My Switch is Too Hot to Handel. No, Really, I'm Serious

The Nintendo Switch. Lovely system. Both a console and a handheld. A fantastic library of games. In the 3 plus years I've owned it, the Switch has become one of my favorite gaming systems of all-time. I've spent more hours playing it than anything else. Recently, I've been forced to cut back on my Switch play time because the little machine has been getting too hot. Like, really, really hot.

For those of you that have been fortunate enough not to have your Switch overheat, when it does happen, you're gameplay is interrupted and you're treated to this screen.

Image by NintendoSoup.

I couldn't find one in English and I don't think I'm fast enough to snap the picture on my Switch.

Some games are more demanding on the Switch than others but a game like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity are some of the more demanding games and have my Switch enter sleep mode, ruining my fun. 

I did some research and found out that more than likely, a broken fan is the cause for my Switch overheating. A small external fan can help with the cooling but all it does is delay the inevitable. So I had to make some unexpected purchases, which include a replacement fan, thermal compound paste and some screwdrivers. I got the thermal compound and screwdrivers but the replacement fan won't arrive until either early or late January. SMH. 

As you can imagine, a gimped Switch is quite the buzzkill. Limiting my Switch play time suuuuuuuucks. I mean, Sepiroth is out, I can't do as much as I want to in Animal Crossing and I really miss playing Age of Calamity. You really have no idea how fortunate you are to be able to play your Switch without these problems and until recently, I didn't realize how good I had it. 

It isn't all stormy weather. This whole situation did get me to fire up my 3DS. I've been wanting to run through Donkey Kong '94 again and I never did finish Poochy and Yoshi's Woolly World, which I decided to just start a new file on. I've also got my PS4 and bought the HD Strider that came out in 2014. It was on sale for $2.99 and its really dang good. I also bought Ginga Force as a Christmas gift and I picked up Arcade Archives GRADIUS III, both for PS4. 

So while some of the sting is take out of my overheating Switch situation, I'm still counting the days until I can get her fixed. 

VGM Saturdays #289: Does it Really Feel Like Christmas?

With 2020 being the year it has been, a lot of annual holidays have felt strange. I've wrapped a ton of presents, heard the songs and it still does not feel like Christmas. Even so, I'm still excited to see my family open their gifts and I do hope it feels like Christmas for you. We have some reappearing songs for this week's VGM Saturdays. Christmas-like music has become a reoccurring theme over the years of this feature and I don't intend to break that tradition. 

Stage 3-1 - Super Turrican (SNES)

The first Turrican game I ever played. Naturally the first thing I noticed was the soundtrack. Perhaps it was due to Super Turrican being my first game but this soundtrack is also really dang good! It is full of themes that scream adventure, action and urgency. The bells give this one an especially Christmasy feel.

Diamond Dust Act 1 - Sonic 3D Blast (SS)

The superior version of Sonic 3D Blast music. IMO of course. This is pure winter, Christmas music at it's finest. 

Freeze Man Stage - Mega Man 7 (SNES)

This one leans more towards winter than Christmas but I LOVE this track and I will jump at any chance to plug it. Despite the game's faults, Mega Man 7 remains  huge favorite of mine. The game is filled with secrets and in many cases, you have to use the special weapons from defeated Robot Masters to find them.

Cozy Cabin - Kirby's Epic Yarn (Wii)

This game is so freaking adorable. If you're looking for a chill game with a highly unique visual style that still holds up, Kirby's Epic Yarn is a wonderful jam.

White Ice (White Glacier) - Bomberman 64 (N64)

This little banger almost didn't make it into this week's VGM Saturday. I'm pretty sure I've posted this one before but those bells give it some added Christmas flavor and I'm going for more seasons greetings than anything else, so here we are.

Frozen Factory Zone 1 - Sonic Lost World (Wii U)

If not for Ice Cap Zone Act 1, this might be my favorite ice themed Sonic tune. I wouldn't end up playing Sonic Lost World until years after it released but I heard this song long before I played it. It was close to Christmas time, so for me, this song is one that I heavily associate with the holiday.

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Mario (Almost) Dies and Sepiroth is in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Did you watch the Game Awards? Me neither. The only reason I had the slightest interest in tuning in was due to the fact that Nintendo promised the reveal of the next Fighter Pass vol. 2 character for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. I didn't have any ideas on who the character could be but when I found out it was Sepiroth, I erupted with laughter. I did not in a million years see it coming, as did a plethora of other games. And this, folks, is why I'm glad Sepiroth's reveal was not leaked. These kinds of things are just all around better when they don't get spoiled by idiots wanting their 15 minutes of fame.

I really like FFVII. It is one of my favorite games. I just replayed it on my Switch this year. And yet, I'm not a huge fan of Sepiroth. I think his design is cool but if you were to ask me my favorite FF baddie, I would pick Kefka over him any day. And yet, I can't hate on Sepiroth being included as a DLC fighter for Ultimate. Heck, I never thought we would get anymore FF reps, yet alone another from the same game. And yet, the pretty boy swords man is gonna be joining Ultimate's already huge roster and I am 100% cool with that.

We're going to get a Mr. Sakurai Presents Sepiroth on December 17th that will give us a deep dive into what Cloud's nemesis is all about in battle, but the trailer showed off a few things we can gauge on our own. For starters, Sepiroth's sword range is, understandably, loooooong. Like, why would you even bother trying to get close to your opponent when you can slice and them from that range? Most likely, Sepiroth will probably be a heavy. Some of his sword strikes look like they have some lag on them so faster characters may have an edge on him. Like any good heavy, Sepiroth will probably hit like a tank if he connects. If Ganondorf can kill with a few strong attacks, just image what Sepiroth is capable of.

Can we talk about that reveal trailer? I love it wasn't obvious for many until the music kicked in. The trailer could have shown Cloud right off the bat, giving who our new fighter would be away, but instead, Sakurai and company chose to wait until after that familiar track started playing to clue you in. Annnnnd then we see Sepiroth trounce the current roster of fighters. Be it with in-game footage or the gorgeous CG cut scenes, Sepiroth mops the floor with everyone that you can't even call it a fight. And what about that scene where Sepiroth straight up tries to murder Mario? I mean, sure he missed but Sephy really did try to kill Mr. Video Game! People were legit worried that Mario got stabbed, myself included. That trailer was one of the hypest things I've seen and did an excellent job of showing off how deadly Sepiroth can be.

Now, let's talk about the music tracks, or really, the lack thereof. We have seen Cloud, one of the most recognizable video game characters get crumbs for song picks in two Super Smash Bros games now. I don't know all of the specifics, but the FINAL FANTASY series has been heavily gutted when it comes to representation in songs and in the case of Ultimate, Spirits, in the case of the later, there are none to speak of. That may change once Sepiroth drops but I'm not holding my breath. We'll probably get JENOVA, the original track from FINAL FANTASY VII, or JENOVA Absolute, since that song is played in the Northern Crater and that is where you fight the final form of Jenova. One Wing Angel is gonna be included because it is Sepiroth's most iconic tracks. It could very well be the original version from FFVII and not the killer remix we heard in the reveal trailer. After the way Cloud has been done dirty two games now, I don't see Square Enix suddenly becoming generous, but I would love to be wrong here.

VGM Saturdays #288: Music to Warm You Up

I'm coming up on my second winter since returning home and it feels colder than the last one. One thing about living in Virginia is that fall wasn't as cold. I suppose I'm still getting used to the fall and winters back in my home state. With that in mind, this Saturday's music is a bit nostalgic and heat-based. 

Lankus - Darius Twin (SNES)

Not included as part of the mainline Darius games, Darius Twin is one of the two SNES Darius titles to come to the system, the other being Super Nova. Despite Darius Twin not being a stand out title, I have a soft spot for it since it was my introduction to the series. I can easily recall much of this game's soundtrack and while most might say it doesn't hold a candle to the mainline Darius games, I can jam to this stuff.

Fire Field - F-ZERO GP Legend (GBA)

This 2004 released would be the last time an F-ZERO game was released outside of Japan, making it 16 years since players outside the Land of the Rising Sun saw an F-ZERO game. I don't mean to harp on about the series absence but Nintendo really does not need some new, revolutionary way for us to play F-ZERO. At this point, we would take an HD remaster of GX and be happy.

Round 3-2: Under Magma ~Planet Scorch~ - Ristar (GEN)

If you missed out on Ristar when it originally released, have no fear. Thanks to SEGA's love for pumping out the same old retro games over and over, Ristar is easy to find on current platforms and PC. It is a solid platformer that really pushed the limits of what the Genesis was capable.

Heat Man Stage - Mega Man 2 (NES)

The game that put the Blue Bomber on the map, Mega Man 2, while not without fault, is a NES classic. This isn't my favorite version of Heat Man's theme, but over the years, I've warmed up to it. *Ahem* An arranged version of it is a part of Quick Man's theme in among the selection of songs in Super Smash Bros. Wii U, which also returned in Ultimate.

Tifa's Theme - FINAL FANTASY VII (PS)

I've had FFVII on the brain as of late with the remake, playing through the original months ago and watching some analysis videos on YouTube. When you got FFVII on your mind, you got FFVII music. As much as I love Tifa, I don't think I've ever posted her theme in all the years I've been doing this weekly feature.

Flame Gate ~Flame Stage Medley~ - ROCKMAN Dystopia

ROCKMAN Dystopia is the sister album to ROCKMAN Utopia. While Utopia focuses on the Classic series and featured lighthearted, upbeat arrangements, Dystopia is centered on the X series and houses more edgier music. I know the term "edgy" carries negative connotations these days, mostly due to overuse of YouTubers and bloggers but trust, ROCKMAN Dystopia is good egdy. My favorite part of this medley is 3:20 mark where Blaze Heatnix's theme kicks in. 

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Do NOT Buy From Scalpers

Scalpers. They buy stuff up in mass quantities and resell it at much, much higher prices. Scalpers, in two words, they suck. In a few more words, like most politicians, they are garbage human beings. While it may be perfectly legal to scalp, it creates artificial scarcity and makes it far more difficult for people that want the product for themselves or for someone else, to get their hands on. 

The latest hard to find items due to scalpers is the PlayStaion 5 and Xbox Series X. As if to rub salt into the wound, photos of a myriad of PS5s have been going around online, such as the one above. The scalper resale prices for these things has gone for more the twice the asking price of either version of each respective system. What should be something you should be able to buy at the MSRP is being sold for $2000 or more depending on the region you live in. And there are people out there that are so desperate to get these systems that will pay that much when they shouldn't have to.

I'm sure you've heard the horror stories of people that have tried and failed to get their hands on a PS5 or XBSX through online retailers. They keep refreshing, waiting for the item to become available only to have it sold out in seconds. Or the site crashes. Or the item is in their cart and the then it disappears. No matter how fast you move, you cannot compete with the bot armada that scalpers use and online retailers are not properly set up to counter this. So what we're left with is a plethora of would be new console owners, frustrated that they can't get a PS5/XBSX. Oh, but the scalpers have them suckers in mass quantities. All you have to do is fork over several rent payments to get them. One UK based scalper ground that is highly organized managed to score 3500 PS5s and has, unsurprisingly, faced a lot of backlash.

You've probably heard this simple message a dozen times before, but it needs to be repeated, as many times as it takes to sink in: DON'T. BUY. FROM. SCALPERS. Stop playing their game where you shell out to them out of desperation because little Kara wants that PS5 for Christmas. Be patient. Wait for more to become available and buy these systems at the MSRP. Scalpers are only able to keep getting away with this crap because people keep them in business. If you aren't able to secure a PS5 or XBSX in time for Christmas, there are a wealth of other gaming options available to you that don't require to you break the bank. 

VGM Saturdays #287: Thanksgiving Was Not Cancelled

Saying that 2020 has been a rough year would be a huge understatement. A lot of usual events have had to be cancelled. Thankfully, one of my favorite holidays, Thanksgiving, was not one of them. Though it is been recommended that people don't gather in large groups as well as taking other precautions. I hope you're eating good and enjoying this four day weekend. Wash your hands, wear a mask and enjoy this week's selections.

The Champion Urbosa - Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity (NSW)

The demo for Age of Calamity left me with some very good impressions of the music. Now that I've been playing the full game and have heard more, I am LOVING IT. I own the soundtrack to Breath of the Wild and if a soundtrack is released for this game, I will buy that sucker with the quickness. 

Platform Action - Turrican 3 (AMG)

I have no idea what the abbreviation for the Amiga is, so I decided to go with AMG. Get ready to hear more video game music from the Turrican series because I finally listened to the music from the first three AMG Turrican games and yeah, Chris Huelsbeck has the midas touch. 

Guile Stage [New Remix] - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (NSW)

I was really hoping we would get a remix for Chun's theme, but we did get the CPS-I and CPS-II versions of the original Street Fighter II jams, which is pretty aces. And we got this CPS-I inspired arrangement of a theme that goes with everything. And if Guile pops out of an Assist Trophy and you didn't summon him, please refrain from jumping.

Volcanic - Mischief Makers (N64)

"Shake, shake!" You smiled reading that didn't you? Wait, you didn't? You must be one of those uncultured swine that has never played Mischief Makers. Well, I don't blame you. This N64 Treasure title did get overlooked upon initial release and it has not seen a re-release in over 20 years. This is far from being the only bop in the soundtrack so if some more music from this game happens to pop up in your recommended section, don't hesitate to click.

Mathemabeat - Rage Racer (PS)

That first twenty seconds of this track may take some time to get used to. But once the 25 second mark hits, you'll be bouncing around like you're a club. 

Factory Action - Turrican Soundtrack Anthology, Vol. 3

I'm not anywhere near as well versed as other fans of Turrican but this track, is AWESOME. It was one the very first tracks from this series that I ever heard and I have loved it ever sense. It is full of action, adventure and is very upbeat, the later of which we could use so much more of these days. 

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Let's Discuss: Animal Crossing: New Horizons: More Hair Syles & Sitting

Image by MayorMori

Normally I catch the videos that Nintendo uploads on YouTube detailing the latest updates for Animal Crossing: New Horizons. I didn't catch this one before the update went live so I did not know the full scope of what the new update would bring. Holy moly, this one is a doozy.

The latest addition to New Horizons is a slew of new reactions. We don't have to get them from villagers. Just go to the ADB machine at resident services and use your Nook Miles to get your new reactions. These new expressions are sure to be very big fan favorites. One allows us to do something players have been craving for months: the ability to sit. No, I don't mean on a sofa or a stool. The sit reaction lets you plop your cheeks down on the ground, much like your villagers do. So if you have ever wanted to sit with your villagers while they relax by the river or under a tree, we can now do so.

There are other reactions like waving goodbye so you don't have to use the greeting reaction for leaving now, though I'm sure some still will. Another one I am ever so grateful for being added is the selfie reaction. My favorite thing about CJ (other than him paying extra for my fish) was when he takes out his Nookphone and goes nuts. Now we can do that. Even better, our character's end it by holding a goofy smile. 

There are a plethora of extra slots for new reactions. Personally, I'm jazzed for the reaction that let's us sing. New Horizons went from 9 to 9.5 with this new update but when we can finally sing along to K.K. Metal with our villagers? 11/10, man.

As much as I am digging the slew of new reactions, the six new hairstyles are so, so, soooooo good. I'm a guy that shaves his head IRL so I don't think I need to fully get into how awesome it is to at last be bald in Animal Crossing. But, that afro? 

I never knew how much I wanted an afro in this game. I never knew how much I needed one. I mean, we've had afro's in Splatoon 2 for a long while. And yes, it does get affected by the hats you wear. Sometimes I lock to rock a hibiscus or some other accessory just to give the fro more glow. I've actually been rocking the afro hair for more than a week now. Would I do an afro IRL? Nope. I don't have the patience to keep it looking good. Which makes me appreciate how effortless it is to change hair styles in this game even more. If more hairstyles are to come in future updates, I'm all for it. That and an air guitar reaction. Then the game will be 13/10.

About #FreeMelee...

You've probably heard or seen the #FreeMelee hashtag making the rounds on the web. For those not aware, #FreeMelee is the tag used by the Melee camp voicing their disgust over Nintendo canceling The Big House, the biggest, longest running Smash tourney in the United States. With the COVID-19 pandemic wreaking havoc around the world and getting far worse in the US during this fall season, online tournaments is the way for Smashers as well as the FGC (fighting game community) to play for the foreseeable future. As such, The Big House was going to be hosted online this year and by Nintendo. But why did Nintendo cancel it? Simple: The Melee crowd did not comply with Nintendo's wishes. 

Smashers have been playing Melee online using Slippi, an unauthorized project that has, among other features, rollback netcode, allowing for a super smooth online play experience. Slippi was going to be the way Smashers played Melee at this year's The Big House. Nintendo asked the tournament organizers not to use Slippi to play Melee. They decided not to listen, so big daddy N sent them a C&D, canceling the tourney, much to the frustration of Melee players.

Playing Melee on original hardware can be cumbersome. The game was originally released in late 2001 on the GCN and has never been re-released on any other Nintendo platforms. In the many times it was hosted at tournaments, the use of CRT TVs as well as original GCNs, both of which have long been discontinued, was required to play the game. With many people having to do things remotely these days, it is easy to see why Melee players would flock to Slippi to get their fix. Am I defending them? Of course not. In fact, this is one of those times I have to side with Nintendo and say the Melee camp is very much in the wrong here.

We all know how protective Nintendo is of their IPs. You will not find a company that guards IPs as fiercely as Nintendo. The Big N were the ones hosting this year's Big House. So, if they asked the TOs not to use Slippi, pirated software, to play Melee, a game they still own the rights to, and the TOs decided to keep on, well, is anyone really surprised Nintendo retaliated the way they did? I'm more surprised that Nintendo asked them not to do the thing they were doing first before going with a C&D. Usually, a C&D is given with no warning from this company.

The other thing that surprises me is the amount of sympathizers for the Melee crowd. There are dozens of videos on YouTube that are mad at Nintendo for the use of the C&D this time. For the umpteenth time, Nintendo was the one hosting Big House this year. There is no version of this where the Melee crowd would get their way. It doesn't matter if Nintendo isn't making money off Melee anymore. It is still their IP and they within their right to protect it. "But, other companies don't send C&Ds when we illegally play their games!" Dude, Nintendo is not like other companies. 

You have Melee players getting all huffy saying they are done with Nintendo, swearing not to ever buy another product from them again, or that Nintendo is hiding Melee from the world. Man, it is so eye rolling to read stuff like that. The Melee camp, or in this case, the TOs brought this on themselves so they do not get to pull out the victim card. Sorry, Melee crew, but ya'll are gonna have to hold that L.

VGM Saturdays #286: Ain't Nothing Like a Funky Beat

This is one of those VGM Saturdays where I give away one of the songs in the subtitle. Some of you may already know the song or game to which I am referring. 

Everybody Jump Around - Jet Set Radio (DC)

Though it was short lived, the SEGA's Dreamcast was some to some truly fantastic games. One that is frequently mentioned is Jet Set Radio, known for it's highly stylish cel-shaded visuals and very distinct soundtrack. Hideki Naganuma did the bulk of song writing for the game but I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Richard Jacques fire contribution that is Everybody Jump Around.

Valhalla - Super Valis IV (SNES)

Super Valis IV has one of those underrated soundtracks. I may not even know of the game if it weren't for my dad renting this one back in the day. Castle Vanity is my favorite track from the game but Valhalla is a very close second. The bass is working major overtime in this one.

AIN'T NOTHIN' LIKE A FUNKY BEAT - Lethal League Blaze (PS4, XBO, NSW, PC)

I know nothing of this game. I was listening to music from the Jet Set Radio games while working and this popped up in my recommended tab. So I clicked and fell in love. It sounds like it came right out of a JSR game. The song was even scored by Hideki Naganuma.

Call the Cops - Streets of Rage 4 (PS4, XBO, NSW, PC)

As of stage 2, cops become some of the regular enemies you trade blows with in Streets of Rage 4. The worst of the bunch are packing tasers. Seeing as how the cops are working for the bad guys in this game, I have no qualms about taking a fist or blunt object to their face. Pretty rad how this song makes use of police sirens. 

Sponge Cave Spelunking - Yoshi's Woolly World (Wii U)

Yoshi has been receiving a lot of love over the years. The hungry dino has had an outing on the past 3 Nintendo consoles with latest being Yoshi's Crafted World for the Switch. The previous game, Yoshi's Woolly World was ported to the 3DS. With Wii U games getting a second shot on the vastly more popular Switch, I would so be down to buy Woolly World a third time. 

Harbinger - DOOM 2016 (PC, PS4, XBO, NS)

What could be better than slaying demons? Slaying demons to a banger of a soundtrack, that's what. The madlads at Panic Buttons somehow managed to port this beast of a game over to the Switch. It doesn't run at 60fps, rather 30, but the feat is still impressive. Rip and tear anywhere. 

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VGM Saturdays #285: 5 PM in Animal Crossing

No fancy intro this week. Enjoy the jams.

Earth (Minecraft Earth) (New Remix) - Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (NSW)

Originally, I had planned to post Halland / Dalarnna as the first Minecraft arrangement from Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. It was the song used in Steve's reveal trailer and it is a dang good song. But... well, just listen to Earth. The song sounds so freaking beautiful and is the kinda thing that restores your hope in humanity.

Adon Stage - Street Fighter Alpha (ARC)

Adon appeared in the original Street Fighter in 1987 but would become a playable character until the first Street Fighter Alpha in 1995. Sweet mercy, those guitars are working some serious overtime in this track!

Hey Cid! - FINAL FANTASY IV (SNES)

In FINAL FANTASY IV, numerous party members will come and go. Some awesome like Yang, and some super lame, like Edward. But no of them are Cid. Not only is he the engineer of Banon's Redwing airships, he's a tough old bird as well. This dude survived an explosion. He isn't quite Galuf tier, but as far as cool old guys go, Cid is more than OK.

Re-Boot! - Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection (PS4, XBO, NSW, PC)

Like the Classic and X series, the Zero/ZX series is available in easily accessible anthology releases a la a Legacy Collection. I would recommend getting Legacy Collection over hunting down the original carts since these come with extras and new features that make them more welcoming to new players. Plus, those old versions won't great you with this song every time you start them up.

Customization - Rivals of Aether (PC, NSW)

After delighting PC gamers for years, Rivals of Aether has finally come to the Switch and I can see what the fuss is all about. Rivals may be a Smash inspired game, but it is still it's own unique beast and it is taking me time to get used to the controls. What isn't taking time to adjust to is the music. This game's music immediately had me with this track. So dang, jazzy!

5 PM - Animal Crossing: New Horizons (NSW)

This is the best song in New Horizons. This funky, laid back beat is the perfect jam for 5 in the evening. Unlike every other mainline game in the Animal Crossing series, you do not get the hourly music right away. Until the resident services building is completed, you are treated to the same song day in and day out. So the hourly songs are something of a reward. 5 PM is one of my favorite times to play New Horizons because running around my island to this song is love and life.

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Pacher Fails to Understand The Concept of the Switch

Several weeks ago, the net was all abuzz over the latest word blunders of industry analyst Michael Pachter. You may have heard of him. If you forgot all about him, I don't blame you. He wasn't taking up space in my brain until he divulged how much of an imbecile he could be showing that clearly, he does not understand the hybrid design of the Switch.

During an interview with GamingBolt, Pachter, in his *ahem* infinite wisdom said "I don't understand the whole hybrid concept... I don't think most people play in both modes, I would say that maybe 20% of Switch owners play both modes; and I think most Switch owners play it handheld only. So I honestly don't understand the whole point of the hybrid. Who Cares? Play it as a handheld."

Oh, but it gets better.

"And Nintendo isn't that smart," he went on, "so you never know what they will do next, but I think the smart thing would be to get rid of the Switch console and only have the Switch Lite, get rid of the docking station, get rid of playing on the TV; maybe offer a Fire Stick style dongle for those who do want to play it on the TV. But I just think that a portable-only Switch makes the most sense, it's the cheapest to make, and they could make the screen nicer and build quality better."

We've all heard someone say something really stupid. But man, that. THAT is some unprecedented levels of stupidity. 

Pachter doesn't get the hybrid concept of the Switch? How can he or anyone not "get" it? What the Switch does is in the name. When the system was revealed to the world in late 2016, Nintendo clearly communicated what the Switch was: a machine that you can switch from a console to a handheld effortlessly. That separates it from anything else currently available and continues to be a major appeal of the system. The Switch has been making money hand over first since day one. In the three plus years it has been on the market, the Switch has enjoyed record breaking sales with over 60 million units sold. 

I cannot chalk up Pachter's ridiculous thoughts on the Switch to the garbage year that 2020 has been. The year could have been the best ever and I could still see him saying something just as, if not more so moronic because he has a tendency to do that. 

Why would Nintendo gut one of the best features about the Switch? The fact that I can use it as a console and a handheld is a huge deal to me. I cannot speak for everyone but most of the time, I play my Switch docked but handheld mode does get some use from time to time. Making the Switch only a handheld just because Pachter has some dumb ideas is just that, dumb. For people that are always on the go, the Switch Lite probably seems like the better option. But for those of us that love the hybrid nature of the Switch, we have the model that let's us play on our TVs and play in handheld mode. Everyone wins. Well, except Pacther but who cares?

Oh and for all Nintendo's faults, they are a smart company. How do I figure? Well they aren't listening to Pachter so that tells you all you need to know.

Nintendo Switch Lite image from Wired

Next Generation Gaming: I Can Wait

Video game console launches. There really is nothing quite like it. The thought of getting your hands on new hardware, the new controller, the new games. It truly is an exciting time. I picked up an N64, and GCN on launch day and yeah, it felt freaking great to have the newest systems on the very day they dropped. Over the years, however, I've been getting the hot new game machines further away from launch days and in some cases, several years after release. With the PS5 and XBSX set to release this month, once again, I will be sitting out on launch day.

Of the two systems, the PS5 is the one that appeals the most to me. I've been playing on Sony system since the original PS and each one has constantly delivered the goods. Despite the system's enormous size and the memes that have spawned from the design, I do think it is a nice looking machine and some of those launch titles do intrigue me. And yet, I'm in no rush to get one when November 12th hits or even within the first few months of the 2021. 

FOMO, or fear of missing out is something that we have all felt. You see everyone enjoying the new games or whatever is trending and you feel like an outsider, envious that you aren't taking part in what everyone else is. I got a bit of FOMO myself when FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE was released and everyone and their dog was playing it. After playing through the demo, I was super excited to get it. But then the COVID-19 pandemic got worse, we were placed on lockdown and my income took a serious hit. But even when I did resume getting a steady check, buying FFVIIR was not at the top of my to-do list. I had considered buying it but in the end, I decided it could wait and that hasn't changed.

I admit that seeing thumbnails of YouTubers like YongYea with a PS5 does trigger my FOMO and yeah, it may sting even more when more and more folks get their hands on the PS5 and Let's Play videos start popping up, but you know what? I'll manage just fine. I waited to get the past few next generation systems before, so I can easily do it again. The Switch has done such a marvelous job of catering to my gaming needs that I am in no rush to have the new machine on the block. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is dropping on the 20th and there's still a wealth of games I haven't even gotten around to. Besides, some of those PS5 titles will be on the PS4.

PS5, you're looking pretty clean and sounding really hype, but I'm gonna hold off on getting you for a while.

Steve: The Best Kind of Stupid Fun You Can Have

Man. I still cannot believe that Steve from Minecraft is in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Well, that's not entirely true. After using Steve for a few weeks, I guess I can kinda believe it but it still seems like some fever dream. Yes, I'm well aware that term has probably been used and abused ad infant-em in regards to Minecraft Steve in Smash Ultimate, but him being here along with Alex, Zombie and Enderman is best summed up as just that, a fever dream. 

Now that Steve and his fellow blocky companions are in Smash, I gotta agree with Chocotopus: this character is stupid. If you haven't seen the Smash YouTuber's video, basically Steve and the gang are stupid in a good way, hence the title of this blog post. If you are looking to have stupid fun in Ultimate, look no further than Steve or one of his alts. 

One of the best things about Steve is his constantly stoic expression. It does not matter what happens to him, the look on his face does not change, ever. That makes those flashing zoom ins when he is knocked out or lands the killing blow ring of heavy indifference to whatever the outcome. 

In a game where each character has a vast array of moves out their disposal, Steve is loaded for war. There's giving characters the tools to succeed and then there's giving them the facility that makes said tools. Behind that blank stare is the mind of a ruthless killing machine and both on and off stage, Steve is a force to be feared. The minecart functions as a grab so shielding against it is useless. Depending on the materials the cart is made with, it can hit like a truck. You can also use minecart to bait your opponent into jumping over it to hit them with something else. While I was goofing off with some CPUs to help better get the hang of Steve's abilities, I unintentionally used the minecart to stop Palutena from making it back to the stage. As someone that loathes fighting Palu, that was both satisfying and very amusing.

Using the minecart for damage is super fun and all but it is also useful for returning to the stage, especially if you struggle with Steve's recovery, which I most certainly do. I've gotten better at relying on other means besides Steve's up B to get back to the stage, but I still SD because I'm not very proficient with it. With that in mind, I try to use blocks to make it back or use minecart and then up B. 

It should go without saying but craft, craft and craft some more when playing as Steve. You do not want to be caught without materials, especially if you are off stage and your up B game is poo poo. Not only that, but you wanna have those hard hitting swords do dishing out hard hitting strikes. Oh and of course, TNT! Boy, TNT is one of the best things Steve was given! It is great for edge guarding, baiting your opponents and the fact that you have a great deal of control of where the detonator switch is just makes using it even loads more fun. Since it is a bomb, you can always set it off without the switch. If you foe has a much higher percentage than you, and you're both near the TNT, just let it rip and see who dies first. 

I really, really love Steve's neutral air. It is so fun to whack fools with that pickax and try to keep it going for as long as possible. The fact that it can spike makes it even better. I just wish I could remember to build blocks to extend my combos even further.

We all saw Sakurai use blocks to well, blocks a CPU Pikachu's recovery to the stage when he was giving us the Steve demo. I'm disappointed that we can't spell out "Lol nope," in full but we can place that "L" at the ledge. And yes, players have been doing that. You can even place a single block at just the fight spot near the ledge, grab and throw your opponent into it and get a kill. 

Steve is one of the very best additions to Ultimate's already beefy roster. I cannot believe how much I love playing as him. And just so we're clear, I do mean Enderman. Yeah, Steve is nice and all but Enderman is the best block boy and you cannot change my mind on that.

VGM Saturdays #284: Halloween is Cancelled

With the COVID-19 pandemic running rampant across America and cases spiking in other countries, the CDC has strongly advised against having the little ones go out trick or treating. For Halloween 2020, I suggest taking a spooky game for a spin or listening to some horror inspired tunes. Lucky for you, I got six of those blow.

Stage 7: Den - Castlevania: Dracula X (SNES)

Also known as the inferior version of Rondo of Blood. Yes, yes, the PCE version of this game is miles better. But dang it, Dracula X still has an outstanding soundtrack. I was gonna go with the excellent version of Blood Tears but Den sounds really good on the SNES hardware.

Iron Horse, Iron Terror (Queen Bee Stage) - Darkstalkers 3 (ARC)

Halloween themed Street Fighter, some say. Regardless, I really like the art style and character designs of this series and with Capcom releasing so many different compilations of late, Darkstalkers is long overdue. I nearly forgotten how awesome the beats are to this series, the third game in particular.

Big Boo's Haunt - Super Mario 64 (N64)

I've never liked Ghosts Houses. Boos were irksome foes to deal with in Super Mario Bros. 3 and Super Mario World went and gave the little buggers their own course in almost every world. Super Mario 64 not only has a whole course with Boos of different sizes floating around, it also has a piano that I'm sure freaked more than a few people out back in the day. I recently saw it spook my nephew. Yeah, I could have told him in advance but that would have deprived me of a good chuckle.

Mine Cart Madness - Donkey Kong Country (SNES)

The mine cart levels could test the patience of even the most sane individual. Jump too soon, ya die. Jump to late, ya die. Memorization was key to getting through these levels. As touch as the mine cart stages could be in the SNES DKC trilogy, they don't have anything on DKC Returns or Tropical Freeze. The feats of wizardry you have to pull off to survive in those levels can be insane.

Sandopolis Zone Act 2 - Sonic 3 & Knuckles (GEN)

Act 1 of Sandopolis has you trekking across the sands of Angel Island. For act 2, you go inside a pyramid, unleash some ghosts that became nightmare fuel if you don't find a light switch fast. The more eerie version of Sandopolis really sells that feeling of discomfort as you play through this level.

Key Cavern (Level 3) - The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening (NSW)

A remake of one of my favorite Zelda games, the Switch version improved upon the original while keeping the spirit of 1993 game well in tact. Even on the old GB hardware Level 3 sounded super creepy to me. That same unsettling feeling is echoed through this arrangement. 

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Surprise Fire Emblem

You know what? I like Nintendo dropping things outta nowhere. They did it with that Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity reveal and they are at it again. OK, so this time, it isn't as huge as the aforementioned game, but it was still a pleasant surprise. 

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Nintendo's Fire Emblem series and unlike some of the company's other franchises, they actually seem to give enough of a fig about this one to celebrate. Sorta. Kinda. Maybe. I really don't know if translating the NES version of Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon & the Blade of Light for western audiences is Nintendo's way of really celebrating FE's 30th anniversary, but giving gamers in the west the NES version that started it all is something I really can't knock. And for the low price of $5.99, too.

Screenshot by The Verge

Nintendo did release a remade version of this game on the DS in 2008 under the name Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon. That game now goes for quite a high asking price so, $6 for an officially translated version of the original 1990 game is a steal. This Switch eShop release will come with new quality of life features such as stave states, rewind and fast forward. Purists will no doubt scoff at these new features, but I saw screw those players. If you want to enjoy a FE game without worrying about permanently losing characters, have at it.

If you want to spend a little more than $6, you could opt for the Fire Emblem 30th Anniversary Edition for $49.99 at select retailers. You get a download code for the game and a 220 plus page art book, a NES replica box and what looks like a Nintendo Power pullout poster, among other things. The 30th Anniversary Edition is definitely for the diehard FE fan so I doubt I'll be handing over 50 clams, but it does look really, really, cool.

Shadow Dragon & the Blade of Light is not only the game that kicked off the whole FE series, it is also the game that Marth made his debut in. A good chunk of gamers would be introduced to Marth in 2001's Super Smash Bros. Melee and it was cute that the reveal trailer for this game begun with Marth losing a match to Roy followed by one of the players trying to explain to the other what the first FE game was/is.

Am I going to be picking up Shadow Dragon & the Blade of Light? Absolutely. I've been wanting to take a trip back in time and experience some of the earlier FE games and while I wish I could play the DS remake, I'm down to play the OG version. Like I said early on, this was a pleasant surprise and I like how Nintendo has stayed on that surprise game lately.

What I don't like is the game being hit with the same limited availability stick that has struck Super Mario Bros. 35 and Super Mario 3D All-Stars. Once April 1, 2021 rolls around, if you haven't bought it yet, you're outta luck. Nintendo, why are you the way you are? 

VGM Saturdays #283: Keeping it Mostly, Definitely Old School

Music from this week's selection is most from gaming of days gone by but I did manage to squeeze a modern track in there. Which is an arrangement from an old game. *Shrug*

Open Your Eyes (Stage 1) - Zero Wing (ARC)

I had to do a search to find out the last time I posted a song from Zero Wing. It has been almost two years since I posted a song from any version of Zero Wing. Man. I know I put this feature on hiatus but that is still far too long to go without music from this game. New Day for Me is probably my favorite theme from Zero Wing but I cannot deny that Open Your Eyes is almost equally as good and is a great track to kick off the game. Those of you that are fans of the Mega Drive and PCE version, I'll get around to posting those. Eventually. 

Cosmic Desert - Tobal No.1 (PS)

Before FINAL FANTASY VII made Square a powerhouse on the PS, there was Tobal No.1 a 3D fighter that had a quest mode where you roamed dungeons. Ironically, the game came with a demo for the game that would make RPGs go mainstream. I remember Tobal for the Akira Toriyama character designs and the soundtrack, which I really should post more of. Hmm. That's getting to be a theme here this week.

Hurry! - FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE (PS4)

2020, awful year that it was, did not stop FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE from releasing. The first installment of it, anyway. Yes, irritating as it is, the remake that was announced in 2015 will release in parts. Given Square Enix's track record for releasing much anticipated games and factor in COVID-19 making a mess of everything, there is no telling when the next part of FFVIIR will release. Hurry! was a big favorite of mine from the original FFVII and I love the remake version almost as much.

Choco Mountain - Mario Kart 64 (N64)

I gotta say it: better Mario Kart games have followed since the first two entries. But for a good, long while, Mario Kart 64 was my jam. And that soundtrack? Perfection. At first I confused this theme for that of Moo Moo Farm, which is a very good song, but I would choose Choco Mountain over it any day.

Main Menu - Ridge Racer 64 (N64)

When one thinks of Ridge Racer, the N64 entry probably isn't the first game to spring to mind. Even the music isn't on the same level as other entries. Even so, there are some good songs in Ridge Racer 64. I was going to pick one of the songs you hear on the race track but then I remembered how good the Main Menu theme was so, here we are.

Hello, Happy Kingdom - Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (SNES)

It has been a hot minute since I posted a track from Super Mario RPG. The game has such grand compositions from Yoko Shimomura. She arranges classic Mario and a few FINAL FANTASY tracks throughout the game. And as much as I love Weapons Factory and Battle with Culex, Hello, Happy Kingdom just popped into my head. Besides, I'm pretty sure I did Weapons Factory way back when.

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VGM Saturdays #282: New Name, Same Game

Favorite Tunes is no more. Say hello to VGM Saturdays! Basically Favorite Tunes under a different name. I considered starting over with a new #1 but too many comic books do that and I like those high numbers I've built up over the years, so the legacy numbers stay. 

The new title also marks the return of me regularly posting my favorite video game music on a weekly basis. The last time I did this was back in February. In the place of it was VGM Soundtrack of the Day, which I did less of when I went back to work and then halted all together. I may revive that feature someday. For now, enjoy VGM Saturdays. Music is now embedded right here on this very page. So just lick the YouTube play button and let the good tunes roll.

Replay - SEGA AGES Virtua Racing (NSW)

Virtua Racing Deluxe, released on the SEGA 32X came with a system exclusive song, Replay. This song was an absolute banger. Well now you can listen to that banger in the sound font of the arcade version of Virtua Racing via the Switch SEGA AGES release. All racing replay music in racing games should use this theme.

1991 - Hotshot Racing (NSW, PS4, XBO, PC)

A racing game clearly inspired by the early '90s polygonal racers. 2020 has sucked so I welcome anything that takes me back in time for a bit. And thankfully, Hotshot Racing plays as great as it looks. The game's soundtrack is very SEGA-esque so you can expect me to pick more tracks from this game in the future. 

USA - Panzer Paladin (NSW, PC)

Mechs, waifus, rad 8-bit style visuals and tons of different weapons to arm yourself with! What more could you ask for? The action is a bit more slow paced but more often than not, you're required to be quick on the controls or be dead. Panzer Paladin's music had me from the intro. USA is a theme that is stuck in my head in part to how many times I played the level (it was tough for me, OK?) and because it is such a good tune.

Garden of Hope - Pikmin 3 (Wii U)

If you missed out on Pikmin 3 (most did due to the system it was on), you're in luck. The game is coming to the Switch at the end of this month under the title Pikmin 3 Deluxe. This song is in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate but I don't think I've ever really paid much attention to it until I played the demo of Pikmin 3 Deluxe. It really is a smooth jam.

Enemy's Arsenal (Mission 2) - Sol-Feace (X68000)

Sol-Feace (Sol-Deace depending on which version and region you played) was released on multiple systems. I first came to know of it from the SEGA Genesis version. I like the soundtrack across all versions but when I'm in the mood for some chiptune Sol-Feace, the X68000 hits the spot. Mission 2 is my favorite track across all versions of the game. 

The Commissioner - Streets of Rage 4 (NSW, PS4, XBO, PC)

Streets of Rage came back with a vengeance. This just might be the SoR to top SoR2. There are new and old characters to play as and since this is a SoR game, of course the music is fire. This is one one of my three favorite boss tracks, the others will pop up in VGM Saturdays all in good time.

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Super Mario Bros. 35: Insane Battle Royal Fun

Are you looking for a joke about how Nintendo skipped so many Super Mario games and arrived at the thirty fifth entry? Well, I haven't got one for you, sorry. That is a horse I'm gonna let rest in peace.

I wanted to talk about Super Mario Bros. 35 sooner. Like, right after I played it on October 1st. But, I thought it might be a good idea to get to let it stew for a bit. You know, get a few games under my belt. It has been exactly one week since Super Mario Bros. 35 landed as a Nintendo Switch Online exclusive title. I've got some pretty embarrassing defeats, six victories and a really cool Hammer as my icon. TLDR; Super Mario Bros. 35 rocks socks.

If you haven't heard, SMB35 is a battle royal game that pits you against 34 other players. The objective is not to speed run levels but instead to defeat enemies and send them to other players. Think of enemies as garbage blocks, a la Tetris. Anyone that has played Tetris 99 will have an idea how SMB35 operates. You can target players that have a lot of coins, players that are low on time, players that are targeting you, or just some random player. Collecting coins is important because it gives you access to your item box. For a cool 20 coins you can use the "?" roulette to tip the scales in your favor. Sometimes you won't have access to a "?" Block and you'll be up against a couple of Bowsers. Spend some coins in hopes of getting a Super Star or a Fire Flower to get rid of them. 

So, grab coins and kill enemies. Simple, right? Well, yes and no. Killing enemies will win you back precious time, which is vital, but depending on which you have more of, it is usually a good idea to chase after what you have less of. If you have plenty of time to spare you should seek out coins. Being overwhelmed by enemies without power-ups is not a position you want to find yourself in. Coins can be saved up so you can use your item "?" roulette as many times as you need, so long as you have a hefty supply of coinage. Managing both time and coins is key but is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to doing well in SMB35.

Knowing the levels of SMB35 is another big part of achieving victory. Anyone that is familiar with SMB will have tremendous advantage over someone that doesn't. Knowledge of hidden 1-up blocks and the level layouts are some of the best weapons at your disposal. You can breeze through 1-1 and farm for time, sure. But going to 3-1 will give you the chance to send Hammer Bros. to your opponents and those suckers are the most aggressive they have ever been in any Mario game. The risk from going to later stages can pay off. Likewise, a trip to 4-1 will let you rain down Lakitus on other players. Depending on what stages other players are in, dealing with the likes of Hammer Bros. Bowser, Lakitu and even Cheep-Cheeps can be quite difficult. Can you imagine having to face a bunch of Bowsers in some of those narrow passages of 1-4? How about having an armada of Lakitus in 3-3 chase after you, raining down Spiny after Spiny? Yes, SMB35 can get so crazy with the amount of enemies that can be on screen at one time, so much that you will never complain about enemy spam in Super Mario Maker 2 ever again. 

As chaotic as SMB35 can get the game is at it's best when you're on the edge of your seat, fighting it out with really adept players, sending enemies back and forth. I've had battles with players that seem to go on and on until either I or they make a mistake and the match gets decided. Much as I like Tetris 99, I can get down with SMB35 more. The skill requirement to take first isn't anywhere near as high.

My biggest issue with the game has more to do with Nintendo's wacky decision making. Why, oh why is this game only playable until April 1, 2021? Super Mario Bros. 35 is so much fun that it is criminal to only let us revel in it for six measly months. Nintendo stays making those dumb choices. Not only should this game be a permanent addition for Nintendo Switch Online members, I'd love to see other Super Mario Bros. games done in this style. Just think of Super Mario Bros. 3, Super Mario World, or New Super Mario Bros. U with 35 players. *Sigh* I plan to enjoy Super Mario Bros. 35 while it lasts. I recommend you do the same.

All screens by Nintendo

Minecraft Steve Broke Twitter

Sooooo, did you catch the new Super Smash Bros. Ultimate character reveal on October 1? I didn't plan to but I woke up 2 minutes before the stream and decided that, rather than watch after everyone already knew, I would catch it live. And man, am I glad I did.

I didn't know it was Steve from Minecraft until I saw his blocky silhouette staring back at Mario, because I am very much an uncultured weenie that has never ever played Minecraft. Even so, I am well aware of Minecraft's massive popularity. Despite not being around as long as other gaming franchises, Minecraft is the best selling gaming IP on the planet. I wasn't really excited watching the trailer, but I had a smile on my face the entire time because one, I knew how badly some people wanted Steve and two, I knew how salty it would make some people. Real talk, I do kinda like the taste of salty tears from fans that get upset when a character reveal doesn't make them happy. Like, sure, folks are allowed to be upset but I'm talking more about people that get super angry that a character doesn't cater to them. You know the types. "I wanted X character! What a waste of a character slot!" Their tears will never not be delicious.  

Steve wasn't someone I wanted in Smash, but I'm glad he made it in. Seeing people's hype for him makes me happy for those people. Since October 1, I've seen dozens of reaction videos and I think their excitement has rubbed off on me because now I'm getting pretty jazzed about him. Steve just looks like such a super fun character and I am on edge waiting for him to drop. Really, none of the DLC characters in Ultimate have disappointed me. Sure, I find some more enjoyable than others, but not a one has flat out been a character I disliked. It is looking like Steve will be another fun addition to Ultimate's massive roster.

Steve's reveal trailer? That was just awesome and hilarious. Sonic Falcon Punch's Mario so hard he lands in the world of Minecraft. I love how Mario looks at Steven in bewilderment. Even when he takes out a steak and starts munching on it, Mario keeps that confused, slack jawed look. I get the feeling that Mario's reaction represented more than a few people who saw that trailer. It should make for some good meme fuel.

The Steve & Alex showcase on October 3 was very informative. Despite his simplistic look, Steve is a very technical character. I think anyone that has played Minecraft will be on some familiar footing as opposed to those who have never touched it. I may have to put in more practice with Steve than I have other fighters. He looks like a character that will be fun to watch both in casual and competitive play. If you're off stage, you might wanna chuck your controller out the window because the edge guard tools Steve posses makes it possible for him to gimmick even those with excellent recovery. Steven can literally block the ledges to keep you from making it back. I cannot wait to see how crazy players get with this. I've already thought about making an "L" in front of the ledge. Or perhaps I could spell out "lol". Ooo! Ooo! How about "nope"? 

As great as Steve looks to be, I may play as the Enderman alternate when I play. Enderman looks cute and but also creepy. Something about the way he peers inside Snake's box in the trailer that gives me a bit of a shudder. I think my shelf is in need of an Enderman toy and or plushie. Eh, I suppose I could spring for Steve, Alex and Zombie, too. 

The best thing about Steve coming to Smash? We get block Kirby! I didn't think it was possible for the pink puff to get any cuter but somehow, becoming square makes it happen. The other best thing about Steve coming to Smash is that he broke Twitter. No joke. Twitter was down for a good ten minutes due to the flood of traffic Steve's Smash presents brought. Any character that breaks Twitter can't be bad. 

October 13 is gonna be a fuuuuuun day.

All screens from Nintendo

PlayStation 5 Preorder Nightmare

Next gen gaming consoles are right around the corner and even amidst a raging global pandemic, hype for Microsoft and Sony's new systems is in the air. That being said, there's some bitterness in the air mixed with that hype as one company has not done a good job handling initial preorders. Can you guess which one? Here's your hint: rhymes with pony.

During the PS5 live showcase, much about the console was revealed, including the price tag, $499 for the disc drive version and $399 for the digital version. We also got the release date, November 12, 2020, world wide, which isn't far off. With so many eyes watching the showcase, you would think Sony would give gamers a date for when preorders would open. No date was given and this had the unfortunate affect of causing several retailers including Best Buy, Target and Walmart to begin taking preorders and the result was wide spread chaos with a hefty helping for frustration. 

Image by ExtremeTech.com

Back in July, Sony said via video chat between Geoff Keighley and Sony marketing's Eric Lempel, that they would not wait until the last minute to issue a preorder date for the PS5. Gamers would be given plenty of notice. What gamers got was silence from Sony and blindsided by retailers. Anger, ranting, scalpers; this more than likely would have happened anyway, but that is besides the point. Sony said one thing and did another or in this case, they said nothing at all. Yes, retailers are to blame for opening the doors on preorders but I've seen responses to justifiably angry gamers in Twitter and YouTube threads stating "It wasn't Sony's fault," as if they are innocent in this entire debacle. Sony is totally at fault here. 

As the one supplying the product to retailers, it is on Sony to communicate to them when the preorder date will be. No communication can be just as, if not worse than bad communication and because Sony said jack, we have a nightmare scenario that was allowed to play out for days. You need only look to YouTube to see a plethora of gamers venting their frustration in videos or comment sections of how they failed to secure a PS5 preorder. At the end of the day, the PS5 preorder mess is due to Sony's complete and utter lack of communication, which flies in the face of what gamers were told back in July. Sony screwed up and to exempt them from blame is fool hearty. 

Sure, PS5 preorders are legit live now, but ha ha ha, good lucky getting one. Sony did issue an apology on Twitter but the fact remains that Sony could have prevented this whole mess if they were upfront as to when PS5 preorders would go live. Sony promised more PS5s would be available for preorder but keep in mind, we are still facing a global pandemic that has significantly impacted the gaming industry. If Switches are hard to get a hold of, it doesn't take much imagining to see what the pandemic will do on securing a PS5. Also, Sony said they give us plenty of notice on when PS5 peroders would go live annnnnnnddddd, well we all know how that turned out. I wouldn't blame anyone for having trust issues after this fiasco. If you are trying to preorder a PS5, good luck and if you can't get one, just remember, it isn't the end  of the world.

EDIT: Annnnd the Xbox Series X preoders were no better than the PS5. 

Nintendo Shadow Drops BOTW Prequel, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity

Nintendo: Maaaaaan, it sucks that our Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection got leaked. But while all eyes are on our upcoming collection, let's stealth drop an announcement for a prequel to Breath of the Wild. We'll even announce that the release date is this year. 2020 has been terribad so fans will welcome this unexpected, but pleasant surprise.

Fans:

OK, so that probably isn't how the plan to reveal Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity went, but none of us were expecting this. It came out of nowhere and I, like many of you, am very excited for it.

I don't mean to come off like a BOTW super fan, but I loooooove that game. The world, the art style, the exploration; I ate it up as if I were at an all you can eat buffet. The sequel to BOTW is a ways off and more than likely due to COVID-19, development has been hampered, which is totally understandable. I was actually considering playing through BOTW again. I've yet to play my Switch copy nor did I ever complete all of the DLC. Age of Calamity coming along will have me holding off my second play through of the game, not that a mind.

If you've never played a Warriors game, they are hack and slash based titles on a grand scale. You run around, thrashing enemies in droves in pretty stylish fashion. The gameplay is very repetitive but I love beat 'em ups so I can do some repetitive games. Also, I enjoyed Hyrule Warriors and finally got around to picking up Definitive Edition on Switch a few months ago. I thought about opening it up buuuuut, Age of Calamity is on the horizon so I'll get to scratch the Warriors AND BOTW itch.

We never got to actually see how the calamity that devastated Hyrule went down in BOTW. In Age of Calamity not only will we get to witness it, we'll get to play through it. And not just as Link. We'll get to play as best Zelda (fight me) the queen of thicc, Urbosa and the best water waifu of all time, Mipha! Daruk will be there to club fools and that bird Ravioli will be there too. Um, yay? Alright, I confess, Revali is the only member of the champions that I hated. He's so much of a smug jerk that he's insufferable. Even so, if he's powerful in slaying enemies, I suppose I could deal with his attitude.

Hyrule Warriors was made without working too closely with the Legend of Zelda team. For Age of Calamity, it will be different with the team being much more involved this time. So this Warriors title will have something of a different spin on it. November 20th seems close and yet so very, very far.