The Nintendo Switch 2 finally has its first wave of discounts, and some of the biggest third-party titles are already included. Over on Deku Deals, “No Man’s Sky” for Switch 2 is down to $23.99. “Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars” is available for $39.99. Even “Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition” has hit a historic low at $62.99. These discounts don’t apply to Nintendo-published games, which traditionally hold their full price for years, but it’s a good sign that Switch 2 sales momentum is picking up just a few months into its lifecycle.
Meanwhile, content updates for “Mario Kart Tour” have stirred conversation. Although Nintendo previously stated it would stop updating the mobile title, new content inspired by “Mario Kart World” is arriving through the Sunshine Tour. While the updates don’t affect “Mario Kart World” itself, fans are speculating whether this cross-promotion is a strategy to funnel mobile players toward Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch 2 Play Test Program Expands to 40,000 Players
Nintendo is running another online play test for the mystery game from October 2024, and this time, access is expanding to 40,000 players. Registrations opened for a first-come, first-served basis outside Japan, and participants must meet specific requirements: be 18+, have a Switch or Switch 2, and hold an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.
This play test runs from Monday, July 28, 2025 to Sunday, August 10, 2025, giving players nearly two weeks of access. However, Nintendo continues to enforce strict non-disclosure policies. Players cannot share any content, footage, or impressions, even though 10,000 testers leaked gameplay and footage during the previous session.
Despite the secrecy, speculation remains rampant. Nintendo openly states that this is the exact same game tested last October, confirming suspicions about a future full release. Content creators and outlets involved, including podcast crews, are planning internal discussions—staying compliant with the embargo while preparing coverage for the official reveal.
Switch 2 Sales Cross 1.6 Million in Japan
Hardware sales for Switch 2 have reached 1.6 million units in Japan. Mario Kart World topped the latest software chart with 65,853 units sold, pushing its total beyond 1.3 million and surpassing “Mario Kart 8” on Wii U. A notable drop in Switch 2 stock last week led many to believe Nintendo is holding back units in preparation for Donkey Kong Bananza, set to be one of the year’s most anticipated platformers.
Sales data provided by Famitsu also shows strong demand for the OLED and Lite models, but Switch 2 clearly leads. Its rapid sales pace signals ongoing hardware demand, even with constrained restocks in some markets.
Sonic Racing Crossworlds Physical Release Confirmed
SEGA announced that “Sonic Racing Crossworlds” will launch digitally for Switch and Switch 2 this holiday, followed by a full physical cartridge release for Switch 2 in early 2026. This marks the first major Switch 2 title from SEGA to receive a proper cartridge rather than a key card.
Cross-progression and an upgrade path are confirmed for those who purchase the Switch version. The game includes over 40 vehicles, 70+ gadgets, and 100+ parts, offering massive customization. Preview impressions suggest it could rival “Mario Kart World” by offering more frequent updates and crossover content.
This physical release reflects SEGA’s shift in strategy, possibly in response to underwhelming key card sales. Whether it’s Sonic’s popularity or a broader pivot to consumer preferences, cartridge support is a welcome addition for collectors and Switch 2 adopters alike.
