This weekend, the gaming world is abuzz with excitement as Nintendo's recent Direct revealed a plethora of upcoming releases and updates. From classic remakes to new games, the Nintendo Switch is set to be a hotbed of activity. Here's a breakdown of what some of the industry's top experts are playing this weekend, along with their insights and opinions.
Ocarina of Time
Jim Norman, Features Editor:
"I've been eagerly awaiting the release of the Ocarina of Time remake, and now that it's been announced, I'm diving back into the original. I play through the opening dungeons every year, but a full playthrough is in order before the new version arrives. It's a timeless classic, and I can't wait to explore Hyrule once again."
Secret Undercover Cover Game
Mai Ladyman, Video Producer:
"I'm currently working through a secret undercover cover game, but I'm also making progress on Pokopia. I'm a huge fan of the underwater gameplay, and I'm excited to explore the depths. Additionally, I've been trying out the Switch 2 demo for Kingdom Hearts III, which has led me down a rabbit hole of nostalgia. I'll be playing the full game this weekend, and I can't wait to see what other secrets it holds."
Pragmata and Wishlist Games
Gavin Lane, Editor:
"This week, I rolled the longest credits in Indiana Jones. Now, I'm looking to get back to Pragmata and catch up on some wishlist games. I've downloaded Akka Arrh and El Shaddai, and I'm also replaying Episode 1 Racer. With Wimbledon approaching, I might crack out Wii Sports with the kids. It's a busy weekend, but I'm excited to explore these diverse gaming experiences."
Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Xenoblade Chronicles
Ollie Reynolds, Reviews Editor:
"I'm playing Zelda: Ocarina of Time on NSO with an N64 controller. The remake announcement was a surprise, and I had to go back to the original to experience it from the beginning. I'm also getting back into Xenoblade Chronicles on the Switch 2. The original entry is a masterpiece, and I'm enjoying it in 4K on a 64" TV. It's a glorious experience."
XGRA: Extreme-G Racing Association
Gonçalo Lopes, Contributor:
"XGRA: Extreme-G Racing Association is a refreshing change from previous franchise entries, and I'm enjoying it immensely. I'm on the final act of Sky Crawlers: Innocent Aces, and I think it's time to buy and read the novels. I'm also eager to reach the Gold Saucer in Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth. The Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2 announcement made me grin like a madman, and I can't wait to play it on the Switch 2. Beholgar 2 is on the eShop, and I'm tempted to grab it."
Virtua Striker 3
Kate Gray, Contributor:
"With the World Cup in full swing, I'm booting up Virtua Striker 3. It's a timeless GameCube exclusive, and I hope Portugal doesn't get eliminated in the group stage. I'm also looking forward to playing the new James Bond game and Slay The Spire 2 this weekend. It's a sunny day, but I'll be enjoying these games indoors."
A Weekend of Gaming
As the weekend approaches, the gaming community is abuzz with anticipation. From classic remakes to new releases, the Nintendo Switch is set to be a hotbed of activity. Whether it's diving back into Ocarina of Time, exploring the depths of Pokopia, or cracking out Wii Sports, the options are endless. The experts' choices showcase the diverse gaming landscape, and I can't wait to see what other surprises the weekend holds.