comparisons.) As they try to figure out how to escape their predicament, Until Dawn becomes less of a strong horror movie in its own right and more like an amusement-park haunted house. Each room may be themed around a different classic of the genre, but they’re pale imitations of the real things.
Though each night is meant to be different from the last, there are a number of overlaps: A masked killer makes frequent appearances, and there’s a vain attempt at some connective tissue in the form of a flimsy, dead-end supernatural subplot. A shift into found footage clumsily tries to catch us up on some nights we don’t see in full, while the introduction of a psychological-mystery thread over-explains the monsters Until Dawn carries over from the game. But these are mere acts of re-creation, granting no additional insight into all the different methods and techniques filmmakers have dreamed up to give us nightmares. They don’t do much to give us a better sense of Clover’s plight – and they’re not all that scary, either. Sadly, you won’t find any brains or a beating heart amid Until Dawn’s abundant gore.
Sandberg is still a solid director, so he’s able to squeeze some fright from the shaky material fellow Conjuring Universe veteran Gary Dauberman and The Invitation screenwriter Blair Butler have handed him. Until Dawn ends with a tease for a sequel that seems closer in spirit to the game, which means he could very well get his very own do-over. Fingers crossed that movie isn’t as timid and indecisive as this one, which always feels like it’s being pulled in two different directions. One involves half-heartedly referring back to the game, reducing it to a collection of Easter eggs. The other points toward an original (albeit highly derivative), unrelated idea that’s coasting on Until Dawn’s name recognition. In the end, neither is the way to safety or horror-movie immortality for poor Clover.
With The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered going down well with fans, thoughts are now turning to which Bethesda game is set for the remaster treatment next. And with many speculating Fallout 3 is coming (it was leaked back in 2023), how might Bethesda improve upon its 2008 post-apocalyptic role-playing game?
Bruce Nesmith, one of Fallout 3’s designers, has pointed to the game’s “not good” gun combat, which he expects Bethesda would improve significantly for a remaster.
Speaking to VideoGamer, Nesmith said Fallout 3 Remastered would have shooting more in-line with that of Fallout 4.
“What did you see in Fallout 4? That will tell you what they felt was necessary to change from Fallout 3,” Nesmith said.
“I know in Fallout 4 there was a lot of work done on the gun combat, because Fallout 3 is the first time they ever tried to do a shooter-style game. And, well, I think the work that was done was amazing.”
Oblivion Remastered, developed by remake specialist Virtuos using Unreal Engine 5, has a long list of visual and feature improvements. It runs at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second, as you'd expect, but other changes are more meaningful. Everything from the leveling systems to character creation, and combat animations to in-game menus have been improved. Meanwhile, there's lots of new dialogue, a proper third-person view, and new lip sync technology. The changes are going down well with fans, some of whom believe Oblivion Remastered would be more accurately described as a remake. Bethesda, however, has explained why it went down the remaster route.
Nesmith said Fallout 3 Remastered would probably include improvements and changes along similar lines to Oblivion Remastered.
“[Fallout 3 combat] didn’t hold up to shooters at the time,” he said. “Also, it’s an RPG shooter, it’s not a run-and-gun shooter. But a lot of work was done on that for Fallout 4. So I anticipate seeing a lot of that work go into it, assuming they’re doing the same thing.”
It’s a busy time for Bethesda, which is working on The Elder Scrolls VI and, maybe, more Starfield. Throw in remasters and ongoing work on Fallout 76 and the Fallout TV show, which is heading to New Vegas for Season 2, and fans are in for a treat in the coming years.
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
Whilst looking out for new preorders on the Nintendo Switch 2, the console-maker has surprised us by suddenly making its official Switch 2 GameCube Controller available for general preorders, no longer requiring you to have an exclusive invite from Nintendo.
The Nintendo Store-exclusive controller is still being sold for £58.99 with free delivery, and has a fresh new listing to reflect its open preorder status, alongside the new Switch 2 amiibos.
But there is still a slight yet much smaller catch, for the GameCube controller at least. To be qualified to purchase the controller, though, you need to be logged in with an account that has a paid Nintendo Switch Online Membership.
While the hub page for the NS Online Membership does mention the service does have a 7-day trial available for those who have never subscribed, it specifically states that said trial cannot be used to purchase classic controllers like the new GameCube version, as well as game vouchers.
Although this added restriction does make sense, as it will prevent many scalpers and bots from buying up all the stock automatically, it also unfortunately means you'll have to put up some extra cash to buy your new Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller — if you're not a member already.
Thankfully, the added cost isn't too much in the grand scheme of things. Available to buy from the Nintendo Store, the Online Membership is available for as low as £6.99 for three months.
To get the best value for your money, though, you can spend £17.99 for a 12-month membership or £31.49 for a 12-month family membership respectively.
While Nintendo has confirmed the GameCube Controller will work with non-GameCube games, you will require both an NS Online membership and the Expansion Pack to access the full classics collection anyway.
So, if you were planning on playing any of the GameCube Classics coming to Nintendo Switch 2, you may as well jump in with this deal now and set yourself up for the next year with a major £14.14 saving.
Ben Williams – IGN freelance contributor with over 10 years of experience covering gaming, tech, film, TV, and anime. Follow him on Twitter/X @BenLevelTen.
The Switch 2 Edition of Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s Star-Crossed World has new story content. Super Mario Party Jamboree’s Switch 2 Edition comes with a new suite of content called Jamboree TV that takes 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 are new minigames and online functions as well.
A $20 upgrade price for both games may have to do with the shock $80 cost of both Kirby and The Forgotten Land - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star Crossed World, and Super Mario Party Jamboree - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV. Both games' OG Switch versions are $20 cheaper, priced $59.99 each.
Here's how much Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games cost in the U.S. for those not upgrading:
As a reminder, both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom upgrade packs are also available for no extra cost to Nintendo Switch Online and Expansion Pack subscribers. At the time of writing, however, there is no similar offer for players hoping to upgrade Kirby or Party Jamboree.
Vikki Blake is a reporter, critic, columnist, and consultant. She's also a Guardian, Spartan, Silent Hillian, Legend, and perpetually High Chaos. Find her at BlueSky.
The inevitable Switch 2 release-day delivery warning from Nintendo to its U.S. fans is finally here, after the company said it would struggle to meet demand in Japan.
An update on release-day delivery was published on Nintendo’s website warning those who’d registered their interest in buying a Switch 2 from My Nintendo Store that it could not guarantee delivery by the June 5 release date.
As a result, invitation emails may arrive after the Switch 2 comes out. However, Nintendo said it will confirm your shipping date upon purchase.
“Thank you to those of you who have already registered your interest in purchasing from My Nintendo Store,” Nintendo’s statement read.
“We're thrilled by the enthusiasm for Nintendo Switch 2! Due to the very high demand, we will be working diligently to fulfill orders as product becomes available, but delivery by June 5 is not guaranteed. Your invitation email may arrive after the Nintendo Switch 2 launch. We'll confirm your shipping date upon purchase.”
“If you wish to increase your opportunity of obtaining a Nintendo Switch 2 system at launch, please visit our participating retail partners above,” the statement said, pointing to a GameStop link (Switch 2 is currently sold out at GameStop).
“If you wish to continue waiting for your invitation from My Nintendo Store, no further action is required after registering your interest.”
The struggle fans had to pre-order Switch 2 on April 24 coupled with this warning from Nintendo suggests the next-gen console will be very hard to buy at least in and around launch.
In a statement issued to X / Twitter, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa said the company had seen 2.2 million people in Japan alone apply for a pre-order of the Switch 2 from the My Nintendo Store. This “extremely large number of applications… far exceeds our expectations, and far exceeds the number of Nintendo Switch 2 consoles that can be delivered from the My Nintendo Store on June 5,” Furukawa explained.
According to a FAQ posted to Nintendo’s website, the first batch of invitations will go out starting May 8, 2025 for the My Nintendo Store in the U.S. Additional batches of invitation emails will then be sent “periodically” until purchasing on My Nintendo Store is opened to everyone.
Initial invitation emails will be delivered on a first-come, first-serve basis to “eligible registrants who meet the priority criteria.” Invitees will have 72 hours from the time when the email is sent to complete their purchase.
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order invitation priority requirements:
you must have been the one who purchased any Nintendo Switch Online membership
you must have had any paid Nintendo Switch Online membership for a minimum of 12 months, and
you must have opted in to share gameplay data and have at least 50 hours total gameplay hours.
Last week, Nintendo announced that Switch 2 pre-orders would begin in the U.S. on April 24, 2025, and that the original price of $449.99 and launch date of June 5 would remain the same. Alongside the base console price remaining the same, Nintendo confirmed the Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle would remain at $499.99 and pricing for both the physical and digital versions of Mario Kart World ($79.99) and Donkey Kong Bananza ($69.99) would not change at launch. But Nintendo raised the price of Switch 2 accessories amid the ongoing tariff turmoil.
Nintendo had originally planned on opening pre-orders for Switch 2 on April 9, but it made the decision to delay them as it needed time to "assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions."
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
To help you on your quest, we've done the hard work and collected every Switch game available to preorder from today, with all the retailer links you’ll need just below.
PSA: Don’t expect everything to drop on day one, June 5. Some titles are launching with the console on June 5, but others are lagging behind.
Donkey Kong Bananza doesn’t hit shelves until July 17, and big names like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are still missing from preorder listings entirely, on both Switch 2 and the current model.
For those after some new Switch 2 accessories, we've also go you covered. If you want to spec out your brand-new system with the new Joy-Con 2, Switch 2 Pro controllers, a camera, and more, today is the day to add to basket.
How Much to Upgrade Switch Games to Switch 2 Edition?
IGN recently went hands on with two of the biggest upcoming Switch 2 games, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Mario Kart World. Both are up for preorder from today, but here's what Brian Altano and Logan Plant had to say about the highly antipated launch titles.
Donkey Kong Bananza: "I also think Bananza is on track to be one of the most gorgeous Nintendo games I’ve seen. It really does take advantage of Switch 2's hardware – the environments are beautiful and DK’s animations are wonderfully expressive, and I left feeling like the next generation of first-party Nintendo games had truly arrived."
Mario Kart World: "Mario Kart World feels like the definitive Switch 2 launch game and will certainly be one of the defining games of the Switch 2 generation. The new open world format and Knockout Tour modes are massive new additions to the franchise, the visuals are gorgeous, the gameplay is a blast, and we can’t wait to play more, even if we wish it was a few bucks cheaper."
Other Preorder Guides
2025 is already shaping up to be an exciting release year for games. Alongside the Switch 2, there are plenty of other great games releasing in the coming months that are worth keeping on your radar.
I woke up to the kind of news that makes skipping breakfast feel justified. GameStop is opening their pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 at 11 am EST / 8 am PST.
It’s already sold out at every other major retailer thanks to Switch 2 going up at midnight. This is one of the only places you can still get it, and even then, only if you’re quick.
The $499.99 bundle includes Mario Kart World, which seems like a solid way to break in the new hardware. Preorders go live at 8 a.m. PST, so your best bet is to pretend whatever else you had scheduled can wait.
TL;DR: Best Deals Today
On a completely different note, Amazon is running a surprisingly good 4K Blu-ray deal. You can grab three titles for $33, and these aren't your usual filler picks. I’m seeing Blade Runner: Final Cut, Inception, E.T., and Full Metal Jacket, just to name a few. If you're the type who still enjoys actually owning the movies you love, it's worth checking out.
GameStop Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-orders
GameStop will be one of the only major retailers still offering preorders for the new Switch 2 this morning. The $499.99 bundle includes the console and Mario Kart World, which looks like it's built to show off whatever upgrades Nintendo has under the hood. Preorders go live at 8 a.m. PST, and considering other retailers sold out overnight, I’m not expecting these to last long. There's also the solo Nintendo Switch 2 console, launch games and tons of accessories to add to your basket too. Here's my top picks:
Pokémon TCG Charizard ex Super Premium Collection
I like this bundle because it gives you something to actually hold onto, not just a few random booster packs. It includes three promo foil cards (Charizard ex, Charmander, and Charmeleon) a detailed Charizard figure, and 10 booster packs. That’s solid value, and it’s all bundled in a way that makes sense for collectors or players.
At under $50, it’s hard to argue with the appeal. The Charizard line has always been popular, and the cards in this set are exclusive promos that won’t be around forever. I think this is an easy pickup if you’re looking to build your collection or just want something that looks great out of the box.
Monster Blu Ray 4K Sale
Streaming is convenient until your favorite movie vanishes from your watchlist without warning. That’s why I still keep a stash of 4K discs, and Amazon’s latest deal makes it easy to bulk up the collection. Right now, you can pick any three eligible titles for $33, which is a pretty great deal considering a single 4K Blu-ray usually runs around $20 or more.
I think this is the kind of sale that slips under the radar because there’s no flashy banner or countdown timer. But when you start scrolling and see stuff like Inception, The Dark Knight, 1917, and E.T., it kind of speaks for itself. If you’re into collecting or just want some reliable movie night options that don’t rely on a Wi-Fi signal, this is worth jumping on.
id & Friends Game Bundle
If your Steam backlog isn’t already judging you, this might tip it over. Humble’s newest bundle is a greatest hits lineup from id Software. Pay $28 or more and you’ll get 11 titles, including DOOM Eternal, Wolfenstein II, and a pile of classics like DOOM 64 and DOOM 3. You also get a 10% off coupon for DOOM: The Dark Ages, which drops next month.
In my opinion, this is a no-brainer if you’re even mildly into fast-paced shooters or you missed the DOOM renaissance of the last few years. It's a solid blend of nostalgia and genuinely good modern design. Plus, unlike a lot of bundles, this one feels like it was curated instead of just throwing in random extras to bulk up the list.
WD_Black 2TB C50 Xbox Series X|S Storage Expansion Card
Storage space on Xbox runs out fast, especially if you're hopping between big AAA titles. I think the WD_Black 2TB C50 is one of the better expansion options out there, and right now it's down to $179.99 on Amazon, which is $50 off the usual price.
It's officially licensed, plug-and-play, and gives you the same performance as internal storage thanks to Xbox's Velocity Architecture. I’ve used one for a while, and honestly, it’s the difference between deleting something you’ll want to play later or just moving on with your day.
Hero of Time - Music from The Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time Vinyl
If you grew up on Ocarina of Time or just want something nice to put on your turntable, the Hero of Time vinyl preorder is still open over at the IGN Store. It’s $42.99, and comes with a fully orchestrated version of the soundtrack, recorded by the Slovak National Symphony Orchestra.
I think what sells it for me is the presentation. Green and purple rupee vinyl, custom album art, and a jacket with cutouts and gold foil that actually feel thoughtful instead of just decorative. It ships later this year, but it looks like the kind of thing that’ll sell out before then. If your vinyl shelf has room for some Hyrule, this is probably the one to grab.
Beats Fit Pro
If you’ve been looking for earbuds that actually stay in your ears while you move, the Beats Fit Pro still nails it. They’re down to $169 at Amazon right now, which isn’t the steepest discount ever, but considering how rarely Apple gear goes on sale, I’ll take it.
I’ve used these for running, working, and dodging people on Zoom calls. They’ve got solid noise canceling, great sound, and yes, they work just as well on Android as they do on iPhones. I think they’re still one of the few earbuds that don’t require a small fortune or daily resets.
LEGO Star Wars: The Phantom Menace Mos Espa Podrace Diorama
This LEGO Star Wars Podrace Diorama is one of those builds that feels designed for fans who grew up on Phantom Menace and now pretend they’re “collectors.” It’s on sale for $65 right now, down from the usual $80.
I think it works well as a display piece without screaming “toy.” You get Anakin’s and Sebulba’s podracers in brick form, plus a detailed canyon scene. If you’re trying to justify another LEGO set, just call it a stress-relief project and move on.
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered
This is currently the best price for Oblivion on PC bar subscribing to Game Pass. I’ve played the original Oblivion enough times to know exactly where it shows its age, which is why I’m glad this remaster exists. The updated visuals and improved UI give the game a second life without losing what made it great in the first place. You still get the full experience, including expansions like Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine, plus all the classic side content.
If you missed it the first time around or just want to revisit Cyrodiil without modding your setup into oblivion (pun intended), this is the version to get. I think forty bucks is a fair ask for one of the most influential open-world RPGs of its time, especially with all the extras baked in.
Pokémon TCG 151 Single Card Crashes
I’ve been tracking the Pokémon 151 singles for a while, and a few prices have finally started to slide into that sweet spot between “collectible” and “still reasonable.” Blastoise ex (Illustration Rare) is sitting around $66, and Venusaur ex is close behind at $60. Even Charizard ex, in Secret Rare form, has dipped to around $39, which is surprising considering how popular it is.
If you’re trying to complete the set or build out Gen 1-themed pages, now’s a good time to grab singles like Charmander, Bulbasaur, or Squirtle for under $40. Most of these aren’t meta-competitive, but they’re stunning in a binder and full of nostalgia. I think this wave of price dips won’t last long once more collectors start closing out their sets.
Lossless Scaling
I picked this up to test on a few older games, and it’s now something I install by default on my ROG Ally X. It lets you scale windowed games to fullscreen without that soft blur you get from built-in GPU scaling. There are a bunch of algorithms to pick from depending on the style of game: FSR, integer scaling, even Anime4K.
If you’ve got a handheld like the ROG Ally or a modest desktop setup, this is the kind of quiet upgrade that makes a difference. It doesn’t try to do too much. What it does, it does really well. Easily worth it if you play anything retro or experimental. Whilst it's not reccomended, I've had some very interesting results running this alongside XeSS AI Image upscalling (Stay tuned for a guide on that one).
Stray Soundtrack 2 LP Vinyl
I don’t usually go for game soundtracks on vinyl unless they feel like something I’d actually sit down and listen to, and this one fits. Stray isn’t just a cat game. It’s a full-on atmosphere piece. The soundtrack blends synths and quiet texture with enough character that you can almost hear the neon signs buzzing. It’s available as a two-disc set on heavyweight black vinyl, and the packaging looks just as moody as the game itself.
If you liked wandering those cyberpunk alleyways with nothing but low music and glowing signage for company, this is an easy recommendation. I think it’s the kind of record that holds up on its own, but also hits differently if you’ve played the game. Pre-orders are open now and ship in Q4 2025.
CUKTECH 15 Ultra Power Bank
I’ve gone through enough power banks to know when one’s actually designed with some thought behind it. This one pushes up to 140W with USB-C PD3.1, which means it can charge a MacBook or gaming handheld fast enough to matter. The smart display is a nice touch too. It shows real-time stats, not just another blinking light.
The 20,000mAh capacity is plenty for multiple phone charges or a full laptop cycle, and the recharge time is quick if you’ve got the right charger. I’d say it’s ideal if you travel with more than one device and hate juggling low battery warnings.
Cleer ARC 3 Open Ear Headphones
I like the open-ear design because it avoids the usual trade-off between situational awareness and good audio. These stay just outside your ears, but the sound quality still holds up thanks to Dolby Atmos and Snapdragon Sound support. And the fit’s more comfortable than most earbuds I’ve worn, especially for longer sessions.
The battery life is solid with up to fifty hours total from the case, and it includes features like auto volume adjustment and UV sterilization. It’s built for someone who actually uses their earbuds all day, not just in short bursts. If that’s you, I think you’ll appreciate the attention to detail here.
Pokémon TCG 151 Booster Bundle
I really want this listing to disappear into the tall grass. It’s six booster packs. That’s it. For $66.65. The MSRP was closer to $30, which makes this a laughable markup for what’s essentially a fancy six-pack with no promo cards.
I love Pokémon 151. It’s packed with great Kanto art, and yeah there's some killer hits in there. But paying twice retail for the chance at a Charizard? That’s a pass. I think if you’re going to spend over $60, you should at least know what you’re getting.
I dug up some single card options that are actually worth the money. You can grab Alakazam ex for around $10, a clean Zapdos holo for under $5, and even that Blastoise art rare for $66 or less if you don’t mind a little light play.
Godzilla is one of the biggest names in entertainment, with over 70 years of history since Ishiro Honda's 1954 film. Over the years, there have been numerous interpretations of the legendary beast, from World War II-inspired movies to clashes with other beasts in the Monsterverse. There's a lot to love about every film, especially if you're a fan of action. Starting today, you can purchase three of the most recent Godzilla movies in 4K for only $33. Now is the time to add three films involving the legendary beast to your Blu-ray collection.
This sale is part of Amazon's larger three for $33 4K movie promotion that just started. There are quite a few other great films in there if you'd prefer to shop the full sale yourself.
3 Godzilla 4K Blu-rays for $33
Starting today, you can purchase three of the most recent Godzilla movies in 4K for only $33. Now is the time to add three films involving the legendary beast to your Blu-ray collection.
This sale is part of Amazon's larger three for $33 4K movie promotion that just started. There are quite a few other great films in there if you'd prefer to shop the full sale yourself.
49" Odyssey QD-OLED G9
think this might be the best gaming monitor deal I’ve seen all year. The QD-OLED G9 just dropped to $1,049.99, which is $700 off its original price. That’s not a typo. This is Samsung’s top-of-the-line 49-inch ultrawide, and right now it’s a steal.
The Dual QHD resolution makes games look absurdly sharp, and the 240Hz refresh rate with 0.03ms response time means it’s as fast as it is pretty. Add G-Sync and FreeSync support, and you’ve got yourself a monitor that won’t blink even when you’re about to lose a ranked match.
I want this on my desk just so I can stop squinting at my minimap like an old man with bad Wi-Fi. It wraps around your field of view and makes even spreadsheets feel dramati
57" Odyssey Neo G9 Curved Gaming Monitor
If the QD-OLED isn’t wild enough for you, this 57-inch Neo G9 is here to take your eyeballs hostage. It’s the world’s first Dual UHD monitor, and it costs $1,799.99 right now instead of its usual $2,299.99. Plus, there’s an extra $50 credit applied at checkout.
Mini-LED tech, 240Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and enough real estate to run an airport. I want this so badly I’m thinking of measuring my apartment just to see if it’ll fit.
The HDR 1000 support and insane brightness make everything pop, and Samsung even threw in CoreSync lighting to make sure your desk feels like a spaceship.
Supreme Unreal & Unity Game Dev Bundle
If you’ve ever fired up Unity, gotten overwhelmed, and rage-quit to watch a devlog instead, this bundle might be for you. For $30, you get over 50 assets covering everything from Viking villages to stylized VFX.
I’m not saying this will make you the next FromSoftware, but it’ll definitely make prototyping less soul-crushing. The Whispering Grove and Asian Dynasty packs alone are worth more than the bundle price.
Also, it supports charity. So even if you never finish your dream RPG, at least someone benefits from your failed side project.
Samsung T9 4TB Portable SSD
I think this is the drive to get if you’ve got a ton of large files and zero patience. The T9 4TB model is down to $299.99, and it’s fast. I’m talking 2,000MB/s fast. You can load, edit, and transfer without watching a loading bar crawl across your screen.
It’s built to survive up to a 9.8-foot drop, which, yes, I find oddly specific. But hey, it means it’ll probably survive your daily backpack abuse. If you’re a video editor or just someone who hoards game installs like they're rare Pokémon, this is a solid pickup.
Samsung T5 4TB Portable SSD
This one’s all about durability and capacity. The T5 EVO gives you 4TB of space in a compact shell, and it’s priced the same as the T9. It doesn’t hit the same crazy speeds, but it’s still great for moving big files and not worrying about losing them to the floor gods.
I want this for backup storage or even game library overflow. It’s a solid pick if you don’t need bleeding-edge speeds but still want to keep everything in one pocket-sized vault. Buyers can also snag a free Sonic the Hedgehog branded 256GB MicroSD card + adaptor with this deal too.
Journey Together Booster Bundle
Amazon’s been a bit shady with this one. While the overpriced Elite Trainer Box is sitting at a wild $99.49, this six-pack bundle is actually close to MSRP and ships directly from Amazon. It’s quietly hidden under separate listings, which feels intentional given how quickly the ETB sold out when it dipped below $40 last week.
Journey Together Sleeved Booster
One Journey Together pack, one total mystery. If you just want to open something without overthinking it, this gets the job done. It’s also about as low-stakes as Pokémon TCG gets unless you're picking up cards off the sidewalk.
Resident Evil Mother Miranda Statue
Journey Together Elite Trainer Box
Yes, this is the same box that was selling for around $40 days ago. It’s now being offered at the highest price yet, and not even by resellers — this inflated price is from Amazon itself. You get nine booster packs, a promo, sleeves, and extras, but you'd be paying more than double what it’s worth. I’d pass unless it drops again.
Terapagos ex Ultra-Premium Collection
I want to say this isn’t excessive, but you’re getting 18 Stellar Crown booster packs, three promo cards, a playmat, a deck box, and a magnetic card display. Excessive, but in a good way. It’s basically a portable shrine to Terapagos, and somehow still manages to feel worth it if you're deep in the hobby.
Pokémon TCG Stacking Tin
Three booster packs and two sticker sheets in a tin that stacks. That’s the whole pitch. I think it’s a fun pickup if you’re buying for a younger fan or just want your cards stored in a tiny themed cylinder for some reason.
Paldean Fates Booster Bundle
Six packs focused on shiny Pokémon, which will either be a collector’s dream or a gamble depending on your luck. In my opinion, the price feels high unless you're chasing specific cards, but that hasn’t stopped anyone before.
Iono’s Bellibolt ex Premium Collection
Six packs and two foil promos, plus acrylic standees and a sticker sheet, because Iono’s entire personality is now available in merchandise form. I think this one’s a solid pick if you like your collections playable, displayable, and mildly ridiculous.
Shrouded Fable Elite Trainer Box
This box comes with nine Shrouded Fable booster packs, a Pecharunt promo, sleeves, dice, and more organizational tools than your average office desk. It’s one of the more practical bundles, assuming your definition of practical includes themed card sleeves.
Poké Ball, Premier Ball, Moon Ball Tin Bundle.
Each bundle comes with three Poké Ball tins and nine booster packs total, plus stickers in case the Poké Balls weren’t festive enough. You’re paying for variety and presentation here, which is half the fun anyway.
Poké Ball, Great Ball and Ultra Ball Tin Bundle.
Same again but includes a Pokéball, Great Ball and Ultra Ball. This is the OG choice and look brilliant mixed in a graded card display. All Pokémon TCG should come in a Pokéball in my opinion!
Surging Sparks Booster Bundle
If you don’t need sleeves or dice and just want to crack open six fresh packs from Surging Sparks, this one does the job. In my opinion, it’s the most straightforward way to feed the shiny card habit without the extra clutter.
Paradox Clash Tin
You get five packs and one of two promo cards, chosen by fate or some algorithm pretending to be fate. A decent middle ground for players who want something compact with a bit of flair and a good chance at useful pulls.
Azure Legends Tin
This tin is a lucky dip between Kyogre, Xerneas, and Dialga, which makes it great if you enjoy a little chaos with your collecting. Five packs and a foil promo make it pretty reasonable for the price, especially if you're not picky.
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.
That's because, initially, Nintendo's pages for Tears of the Kingdom's Switch 2 edition carried the following disclaimer: "Please note: this software does not support the Nintendo Switch Online paid membership’s Save Data Cloud backup feature."
Now, however, Nintendo has updated its website to provide more information. While Donkey Kong Bananza's page has since scrubbed all mention of cloud saves completely, Nintendo has revised the disclaimer on the Tears of the Kingdom page so it now states: "Save data created in the second save data slot in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition cannot be transferred to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Nintendo Switch."
This suggests players will be able to transfer their old Switch 1 Tears of the Kingdom saves to their new Switch 2 devices, but it won't be possible to transfer Switch 2 saves back to the OG system (thanks, Eurogamer).
Vikki Blake is a reporter, critic, columnist, and consultant. She's also a Guardian, Spartan, Silent Hillian, Legend, and perpetually High Chaos. Find her at BlueSky.
It has emerged that almost all physical third-party Nintendo Switch 2 games in Japan revealed so far are Game-Key Cards, and it looks like a similar situation in the West.
As reported by Gematsu, the launch of Switch 2 pre-orders in Japan revealed all physical third-party games so far except for CD Projekt’s Cyberpunk 2077 and that are not Nintendo Switch 2 Editions, ship on Game-Key Cards and thus require access to the internet to download the full game.
Ys X: Proud Nordics and No Sleep for Kaname Date are also game-key cards in Japan. And retail descriptions for Split Fiction list it as a code-in-a-box. pic.twitter.com/dCTUsTmNQZ
But what is the situation in the West? Here, Sega's Switch 2 games are Game-Key Cards. The listing for Sonic X Shadow Generations on Walmart, for example, confirms as much.
Switch 2 Game-Key Cards are 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 is 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.
As pointed out by Daniel Ahmad, Director of Research & Insights at Niko Partners, this focus on Game-Key Cards may put extreme pressure on the eShop around the Switch 2’s launch in June as fans rush to download their games.
All the Switch 2 bundles come with a download code.
Mario Kart World is 24GB.
Most games come on a game key card and require a download.
The Switch 2 launches globally on the same day.
I am not a religious man, but I ask you all to pray for the Eshop servers on June 5.
“Game cards are significantly more expensive than discs (+ increases with each GB),” Ahmad added, explaining the reasoning for publishers.
“It takes time to ramp up production of multiple storage capacity game cards. Digital games / lower capacity cards offer higher margins for publishers. Digital is the majority of sales.”
Christopher Dring, Editor-In-Chief and Co-Founder of The Game Business, went as far as to say the Game-Key Cards are “basically Christmas/birthday present boxes for wrapping up.”
“Ultimately, with fewer games retailers, rising manufacturing costs, the fact that younger generations just don’t care, plus the drive for sustainability, all points in one direction for physical media,” Dring added.
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
11 bit studios has announced Frostpunk 1886, a remake of the first game due out in 2027.
The Polish developer is using Unreal Engine 5 for this project, which it has revealed just over half a year after Frostpunk 2 came out. The first Frostpunk launched in 2018, so assuming the remake does come out in 2027, it’ll be nearly a decade on.
Frostpunk is a city-building survival video game set in an alternate history late 19th century. You build and maintain a city during a worldwide volcanic winter, managing resources, making choices on how to survive, and exploring the area outside their city for survivors, resources, or other useful items.
IGN’s Frostpunk review returned a 9/10. We said: “Frostpunk deftly mixes a variety of thematic ideas and gameplay elements into an engaging and unique, if occasionally unintuitive, strategy game.”
Frostpunk 2 fared a little less well in IGN's review, getting an 8/10. We said: "Thanks to a ground-up rethinking of its ice-age city builder mechanics, Frostpunk 2's larger scale is less intimate but more socially and politically complex than the original."
11 bit insisted it still plans to update Frostpunk 2 with DLC and plans for the console launch remain, while working on Frostpunk 1886.
"With the studio’s proprietary Liquid Engine, which powered not only the original Frostpunk but also This War of Mine, no longer in development, the team has long sought a new foundation to carry forward the legacy of the first game,” 11 bit said.
“While Frostpunk 2 continues to forge ahead with free major content updates, a console launch, and DLCs, this newly announced project marks a return to the franchise’s roots, offering both newcomers and longtime citizens of New London an evolved take on the harsh, morally challenging survival experience that started it all.
“But Frostpunk 1886 — so titled to honour a pivotal moment in the timeline of the universe, when the Great Storm descended upon New London — is no mere visual overhaul. It builds upon the core of the original, expanding it with new content, mechanics, laws, and — perhaps most excitingly — an entirely new Purpose path, offering a fresh experience even for the most seasoned players.
“Reimagining Frostpunk in Unreal Engine also allows the game to become a living, expandable platform, bringing with it long-awaited mod support — a community request that was previously impossible to realize due to technical limitations of the original engine — as well as the possibility to add future DLC content.”
11 bit studios said its fans can “look forward to a future where Frostpunk 2 and Frostpunk 1886 evolve side by side — two paths forged in parallel, each carrying the vision of survival into unrelenting cold.”
The studio is also working on The Alters, which is due out in June.
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
Nintendo fans are clapping back at scalpers by creating fake listings for the Nintendo Switch 2 on auction sites, flooding the site and making it more difficult for buyers to find scalper listings.
Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders are popping up all over sites like eBay, offering the highly anticipated console for anything between $500 and $2,000.
To make it more difficult for those auctions to be seen, however, Nintendo fans are posting fake listings at retail prices or lower to push overpriced scalper auctions further and further down the page.
Take this listing, for example. Entitled "Nintendo Switch v2 video games console PREORDER," it's asking for $450, which doesn't seem too bad at all.
Read the description, however, and it says: "PRE-ORDER SCREENSHOT Please note: You are ordering a picture of the Nintendo Switch 2. This listing is to combat bots and scalpers. No refunds. No cancels. > You will receive an png image of a switch 2. No console."
You can usually tell which listings are from frustrated fans and which are real scalpers, as the listings selling screenshots rather than consoles have "read description" in the listing heading.
Another $550 listing reads: "Do not, I repeat DO NOT BUY this unless you are a bot or just wish to donate $550 to me. I will be shipping a laser-printed image of the Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle and that will be all you get. NO REFUNDS. NO. REFUNDS. NO REFUNDS. You will NOT BE REFUNDED you will be receiving the picture whether you like it or not.
"I'm just gonna make sure to state this again, there will be NO REFUNDS, and you will be getting a laser printed image of a Switch 2 Mario Kart World bundle. That is all you will be getting.
"Oh, one last thing. Did I mention NO REFUNDS? Ok but actually though, it will ship after you order instead of after it releases so you should be getting it before Switch 2 release date."
"This listing is for a printed picture of my Nintendo Switch 2 console confirmed preorder," states another $499.99 auction. "You will receive a printed picture, folded, and sent in a standard letter envelope. This is NOT for the console itself. No refunds, No returns. F the bots."
Vikki Blake is a reporter, critic, columnist, and consultant. She's also a Guardian, Spartan, Silent Hillian, Legend, and perpetually High Chaos. Find her at BlueSky.
Looking for codes for Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY? There's no bursting your bubble here! IGN has you covered with the newest working codes, rewarding you with everything from Mystery Boxes to Lucky V Potions, Coins, and more.
Working Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY Codes (April 2025)
Below you'll find the most recent and active codes for Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY.
throwback - 1x Infinity Elixir (NEW!)
Easter - 4x Mystery Boxes
Lucky - 1x Lucky V Potion
RELEASE - 500 Coins
Expired Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY Codes
There are currently no expired Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY codes. As soon as the codes above stop working, we'll move them to this section.
How to Redeem Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY Codes
Redeeming codes in Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY is a straightforward experience. Just follow these steps:
Load up the Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY Roblox experience
On the left-hand side of the screen, look for the bird icon that says Codes
Click this and you'll be automatically taken to a bar that says Redeem Codes
Enter the code, then press Redeem (despite what it says, you do not need to follow Rumble Studios to be able to redeem them)
Enjoy your goodies!
Where Can I Find More Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY Codes?
Rumble Studios has its very own Discord Server where Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY codes are posted. To save you scrolling through the chat or locating them yourself, however, we check for new codes each day, so you can be sure that if there's a new code, it'll be here!
What is Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY on Roblox?
If you've ever wanted to blow enormous bubbles with your gum, and you'd love a gang of adorable pets, Bubble Gum Simulator INFINITY is likely to be your thing. You'll click to chew gum, sell the bubbles you make for coins, use those coins to hatch eggs for pets, and then have your pets help you collect coins. As you earn more, you can hatch better eggs and built a team of cute pets, as well as upgrade your gum for more profit.
Lauren Harper is an Associate Guides Editor. She loves a variety of games but is especially fond of puzzles, horrors, and point-and-click adventures.
EA has added a paid season pass to FC 25 in a first for its long-running soccer series.
The EA Sports FC 25 Premium Pass is live now in-game and can be obtained with the earnable in-game virtual currency (500,000 UT Coins) or the virtual currency paid for with real-world money (1,000 FC Points, which cost $9.99).
The paid track includes exclusive content and, crucially, tradeable packs. This means players of Ultimate Team (FC’s most popular and controversial mode) can sell the rewards obtained in the Premium Pass to other players for in-game currency that can then be used to buy the next Premium Pass (assuming they earn enough coins from the sale of those items in the auction house, of course).
Rewards include a number of powerful cards, such as Immortal Icon Franck Ribéry, and powerful Evolution consumables that are used to improve cards you already own.
Some players are already hitting out at EA for the decision, pointing out this $9.99 Premium Pass comes on top of what is already a premium game and, when it comes to Ultimate Team, an already heavily-monetized game mode. Critics are also suggesting that the Premium Pass offers a direct way to buy powerful cards which can then be used in competitive multiplayer.
Others, however, are pointing out that you still need to level up to unlock most of the rewards, and you can pay for the premium track with coins earned through gameplay alone, so technically everything here is earnable by just playing.
And effectively, Ultimate Team store packs already offer a direct purchase route, given there are many that now include guaranteed cards of a certain power level. However, this paid season pass is the closest EA has come to just letting fans buy Ultimate Team players directly.
The addition of FC’s first ever paid season pass may be an attempt by EA to further monetize its money-spinner now the game is available at a heavily discounted price and ahead of FC 25’s expected arrival in console subscription services such as Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PlayStation Plus.
It’s also worth noting that back in January EA lowered its financial forecast for its fiscal year, pointing to the “underperformance” of EA Sports FC 2025 (which accounted for the "majority" of the shortfall) and BioWare’s Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
In a blog post, EA said the Premium Pass is “purely additive” and promised not to shift rewards from the standard tier of the Season Pass to the Premium Pass.
“While our Season 7 Premium Pass rewards are locked in, we’ll be monitoring your feedback to make sure we deliver the best experience possible in whatever mode you play in FC moving forward,” EA said.
The launch of the Premium Pass at the beginning of EA’s new financial year is telling (EA reports the results of its FY 2025 in May), and it looks like a clear set-up for the inevitable EA Sports FC 26. The question for EA is, will the Premium Pass do the business it needs without causing ruptions in its community?
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
As I begin writing this piece, I'm sitting at my desk at 11:30pm CT (well past my bedtime on a work night) trying, along with seemingly the entire rest of the world and the populations of several other planets, to try and pre-order a Nintendo Switch 2.
Pre-orders went live at 9pm PT/12am ET at three different retailers: Walmart, Best Buy, and Target. Or at least, they were supposed to, but the actual rollout so far has been a hot mess. Myself and a big chunk of the IGN staff have all been trying to order our Switch 2s and meeting wildly varying levels of success, and folks on social media are reporting a whole host of problems as well resulting in frustration, dejection, and rarely, triumph.
Over at Walmart, Nintendo Switch 2 would-be buyers were dumped almost immediately into a digital queue to buy their systems, and while it did move forward for some and ultimately end with a Switch in the cart, others are still waiting on a "stay in line" screen with no indication of how long the wait is, or whether or not it will be successful. When they finally do get through to purchase, some folks are reporting baffling error messages, or whatever is going on here:
Target didn't have a queue like Walmart, so at first, it seemed like Switch fans saw more success over there. But reports rapidly began mounting that buyers were running into error screens throughout the purchase process, and while some people thought they purchased a Switch 2 successfully and even reached a confirmation screen, they later reported seeing a cancellation email roll through their inboxes moments later, forcing them to start the whole process over. Others are reporting that the Switch 2 is actively being removed from their shopping cart midway through the process, forcing them to start over.
The Nintendo Switch 2 sold out instantly at Target. This is unreal bro. I refreshed on the second it turned 12 am. Actually unreal pic.twitter.com/LAQ4lC03qw
And then there's Best Buy, whose pre-orders didn't even go live on time. The website read "Coming Soon" for half an hour before finally beginning to pop folks into a digital queue slowly but surely, with purchase confirmations only just now starting to come through for some, while others deal with some of the aforementioned errors and restarts. And at all three stores, some have said that they're dealing with fraud alerts from their banks or other weird financial blips that are gumming up the works and forcing them to start all over, ultimately denying them a chance at a system entirely.
In the amount of time it took me to write this piece, Target and Walmart appear to have officially sold out, and while more and more folks are managing to get through at Best Buy, others (like myself) have been stuck in some interminable queue for over an hour. Others have gotten emails saying their purchases have been canceled or delayed, with no new delivery date or ability to reorder.
It's likely in the coming minutes and hours we'll start to see more and more successes, and there's always an opportunity to pre-order at GameStop tomorrow (well, today) at 11:00am ET both in-store and online, or at other retailers in the future. And lucky individuals with Nintendo accounts may also get an email from Nintendo in May, inviting them to pre-order directly from the hardware maker - but there's no guarantee of getting that email, and Nintendo has suggested that demand in Japan at least has been way, way higher than the company's projected supply.
If you're not a huge Nintendo fan or willing to wait to purchase a system, it's easy to scoff at the chaos. But it's especially frustrating for Nintendo fans coming off of a reveal and rollout that's already been confusing and exasperating at almost every turn. Exciting as the initial reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2 was, the price of both the system and all the requisite accessories and games left many reeling before Nintendo paused pre-orders due to tariff implementation in the U.S., only to fire them up again without changing the price of the system itself, just the accessories. On top of that, Nintendo's plans for physical and digital software pricing, formats, and content have been wildly confusing, and Nintendo hasn't exactly been transparent or helpful in clearing up questions about how much everything is going to cost, and what exactly it is everyone's purchasing. So it's no wonder so many folks are upset at not even knowing if they're going to be able to get their hands on a system anywhere near launch, especially with the looming threat of future price hikes or supply concerns.
Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. You can find her posting on BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.
Street Fighter 6: Years 1-2 Fighters Edition is set to release for Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5. This edition throws 26 fighters into the mix across 20 stages. You can preorder it now (see it at Target). For more details, keep on reading.
Street Fighter 6: Years 1-2 Fighters Edition for Switch 2
Unlike many first-party Switch 2 games, this one is releasing at the relatively wallet-friendly $59.99 price. Some other Switch 2 games, including original Switch games that have been enhanced for Switch 2, are releasing for $69.99 or eve $79.99 in the case of Mario Kart World and Tears of the Kingdom.
Note: This is a Game-Key Card
Some Nintendo Switch 2 games come in the form of game-key cards, including this one. Game-key cards are physical cards that look basically like Switch 2 cartridges, but they don’t actually contain the game on them. Instead, you’ll need to insert the card into your Switch 2 and then download the game from the eShop. Note, it’s a 50GB download, so you might want to pick up a microSD Express card to add some extra storage.
What Is Street Fighter 6: Years 1-2 Fighters Edition?
This edition of Street Fighter 6 comes with all the base fighters, plus the additions from the first two years. That means you get 26 fighters and 20 stages.
As for the game itself, we loved it. From our 9/10 Street Fighter 6 review: “Street Fighter games are always benchmark moments for the 2D fighting game genre, but Street Fighter 6 feels extra special. The Drive System is an incredible addition to the fighting mechanics that gives you a veritable Swiss Army knife of options and meter-management decisions right from the start of every single round, the starting roster is the best Street Fighter has ever seen, its online netcode through three betas has been impeccable so far, and the number of smaller details that it nails right out of the gate is unprecedented. It’s so good that even the poor story and extremely slow progression of the single-player World Tour amounts to only a jab’s worth of damage on its metaphorical health bar. Whether you’re completely new to fighting games or are a seasoned vet, Street Fighter 6 is a must play.”
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Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Bluesky @chrislreed.com.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is set to release exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5. It includes the original Nintendo Switch game with some Switch 2 enhancements, plus Zelda Notes via the Nintendo Switch app. It’s available to preorder now (see it at Target). Read on for the details.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
You’ll probably notice that the price is higher than the typical video games you may be used to purchasing. That’s because Nintendo is pricing its Switch 2 games using a varying scale. This original game was one of the few original Switch games to hit the $69.99 price. Nintendo is keeping that price, and adding $10 for the Switch 2 glow-up. I don’t love that.
Upgrade Pack Is Also Available Separately
This version of the game comes with the original Switch game, plus the Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack. If you already own the original game for Switch, you can purchase the upgrade pack separately for $10 and save some money.
Upgrade Pack Is Free with Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
If you already own Tears of the Kingdom and you’re a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack member, you get the upgrade for no additional charge. It comes included in your subscription.
What is The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?
This package includes the full original Switch game The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, plus the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack. That gets you upgraded performance, with things like faster frame rates and load times, plus enhanced resolution and textures. Basically, the is looks and runs better on Nintendo Switch 2 than it ever did on the original Switch.
From our original 10/10 TotK review: “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is an unfathomable follow-up to one of the greatest games ever made, somehow improving upon it in nearly every way – be that with simple quality-of-life improvements, a genuinely exciting story, or wildly creative new building mechanics that make you rethink what is possible. It both revamps old ground and introduces vast new areas so immense it somehow makes me wonder if Breath of the Wild was actually all that big, with an almost alarming number of tasks to complete, mysteries to discover, and delightful distractions to keep you from ever reaching that place you naively thought you were headed. Nintendo has followed up a triumph with a triumph, expanding and evolving a world that already felt full beyond expectation and raising the bar ever higher into the clouds.”
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Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Bluesky @chrislreed.com.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is set to release exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5. It includes the original Nintendo Switch game with some Switch 2 enhancements, plus Zelda Notes via the Nintendo Switch app. It’s available to preorder now (see it at Target). Read on for the details.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
Nintendo isn't offering any sort of discount because this is an older game. You have to pay full price for original Switch game, plus an extra $10 for the Switch 2upgrade. Kinda stings.
Upgrade Pack Is Also Available Separately
This version of the game comes with the original Switch game, plus the Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack. If you already own the original game for Switch, you can purchase the upgrade pack separately for $10 and save some money.
Upgrade Pack Is Free with Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack
If you already own Breath of the Wild and you’re a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack member, you get the upgrade for no additional charge. It comes included in your subscription. That's nice, considering how much Nintendo is nickel-and-diming fans with this new console rollout.
What is The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?
This package includes the full original Switch game The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, plus the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack. That gets you upgraded performance, with things like faster frame rates and load times, plus enhanced resolution and textures. Basically, the is looks and runs better on Nintendo Switch 2 than it ever did on the original Switch.
From our original BotW review: “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a masterclass in open-world design and a watershed game that reinvents a 30-year-old franchise. It presents a wonderful sandbox full of mystery, dangling dozens upon dozens of tantalizing things in front of you that just beg to be explored. I’ve had so many adventures in Breath of the Wild, and each one has a unique story behind what led me to them, making them stories on top of stories. And even after I’ve spent more than 50 hours searching the far reaches of Hyrule, I still manage to come across things I haven’t seen before. I’ll easily spend 50 to 100 more trying to track down its fascinating moments.”
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Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Bluesky @chrislreed.com.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World (say that three times fast) is set to release exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on August 28. It contains the full original Switch game, but with improvements like a faster frame rate and higher resolution. It also comes with a whole new story, called Star-Crossed World, that hasn’t been released anywhere else before. It’s available for preorder now (see it at Target). Read on for the details.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World
Your eyes do not deceive you: this is an $80 game. You'll find no argument that that's a lot of money for a souped-up game for the original Switch, plus an expansion. But it's what Nintendo is charging, so grab it if you want it.
Upgrade Pack Is Also Available Separately
However, here's some good pricing news for anyone who already owns the original version of the game. Since this version simply comes with the original Switch game, plus the Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack, anyone who already owns the original game for Switch can purchase the upgrade pack separately and save some money.
What is Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World?
From our Kirby and the Forgotten Land review: “Kirby and the Forgotten Land successfully warps the series’ already fun mix of ability-based combat, platforming, and secret hunting into the third dimension. The post-apocalyptic setting may not be as thematically interesting as Planet Popstar, but it is still lovely and vibrant, with cleverly designed levels that make consistently smart use of Kirby’s abilities. Despite the change in perspective, Forgotten Land maintains most of what I love about classic Kirby games – and if the future means more 3D adventures for our hungry pink hero, I’d be more than happy to swallow them up.”
So this Nintendo Switch 2 version of the game comes with the full original game, complete with improved graphics, plus the Star-Crossed World expansion, which brings a new adventure to the package. Nintendo describes the new content like this: “Kirby must use his amazing abilities, including some all-new Mouthful Modes, to clear a trail through uncharted territory after the world is struck by a powerful meteor.”
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Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Bluesky @chrislreed.com.
Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV is set to release exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 on July 24. It comes with everything included in the original party game for Nintendo Switch, plus a new Jamboree TV expansion that’s like a game show hosted by Toad. The game is available for preorder now (see it at Walmart). Let’s dive in and look at more details.
Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV
While there are several ways to buy this game, depending on whether you already own the original (if you do, read on), it's only available in one edition. So that's nice.
Yep, It Costs $79.99
Nintendo is using a sliding-scale pricing model for Switch 2 games. While most first-party original Switch games cost $59.99 (with the exception of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which cost $69.99), for Switch 2, Nintendo is cranking the ceiling up to $79.99 (at least so far). Mario Kart World is also $79.99, while other games are $69.99 or even less.
Upgrade Pack Is Also Available Separately
This version of the game comes with the original Switch game, plus the Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack. The upgrade pack boosts the base game to higher definition and faster frame rates, while also adding the Jamboree TV expansion content. If you already own the original game for Switch, you can purchase the upgrade pack separately on the Nintendo eShop and at select other retailers (as a printed download code) and save some money.
What Is Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV?
The big new addition here is the Switch 2-exclusive Jamboree TV expansion, which brings new modes and minigames to the party. It includes a number of minigames that use new input types, only available on Switch 2. There’s audio recognition, along with mouse controls and “more expressive rumble.” It also makes use of the Nintendo Switch 2 camera accessory (sold separately; see it at Target).
The minigames that use the camera accessory are probably the most notable addition here, because it puts the faces of everyone playing into the game. Up to four players can participate using a single camera, to do things like balance digital goombas on your head, hit question blocks with your Joy-Con, and more.
Overall, this is probably one of the bigger expansions coming to a Switch 2 version of an original Switch game. It’s especially appealing to anyone who has people over and enjoys playing party games.
“Super Mario Party Jamboree is an amazing followup to Mario Party Superstars and easily one of the best games in the series. Not only does it faithfully return to the classic formula established in the Nintendo 64 entries, it confidently improves upon it with a fantastic set of boards that introduce unique and memorable mechanics. It’s also the most flexible Mario Party has ever been, with tons of ways to customize your game, including its brilliant new optional Pro Rules that reduce luck-based elements to a minimum and crank up the strategy for those who want it. The wonderful maps are supported by a great lineup of new and returning minigames and character-specific challenges that steal the show, even if I wish there were just a few more minigames in the rotation. The side offerings may not have much staying power, but when partying with friends and family locally or online, Super Mario Party Jamboree boldly completes the series’ redemption arc as its newest superstar.”
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Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Bluesky @chrislreed.com.
April 24 is a big day. Not only are Nintendo Switch 2 preorders going live, but so are all the other things surrounding the launch of Switch 2. We’re talking games. We’re talking accessories and peripherals. We’re also talking a new batch of Nintendo amiibo. Fans of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Street Fighter 6 can preorder a handful of brand new amiibo from those games. Let’s take a look.
The side-scrolling carousel above has all the new amiibo in it, but if any of them are sold out when you click to buy, or you want more details, keep on reading.
With apparent ease and aplomb, Sidon settles the age-old quandary: “can a fish be hot?” He’s a useful companion in the newer Zelda games, and he makes a mighty fine amiibo.
Yunobo is a Goron who accompanies Link on his adventures and adds his sizable powers in Hyrule’s time of need. He’s kind of annoying as a character, but amiibo figures can’t talk, which makes this a safe one to pick up.
Would my life be improved if I never had to hear Tulin’s cry ever again? Most definitely. But would the aesthetics of my desk be improved if I picked up this amiibo and kept it there? Absolutely.
As a cocky rival to Luke, Jamie makes a fine addition to the amiibo lineup, just as his breakdancing and Drunken Fist fighting style makes a fine addition to Street Fighter 6.
Luke was the final playable character added to Street Fighter V, but he’s been in SF6 since the beginning. In fact, he’s the game’s chief protagonist, which means any fan of the game should add this amiibo to their collection.
Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Bluesky @chrislreed.com.
Donkey Kong Bananza is set to release exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17. It’s a big 3D platformer that finds our simian hero running, climbing, and rolling through a variety of wide-open environments. It’s available to preorder now (see it at Best Buy). Read on for the details.
There are no special editions or anything like that for Donkey Kong Bananza. The only choice you have to make is whether to buy it in physical or digital format.
Yes, the MSRP Is $69.99
While Nintendo is deploying a new $79.99 price point for some Switch 2 games (looking at you, Mario Kart World) and even some upgraded original Switch games (looking at you, Super Mario Party Jamboree), it’s sticking with $69.99 for Donkey Kong Bananza. That’s $10 more than the standard Nintendo kept for most original Switch games, but I’m glad it’s not $79.99.
What Is Donkey Kong Bananza?
Donkey Kong Bananza is the first new 3D Donkey Kong game since the 1999 N64 platformer Donkey Kong 64. The main gameplay mechanic here seems to be a digging ability that has Donkey Kong pounding and smashing his way down into the ground or through the sides of cliffs. And based on the trailer, there appears to be plenty of secrets and treasure to be found underground.
While most of the levels do appear to take place underground, you’ll get to play through a variety of environments, including forests, canyons, lagoons, and frozen tundras. True to the series history, there are also side-scrolling and mine cart rail-riding sections. It looks like fun. Check out our Donkey Kong Bananza hands-on preview for more information.
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Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Bluesky @chrislreed.com.
There’s nothing more exciting than the start of a new console generation. Hopefully you were able to get your Nintendo Switch 2 preorder locked in. But with any new console comes a new batch of accessories. If you want to spec out your brand-new system with all the best Switch 2 accessories like new Joy-Con 2, Switch 2 Pro controllers, a camera, and more, you have plenty of options. Here’s where to preorder all the official Nintendo Switch 2 accessories and peripherals.
Featured in this article
Don't have time to read blurbs? The side-scrolling carousel above has all the items in this article.
Samsung microSD Express Card 256GB for Nintendo Switch 2
If there’s one thing every video game console needs more of, it’s storage. The Switch 2 comes with 256GB of onboard storage, but if you want to add more, a regular microSD card won’t cut it. The Switch 2 requires a microSD Express card, and because few products required them prior to the Switch 2, they’re hard to find in stock. To help feed the demand, Samsung and Nintendo are teaming up to make a special Mario-themed microSD Express card, which is only available in 256GB at launch.
The main input on any Nintendo Switch 2 is Joy-Con 2 controllers. While the Switch 2 is compatible with Joy-Cons from the original Switch, using them is far from ideal. They can’t wake the Switch 2 from sleep, and they can’t attach to the side for handheld play. Also, the new Joy-Con 2 input devices have several new features: mouse functionality, a team chat button, and a fancy magnetic attachment mechanism.
Joy-Cons are fine for handheld mode, but when I’m playing my Switch on the TV, I absolutely reach for a Pro Controller. The Switch 2 Pro Controller is functionally very similar to the original one for the original Switch, but it can wake the Switch 2 from sleep and it has a GameChat button, also found on Joy-Cons 2. And it charges in half the time. Nice.
If you plan to play Switch 2 with your friends online, you may want to pick up a Switch 2 camera to go along with your new console. It lets you broadcast your face to your friends online during Team Chat, and it also helps identify players during local play in games like Super Mario Party Jamboree Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV.
Nintendo Switch 2 Cases
Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector - $39.99
If you plan to play your Switch 2 in handheld mode, or to travel with it, you’ll definitely want to protect your hybrid console with a case. Nintendo is releasing two cases.
One is a slim case that comes with a screen protector and is useful for people who want to play the Switch 2 in handheld mode while on the go.
The other is an All-in-One case that’s big enough to store a Switch 2 console, dock, Joy-Con 2 controllers, cables, and up to six Game Cards. It also comes with a screen protector and a cleaning cloth.
An assortment of other official Switch 2 accessories will also be available at launch. The Charging Grip has a built-in battery to give your Joy-Cons 2 extra long life while playing. You can pick up additional straps, AC adaptors, and docks as well. And if you’re planning to get Mario Kart World, whether in a bundle with the Switch 2 or separately, you can get a set of two Joy-Con 2 Wheels for gesture-based steering.
All of the above accessories in the world are useless if you don’t have a Switch 2 console to play them with. See our full Switch 2 preorder guide for info about when it will be available for preorder at the various retailers.
Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Bluesky @chrislreed.com.
Mario Kart World is a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive game that’s set to release alongside the upcoming console’s launch, on June 5. An open-world racing game, Mario Kart World is packed full of characters, vehicles, and regions from the Mushroom Kingdom for you to explore in a free-wheeling manner. You can preorder the game now at various retailers (see it at Walmart). Let’s take a look.
Unlike many video games these days, Mario Kart World is only available in one edition. You can pick it up all by itself for $79.99, or bundled with the Switch 2 console for $499.99.
Switch 2 Super Mario Kart World Bundle
If you buy the Switch 2 bundle that includes Super Mario Kart World, you can save $30 versus buying the console and game separately. Note that the console bundle includes a digital copy, so you won’t get the actual cart or game box if you go that route. If having a physical game is important enough for you that you'll throw in an extra $30, by all means, proceed with your preorder.
Yes, the MSRP Is $79.99
Purchased by itself, the game costs $79.99, which is $10 more than standard price of AAA PlayStation and Xbox games this generation. While I don’t love seeing game prices getting hiked up between generations, I know games are more expensive to make than ever these days. In any case, I'm hopeful it indicates the scale of Mario Kart World makes it worth the extra money.
What Is Mario Kart World?
Mario Kart World promises to be the biggest Mario Kart game yet. It's designed as an all-encompassing open world, much like the Forza Horizon series. In Grand Prix mode, you can even drive from the end of one track to the start of the next after finishing a race.
The tracks in Mario Kart World are altered by things like weather conditions and the time of day, which can affect your visibility and traction as you race around. You can also veer off the actual track at any point and drive “virtually everywhere,” according to Nintendo. Each race has 24 drivers, more than any previous Mario Kart game.
Knockout Tour is a new mode that lets you race from one corner of the open world to the other. Along the way, you'll drive through checkpoints that have placements listed on them; if you’re lagging behind the required placement as you reach a checkpoint, you’ll be eliminated from the race.
If that sounds too hectic to you, you can choose to drive anywhere you want in the world in Free Roam mode. You can team up with friends as you leisurely cruise around, and take photos along the way.
More info about Mario Kart World is coming during an April 17 Nintendo Direct. In the meantime, take a look at our Mario Kart World hands-on preview for more info.
Other Preorder Guides
Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Bluesky @chrislreed.com.
Nintendo Switch 2 preorders officially went live at midnight EST on April 24 (9 pm PST, April 23) at major US retailers including Walmart and Target, alongside all official games and accessories.
Walmart seems to be restocking in waves; it's region-dependent, so YMMV, but worth checking just in case. For now, it's currently sold out everywhere else.
Preorders have come and gone at Walmart, Target, and Best Buy, with GameStop starting their online gambit at 11 am EST / 8 am PST. Still, you can also try your luck with an in-store preorder as well.
Those who registered with Nintendo to preorder (starting from May 8) should still keep an eye on their inbox in the coming days, but the gaming giant has since issued a warning to US customers, stating that "release date delivery is "‘not guaranteed’ due to "very high demand".
Scalper listings have also already appeared on eBay selling the console way above MSRP, at $600 or more, but there's also been a strange immersion of counter-plays, supposedly fighting back against scalpers by making fake Switch 2 listings at retail price.
This is similar case in other regions like the UK, where Switch 2 preorders have also been temporaily wiped out (follow @IGNUKDeals for updates). Let us know in the comments if you've already managed to secure your preorder.
Nintendo Switch 2 Games: Where to Preorder
Nintendo Switch 2 is already building a stacked library, blending shiny new exclusives with upgraded re-releases of fan favorites.
Every Switch 2 game that is available to lock in is listed above, with all the retailer links you’ll need right there as well.
For those who already own the games, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will cost $9.99 to upgrade from the original Switch 1 game to Switch 2.
While Nintendo has also quietly confirmed the cost of upgrading Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Super Mario Party Jamboree to Switch 2, albeit only in Europe for now. It's £16.99 / €19.99, more than twice the cost of upgrading Zelda in the UK (£7.99).
Nintendo Switch 2 Accessories: Where to Preorder
Nintendo hasn’t touched the price of the Switch 2 console itself, but almost every accessory has quietly crept up in cost. In a recent update, the company confirmed that several Switch 2 peripherals will “experience price adjustments from those announced on April 2 due to changes in market conditions.” Translation? Pretty much everything is a little more expensive now.
Expect to pay an extra $5 for the main accessories, including the new Joy-Con 2 controllers, the Switch 2 Pro Controller, and the much-hyped camera add-on. The Dock Set sees the biggest jump, climbing $10 to $119.99.
Still, if you’re planning to pick up the full ecosystem at launch, above is the full list of accessories currently up for preorder—price hike or not, alongside every retailer you can preorder from just below as well.
Where To Preorder Switch 2 Accessories
Switch 2 Amiibos: Where to Preorder
We’ve also got a new batch of Nintendo amiibo ready for Switch 2. Fans of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Street Fighter 6 can preorder a handful of brand new amiibo from those games.
Let’s take a look. The side-scrolling carousel above has all the new amiibo in it, but if any of them are sold out when you click to buy, or you want more details, check out our full guide on everything available.
Which Retailer Should You Preorder the Switch 2 From?
Which should you buy? If you’re picking up a Switch 2 at launch, the Mario Kart World Bundle is hands down the best value. You’re getting Mario Kart World for just $50 more, instead of the full $79.99 MSRP, saving you $30 versus buying the game separately.
To improve your odds, log in ahead of time, ideally before navigating to the Switch 2 listings, and make sure your shipping and payment info is saved to your account, or keep a backup card nearby just in case. Here’s an additional breakdown of what each retailer one is offering for Switch 2 preorders, and what to expect when it comes to launch day delivery and in-store pickup.
TL;DR: Switch 2 Preorder - Retailer Guide
Walmart: Fastest delivery (by 9 am on June 5) if ordered before launch day.
GameStop: Midnight launch pickups at select stores. In-store preorders start with store hours; online starts at 11 am EST, April 24.
Target: Online-only preorders opened at 12 am EST, April 24.
Best Buy: Midnight launch events also planned for June 5. Online preorders started April 24.
Amazon: No listings yet. Nintendo products have been missing lately; it's uncertain whether this will change before launch.
Walmart is currently offering one of the most aggressive delivery promises: consoles ordered right at launch are expected to arrive by 9 am on release day, June 5.
It’s a rare guarantee, and one that’s likely to drive a quick sellout (albeit the retailer might be walking this back, so we'll update you further when we hear any updates). Moreover, it's currently the cheapest offering at $499, rather than $499.99 everywhere else. Small savings, but well worth considering.
GameStop is also leaning into the midnight-release hype, with select locations set to offer in-store pickup as soon as the clock strikes twelve on June 5. In-store preorders are open during regular hours from April 24, while online availability doesn’t kick in until 11 am EST.
Target also flipped the switch at midnight, though it’s sticking to online-only preorders for now. As with most major launches, stock is expected to be tight. But, it does already have every game and accessory up for preorder as well, which is a nice bonus if you're looking to pick up a few extras when preordering. They are also a great place to preorder the new Amiibos.
Best Buy, meanwhile, has confirmed April 24 as its preorder date and has also commited to a 12 am EST start time for preorders.
It's also offering a selection of alternative Switch 2 bundles or "packages" that might be worth checking out if you're struggling to buy the console and accessories individually. Like GameStop, it’s also planning midnight launch events at some stores, though the full rollout plan is still being finalized.
The biggest question mark, however, is Amazon. As of this writing, the retail giant has no official listings for the Switch 2 — not the console, not its accessories, not even the games.
This isn’t an isolated case; over the past year, Nintendo products have quietly disappeared from Amazon’s US storefront, including staples like Switch Online memberships and digital game codes.
Whether this signals a behind-the-scenes distribution snag or a strategic shift is unclear, but for now, it leaves would-be buyers without one of the most convenient ordering options.
Start Time: 12 am EST at major retailers like Walmart
Release Date: June 5, 2025 (still on track)
Price: $449.99 for the standard model, $499.99 for the Mario Kart World Bundle (limited stock)
Accessories: Prices have crept up by about $5 each compared to initial announcements
Nintendo: Can't meet demand, preorders likely to sell out
It’s been a chaotic few weeks for anyone in the US trying to lock down a Nintendo Switch 2. After the Switch 2-focused Nintendo Direct in early April, Nintendo unexpectedly delayed preorders across the US and Canada. Originally set to go live on April 9, the launch was pushed back due to the impact of Trump-era tariffs and what the company called “evolving market conditions.”
The UK got a head start on the US, and preorders went live on April 8 and 9 with some retailers jumping the gun even earlier on April 2. And now? They're wiped out as well. So if you're hesitating in the US, take note: stock won’t hang around forever.
So should you preorder the Switch 2 or wait? Nintendo is already saying it will currently struggle to meet worldwide demand. Stating: "We received an extremely large number of applications [at My Nintendo Store], approximately 2.2 million people in Japan alone."
"However, this number far exceeds our expectations, and far exceeds the number of Nintendo Switch 2 consoles that can be delivered from the My Nintendo Store on June 5th. Therefore, unfortunately, we expect that a significant number of customers will not be selected when the winners are announced tomorrow, April 24th."
What We Said in Our Switch 2 Preview
Here's what Logan Plant had to say in IGN's Nintendo Switch 2 preview: "Switch 2 is a more premium product and the price tag reflects that. It’s also a better version of a great thing, and it’s trying to pull off a bunch of cool new tricks at the same time, like mouse controls.
"Obviously we’re both buying Switch 2 on day one, and I did really love our hands-on time with the console. But I’ll be honest and say I have some concerns about if the general public is willing to adopt a $450 Nintendo console with an $80 Mario Kart."
"It’s a big ask for a company that traditionally targets families and younger players, and I feel like the high cost of entry limits the Switch 2’s potential to take off in the way its predecessor did."
"But for those of you that do decide to take the plunge, you’ll be getting what’s shaping up to be a great hybrid console that makes a ton of worthwhile improvements on the original Switch and adds some fun bells and whistles for good measure."
How to Increase Your Chance of Getting a Switch 2
When a major piece of gaming hardware goes up for preorder at a retailer, there’s no telling how long it will be available. We’ve seen sought-after hardware sell out in seconds. With demand expected to be high, here are some key tips from the IGN commerce team to improve your chances of getting a Switch 2 at launch.
While it may leave it up to chance, and we're recommending folk to buy from major retailers ASAP to avoid disappointment, Nintendo is also still offering a registration system through My Nintendo Store. Invites to purchase will be sent out on a first-come, first-served basis.
Priority will go to Nintendo Switch Online members with at least 12 months of paid membership and 50+ gameplay hours (as of April 2, 2025). Even if you are still planning to buy elsewhere, if you qualify it's worth registering even just as a backup option.
Other Preorder Guides
PSA: Donkey Kong Bananza doesn’t hit shelves until July 17, and big names like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are still missing from preorder listings entirely, on both Switch 2 and the current model, albeit still set for a 2025 release.
And this year is already shaping up to be an incredibly exciting release year for games. Alongside the Switch 2 and its games, there are plenty of other great titles releasing in the coming months that are worth keeping on your radar.
Another Thursday, another unexpected avalanche of discounts worth digging yourself out from under. Whether you're chasing co-op chaos, heartstring-pulling indies, or high-octane epics with triple-A swagger, this week’s cross-platform sales bin is brimming with picks that are equal parts wallet-friendly and critically adored. There’s never been a better time to equip your wallet.
This Day in Gaming 🎂
In retro news, I'm using a rocket start to light a 17-candle cake for Mario Kart Wii. I played the pedals off this pioneering entry, which added motorbikes, a trick-based drifting system, and the worldwide MP of Nintendo Wi-Fi online. Admittedly, my heart belongs to Mario Kart 64 above all, but I still couldn't put my Wii Steering Wheel down for months (another series first addition).
Beloved for its colourful track designs, iconic character roster, and upbeat soundtrack, Mario Kart Wii delivered the perfect blend of whimsy and competition. The revamped Battle Mode arenas rekindled classic head-to-head fun, making every match a chaotic joy. Its accessible pick-up-and-play mechanics ensured newcomers could dive in instantly, yet there was depth in drifting and item-strategy.
Nintendo Switch players can scoop up Spiritfarer for a frankly ludicrous A$6. This moving indie has you ferrying souls to the afterlife, and fun fact: the devs from Thunder Lotus consulted grief counsellors to help shape its tone (so keep the Kleenex handy). Meanwhile, It Takes Two (A$34) remains a co-op masterclass that might just save your relationship with a significant other. Or destroy it. Chigurh-level coin toss!
Over on Xbox Series X, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora Gold Edition is down to A$49, a hefty drop for a visually stunning open-worlder built in The Division's Snowdrop engine. And for a bite-sized bargain, Wolfenstein: The Old Blood (A$15) serves pulpy Nazi-punching with a B-movie edge. MachineGames originally pitched it as DLC, but had too much fun and turned it into a standalone. You'll find out why.
PlayStation 5 owners should note Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin is just A$41. The game went viral for protagonist Jack's single-minded love of punching “Chaos”, an inside joke now fully embraced by Square Enix. Also worth grabbing: Judgment (A$28), a Yakuza spin-off so stylish that it reignited actor Takuya Kimura’s TV career in Japan.
PC folks can’t miss Monster Hunter Rise + Sunbreak for A$19 and a titanic 79% off. The expansion added Silkbind skills, elevating mobility to anime levels. Or you should try Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (A$56), an artsy newcomer with brushstroke visuals and turn-based flair. It wasn't on my radar, initially, but it's flashing like a big ol' blimp now.
It's no secret that Delicious in Dungeon has quickly become one of the most popular manga out there. The series has taken off ever since the anime was released, with a second season currently in the works. Manga as a whole can be an expensive hobby, as standard volumes can cost upwards of $12. Box sets are usually the best way to save money, and you can now save over $80 off the Delicious in Dungeon 14-volume box set. Take home the complete series today and add 14 manga volumes to your shelf at a steep discount during Amazon's massive book sale happening now.
The Best Delicious in Dungeon Manga Deal on Amazon
If you've never read a manga before, Delicious in Dungeon is a great place to start. This series follows Laios, Marcille, Chilchuck, and Senshi on a quest to revive their friend. To survive along the way, the crew must make meals out of monsters in the dungeon, which brings many instances of comedy that are sure to make you laugh.
This Delicious in Dungeon box set includes a unique box that opens up to reveal a mimic, in addition to an exclusive fold-out poster highlighting the different monsters the party eats along the way. Plus, you get every volume of the series! What's not to love?
In our Episode 1-6 review of the Delicious in Dungeon anime series, we wrote, "Delicious in Dungeon’s charming character work, playful comedy, luxuriously presented dishes, and the loving depiction of their creation would be pleasing by itself. But its world-building and earnest reflections on the value of the rituals of cooking – even as it pokes fun at its main character’s absurd mindset – have made it unmissable appointment viewing."
See more deals in Amazon's 2025 book sale
Noah Hunter is a freelance writer and reviewer with a passion for games and technology. He co-founded Final Weapon, an outlet focused on nonsense-free Japanese gaming (in 2019) and has contributed to various publishers writing about the medium.
As part of Amazon's ongoing book sale, J.R.R. Tolkien's The Silmarillion is discounted by 57%, the lowest it's been on Amazon in 2025 so far. Get it while it's hot, because this sale is ending Monday, April 28. This is the illustrated edition, which includes hand-drawn color illustrations by Tolkien himself, detailed maps of Middle-Earth, deeper lore and world-building, and early histories of key characters throughout the epic saga. Christopher Tolkien took on finishing and editing the Silmarillion after his father's passing, offering a deeper look into the storied author's vision for what Middle-Earth would become.
The Silmarillion: Illustrated Edition Is on Sale Now
The Silmarillion breaks down the early history of its fictional universe Eä and the lands contained within, including Valinor, Beleriand, Númenor, and, of course, Middle-Earth. Broken up into five distinct parts, readers can expect deep lore exposition, extensive historical accounts of the First Age, and summaries of the Third Age stories we know and love, the Lord of the Rings.
The Lord of the Rings franchise is no stranger to works in other mediums, like Monolith's game Middle-Earth: Shadow of Mordor, Magic: The Gathering crossover cards, and Prime Video's live-action series Rings of Power. In IGN's review of Rings of Power season 2, we said "[season 2] does a great job portraying Sauron’s machinations and his impact on those he manipulates, but too much time is spent on disconnected subplots delivering only mediocre intrigue and thin characters."
While an iPad is a great investment in itself, typing on a touch screen is a huge pain, especially when you have to type more than a few words at a time. This makes a keyboard the best iPad accessory for anyone who wants to type away on their iPad like they would a laptop.
TL;DR – These Are the Best iPad Keyboards:
In some instances, you can find a keyboard that doubles up as a great iPad case. Because these keyboards are made by hundreds of different manufacturers, we went ahead and gathered our favorites here. Many of our selections work seamlessly with the latest iPad Air and 11th generation iPad models for those looking to accessorize Apple’s newest tablets.
You don't have to look far into Logitech's portfolio of products to find a great keyboard for just about any setup, and that's the case for the iPad as well. Logitech's Pebble Keys 2 K380s, the follow-up to the K380, is the perfect portable companion to your iPad. With this model, you get an upgrade to the battery life, lasting a whopping three years, plus a few additional shortcuts. Its Bluetooth improvements ensure a more reliable connection to your iPad, while a Logitech Bolt receiver support is great for pairing laptops and PCs. Easy-Switch buttons are still included to make swapping between three connected devices a breeze.
The Pebble Keys 2 K380s keeps a similar design to the original, offering a slim, compact, and lightweight build. It features low-profile scissor keys that are fluid and quiet for a typing experience similar to a laptop. They’re also a unique rounded shape, giving the keyboard a distinct aesthetic. Even though the keyboard is compact, it doesn't cramp together the keys too tight or skimp on useful controls.
2. Apple Magic Keyboard
Best Keyboard for iPad Pro
Along with the impressive upgrades we discovered in our review of the iPad Pro M4, Apple’s Magic Keyboard also got a few enhancements, making it our favorite keyboard for Apple’s high-end tablet. By all appearances, this keyboard looks similar to previous models, offering a premium, sleek build with a floating cantilever design to find the perfect viewing angle. However, this time around, the keyboard is a little bit lighter and offers a slightly bigger glass trackpad with haptic feedback and Multi-Touch gesture support.
Connecting your device to the keyboard is simple thanks to a series of ultra-strong magnets. These magnets are in a new spot, so, unfortunately, the Magic Keyboard will only work with the latest models. Although no wires are required for a link to the tablet, a USB-C port for passthrough charging is available to keep the tablet topped off. When the iPad isn’t in use the keyboard wraps around it, acting as a protective case.
Typing on the Magic Keyboard is a pleasant experience with the scissor key switches offering similar feedback to the best Macbooks. The keys are slightly more cramped than the notebook but shouldn’t take long to get used to. Still, Apple managed to squeeze in 14 function keys to adjust brightness, volume, and more. Given all that’s on offer, this keyboard and case combo can turn your iPad into a viable laptop replacement.
3. Omoton Ultra-Slim Bluetooth Keyboard
Best Budget iPad Keyboard
For an affordable and portable option, the Omoton Ultra-Slim Bluetooth Keyboard is a great choice, costing just $20. This compact keyboard weighs 9.9oz, so it won’t weigh you down when you toss it in your backpack alongside your iPad. It’s also wonderfully thin at 0.24 inches, is AAA battery powered, and has Bluetooth pairing. Blending white and metallic silver with responsive low-profile scissor keys on an ergonomic angle, the design even fits nicely with Apple’s aesthetic.
4. Harburfine 7 Color Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard
Best Backlit iPad Keyboard
The majority of the keyboards designed for portability lack a backlight since running those depletes the battery far quicker, so most manufacturers opt out to save on juice. Still, when typing in darker spaces, lighting is often necessary, and the Harburfine 7 Color Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard is a great solution.
Beyond being wildly inexpensive, Harburfine’s keyboard offers bright backlit keys. It’s not just a basic white glow either; it cycles through seven different colors to fit your mood. An auto-sleep mode will turn off the lights due to inactivity, helping save on battery. Power comes from an integrated rechargeable battery, so forget about disposable batteries. However, the battery only lasts about four hours with the backlights illuminated. If they’re off, 15-20 days of juice can be expected depending on usage.
The Harburfine 7 Color Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard is one of the best travel keyboards thanks to its ultra-compact design, weighing less than half a pound and measuring about a quarter inch thick. Just be sure to keep it safely tucked away when not in use since it’s a little flimsy. When it’s time to get typing, the keyboard seamlessly connects to an iPad via Bluetooth. And once connected, the scissor keys are quiet and decently responsive.
5. iClever BK03
Best Folding iPad Keyboard
You don’t see too many unusual keyboards these days, so we welcome the more unique iClever BK03. This device is interesting because it folds up for travel, resembling something like a deck of cards, but then unfurls to 10 by 3.5 by 0.3 inches. Unlike most of the other travel keyboards you’ll find for the iPad, which are made mostly of plastic, this model is made almost entirely of aluminum. That shows in its weight, 6.3 oz, but also in aesthetics, ruggedness, and durability.
Open it up and it powers on automatically, and then the iClever BK03 goes to sleep automatically after 15 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life. It’s equipped with a rechargeable battery that iClever claims runs for over 80 hours of continuous use and can hold a charge while asleep for over 200 days. And while compatibility is limited, it can connect to iOS, Android, and PCs. You can even switch among three paired devices with a keyboard shortcut. It does have an Achilles Heel: The unfolded keyboard doesn’t lock rigidly in place, meaning you can only really use it on a hard surface like a desktop. Most one-piece keyboards work perfectly fine on a mushy bed or in your lap, but not the iClever BK03.
6. Logitech MX Mechanical
Best Desktop iPad Keyboard
When you don’t plan on taking your keyboard on the go, you might as well grab a quality full-size keyboard that works nicely with your PC and laptop, too. The Logitech MX Mechanical is the perfect option with its responsive mechanical switches, a full number pad, arrow keys, and function keys – some with double labels for a Windows or Mac machine. The keys are also low profile and feature smart backlighting, making for a more enjoyable typing experience.
You’ll connect to your iPad using low-power Bluetooth, but this wireless keyboard also features a tiny 2.4GHz wireless dongle for low latency when on your laptop or PC. Three included keys make swapping between using three different saved devices a breeze. As for battery life, the Logitech MX Mechanical juices up using a USB-C. With a full charge, you get 15 days of power when the backlighting is on and 10 months with it off. If you're looking for a more compact keyboard, take a look at the mini version.
7. iClever BK06
Best Ergonomic iPad Keyboard
If you suffer from repetitive stress injury or just prefer the feel of an ergonomic keyboard, you’re generally out of luck when it comes to portable keyboards for the iPad – most keyboards are as straight as a ruler. However, the iClever BK06 is a split keyboard with an angled ergonomic layout. It is more or less a keyboard divided in half. If you’re not already a split keyboard user, it will definitely take some practice to get used to, but once you hone your muscle memory, you might love the more comfortable angle.
It’s not just an ergo keyboard; it also folds for travel, sort of like the BK03, also from iClever. While the BK03 is all aluminum with mechanical hinges, the BK06 is a rubberized affair with a flexible membrane serving as a floppy hinge. It’s only 6.2 x 4.0 x .5 inches when folded. The keyboard also includes a rechargeable battery and can run for about 40 continuous hours or 30 days of standby. And the keyboard is compatible not just with the iPad, but with all iOS devices and Windows computers.
8. Logitech Combo Touch
Best iPad Keyboard Cover
The easiest way to get an iPad to act like a laptop is with a keyboard folio cover, and we’re big fans of the Logitech Combo Touch. It’s similar to Apple’s Magic Keyboard but costs significantly less and works just as well, if not better than Apple’s offering. Pairing is equally simple with Logitech’s keyboard due to the inclusion of Smart Connector. Power is also sourced directly from the iPad ensuring battery life is never an issue. However, the model we’ve chosen only works with the new iPad A16 and 10th generation iPad.
Logitech’s design differentiates from Apple's. The Combo Touch is a far superior case, as the edge of the iPad is fully protected to help keep it extra secure in bags or during the occasional drop. Even with the added peace of mind, it still keeps compact dimensions, adding minimal bulk to the iPad. We’re also big fans of the kickstand for better flexibility using the display, while the keyboard can be easily removed from the rest of the case to use the iPad in handheld mode.
Using the keyboard is an all-around pleasant experience. The keys are well-spaced and extremely responsive but slightly more cramped together than a traditional keyboard. For easier typing in dimmer spaces, the backlit keys even automatically adjust. As for the trackpad, it's precise and supports Multi-Touch gestures.
9. Zagg Pro Keys Wireless Keyboard
Best Detachable iPad Keyboard
Want to split off your iPad from a keyboard at will? This Zagg keyboard and case will do the trick. The keyboard connects to the iPad via Bluetooth, and you can easily detach it from the base when you don’t need it without having to take your iPad out of the case. The keyboard also acts as a screen protector when folded up, making it an ideal option for those who travel.
iPad Keyboard FAQ
Do you need a keyboard for your iPad?
If you don’t foresee yourself doing tons of typing on your iPad – maybe just writing short messages and notes – then you can get by with just the device's touchscreen keyboard. But for those planning to write more than a couple of sentences, your typing experience will greatly improve when pairing a phyiscal keyboard. Keyboards deliver a satisfying response, allow you to type faster, and don’t take up a portion of the valuable screen real estate like the touchscreen keyboard on the iPad. Keyboards can even give you an advantage when playing some of the best iPad games.
Danielle is a Tech freelance writer based in Los Angeles who spends her free time creating videos and geeking out over music history.
If you're looking for a new gaming monitor but you're on a tight budget, then this deal is right up your alley. Amazon is currently offering a 27" KTC gaming monitor for only $103.99 shipped after you clip a $15 off coupon on the product page. This item has over 1,800 reviews on Amazon with an average 4.4/5 star score and a respectable Fakespot "B" rating. It has plenty of gaming features you wouldn't expect at this price point.
27" KTC QHD 100Hz G-Sync IPS Gaming Monitor for $104
The KTC H27T13 is a 27" monitor with a 2560x1440 resolution, which averages out to a sharp 109ppi pixel density. It's equipped with a pre-calibrated IPS panel with good color reproduction and wide viewing angles. It's decently fast with a refresh rate up to 100Hz and G-Sync compatibility. KTC includes a 3 year warranty.
If you're considering this monitor, chances are you're pairing it with a budget gaming PC setup. You probably don't need an expensive monitor with a 4K resolution that will overly tax your PC or 240Hz refresh rate that will be hard to achieve. G-Sync technology, however, is especially useful for these budget builds, since your fps is more likely to fluctuate than higher-end builds and adaptive sync helps provide a smoother and tear-free experience. This is a good monitor to pair with something like an RTX 4060, 4070, 5070, or the new Radeon RX 9070 GPU.
27" Arzopa QHD 180Hz IPS Gaming Monitor for $129.99
If you're looking for a monitor with higher refresh rate, check out this deal reserved for Amazon Prime members. The Arzopa C-M1RC gaming monitor features the same 2560x1440 resolution, but boasts a faster 180Hz refresh rate. It's also G-Sync compatible, so it pairs especially well with budget gaming PCs. The M1RC has three separate connectivity options: HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB Type-C. The USB Type-C port can connect to your laptop or PC for video, but make sure you have a good cable (i.e. Thunderbolt compatible) in order for this to work. Also the USB Type-C port doesn't support power delivery, so you'll still need to connect a power cable into the monitor as well.
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.
Like a member of the Mythic Dawn popping out of a secret room to stab the emperor in the back, a remaster of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion has shown up out of nowhere, and it’s a dagger I’ll gladly throw myself on. As one of my favorite RPGs ever, it’s no surprise that I’ve already put in a full day’s worth of playing: I’ve closed a dozen Oblivion gates as the hero of Kvatch, made Faustian bargains with a bunch of Daedric gods, fought to become champion of the arena in the Imperial City, and am well on my way to completing a few of the faction questlines – and so far I’m quite impressed by the substantial upgrades of this new version. I recently revisited the original Oblivion, so with its shortcomings very clear in my mind, the improved UI, revised voice lines, and especially the graphical overhaul have made this nearly 20-year-old classic massively more playable. That said, I’ve also seen a disappointingly recognizable amount of jank, like weird animations when getting on a horse, broken questlines, and regular framerate hitching. But as someone who is pretty immune to the charms of nostalgia alone, I’m still having a fantastic time returning to this adorably weird open-world adventure.
It probably goes without saying that the graphical upgrade is Oblivion Remastered’s biggest improvement. While things definitely don’t look anywhere near the normal standards of today, putting this version side-by-side with its 2006 doppelganger is eye-raisingly impressive. The entire map is crisp, with a draw distance my teenage-self could have only dreamed of. Lighting, shadows, and character lip syncing in particular have been overhauled so much that it’s actually kind of shocking. That said, other things bizarrely didn’t get the memo, like the faces of NPCs, which are almost universally hideous and cartoonish and have about a 40% chance of being cross-eyed. (Although, honestly, being horrified by character faces might actually be part of the authentic Oblivion experience.) So not every Nord and mudcrab is as beautiful to look at as your typical big budget game in 2025, but it’s still a total glow up. It’s one of those situations where I somehow remember things looking just like this in 2006, even though they very clearly looked much worse, which speaks to how the spirit and style of the original has been maintained.
The addition of sprinting has made for a remarkably less tedious time.
Perhaps the thing that has had the biggest impact on gameplay in Oblivion Remastered is the inclusion of a sprint button. If you haven’t played Oblivion in over a decade, yes, there was no sprinting – wild, I know – and if you never played it, just understand that you’ll never truly know this gift you’ve been granted from Akatosh himself. I don’t even really mind that I’m now losing stamina by sprinting (something that annoys me in RPGs where you’re literally always running around). It’s worth it, even if it does have the odd side effect of making the entire map feel smaller, especially cities and dungeons that can now be fully explored in about half the time. This change has also made me care a whole lot more about investing in skills and magical buffs that increase my stamina, since now I’m using that meter for nearly everything I do. But despite the extra fiddling that causes, moving quickly through areas I already know like the back of my hand makes for a remarkably less tedious time.
There are also a bunch of major changes to the UI, skills, and leveling system, as well as an entirely new feature called Character Origins, which seem to further modify starting stats. The UI has been modernized with today’s design sensibilities, so there are lots of appreciated additions you might not even notice. The compass has moved to the top of your screen and provides way more information; the health, magicka, and stamina meters are now spaced out across the screen instead of being shoved into one corner together; and the menus are much more intuitively placed, so you can toggle between your spells and character stats a lot faster. Some elements still feel pretty old timey – like the quest log popping up right in the middle of the screen anytime you’ve reached a new milestone in one, awkwardly interrupting whatever you were doing – but most of these annoyances haven’t bothered me much just yet. I also just need to spend more time with the altered leveling system and skills to understand if those changes were for better or worse.
It’s a bummer that two decades wasn’t long enough to fix the jank.
Although developer Virtuous Games headed up this remaster, this is still a Bethesda game through and through, and with that comes a lot of bugs. I've already seen odd stuff, like one time when an Oblivion gate disappeared before my eyes, or how an NPC walked away and wouldn’t let me talk to them even when my quest objective told me I had to (though I was still able to advance the questline despite the log not updating, otherwise I’d be madder about that). Then there’s just plain and simple performance issues I’ve seen while playing on Xbox Series X, like how I lose frames for a second or two anytime the autosave triggers or if I’m battling too many dirty, rat-faced scamps in Kvatch. So far most of this has been the usual cheeky blunders that generally don’t ruin my time, but it’s definitely a bummer to see that two decades wasn’t long enough to fix this janky fantasy world.
That’s all I’ve got for now, but am hoping to have a full review before too long. First I want to wrap up the main quest line, pay a visit to the Shivering Isles, and maybe go on a rampage across Cyrodil just to hear the Imperial guards give me their arrest monologue a few hundred more times. Okay. That’s it. Gonna go catch vampirism or something now. Goodbye.
Amazon is hands down one of the overall best places to buy books online. Although the site has now expanded to selling every other type of product under the sun, the mega-retailer got its start as an online book store and it definitely shows whenever there's a sale. The big Amazon Book sale has just begun and it's already the largest collection of discounts on novels, comics, and box sets we've seen in 2025.
I've highlighted some of the best discounts from the sale below, but if you're hoping to check out the sale yourself, you can dive right into the main landing page right here. With prices as low as $6 for popular titles, now is a great time to buy some books for your personal collection.
The Amazon Book Sale Is Live Now - Here Are the Best Deals
The Amazon book sale is fairly robust and it can sometimes be hard to find what you're looking for within it. I've featured the best deals I've found so far, which leans pretty heavily toward my own reading interests, but the sale expands to all other genres. If you are looking for something very specific, the best way to go about searching for it is to first go to Amazon's main deals landing page and then use the search bar to narrow it down. This will automatically populate your search with only things on sale rather than filtering by category.
Of the things that I have found in this sale, the discounts on Lord of the Rings books seem like the most obvious callout. There is a cool box set that is currently at its lowest price for 2025 and the incredible illustrated Silmarillion has also dropped to its lowest ever price. Outside of this, there's a deal on the new Kindle Colorsoft that drops the price to the lowest it's ever been. This model is a great option if you're hoping to use an ereader for comics specifically. And if you are looking for deals on comics and graphic novels, there's currently a sale on Marvel comics that is worth browsing. We've already found a really great discount on The Death of Wolverine Omnibus that's worth checking out there.
Outside of books, comics, and manga, I also found a pretty cool Harry Potter gift at its lowest price. The collectible Quidditch set features a small trunk filled with a Quaffle, two Bludgers, and a removable Golden Snitch. Unfortunately, no Harry Potter books are included in this sale.
When Does This Sale End?
According to Amazon, the book sale is set to end on Monday, April 28. Based on that information, you should have plenty of time to shop the discounts over the upcoming weekend.
Amazon is offering a great discount on one of the best budget headphones you can find. For just $49, the JLab JBuds Lux Over-Ear Headphones offers features you'd find in headphones that can cost 5x-10x as much, like wireless connectivity with Bluetooth Multipoint, active noise cancellation, spatial audio technology, and more. Most importantly, sound quality is better than any other headphone in its price range.
JLab JBuds Lux Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones for $50
SoundGuys recently reviewed the JLab JBuds Lux and gave these headphones an absolutely glowing review, mentioning that they were one of the best headphones under $100. SoundGuys considered them an extremely good value at their retail price of $79. At the current price of $49.99, it's hard to find a better bang for your buck, and it's especially nice that all four color options have been discounted.
The JLab JBuds Lux's laundry list of premium features include large 40mm drivers, Dolby Atmos compatible Spatial Audio, support for PlayStation Tempest 3D AudioTech and Windows Sonic, hybrid active noise cancellation, a "Be Aware" mode that lets you listen in on your environment, built-in microphone for hands-free calling, up to 70 hours of battery life on a single charge (40 hours with ANC enabled), USB Type-C charging, and Bluetooth Multipoint.
These headphones even look the part. The JLab JBuds Lux are thoughtfully designed for both comfort and performance, with cushy earcups that conform to your ear while also providing an effective seal for passive isolation, a padded headband for prolonged comfort, and a foldable design that makes them easy to tote around.
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.
When it comes to fantastical book series that shaped our childhoods, Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians is one of the best. With the first season two of the Percy Jackson Disney+ series arriving later this year, we're here to lay out what makes the books so special and the order you need to read the books in to make the most of the series.
Imagine a world where modern Greek gods have children with the powers of demigods. That's the fantastical concept at the center of the Percy Jackson and The Olympians book series. Created by Rick Riordan, the stories begins following the titular son of Poseidon as he traverses the secret world of mythical gods, goddesses, and their superpowered offspring. Over the original series and two sequel series The Heroes of Olympus and The Trials of Apollo, the world has expanded massively bringing new characters and new generations of fans to the Greek-myth inspired universe that has been enchanting readers since 2005.
How Many Books are in the Series?
There are a total of 18 books in the Percy Jackson universe, which are spread across three different series. The original Percy Jackson and the Olympian series features 7 books as of 2025 with the release of Wrath of the Triple Goddess just last year.
Percy Jackson Book Sets
If you're looking to add a collection of books to your shelves at home, there are a few box sets available. Below are links to both the paperback and hardcover versions for each series:
Percy Jackson and the Olympians Books in Order
1. The Lightning Thief
In the original novel that sparked off the series, Percy Jackson, discovers that his normal life is not what it seems. Rather than being a normal 12 year old trying to get through school with ADHD and Dyslexia, he's actually a demigod! His life is turned upside down when he's accused of stealing Zeus' lightning bolt. It's not just that he's accused of being a thief though, as he also learns that he's the son of none other than the god Poseidon. Soon he's swept away to a summer camp for demigods known as Camp Half-Blood where he must solve the mystery of Zeus' stolen master bolt and find his way as the son of a god that he's never known.
2. The Sea of Monsters
After discovering Camp Half-Blood and his new life in the first book, in The Sea of Monsters Percy and his friends have to come together to save the place they first met. When the magic that protects the camp begins to fail the crew must head to the titular ocean in order to find a powerful artifact. But they don't have much time and in case you didn't realize the Sea of Monsters is filled with just that. Many, many dangerous creatures fill the pages of this epic adventure, as Percy navigates rough seas and family secrets as he tries to save the day.
3. The Titan’s Curse
As the title hints, this story pushes the Greek mythology of Percy Jackson into the realm of the legendary Titans. When Percy is enlisted to help his old friend Grover he knows something dangerous must have happened, but not even he can guess what's coming. New demigods are on the horizon and with them comes the threat of one of the oldest beings in the world Kronos who hasn't forgiven the teens for besting him. That's not all though as there's also the matter of a massively powerful ancient monster, and the titular curse to keep them busy.
4. The Battle of the Labyrinth
Though he's starting freshman year, things are far from normal for Percy Jackson. With the war between the Titans and the Gods threatening to spill over into every part of life he can barely catch a break, so when demon cheerleaders show up at school he can't believe his bad luck. Reimagining the classic Greek Myth of Daedalus and the Minataur, Percy and his Camp Half-Blood buds have to venture deep into the depths of the Earth to defeat the challenges of an intricate maze in order to stop the destruction of all that they hold dear.
5. The Last Olympian
It's a race to save the legendary Mount Olympus as Percy and his friends must come together in order to defeat the Titans. Luckily they've been training all year for just this but as Kronos starts his attack on New York, can the young demigods actually stand against him? This is the epic finale to the battle that began long ago in The Lightning Thief and throws the mythical world of Camp Half-Blood onto the streets of Manhattan for a world-changing fight of the ages.
The Heroes of Olympus Books in Order
1. The Lost Hero
Introducing a new roster of young characters to root for, this book centers on a demigod named Jason who loses his memory on a school trip and ends up becoming entangled in the world of the Olympians. After revealing his powers and being taken to Camp Half-Blood, Jason and his friends must help find the now missing Percy Jackson. But as they undertake their quest they discover some shocking truths about Camp Half-Blood and come up against its rival Camp Jupiter. This super fun expansion of the Percy Jackson universe melds Greek and Roman mythology to set up a whole new series of Olympian adventures!
2. The Son of Neptune
Fans were desperate to know what happened to Percy and in the second Heroes of Olympus book they got an insight into his new status quo. Just like Jason, Percy has lost his memory and in a shocking twist finds himself on the run in California with nowhere to turn. Helped by Roman deities and new friends, Percy manages to reach Camp Jupiter discovering that Camp Half-Blood isn't the only demigod training ground in America. As always Percy ends up wrapped up in a mythological battle with huge stakes but this time he's surrounded by Roman gods!
3. The Mark of Athena
What should have been a celebratory reunion for Annabeth and Percy is overshadowed by the threat of war as Camp Jupiter prepares to face down a foe of mythological proportions. The young Demigod takes center stage in this epic seafaring adventure that sees our young heroes travel to Rome in order to connect with the Demigods there, all the while Annabeth tries to work out her place in the story as the daughter of Athena and hero of Olympus.
4. The House of Hades
It's a quest to escape the underworld when Annabeth and Percy find themselves there after the events of Mark of Athena. In their journey to find the Doors of Death, the duo and their friends who are still in the mortal world will have to work together in order to survive. As if Hades wasn't enough to contend with someone trying to raise the Greek iteration of Mother Earth, Gaea, which the kids also have to stop. Who said it would be easy being a Demigod?
5. The Blood of Olympus
In the final novel from The Heroes of Olympus series, Percy and Annabeth have to battle the horror of Gaea along with their crew in order to stop the deities' horrific plan. As the title suggests she needs the blood of Demigods to truly rise but luckily the Demigods have each other, though they'll have to solve the brewing tension between Camps' Half-Blood and Jupiter before they can really come together and solve their Titan sized problem.
The Trials of Apollo Books in Order
1. The Hidden Oracle
In the second spin-off of the Percy Jackson and the Olypians series, Zeus is back to his old terrible father shenanigans as he transforms his son — the god Apollo — into a teenager and banishes him to New York City. Once on Earth he has to enlist the help of a Demigod named Meg and of course the heroic Percy Jackson to save the day and earn the forgiveness of his father. This means he'll have to wrangle control of the Five Oracles which will take the crew on another mythologically charged adventure through Riordan's fantastical world.
2. The Dark Prophecy
Continuing the story of Apollo and his quest to find the Oracles in order to take his place as a god once again. Alongside his Demigod buddies, Apollo must venture across America in order to free the next Oracle, all the while battling against mythical creatures and the mysterious Triumvirate Holdings, along with one of its leaders Commodus. Expanding the new lore introduced in The Trials of Apollo this is a gripping continuation of the Percy Jackson series.
3. The Burning Maze
Apollo's battle against the evil emperors of Triumvirate Holdings takes center stage here as he comes up against multiple mythological creatures and famed historical figures. You'll catch appearances from Caligula, Madea, Strix, and even Caligula's favorite horse Incitatus. This is another epic adventure that pits Apollo against fearsome foes and tragic losses as he unravels the Triumvirate's shocking plans and tries to regain his immortality while keeping his friends safe. And trust us when we say that's not an easy set of responsibilities to juggle.
4. The Tyrant’s Tomb
The penultimate book in the Trials of Apollo series takes Apollo and friends to the edge as they find themselves up against the brutal Caligula and his followers. In order to help protect Camp Jupiter from the onslaught of Triumvirate Holdings, Apollo and his crew must venture into the ancient tomb of a terrifying tyrant that will put them in more danger than ever before. It'll also lead to the final trial of Apollo, which will define and seal his fate forever.
5. The Tower of Nero
In the final Trials of Apollo book the stage is set for an epic battle back in New York City. It's all been leading to this as the young god and his demigod buds have come up against their biggest foe yet. It's an epic finale with massive stakes as mythical families are reunited, friendships are tested, and Apollo finally learns whether or not he's done enough to return to his place on Mount Olympus. But if you're desperate for more stories in this universe, don't despair as there's one more standalone novel that ties into the world of Percy Jackson.
6. The Sun and the Star
Bringing two fan favorite characters to the forefront of their own story, The Sun and the Star centers on Nico di Angelo and Will Solace who were introduced in earlier Percy Jackson novels. Nico is the son of Hades which means that life is far from easy for him, and as the son of Apollo, Will has had his fair share of adventures too. But when Nico starts hearing a voice calling him to the depths of the underworld the pair are tested like never before, in this story that will sate the appetites of Percy Jackson fans everywhere, especially those who miss Camp Half-Blood.
What's Next for the Percy Jackson Series?
Following the recent release of Wrath of the Triple Goddess, Rick Riordan will be adding a final book to this trilogy. He stated this clearly in a November 2024 update where he confirmed he "will be writing the third and final ‘Senior Year Adventure’ about Percy Jackson’s quest to get into college". We don't yet know the name of the upcoming book, but we know it will somehow involve Percy acquiring his final recommendation letter. Once that book wraps up, the future of the Percy Jackson books is unclear.
As for the TV show, Disney has confirmed that season 2 of Percy Jackson and the Olympians will arrive in December 2025. This is a full two years after the release of the first season, which IGN's review described as "adding a hint of modernity" to the world of gods and monsters.
Rosie Knight is a contributing freelancer for IGN covering everything from anime to comic books to kaiju to kids movies to horror flicks. She has over half a decade of experience in entertainment journalism with bylines at Nerdist, Den of Geek, Polygon, and more. Rosie is a published comics author who has written titles including Godzilla Rivals vs. Battra and The Haunted High-Tops. She co-hosts the weekly Crooked Media pop-culture podcast X-Ray Vision. When she's not writing, you can find her playing Dragon Ball FighterZ or rewatching weird old horror and martial movies in her free time. She loves making comics and zines as well as collecting VHS and reading much manga as humanly possible. You can find her on social at @rosiemarx.
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is now playing at the Marquis Theatre in New York City and The Phoenix Theatre in London.
Is mega-budget stage prequel Stranger Things: The First Shadowa necessary addition to the hit Netflix show’s lore? Definitely not. But is this breathtaking theatrical spectacle a hell of a lot of fun? Absolutely so.
Chiefly an origin story for Henry Creel, a.k.a. the fourth-season big-bad Vecna, The First Shadow is set up to expand on the bizarre goings-on in Hawkins, Indiana and satisfy fans with some familiar characters, all without messing with anything of significance to the series’ continuity. There’s enticement for diehards in the form of younger versions of Joyce Byers (né Moldanado), Jim Hopper, the sadistic Dr. Brenner and, of course, Bob Newby. (If you don’t remember who that is, don’t worry – it scarcely matters.) And since Vecna will return for the show’s much-delayed fifth and final season, First Shadowmakes sense as a bridge between seasons. But it’s not like you’ll be completely at sea if you can’t make it to the play before the last batch of episodes drops on Netflix.
What you’ll see, however, is hugely enjoyable – packed with astonishing stage images, impressive jump scares, and genuinely exciting feats of theatricality. And if the script sometimes gets bogged down in fan service, it does find a surprising emotional potency in its main character’s doomed effort to save himself.
The setting is 1959, and a teenage Henry (Louis McCartney) is seeking a fresh start, following a violent incident at his last school. At Hawkins High, he finds romance with the kindly Patty Newby (Gabrielle Nevaeh) when the two are cast as leads in the student play. But at night, a dark power takes hold of Henry’s body, using his powers of telepathy and telekinesis to horrible ends – brought to life by a seemingly bottomless bag of theatrical tricks.
Ably guided by seasoned director Stephen Daldry and co-director Justin Martin, The First Shadow’s makeup, effects, and scenic teams conjure wonder after wonder on stage, a healthy mix of huge set pieces and old-fashioned stage magic. The opener, in which a battleship is beached by attacking Demogorgons, is jaw-dropping. Creel’s telepathic jaunts across Hawkins use doubles, stage tricks, and puppetry to haunting effect. And when the Mind Flayer makes her appearance, the big girl does not disappoint.
The First Shadowalso holds onto Stranger Things’ oddly pleasing clash of teenage hijinks and bloodthirsty violence. Since Daldry ensures the play is always moving at a steady clip, harsh jumps from fratricide to theater-club drama can certainly feel jarring. But the tonal whiplash is, for all its grossness, in keeping with Stranger Thingsas we know it.
The anchor amidst all the madness is McCartney, a virtuosic breakout talent.
A little more about that play-within-the-play, since it takes up about as much storytelling real estate here as Henry himself (barely an exaggeration): The kids are pretending to put on Oklahoma!But secretly, their student director, an impassioned Joyce (Alison Jaye), has a different vision. She conceives a “revolutionary” production of Dark of the Moon, an obscure 1945 play (not to be confused with the Transformers sequel) centering on a witch-boy who falls for a young girl and seeks to become human. The parallels with Creel’s story are, fortunately, not excessively underlined.
Jaye pulls off an artful Winona Ryder impression, echoing Ryder’s strange mannerisms without overdoing it. Joyce is always fending off the interest of a young Jim Hopper, also nicely captured by Burke Swanson, who finds an overcompensating machismo that is, again, of a piece with David Harbour’s beloved take on Hopper. But ultimately, outside of the fan-pleasing need to feature some familiar faces, there is no reason for either of them to be in The First Shadow. Joyce and Jim’s storyline technically has connections to Henry’s, but it always feels like it’s happening in its own play. The inclusion of Bob Newby (played in the show’s third season by Sean Astin) is even more needless, and Juan Carlos’ breathlessly frenzied take proves grating.
Though its 2-hour-and-45-minute running time flies by, First Shadowloses focus a bit in a jumbled second act. Henry’s outsider bond with Patty is genuinely touching, but their central relationship gets lost amidst much gruesome business with Dr. Brenner. Alex Breaux does well as the future father figure/tormentor of Henry’s fellow telekinetic Eleven, and it’s fun to watch him and McCartney have a freak-off. But after about a scene and a half with Brenner, we basically get the gist: He’s evil!
The anchor amidst all the madness is McCartney, a virtuosic breakout talent who brings a sweetly yet demonic flair to young Henry. The battle raging inside Henry always feels palpable, even as he makes valiant attempts at a normal life. It’s the anti-Eleven story, and McCartney holds the whole thing together.
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