New Xbox Console Prices (U.S.)

• Xbox Series S (512GB): $379.99 (previously $299.99)
• Xbox Series S (1TB): $429.99 (previously $349.99)
• Xbox Series X (Digital Edition): $549.99 (previously $449.99)
• Xbox Series X (1TB): $599.99 (previously $499.99)
• Xbox Series X (2TB Galaxy Black Edition): $729.99 (previously $599.99)

Updated Accessory Pricing

• Xbox Wireless Controller (Core): $64.99
• Xbox Wireless Controller (Color): $69.99
• Xbox Wireless Controller – Special Edition: $79.99
• Xbox Wireless Controller – Limited Edition: $89.99
• Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Core): $149.99
• Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Full): $199.99
• Xbox Stereo Headset: $64.99
• Xbox Wireless Headset: $119.99

First-Party Game Price Increases

Microsoft will also increase the price of select new first-party titles starting later this year:

• Standard Edition: up to $79.99 (previously $69.99)
• Smaller titles may remain at or below $50

Microsoft’s Statement

“We understand that these changes are challenging, and they were made with careful consideration given market conditions and the rising cost of development,”

Microsoft stated in its official support update. The company emphasized its continued commitment to value and accessibility across the Xbox ecosystem.

This move follows similar pricing adjustments from competitors. Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2 games are expected to launch at up to $80, and Sony has previously increased prices for its PlayStation 5 hardware and software in multiple regions. Microsoft’s changes align with what has become a new norm across the gaming industry.

For more details, visit Microsoft's official pricing update.

The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch at $449.99, with a Mario Kart World bundle available for $499.99, no surprise upcharges, no stealth hikes, just a reaffirmation of what was already announced. Likewise, first-party software pricing remains unchanged, with Mario Kart World at $79.99 and Donkey Kong Bananza at $69.99 - both available in physical and digital formats.

However, the accessory pricing has quietly crept up, and here’s where we feel a little deflated. The Switch 2 Pro Controller is now $84.99 (up from $79.99), the Joy-Con 2 Pair is $94.99 (up from $89.99), and the Charging Grip has risen to $39.99 (previously $34.99). Even the Camera and Dock saw increases, now priced at $54.99 (was $49.99) and $119.99 (was $109.99), respectively. While Nintendo cites “changes in market conditions” for the hikes, it’s clear that ongoing tariffs and supply chain issues are at play. Understandable, but disappointing for early adopters hoping to go all-in without sticker shock.

Nintendo Switch 2 U.S. Pricing

• Nintendo Switch 2 – $449.99
• Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle – $499.99
• Mario Kart World – $79.99
• Donkey Kong Bananza – $69.99

Accessories

• Switch 2 Pro Controller – $84.99 (was $79.99)
• Joy-Con 2 Pair – $94.99 (was $89.99)
• Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip – $39.99 (was $34.99)
• Joy-Con 2 Strap – $13.99
• Joy-Con 2 Wheel Set – $24.99
• Switch 2 Camera – $54.99 (was $49.99)
• Switch 2 Dock Set – $119.99 (was $109.99)
• Carrying Case & Screen Protector – $39.99
• All-In-One Carrying Case – $84.99
• AC Adapter – $34.99
• Samsung microSD Express Card (256GB) – $59.99

While the accessory prices are a little tough to swallow, it's nice to have firm details heading into pre-order week. Let’s just hope that availability isn’t the next hurdle when April 24 hits. We'll keep tracking which retailers open their listings and whether any launch-day bundles offer more value than what’s currently on paper.

The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been announced, and one of the most talked-about features is its use of microSD Express cards for expanded storage. This is a big shift from the original Switch and Switch OLED models, which used standard microSD cards for memory expansion.

What makes microSD Express cards stand out is their significantly faster data reading speeds compared to previous generations of microSD cards. This means that loading games and accessing data should be quicker and more seamless. But there’s a catch: the price.

Currently, microSD Express cards are quite limited on the market, and those that are available come with a hefty price tag. For example, a 256 GB standard microSD card might cost around $20, while a similar capacity microSD Express card can go for upwards of $70. This gap will shrink over time as the technology becomes more common, but for now, it’s something to consider if you’re planning to expand your Switch 2’s storage. Right now, the one I personally recommend, and already purchased, comes from SanDisk and can be snagged for roughly $60 right now on Amazon: SanDisk 256GB microSD Express microSD Card.

Another important point to note is that the Switch 2 will exclusively support these new Express cards, unlike the PS5 and Xbox Series X, which allow users to plug in a cheaper USB drive to store and play older generation games. That means you’ll need to invest in the faster cards even if you just want extra space for original Switch titles.

According to Nintendo’s official press release, the Switch 2 comes with 256 GB of internal storage right out of the box. That’s a substantial increase from the original Switch’s 32 GB, but considering the growing file sizes of modern games, many players will likely still look to expand that space sooner rather than later.

The Switch 2’s use of microSD Express cards is both a blessing and a potential headache. The improved speed is great for gameplay, but the higher cost and lack of alternative storage solutions might make some gamers hesitate. As the market catches up and prices (hopefully) come down, it will be interesting to see how players adapt to this new standard.

The Switch 2 Game-Key Cards function differently from traditional physical game cards:

1. Insert the Game-Key Card: Place the card into your Nintendo Switch 2 system.
2. Download the Game: An internet connection and enough free space are required. Follow the instructions displayed on the HOME Menu to download the game data.
3. Play the Game: After downloading, the game can be launched offline (launching the first-time requires an internet connection), but the game-key card must be inserted every time to verify ownership.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Physical Access to Digital Games: Even though the game is downloaded, the physical card must be present to play, maintaining a tangible element of ownership (if that's your thing).
• No Game Data on the Card: The card itself contains no game files, only a key to download and verify the game.
• Offline Play After Download: Once the game is installed and verified, it can be played offline (the first time the game is booted will require an internet connection), as long as the card is inserted.

We have reached out to Nintendo for further clarification regarding the lending and resale of Game-Key Cards. Specifically, we are looking to understand whether lending the card to a friend would allow them to download and play the game on their own system. Additionally, it remains unclear what happens if the Game-Key Card is lost or broken after the game has been downloaded – would a replacement card grant access, or is the license tied to that specific game-key card?

Traditional digital game codes are single-use (like the ones you can find in-store right now for the original Nintendo Switch) and permanently tied to an account. Are Game-Key Cards essentially physical versions of these codes, and if so, how do they differ in terms of ownership and sharing? Will these be sold at retail for a lower price point than traditional physical media?

Game-Key Cards for the Nintendo Switch 2 are a unique attempt to balance digital convenience with physical ownership. However, the approach brings up questions regarding long-term usability, game sharing, and whether they truly bridge the gap between physical and digital formats. As more games adopt this format, gamers will likely continue to debate whether this is a step forward or just a new twist on digital licensing (or a complete waste of money and e-waste).

Mario Kart World

Mario Kart World is set to launch alongside the Switch 2 on June 5, 2025 and it's shaping up to be the most ambitious entry in the series in generations. Forget the classic circuit structure; this time, Mario and the gang are racing across an interconnected open world.

Imagine this: iconic Mario Kart courses stitched together into one massive world map, where races seamlessly transition from one biome to the next. Whether you’re tearing through Mario Bros. Circuit or navigating Crown City, the freedom to explore between races gives this game some serious staying power, the freedom to explore between races gives this game some serious staying power. Mario Kart x Forza Horizon? Yes, please. Plus, with support for up to 24 racers and new vehicle types (boats & planes! oh my!), it’s basically Mario Kart meets the ultimate road trip.

Donkey Kong Bananza

Next up is Donkey Kong Bananza, swinging onto the Switch 2 in July 2025, Donkey Kong hasn’t had a true 3D platformer since Donkey Kong 64, but this one looks like it’s worth the wait. The game’s setting is a groundbreaking action-adventure where DK smashes through terrain, and faces dynamic environmental challenges.

The mechanics look like a smooth blend of platforming, combat, and DK’s signature ground pounds, it's basically Donkey Kong meets Red Faction! It’s a mix of classic Kong charm with a modern twist, and we can’t wait to barrel blast our way through levels (literally).

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Switch 2 Edition

The original Metroid Prime on Nintendo GameCube remains one of, if not, my favorite games of all time, and I can't believe that after years of silence Metroid Prime 4: Beyond has resurfaced, looking better than ever on the Switch 2. The latest Nintendo Switch 2 footage promises to make the wait worthwhile with enhanced visuals, faster load times, and a more immersive first-person experience.

Samus Aran’s latest adventure takes her to the hostile planet Viewros (weird name), where dark forces are gathering, and it’s up to the player to unravel the planet’s secrets. Expect classic Metroid Prime style exploration, fluid combat, and some of the most atmospheric settings in the series to date.

The Duskbloods

FromSoftware dropped a curveball with The Duskbloods, a dark fantasy multiplayer title exclusive to the Switch Coming in 2026, promising an intense PvPvE gameplay that mixes cooperative exploration with brutal PvP battles. The dark, gothic aesthetic and eerie landscapes give it serious Bloodborne vibes, but with the added tension of constantly watching your back for other players looking to end your run.

The community is already buzzing about the potential for tense multiplayer sessions and lore-rich storytelling, so I would consider this one the wild card on the list.

Kirby Air Riders

Directed by Masahiro Sakurai, Kirby Air Riders is a spiritual successor to the GameCube cult classic Kirby's Air Ride, but we were only treated to a cinematic trailer shown during the Direct, leaving us eager for more details. While details are scarce, it’s safe to expect online multiplayer, plenty of new power-ups, and a quirky cast of characters – just what we’d hope from a new Kirby racing game.

Simply put, the Switch 2 is off to a strong start with these five upcoming titles, and we can’t wait to see what else Nintendo has in store. Stay tuned to SelectButton for more updates and impressions as we get closer to launch.

What Are Virtual Game Cards?

Virtual Game Cards are digital versions of physical game cartridges. They give you the power to move your digital game library between different Nintendo systems. It’s like swapping cartridges without actually having to swap anything.

Key Features of Virtual Game Cards

1. Smooth Game Transfer Between Consoles: Got more than one Switch? No problem. As long as they’re linked to the same Nintendo Account, you can transfer digital games between them. After the first-time setup with local wireless and internet, all you need after that is an internet connection. Once you’ve loaded a game onto a system, it can be played offline, and other users on that console can dive in too.

2. Family Sharing with Time-Limited Lending: Got a family group on your Nintendo Account? You can lend Virtual Game Cards to other members for up to 14 days. Just connect the systems using local wireless and make sure both are online. After the two-week period, the game returns to your library. The cool part? Any progress they make sticks around if they decide to get the game themselves later.

3. Easy Management Through Your Nintendo Account: You can handle all your Virtual Game Cards straight from your Nintendo Account online, making it super convenient to keep track of your digital library.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Compatibility: Virtual Game Cards work with Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and OLED models from late April 2025. Make sure to update your system.
• Game Support: Not all games are on board. Some demos and Switch Online exclusives might not support Virtual Game Cards.
• Internet Connection: You’ll need internet to swap or load a game, but once it’s on a console, you’re good to play offline.

Why It’s a Big Deal

Virtual Game Cards are a big step forward for Nintendo. They combine the perks of physical and digital games, making it easier to share, move, and manage your collection. It’s a move that shows Nintendo is listening to the community and finding ways to keep digital game ownership flexible. Whether you’re managing a multi-Switch household or just want to share your latest game with the fam, Virtual Game Cards make it simple.

"In order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions, we have decided to postpone US preorder availability," Nintendo stated. Despite this unexpected delay, the console’s release date remains fixed for June 5, with updated preorder timing expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

This unprecedented decision follows closely behind President Trump’s announcement earlier this week introducing extensive new tariffs, sending shockwaves through the tech industry and financial markets. These tariffs threaten to significantly raise the prices of imported goods, impacting everything from electronics to consumer products.

According to Mat Piscatella, a leading analyst at market research firm Circana, Nintendo was likely caught off guard by the severity and scope of the tariffs. "My best guess is Nintendo had some assumptions in place regarding what tariffs might look like, and the announced tariffs came in much higher and broader than anticipated," he explained.

The Switch 2 is already facing criticism for its high $450 price tag, and Piscatella suggested that this price could climb even further if companies like Nintendo need to offset increased production and import costs. “Every responsible business relying on international supply chains will now be reassessing US pricing strategies,” Piscatella noted. "They simply have no choice."

The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) previously warned in February that these tariffs could severely harm the gaming industry and negatively affect millions of American consumers. Nintendo’s preorder delay underscores just how disruptive these trade policies could be for the video game market.

"Historically, consumers in other regions have had to pay significantly higher prices for video games due to tariffs and taxes," Piscatella added. "Unfortunately, it appears the US may soon face similar circumstances."

Nintendo fans are advised to stay tuned as the company navigates these unpredictable market changes.

Game Library and Content

Crowdfunded through Kickstarter, Antstream Arcade aims to evoke powerful nostalgia by offering a live streaming service focusing primarily on retro video games, complemented by several retro-inspired indie games, such as Flea! (NES), Golden Wing (Amiga), and Rune Master (MSX). Currently available on PC, Mac, Linux, Android, Firestick, and your web browser (beta), Antstream Arcade boasts a games library of 1,470 titles (according to the official website). It's worth noting that this number includes games available across multiple platforms. On Xbox, the game icon advertises "play over 1,300" titles. As with any streaming service, the number represents the total number of games, but not the unique number of games on the service. Licensing plays a crucial role in availability, and not all titles accessible on PC are currently accessible on Xbox. Notably, Namco-developed/published arcade titles such as Pac-Man, Galaga, Dig Dug, Splatterhouse, and more have been removed from the service on Xbox (at the time of this review) due to ongoing licensing complications between Namco and Microsoft, as disclosed by developers on the official Discord.

Besides the aforementioned indie games, Antstream Arcade's library offers a diverse selection of games spanning the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. The collection heavily features arcade titles, early home consoles, and PCs like the Amiga, Commodore 64, and the ZX Spectrum, along with a smattering of games from other platforms such as the MSX/MSX2, NES, SNES, Atari 2600/7800, Sega Genesis, and more. Personally, I was pleasantly surprised to rediscover DOS-based LucasArts Games that I have very fond memories of playing, including classics like The Secret of Monkey Island, Day of the Tentacle, Indiana Jones and the Fate of Atlantis, and even the three Super Star Wars (SNES) titles. While new games are consistently added on a weekly basis, it's important to note that the focus of Antstream Arcade lies in providing an authentic arcade preservation experience rather than offering entire console libraries. And in this regard, it certainly does not disappoint.

Interface and Navigation

The greatest appeal of Antstream Arcade lies in the seamless and swift transition into gameplay. Within seconds, I found myself immersed in Earthworm Jim (SNES/Genesis), battling an evil army in SNK's Sengoku (Arcade), or defending humanity from robots in Robotron: 2084 (Commodore 64). However, the UI navigation could use some refinement. While browsing through various genres listed on the main screen adds an element of excitement, the absence of dedicated platform or genre pages may require users to master the search function to locate specific games.

The search feature proves to be potent and effectively displays relevant games categorized by publishers, genres, platforms, or year released. One peculiar aspect is the list of players appearing above the game results, which seems unnecessary as players typically search for games rather than other users. For instance, searching for "irem," synonymous with classic shoot-'em-ups, yields game results for Captain Dynamo due to the game's description containing the word "retirement," while the 16 games listed under Irem as a publisher can be found underneath. Although the search results display all versions of games (if available on multiple platforms), the UI layout occasionally covers the platform ribbon on the game thumbnails with the challenge rocketship icon.

Technical Performance and Controls

Despite being streamed, I have not encountered any noticeable latency issues in the almost 300 different games I've played so far on Antstream Arcade. The service automatically selects the best server location for optimal performance, but users also have the option to manually choose their preferred server location. The connection test provides valuable insights into various aspects, including bandwidth, streaming capability, packet loss, input, and connection quality.

With a strong emphasis on authenticity, the platform strives to preserve the original gaming experience. For example, titles like Double Dragon (Arcade) retain any slowdowns present in the original game. As a result, users shouldn't expect performance enhancements or modern emulation options. The sole in-game option available allows users to adjust the game's volume, maintaining the original gameplay as closely as possible.

The platform provides four save slots, though some users have reported inconsistent functionality on Xbox. The UI for saving can be unintuitive; pausing the game allows users to save, but selecting "save" from the pause menu does nothing - instead, users need to use the plus symbols indicating different save slots.

Control schemes are displayed upon launching each game, but the platform does not offer control remapping or turbo button options. This limitation affects certain three-button arcade games that could benefit from more intuitive button layouts. For instance, Genesis/Mega Drive games use an X, A, B configuration instead of the potentially more intuitive X, Y, B setup.

Challenges and Community Features

The challenge system adds a compelling competitive element to the service. Supported titles offer various challenges with different gem requirements. Players can compete for leaderboard positions, challenge friends to beat their scores/times, or engage in community-wide battles like Giant Slayer. Duels pit players against a single opponent, with each betting an equal amount of gems and the winner claiming the entire pool. The recent players list ensures you always have someone to compete with, even without in-game friends.

Giant Slayer mode particularly stands out, allowing one player to compete against the entire community by posting a challenging score that others must try to beat. These time-limited challenges create a constant stream of new events and foster an engaged community. Score-based challenges limit you to a single life, adding tension and encouraging "one more try" attempts.

Subscription Model and Pricing

Antstream Arcade offers two main subscription options: a yearly subscription at $29.99 or a lifetime subscription at $79.99. Each provides unlimited access to the platform's extensive game collection. However, there's no upgrade path between tiers - choosing to switch from yearly to lifetime requires paying the full lifetime fee without credit for previous payments.

The gem currency system functions differently on Xbox compared to PC. While PC users can earn gems to play games without a subscription, Xbox subscribers get unrestricted access to the entire library, with gems primarily used for tournaments and challenges. The daily login bonus provides additional gems, though Xbox Series X|S users need to fully close and restart the game to claim this reward when using Quick Resume.

Technical Limitations and Audio-Visual Quality

While Antstream Arcade achieves impressive input lag-free streaming, this comes with some trade-offs in visual and audio quality. The impact varies by game type and on-screen action complexity. Players may encounter screen tearing, blurry visuals, and occasional poor image quality. These issues are less noticeable in slower-paced games like Bubble Bobble (Arcade) but become more apparent in fast-paced titles like Mortal Kombat (Arcade), where compression artifacts are visible around character edges.

Some games have had music removed due to licensing issues, such as Spy Hunter (Arcade), and occasional audio glitches occur with sound effects. These audio issues typically resolve after restarting the application.

Simply Put

Antstream Arcade stands as a commendable effort in game preservation, making classic games accessible to future generations. With over 1,300 games available and regular weekly additions, the service offers excellent value through its reasonable subscription options. While licensing issues may occasionally affect game availability, and the interface could benefit from some refinements, these minor drawbacks don't significantly impact the overall experience. The platform successfully balances gaming nostalgia with modern convenience, creating an engaging way to explore and enjoy retro gaming history.