Why Mario Strikers Battle League?

Mario Strikers: Battle League is an energetic arcade-style soccer game that brings the chaotic fun of the Mario universe to the soccer field. Instead of focusing on realistic sports simulation, the game emphasizes fast action, exaggerated moves, and over-the-top gameplay. Characters from the Mario series compete in intense matches where strategy, teamwork, and quick reactions are just as important as scoring goals.

The core gameplay revolves around a unique version of soccer called Strike, which removes many traditional rules in favor of fast-paced fun. Teams consist of four players on the field plus a goalie, and matches take place in enclosed arenas without out-of-bounds lines. This keeps the action constant, as the ball is always in play and players can bounce shots off the walls or chase rebounds quickly.

Players can choose from a roster of familiar characters from the Mario universe. Characters like Mario, Luigi, Peach, Bowser, Toad, Yoshi, Donkey Kong, Daisy and Rosalina bring their personalities onto the field with dramatic animations and powerful shots. While characters share many basic mechanics, they each have slightly different stats such as speed, strength, shooting ability, and passing skill. This allows players to create teams that fit their preferred play style.

One of the standout features of the game is the Hyper Strike mechanic. During a match, players can activate a special cinematic shot that, if successfully performed, counts as two goals instead of one. These moments are dramatic and visually exciting, adding bursts of tension and excitement to matches.

Customization is another major part of the experience. Players can equip characters with different pieces of gear that adjust their stats. For example, some gear might increase shooting power but reduce speed, while other items boost defense or passing. This system allows players to experiment with different builds and strategies when forming their team.

The game supports both local multiplayer and online play, making it especially fun with friends. Matches can be played casually or competitively, and the chaotic nature of the gameplay often leads to hilarious moments where the match can change dramatically in seconds.

Visually, Mario Strikers: Battle League stands out with its detailed character animations and vibrant arenas. The characters show a surprising amount of personality during matches, celebrating goals with dramatic poses or reacting angrily when things go wrong. The stadiums are bright and energetic, and the special effects during Hyper Strikes look impressive.

The sound design also contributes to the excitement. The soundtrack features energetic music that keeps the action feeling intense, while sound effects highlight tackles, shots, and dramatic goals.

However, while the gameplay is exciting, the game does have some limitations.

One of the most common criticisms is the relatively small roster of characters compared to other Mario sports titles. While the characters included are fun to play, some fans may wish there were more options from the larger Mario universe.

Another issue is the limited number of stadiums and modes. Although the core gameplay is enjoyable, players looking for a wide variety of modes or challenges may find the content somewhat limited over time. The game focuses heavily on multiplayer competition rather than long single-player campaigns.

Additionally, the fast and chaotic gameplay can sometimes feel overwhelming for beginners. With items flying around, tackles happening constantly, and Hyper Strikes changing the score quickly, new players may need time to learn the mechanics.

Despite these drawbacks, the game excels at delivering intense multiplayer matches and over-the-top soccer action.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 8-players on one Nintendo Switch.

Pros

Fast-paced and exciting arcade soccer gameplay.

Colorful visuals and expressive character animations.

Fun Hyper Strike mechanic that adds dramatic moments.

Gear customization allows strategic team building.

Great for multiplayer with friends locally or online.

Energetic music and sound effects.

Cons

The roster of playable characters is smaller and the number of stadiums and game modes is somewhat limited.

The chaotic gameplay can feel overwhelming for beginners.

Single-player content is relatively modest compared to multiplayer features.

Summary

Overall, Mario Strikers: Battle League is a fun and energetic sports game that focuses on chaotic multiplayer action rather than traditional soccer realism. Its colorful presentation, dramatic gameplay moments, and strategic customization make it an enjoyable experience, especially when played with friends. While it may lack some content depth, it succeeds at delivering exciting and memorable matches in the classic Mario style.

Mario Strikers Battle League – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

Why Carmen Sandiego?

Carmen Sandiego is a thrilling revival of the classic educational detective series, bringing a modern twist to the beloved franchise. With cutting-edge graphics, immersive gameplay, and a wealth of global mysteries to solve, this game is designed to challenge players’ problem-solving skills while keeping them entertained.

For the first time ever, players get to play as the elusive master thief, Carmen Sandiego. Working for ACME, tasked with tracking down the evil band of V.I.L.E. operatives. Missions take players across the world, where they must gather clues, decipher codes, and use deductive reasoning to uncover V.I.L.E’s next move.

The gameplay incorporates a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and interactive dialogue with NPCs. Players must analyze geographical, historical, and cultural clues to progress, making it a great educational tool wrapped in an engaging narrative. The inclusion of branching storylines and moral choices adds replayability, ensuring that no two investigations feel the same.

Carmen Sandiego boasts vibrant, detailed environments that bring famous cities and landmarks to life. The character animations are fluid, and the art style retains the signature sleek aesthetic of the recent Netflix series. The voice acting is top-notch, featuring an impressive cast that brings both heroes and villains to life, accompanied by a dynamic soundtrack that enhances the globe-trotting adventure.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 3-players for the Nintendo Switch, PC and more.

Pros

Engaging, educational gameplay with real-world knowledge

Stunning visuals and immersive environments

Choice-driven narrative for varied experiences

Faithful adaptation of the classic franchise

Cons

Some puzzles may feel repetitive

Learning curve may be steep for younger players

Summary

Overall, Carmen Sandiego successfully reinvents the franchise for a modern audience, blending education and adventure into an exciting detective experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, this game offers an engaging way to explore the world while testing your investigative skills. A must-play for mystery lovers and knowledge seekers alike!

Carmen Sandiego – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

Why Mario Party Superstars?

Mario Party Superstars is a great game. It has minigames and boards from past Mario Party games from 1 to 10. There is no shortage of fun and diverse challenges for players to tackle.

This game can be played up to 4-players or online which can be fun when playing with friends. There is also different modes to choose from:

• Party Mode– Play on a board and try to collect stars like all other Mario Party games.
• Minigames – Play minigames from all different modes.
• Tro Challenge – In this mode you play three VS one minigames and try to win and get the best time. This mode is only up to three players.
• Survival Mode – Play online and compete in minigames against real life players from all over the world.
• Coins mode – Play coin minigames and try to get the most coins to win.
• Sports and Puzzles – In this mode you play Sports and Puzzles minigames and try to get the best times.

The graphics and design in Mario Party Superstars are really good, with colorful and detailed environments that bring the various game boards to life. The music is upbeat and catchy, enhancing the fun and lighthearted atmosphere of the game.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 4-players on one Nintendo Switch.

Pros

There’s lots of pros to Mario Party Superstars. Like there’s over 100 minigames from past Mario Party games to choose from. Along with a wide variety of game boards, each with their own unique themes and strategies to master.

Online multiplayer is available, allowing players to connect and compete with friends and other players from around the world.

The game supports up to four players locally, making it a great option for parties and gatherings.

The graphics and visuals are vibrant and colorful, adding to the fun and energetic atmosphere of the game.

Cons

Some players may find the game to be too similar to previous Mario Party titles, lacking innovation and fresh gameplay mechanics. Which I don’t fid to be true but some others might.

Some players may find the game to be repetitive, as they may have already played many of the mini-games featured in Mario Party Superstars in the previous Mario Party games.

The online multiplayer experience can be inconsistent, with connectivity issues and lag affecting gameplay.

Summary

Overall, Mario Party Superstars is a great addition to the series that captures the magic of the original games while adding new features and improvements. Whether playing solo or with friends, this game is sure to provide hours of fun and laughter. Fans of the Mario Party series, both old and new, will not be disappointed with this game.

Mario Party Superstars Review: Multiplayer Switch Game brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

Why Super Mario Party?

Super Mario Party features a variety of fun mini-games and challenges that players can play with up to 4-players. The graphics are bright and colorful, with all the familiar characters from the Mario universe making an appearance.

One of the best parts of Super Mario Party is all the game modes available. Party Mode, Partner Party, River Survival , Sound Stage, Challenge Road, Minigames, Mariothon, Toad’s Rec Room and Stickers modes are all fun to play. Each mode offers a unique twist on the traditional Mario Party gameplay, keeping things fresh and exciting.

The mini-games in Super Mario Party are a highlight, with over 80 different games to play. From puzzle games to action games to rhythm games, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The controls are intuitive and responsive, making it easy for players of all skill levels to jump in and start having fun.

How We Test Games

For testing games we use a Nintendo Switch firmware version 2H. Hardware includes Joy-con and Pro controller on a large screen TV. Tests are done with up to 5 players. We take turns playing and evaluating games.

Whenever possible we play multiple players. We also use a Nintendo 2DS, DS XL, and for PC games we use a Ryzen 7 1700x CPU, AMD RX580, running on Win 10. This game is up to 4-players on one Nintendo Switch.

Pros

There are lots of pros to this game. The graphics, colors and animations are verry well done.

There is lots of modes and minigames to play. Wide variety of mini-games that are both challenging and entertaining. Unique game modes and boards that keep gameplay fresh and exciting.

Fun and engaging multiplayer gameplay that is perfect for parties or get-togethers.

Online multiplayer option for players to compete against friends or others around the world.

The graphics are verry bright and colorful. Making the game just so much better.

Cons

One of the biggest cons is you can’t play all of the minigames without having more than one Nintendo Switch. There is one minigame you can’t play (Banana Split) without at least two switches and copies of the game.

There may be limited single-player experience, because the game is designed for multiplayer.

Motion controls are required for most mini-games and you can only use 1 Joy Con. Which means you can’t play in Hand-Heild mode or with a pro controller.

Summary

Overall, Super Mario Party is a great addition to the Mario Party series and offers hours of entertainment for players of all ages. With its variety of game modes, fun mini-games, and charming graphics, it is definitely worth getting.

Super Mario Party – Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

While the handheld mode is convenient and portable, sometimes you just need help holding your Switch. This is where a Nintendo Switch Stand comes in handy.

I like playing in handheld mode as much as anyone but sometimes it feels awkward holding the Switch and controllers together. In my experience, a Switch stand takes portable playing to a new level.

While hooking up to the big screen is always my first choice, a Switch stand allows for a more comfortable viewing angle than handheld mode. It feels more like playing on the big screen since I’m holding the joy cons the same as when it’s hooked up to the TV.

A Switch stand also works better for multiplayer. Something you can’t do while only one person is holding the Switch. With a stand you can adjust the screen angle so both players can see.

Nintendo Switch stands are essential accessories that can enhance your gaming experience by providing a more comfortable and convenient way to play.

Stands come in a variety of designs and styles, each offering unique features to suit different preferences and needs. They are made from plastic or metal. Some have built in chargers, cooling fans, or even function as a docking station.

A stand is an essential accessory for your Nintendo Switch for a number of reasons. Firstly, using a stand can help prevent neck strain and fatigue by elevating the screen to a more comfortable viewing angle. This is especially important for extended gaming sessions, as holding the Switch in your hands for long periods of time can lead to discomfort.

Additionally, a stand can also help improve airflow around the console, preventing overheating and ensuring optimal performance.

There are several types of Nintendo Switch stands available, each offering unique features and benefits. Some stands are designed specifically for the Switch Lite, while others are compatible with both the original Switch and the OLED model.

Stand options include classic stands, dock/stand hybrids, themed stands inspired by popular games like Mario and Zelda, and more.

This stand is versatile and compatible with both the classic and OLED models of the Nintendo Switch. It provides a stable and adjustable platform for your console, allowing you to play in tabletop mode with ease.

The best feature about this stand is it’s made of metal. My test, (aka dropping it), revealed it’s very sturdy. It won’t crack or break. I like how this stand folds flat for storage. In my experience, it also works with any phone or tablet between four and ten inches.

Designed for cars, this stand is ideal for traveling and playing games on your Switch. I’ve found playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a great way to pass the time on a long drive. Not while I’m the one actually driving though, that would be silly.

This stand clamps on the headrest of the seat in front of you. I like this one better than ones with hook and loop straps. Unlike the straps, this stand stays in place and is adjustable.

It also works on flat surfaces, such as a table or desk too. I found the clamp functions as a kick stand when not clamped in a car.

This stand is a must-have for Zelda fans, featuring a compact design with a Legend of Zelda theme. It’s sure to catch the eye of fellow Zelda fans.

The colorful design is also available with Mario or Pikachu theme. It has space to plug in a charger while being used as well.

In addition to a Nintendo Switch stand, there are a number of gaming accessories that can enhance your gaming experience even further. Items to explore include the Nintendo USB AC adapter for charging on the go, game storage solutions to keep your collection organized, and compatibility with other Nintendo products such as Joy-Cons and the Switch Lite.

This is a must have accessory for your Nintendo Switch. The Switch battery doesn’t last forever. Being able to charge while playing in handheld mode is a game changer.

I keep the docking station in my living room. Which limits my time playing in handheld. Until I got another charger. Now, I can play in any room or while traveling.

Speaking of traveling, a 10 foot long charging cord is a must have accessory for your Switch. Regular charging cables are useless in a car in my experience.

Getting a long cable is the way to go for car charging. It also works great for in the house. I admit it’s a bit unwieldy at home but I won’t ever go back to a short cable for the car.

Another accessory to enhance your gaming experience is a game storage rack. This game storage station holds both game cartridges and cases. It includes a charging station for joy cons and holders for two pro controllers.

It’s a one stop shop for your Switch and all the stuff that goes with it. A docking station isn’t included but fits snugly in the front.

This organizer allows for fast access to your most used game cartridges with the card slots on top. Plus easy access to storage cases below. If you’re like me you’ll probably need two or three of these.

Having our games organized is important to us. I’ve discovered keeping games organized by type or frequency of use works best. That way we aren’t digging through a pile every time we want to change games.

Getting a Nintendo Switch stand has very practical considerations. A stand is more comfortable than holding it in your hands. It’s less stress on your body for long periods of time.

Also, a stand allows for better air flow. Propping up your switch with a blanket or books doesn’t allow for good circulation. Keeping your Switch from overheating ensures no damage occurs to your Switch or game cards.

It’s important to consider the country of origin, manufacturing quality, and compatibility with other Nintendo products when choosing a stand. While official Nintendo products offer the best compatibility, they also tend to cost more.

Nintendo is based in Kyoto Japan but that doesn’t mean products from China are worthless. Just that careful examination is necessary for any product. In my experience, reading reviews and actual pictures of a product are the best way to scrutinize a product.

Computer generated images look nice but I like to see the actual product. Every new device made is bound to fail on occasion. When reviews consistently talk of issues then there’s a problem with manufacturing quality.

Another consideration is how well a Switch stand works with other products. The Switch stands I use are compatible with other Nintendo products as well as phones and tablets.

The products listed also work with Joy-Cons, Switch OLED, and Switch Lite where applicable. Stands are just for the Switch, not the controllers. But storage and charging options are compatible.

When selecting a Nintendo Switch stand, it’s important to consider factors such as country of origin, manufacturing quality, compatibility with other Nintendo products. How the stand can enhance your gaming experience is critical too.

With a wide range of options available, there is sure to be a stand that suits your preferences and needs. So why not elevate your gaming experience with a Nintendo Switch stand today?

I consider how I’m going to use the stand when selecting one. Whether I need it for the car or the kitchen table. Or do I just need another place to store my Switch.

Whether I need a durable metal stand to survive all the abuse I throw at it. Or is a plastic themed stand deserving of special treatment necessary? Either way, different stands offer different solutions depending on your needs.

Choosing the right stand definitely enhanced my gaming experience. I don’t get stiff or sore while playing handheld for extended times. I can adjust the distance and angle to suit my needs. We can also play multiplayer if we have to in handheld.

I can’t think of any reason to not invest in a stand today and level up your gaming experience.

Nintendo Switch Stand: Elevating Your Gaming Experience brought to you by David M.

I’m David M. I’ve been playing video games a long time, my pong game was fire. Now, my kids run circles around me but we always have a good time. We mostly play party and family games. Strategy and battle games are still among my favorites. I like writing about games almost as much as I do playing them. My favorite games are: Moving Out 2, Out of Space and Overcooked All You Can Eat.

No battery lasts forever and after 5 years most start degrading. For the Switch it depends on how much handheld use it gets. The more you use handheld mode, the more use battery is used.

In my experience, it never lasted 6 hours even when new. Our Switch is probably used in the docking station 80% of the time. It’s reached 5 years and the battery still lasts 2.5 hours in handheld mode. Although, I anticipate needing a new battery within a few years.

If you primarily use your Switch in handheld mode then the battery is going to need replaced sooner. It’s just inevitable. Nintendo says a battery starts to degrade after 800 charging cycles.

Of course, not all charging cycles are the same. Batteries can drain to 10% then be charged back to full. Or only drained to 70% then fully charged. Knowing how often to charge your Switch causes less wear and tear on your battery.

In my experience with Switch batteries, laptop batteries, and phone batteries should be charged whenever they fall below 20%. This isn’t always convenient or possible.

But as a rule of thumb, avoid completely draining a battery. Don’t ignore those low battery warnings. If you can pause the game then let it charge for 20 minutes before finishing Rainbow Road.

Conversely, it isn’t good for a battery to be at 100% all the time either. It’s fine to leave your Switch in the docking station all the time. The circuit’s are smart enough to stop charging when it’s full.

Just don’t worry about having the battery at 100% all the time. It’s fine to leave it in your backpack for a few days as long as it isn’t at 10%.

Batteries still lose power even when your Switch is off. But it shouldn’t completely drain the battery. If you find your battery drained while it’s off, then turn off the internet connection while in sleep mode.

Sleep mode isn’t the same as powering off. Sleep mode shuts off the display but still keeps software running in the background. Whereas power off completely shuts down your Switch.

If you want to extend how long your battery lasts while playing that’s another matter. Extending the overall lifetime of a battery is a matter of:

• Not completely draining your Switch battery regularly is the best way to maximize the life of your battery.
• Not leaving a battery at 100% for more than a week is another way to extend its life.

Extending the life of a battery while using a Switch in handheld mode is a different matter. In that case, extending the life of a Switch battery comes down to reducing the biggest draw on the battery. Those are:

• Display brightness
• Wifi use
• Use headphones
• Lower the resolution

The largest consumption of power on a Switch battery is the display brightness. Keeping it off the maximum brightness has a noticeable increase on battery life. Sure, lowering the brightness to 10% might add an hour or more to the battery life. But who wants to play at 10% brightness?

Even 50% brightness is annoying. However, 80% brightness is easier on the battery with little impact on gameplay. Less is better, but in reality 70% is about as low as I go.

The Wifi is the next largest drain on a battery. Turn on airplane mode if you aren’t playing online. If you are playing online then you need wifi.

However, if you’re playing local then there’s no need to drain the battery keeping the wifi signal active. It doesn’t have any impact on local play but you will notice a difference in battery life.

As mentioned before, keeping the internet active while in sleep mode drains the battery. If you don’t want your battery drained while in sleep mode then disable the internet connection while in sleep mode.

Plugging in headphones instead of using the built in speakers in another way to extend battery life. Turning down the volume is good. But the built in speakers still draw a lot of power. Using headphones are better for your battery.

Next, your graphics processor will thank you for turning down the resolution while playing in handheld mode. the graphics processor doesn’t draw too much power. So this doesn’t add as much life as lowering the brightness.

Rechargeable batteries eventually reach the end of their life and need replaced. In my experience, most Li-ion batteries last 3 to 5 years.

The first thing I notice when they start going bad is they don’t hold a charge nearly as long as they used to. It’s usually triggered by draining a battery extremely low.

But it can just happen suddenly. Instead of getting 2.5 hours of play, it only lasts 1 hour. Then after a few charging cycles, even less time. Until the battery barely lasts 20 minutes.

When your battery time drops below 1 hour on a full charge, it’s a sure sign your battery is going bad and should be replaced. Once a battery there isn’t any way to recover it.

While you can see the battery life on the display, there’s no indicator of battery health. You can tell a healthy battery by how long it holds a charge. For a Switch 2 to 3 hours is a healthy battery.

Sure, playing Snipper Clips on 10% brightness lasts 6 hours. However, in the real world 2 hours is good for most games. Only getting 1 hour from an intense game isn’t great but changing some settings can help that.

The life of a Nintendo Switch battery depends on taking good care of it. Most importantly, this involves avoiding completely draining the battery.

Don’t ignore any prompts for you to charge it. Better still, charge it when it gets to 20%. This improves the longevity of any Li-Ion battery.

Keeping the Switch on the charger whenever it’s not in use is fine. But powering off instead of sleep mode when not in use is less wear and tear on the battery.

Turning down the brightness to 70% has the biggest impact on battery life. Other settings help but the display draws the most power.

If your battery is over 3 years old and doesn’t hold a charge more than 1 hour then it should be replaced. Don’t tax an unhealthy battery. Replacement batteries for the Nintendo Switch are affordable and not too difficult to replace.

While the Nintendo Switch battery is a consumable item. Taking good care of it extends it’s longevity and allows you to get the most time playing out of it.

How to Win at Mario Kart 8 Deluxe brought to you by David M.

I’m David M. I’ve been playing video games a long time, my pong game was fire. Now, my kids run circles around me but we always have a good time. We mostly play party and family games. Strategy and battle games are still among my favorites. I like writing about games almost as much as I do playing them. My favorite games are: Moving Out 2, Out of Space and Overcooked All You Can Eat.

In my experience Mario Kart 8, Super Smash Bros, and Animal Crossing are the main games to really benefit from Nintendo Online. The rest only gain an advantage if you have friends with Nintendo Online too. We got our Switch for local multiplayer games not online multiplayer games.

Getting the expansion pack adds to the game library and content, it’s also very expensive at $50 per year. Plus it still doesn’t add much to newer games. Sure you can get the downloadable content (DLC) with the subscription but if you ever cancel you lose access to the DLC. In my experience just paying a one time fee for DLC is the better option.

1. Limited features: In my experience, Nintendo Online does not offer as many games or services as other gaming platforms, such as Xbox Live or PlayStation Plus. There are fewer online multiplayer options and limited chat features. Nintendo requires the installation of a phone app for voice chat.
2. Lack of dedicated servers: Unlike other gaming platforms that have dedicated servers to ensure smooth online gameplay, Nintendo Online typically relies on peer-to-peer connections, leading to more lag and connectivity issues.
3. Sparse library of free games: While Nintendo Online does offer a selection of free games to subscribers, the library is relatively small and lacks newer games compared to Xbox or PlayStation.
4. Inconsistent performance: Some users have reported connectivity issues, slow download speeds, or frequent disconnections while using Nintendo Online services. Which are only amplified by wireless connections for the Switch.

The primary advantage of Nintendo Online is connecting with remote friends. If your friends are not able to visit you in person, Nintendo Online is a good way to connect and play games together on your Switches.

Other than that, there really isn’t a good reason to get the service.

It is important to note that these criticisms are based on my experience. Since we have enough local players we’ve opted to abandon the Online service. While Nintendo regularly updates and improves their online services, I doubt it would change my mind about the service.

Why Does Nintendo Online Suck brought to you by David M.

I’m David M. I’ve been playing video games a long time, my pong game was fire. Now, my kids run circles around me but we always have a good time. We mostly play party and family games. Strategy and battle games are still among my favorites. I like writing about games almost as much as I do playing them. My favorite games are: Moving Out 2, Out of Space and Overcooked All You Can Eat.

It’s an overall fun game, my only complaint is that the story mode is 1-player but I guess it makes sense because you decorate rooms and that could be hard to do in multiplayer.

It’s available for the Nintendo Switch, which is what we play it on.

Lessons

There are six lessons and you have to unlock some but I think each of them are fun to play.

• Study
• Make Bouquet
• Archery
• Equestrian
• Dancing
• Cake Decorating

There are also three Difficulties Easy, Normal and Hard. I tested the game on all three levels.

In the Dancing lesson you need to time pressing the button to keep the beat. To unlock this lesson, you have to decorate the ball room.

In the Equestrian lesson you need to collect roses, avoid the hay and jump over obstacles. At the end you must mash the button to get bonus points.

In the Cake Decorating lesson you have to match the cake in front. To use fruit for the cake you must press the Y, B, A and X buttons.

In the Make Bouquets lesson, You must make Bouquets by collecting roses. Matching Color (Blue, Blue and Blue for example) is worth 50 points and one of each (Red, Yellow and Blue) is worth 30 points. Any other is worth 10.

In the Study lesson they will ask you questions like “Is this Red?” then you press the button to say, yes or no.

In the Archery lesson you must shoot targets but don’t shoot the bunnies, gold is worth more points.

Summary

I think it’s a fun game it’s up to 4-players (lessons) and the story mode is only 1-player.

Pretty Princess Party Review brought to you by Gaming Chickadee

Chickadee loves to have family gaming days. She loves birds, unicorns, ponies She also likes the Nancy Drew Games. She loves to play as Princess Daisy in the Super Mario Games, Her favorite games change a lot but right they are: Mario Party Superstars, Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Pretty Princess Party.

Switching back and forth isn’t something I thought I’d use much but do get a lot of use out of now. Multiplayer games is the main reason we got one in the first place. However, it is a first rate hand held gaming console.

What I wish I knew before buying a Nintendo Switch is some games are more expensive, the joycons are fragile, and the online gaming isn’t free.

Not all games are more expensive, mostly the ones from Nintendo. Plenty of $5 games are fun. For example, Party Party Time is about as much fun as Super Mario Party.

The fragile joy cons really depend on who’s using them. They don’t hold up to abuse such as throwing them across the room. Or heavily mashing on the buttons or stick.

That being said we have 6 joy cons and 4 have had no issues. They’re used by girls who are very gentile. The other ones have had some drift issues. Nintendo repairs issues with joy cons for free in the USA. So on the one hand they are a bit fragile. On the other hand Nintendo offers free repairs.

The Switch comes with everything you need to play games. Except games that is. Some are free and others have demo versions. Before you buy a Switch give some thought about what games to add to your cart.

Games are available in digital or physical versions. Digital games are downloaded immediately after buying them. Physical versions are cartridge based. Which are bought at a store or ordered online.

The price is the same for either version. The advantage of a digital version is you can redownload it at any time. The disadvantage is 10 or 20 years from now it might not be available.

While a physical cartridge can’t be taken away. It’s inconvenient waiting for it to arrive or finding out it isn’t stocked at your local store.

We have an even split of cartridges and digital games. It came down to which was more convenient at the time.

While Nintendo has the most family friendly games in my experience. They also have many shooting and battle games too if you like those type of games.

We like co-op, puzzle, party, and racing games. There’s no shortage of these games for the Switch.

Before you buy a Switch, there are some accessories to consider. A hard carrying case an indispensable accessory. Being portable is one of the best features of the Switch.

A hard carrying case is crucial for taking it on trips. It also is a great place to store game cartridges. One of the best accessories for our Switch.

However, it wasn’t the first accessory we got for our Switch. Extra controllers were our first priority since et only comes with two. The Nintendo Joy Cons are expensive but worth it. We tried four different cheap Joy Cons and every single one hand problems.

A pro controller is a less expensive option. You won’t have any problems with off brand pro controllers like we did with off brand Joy Cons.

A SD memory card is another accessory you should consider when buying a Switch. We have a 64 GB SD card and it has been adequate for our needs. A 128 GB SD card would be nice but I’m sure 512 GB is overkill.

Nintendo offers online services for the Switch. This service provides online play for popular games. Nintendo Online isn’t required to play games. Still, if you want to play against real people instead of the built in bots it isn’t terribly expensive.

In my opinion, charging even a small amount for online play is greedy since it’s free everywhere else. Plus, online play is laggy, especially when it uses wireless. Newer Switches come with a wired docking station.

As for the online play we don’t use it since we have a full house of local players. We don’t bother with the online play and still enjoy all our games.

Knowing the basics of a Switch is important before buying one. Having an idea of the games, accessories, and services for a Switch is a good idea as well. This info helps inform your decision.

Before you buy a Switch, the good things you need to know are many multiplayer games are great fun, screen shots are easy, and it takes up little space.

The games and accessories add a financial burden. However, we have no regrets buying our Switch.

What do I need to know before buying a Switch brought to you by David M.

I’m David M. I’ve been playing video games a long time, my pong game was fire. Now, my kids run circles around me but we always have a good time. We mostly play party and family games. Strategy and battle games are still among my favorites. I like writing about games almost as much as I do playing them. My favorite games are: Moving Out 2, Out of Space and Overcooked All You Can Eat.

So if your one of the few people that hasn’t bought a Switch by now then it’s a good idea to hold off getting one. You can either spend a lot of money on the new console and new games. Or pick up a used Switch and games on the cheap.

Either way, if you’ve gone this long without buying a Switch then you can wait a little longer. I’m not a big fan of buying the latest greatest thing in gaming anyway. It usually has some bugs to work out plus is excessively expensive.

The Nintendo Switch is a great gaming console for several reasons. Mainly due to it’s ability to be played in handheld mode as well as hooked up to a TV. Plus the available games.

The graphics and performance are not as good as other gaming consoles such as the PS5. However, the difference in graphics is only apparent when compared side by side.

Playing Mario Odyssey on a Switch is incredible. Anyone would be impressed by the graphics. Only when playing Ratchet and Clank on the PS5 are the shortcoming of the Switch noticeable.

However, in my experience the Switch games are better overall. They’re just fun to play. I take notice of poor gameplay long before subpar graphics or performance.

The general type of games available varies per console. For example, a PS5 has more first person shooters (FPS) than a Switch in my opinion. While the Switch has more appeal with family type games.

The Switch has a wide range of games too. From inexpensive ones such as Party Party Time to expensive ones such Mario Strikers. The Racing, co-op games, and sport games are popular for the Switch.

We’ve found many of the top tier AAA games came down in price after several months. Also, it gives us time to decide if the game is actually one we would enjoy.

Some games we know we want and buy as soon as they come out. For example, Mario Bros Wonder and Sonic Superstars. While Sonic indeed has some glitches, we thoroughly enjoy the game.

Even with the release of a new console in the near future, there are so many great games available for the Switch. Meaning it isn’t going to wind up on a shelf collecting dust.

Another option is waiting for the replacement console. Which could be 2024 or 2025. Nintendo hasn’t offered much information about a new console. Other than sending signals one is in the works.

They make games backward compatible when possible. So it’s safe to assume many of the greatest games available for the Switch will be playable on it’s replacement.

If you don’t mind waiting and are willing to spend more money on the latest console then waiting to buy is a good idea. The price of a new Switch is certain to drop once a new console is released.

Either way, if you haven’t bought a Switch by now then now isn’t a good time to buy one. My advice is to wait and see what Nintendo does in 2024.

Is it Worth Buying a Nintendo Switch brought to you by David M.

I’m David M. I’ve been playing video games a long time, my pong game was fire. Now, my kids run circles around me but we always have a good time. We mostly play party and family games. Strategy and battle games are still among my favorites. I like writing about games almost as much as I do playing them. My favorite games are: Moving Out 2, Out of Space, and Overcooked All You Can Eat.