Nintendo is reviving its mysterious online playtest program—this time optimized for the Switch 2. Previously tested in October 2024, the online game features a unique gameplay loop where players light up dark worlds by building towers and working in sync with others. The test will run from July 28 to August 10 and is limited to Switch Online + Expansion Pack members who joined by July 17. Applications open on July 21 at 8:00 a.m. PT and close July 23 at 7:59 a.m. PT.
Applicants may apply solo or in a group, but Nintendo has strictly prohibited any public sharing of test footage or information. Progress from the test is shareable only among group members. While this MMO-like concept initially felt underdeveloped, its Switch 2 iteration could showcase improvements in scale, graphics, and social systems, especially if proximity voice chat is supported. The core loop involves cooperative world-building within illuminated zones, reminiscent of Minecraft or Roblox.
Sega Switches Gears on Physical Cartridges
In a notable move, Sega has confirmed that Sonic Racing Crossworlds will receive a full physical cartridge release for Switch 2 in early 2026. Initially launching digitally in Holiday 2025, the physical version will include the entire base game on a 64 GB cartridge, avoiding the download key approach many fans oppose.
The $69.99 standard edition and $89.99 deluxe edition will support cross-progression and offer a $10 upgrade path from the Switch 1 version. Players upgrading will carry over all content and progress to Switch 2. While Sega previously released key card versions of titles like Sonic X Shadow Generations, this marks a potential shift in direction following backlash against partial physical releases.
The delay of the physical edition suggests Sega may have pivoted last minute in response to feedback and performance data. Future publisher behavior will determine whether this reflects a larger trend or remains isolated—but fans are clearly voicing their demand for full cartridges.
Nintendo Switch 2 eShop Discounts Now Live
Three Switch 2 titles are discounted on the eShop:
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No Man’s Sky – 60% off ($23.99): The Switch 2 upgrade brings a major visual overhaul, with improved textures, lighting, and performance.
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Suikoden I & II HD Remaster – 20% off ($39.99): This classic RPG bundle, officially titled Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars, offers a $10 discount.
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Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition – 10% off ($62.99): One of the platform’s graphical showcases sees its first price cut since launching June 5 alongside Switch 2.
All titles are compatible with the new system, and No Man’s Sky in particular benefits from the Switch 2 hardware’s capabilities.
Zelda Movie Cast Revealed, Cyberpunk 2.3 Patch Rolls Out
Nintendo has cast Bo Braxen as Zelda and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link for the upcoming Legend of Zelda live-action movie.Braxen and Ainsworth, aged 21 and 17 respectively, will headline a potential trilogy, giving Ainsworth the chance to grow into a more seasoned version of the hero over time..With no major film credits tying them to other franchises, their casting avoids the distractions that often come with big-name leads.
Meanwhile, CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077 received the 2.3 update on July 17, now fully live on Switch 2. The patch adds new vehicles, weather/time-of-day options, auto-drive, photo mode features, and overall quality-of-life improvements. CD Projekt Red released the Switch 2 patch within minutes of the other platforms, surprising some players with its quick deployment.
