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The Best Nintendo Switch Lite Accessories in 2025

Gaming on the go has plenty of perks, but there are still a few drawbacks and risks involved, so your Nintendo Switch Lite may benefit from some quality accessories. Whether you’re looking for the extra protection a case can bring, the better ergonomics of a great controller, or a backup battery to ensure you’re never without juice, we’ve got you covered with great gear for your Switch Lite. Check out a detailed look at the best Nintendo Switch Lite accessories, or check the shopping list below:

TL;DR – These are the best Nintendo Switch Lite Accessories:

The Switch Lite is more compact with a smaller screen compared to the original Switch or OLED model, which means some of the best Nintendo Switch accessories aren’t compatible with this ultra-portable model. That’s why we’ve created a guide just for the Lite, so you can kit it out to be a real road warrior, and you might be able to score some awesome Nintendo Switch deals in the process.

1. Nintendo Switch Lite Carry Case + Screen Protector

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Case

Your Nintendo Switch Lite’s portability is one of its chief assets, and you shouldn’t have to sacrifice that to protect it when you’re on the go. The Nintendo Switch Lite Carry Case + Screen protector should have you covered. It adds minimal bulk by sticking close to the dimensions of the Switch Lite itself while providing 360-degree protection. There are also some fun designs to match different Switch games, like the Animal Crossing design we’ve linked, but unfortunately, Bells aren’t an accepted currency.

This is one of the best Nintendo Switch cases you can buy, adding simple convenience and peace of mind. It zips and unzips easily to slide your Switch Lite in nice and snug or out when you’re ready to get your game on. Though compact, the case still offers additional storage for you to carry a collection of game cartridges. Finally, with this combo, you get a screen protector, so even when you throw it in your backpack without the case, you don’t need to worry about scratching the screen. Coming in around $25, this is an excellent investment in protection.

2. ButterFox Switch Lite Carrying Case

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Rugged Case

If you don’t mind a little extra bulk while toting your Nintendo Switch Lite around, the ButterFox Switch Lite Carrying Case is an excellent option. It offers a sturdy shell with a nifty handle to protect your Switch Lite from drops and scratches and room to house all your favorite accessories. You even get a bunch of different color options to choose from. And best of all, this case is incredibly affordable, so you can snag it for under $20 and have money left over to score some great game deals.

Unlike the Nintendo Switch Lite Carry Case, ButterFox provides plenty of space for storage and uses it cleverly. Two organizer layers offer slots for 19 game cartridges and two microSD cards, so you should rarely be without your favorite games. These layers double as a protective microfiber lining over the screen and a buffer to keep other accessories from pressing the Switch Lite’s controls. A mesh pocket provides room to hold charging cables, earbuds, and even a modest portable charger, while quality zippers ensure everything remains safely tucked away in the case.

3. Hori DuraFlexi Protector

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Cover

While the Nintendo Switch is designed to be used with your TV and sometimes on the go, the Switch Lite is a true traveler. That makes it much more susceptible to damage out in the wild. The power of just a bit of plastic wrapped around the device could be the difference between making it or breaking it, literally. The Hori DuraFlexi Protector should hopefully prevent the latter from happening. It covers the Switch Lite around the sides and back in a flexible TPU that can absorb shock and protect the portable console, similar to a phone case. So, if you have butter fingers or just want to slide your Switch into a bag without hassling with a carrying case, this cover is for you.

The Hori DuraFlexi Protector is classy, simple with Pokemon and Animal Crossing designs available. The cover also features perfectly placed cutouts to ensure you can easily access all of the Switch Lite’s ports while the sleeve is on, so when you’re juicing up, you won’t have to remove the cover. The material used even gives you a bit of extra grip. And while the impressively low price tag may raise some red flags, it’s worth noting that the DuraFlexi protector is officially licensed by Nintendo.

4. Orzly Grip Case

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Rugged Cover

Are you one of those people prone to dropping all of your electronics? You’ll be covered, literally, with the Orzly Grip Case. This cover is rubberized and ready to put your Nintendo Switch Lite in a protective embrace, covering all around to shield it from your flimsy grip. It’ll prevent bumps and scrapes while also giving your hands more grip. And though this is an excellent rugged case, it adds just 25 grams of weight to your Switch Lite, so you won’t have to stop calling it Lite just because you’ve tucked it into this case.

What you get from the Orzly Grip Case is far more than just protection for the console. Orzly added thicker handles to the sides, making up for the lack of ergonomics around the Switch Lite’s controls. This kit also provides covers for the thumbsticks for more tactile control and less wear. There’s even some storage, so you won’t have to leave your favorite games behind, while a kickstand on the case allows you to enjoy content hands-free. Orzly makes this case in a variety of colors, and it’s super affordable, making it easy to keep your device safe and your vibe intact.

5. amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Screen Protector

The Nintendo Switch Lite features a plastic screen just like its console brethren, which means it’ll be very prone to scratching. You’re going to want a screen protector to prevent any damage. There are a ton of Switch Lite screen protectors popping up on the market, but amFilm’s Tempered Glass Screen Protector is the tried and true most trusted. It’s also a super affordable way to keep your Switch safe, costing just under $10.

This particular Switch Lite screen protector is made of tempered glass, which won’t scratch nearly as easily as the plastic screen, giving your handheld the glossy, premium glass screen it should have had from the get-go. You get more than just the screen protector, as the kit offers wet wipes, a microfiber cleaning cloth, and a squeeze card to ensure the smoothest installation possible without any dust bubbles or smudges. amFilm’s Tempered Glass Screen Protector also happens to be a three-pack, so you’ll have enough screen protectors to use as replacements for years to come—or if you screw up installation on the first attempt.

6. Satisfye Switch Lite Grip

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Grip

Don’t let your hands suffer from the small controls and tight grip that come along with the Nintendo Switch Lite. You can upgrade your hold with the grip from Satisfye. This attachment slides right onto your Switch Lite, adding two palm fins to give your hands something to really grab onto, while the included thumb pads add extra protection and a tactile feel. The grip also helps give your thumbs a bit more room to move, especially when reaching for the D-Pad or right thumbstick, making your entire gaming experience much more enjoyable.

We loved the version of the grip from Satisfye for the full-size Nintendo Switch, so it’s nice to see a model for the smaller Switch Lite. The technology loaded into this grip ensures your device is held tightly in place without any damage to the chassis, and the Switch won’t overheat, as there’s ample airflow. You’re not going to find a better way to improve the overall ergonomics of the compact device, as the grip offers more of a controller-like feel that your hands will thank you for.

7. PNY XLR8 128GB Gaming

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Memory Card

If you’re building up a healthy collection of games on your Nintendo Switch Lite, you want to ensure you’ve got enough storage for all of them. The 32GB of internal storage probably isn’t going to cut it, and that’s where a memory card like the PNY XLR8 128GB Gaming can come in handy. The 128GB of extra space should provide plenty of room for your game library. Best of all, it costs just $15. And if you think you’ll need more storage, you can snag a larger version of the microSD or grab a second one to split up your library onto multiple drives.

The PNY XLR8 128GB Gaming memory card comes toting not only the space but also all the speed needed to get cruising through your games. You get fast read speeds of 100MB/s to ensure you’re not wasting precious battery life while waiting for games to load up. Plus, the 90MB/s write speeds make it easy to save your progress in a game quickly. All this makes it the best SD card for the Switch Lite.

8. Anker PowerCore Essential 20000

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Portable Battery Power Bank

The Nintendo Switch Lite has plenty of battery to get you through a long commute. But if you know you’re going to have a long day away from a power outlet, it doesn’t hurt to have a bit of extra power available. Anker makes some of the best portable chargers you can get, and Anker PowerCore Essential 20000 is the perfect partner for your device. It’s nice and compact, just like the console, so you can easily tuck it into your bag, ensuring you’re good to game on the go.

The Anker PowerCore Essential 20000 packs in a beefy 20,000mAh battery, giving you hours of extra playtime. You get over two full charges from this backup battery, and it can bring your console back to life quickly thanks to 20W PD out of the power bank’s USB-C port. There’s also an additional USB-A port with PowerIQ 2.0, perfect for topping off other electronics, like the best smartphones or tablets. Even your low-power electronics are safe to plug in and charge up.

9. SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Gaming Headset

The lack of Bluetooth audio support on the Nintendo Switch Lite was a shortcoming, though a software update did remedy it. However, the Switch is still plagued with some connection issues, but you can get around that problem with the SteelSeries Arctis 1. This wireless gaming headset offers a USB-C dongle that can plug directly into the bottom of the Switch to deliver a lag-free, lossless audio connection. You can also use a wired connection. It doesn’t get much better than that level of versatility.

The headset itself totes a durable, comfortable build with a decent clamping force to ensure a snug fit, while the plush earcups house 40mm neodymium drivers that deliver crisp, clear audio. Being wireless, battery life is important, and the 20 hours offered by the SteelSeries Arctis 1 should be plenty to last through your longest gaming marathons. Best of all is the sub-$100 price tag, making these cans a steal.

10. Razer Barracuda X

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Bluetooth Headset

Nintendo games are known for their quality soundtracks, but the little speakers on your Nintendo Switch Lite aren’t going to be the best way to experience them. You don’t even get the option to plug into an entertainment center like the standard Switch. Enter the best Nintendo Switch headset, the Razer Barracuda X. You can connect them to your Switch via Bluetooth for the basics or slide in the USB-C dongle and enjoy high-quality, low-latency audio piped wirelessly to the headset. If you forget the dongle at home and don’t like the latency of Bluetooth, the headset can connect over the classic 3.5mm headset jack.

The Razer Barracuda X totes all that capability while rocking a comfortable, lightweight build. You get a classy, subtle design with a detachable boom mic to fly under the radar when wearing them out and about. The earcups have a breathable material and house 40mm TriForce drivers to deliver crisp, detailed audio. You’d think there might be a few cut corners or missing features at this price point, but Razer didn’t even settle for lackluster battery life, as these headphones can run for up to 60 hours.

11. Nintendo Joy-Cons

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Controllers

The Nintendo Switch Lite might have a pair of integrated controllers, but they require a tight grip to hold on to and lack all the special functionality of the Nintendo Joy-Cons. By pairing these wireless controllers to your handheld, you’ll get back HD rumble as well as the infrared and motion-sensing sensors that some games like 1-2-Switch and Arms need for proper playing. They’re also way more comfortable to grasp for gaming marathons.

The Nintendo Joy-Cons really shine during multi-player games, as both the left and right controllers feature a full set of buttons, an accelerometer, and a gyro sensor, so they can be used independently of each other. There are even handy straps for a bit more to hold onto while playing this way. All of the added control is worth the $80 price tag, even when considering the Joy-Con drift issue.

12. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Going Pro

As portable as the Nintendo Switch Lite is, we can’t imagine it’s too comfortable to hold for hours on end, and the same goes for even a pair of Joy-Cons slotted into a Charging Grip. That’s why a Switch Pro Controller is the best Switch controller for extended play at home or on the go. Not only is this traditional, ergonomic controller easier to hold, but it also sports better triggers and bumpers while giving you back HD rumble and motion controls.

The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller works wireless and can charge using a USB-C cable. If you’re worried about keeping charge, it boasts a 40-hour battery life, so you’re set for an all-day gaming marathon. The larger, more tactile triggers and buttons, along with Nintendo’s signature D-pad should improve your gameplay while giving a retro feel. It even supports Amiibo with its NFC chip. Best of all, the controller should last the duration of your Switch Lite’s life cycle, making it a very sound investment.

13. Adonit Mark

Best Nintendo Switch Lite Stylus

Similar to most smartphones and tablets, the Nintendo Switch Lite offers a display with touch input. And sometimes, a finger isn’t always the ideal tool for the job, as they can leave oils and grease on the screen, making it harder to see over time and requiring more cleaning. Plus, your hands can get in the way of what you’re playing, especially where precision is concerned. So, if you plan to play games centered around the touch input on the Nintendo Switch Lite, like Scribblenauts Showdown, a stylus comes in handy.

The Adonit Mark is an affordable stylus, coming in under $10, that will register just like a finger on a touchscreen but won’t leave the same residue. This stylus features a mesh tip to hold up better over time than some of the soft, silicone-tipped styluses you might find. Its triangular shape ensures the stylus doesn’t roll away from you, while the durable aluminum body means you’ll be good to toss it in your bag or wherever. Since the Nintendo Switch Lite’s display is in charge of registering the touches, the Adonit Mark also doesn’t require any power, making it a portable partner for your Switch Lite.

What to look for in a Nintendo Switch Lite Accessory

The most important thing you should keep in mind while shopping for Switch Lite accessories is that all accessories designed for the original Switch won’t necessarily work with Nintendo’s smaller handheld system. The Switch Lite is simply a different system that has smaller dimensions, integrated controllers, a lack of motion, and IR sensors.

Some cases and battery cases for instance are just going to be too large. While the Switch Lite will fit, it’ll probably jumble around with all the extra space inside. The same thing goes for screen protectors unless you’re ready to cut them down with a box cutter or some kind of knife, they’re going to be too big for the Switch Lite’s smaller display.

Unfortunately, most if not all of the Labo Nintendo has released isn’t going to work with the Nintendo Switch Lite. This is especially true of any pieces of Labo designed to hold the screen by itself like the Labo VR Kit or Labo Piano, due to the system’s slightly different proportions and its inability to detach the controllers. While you may be able to use other Labo kits like the Vehicle Kit, it wouldn’t quite be the same because you can’t connect the Switch Lite to a TV.

Nintendo Switch Lite Accessories FAQ

Does the Switch support Bluetooth?

The Switch consoles have always supported Bluetooth pairing with controllers, but until recently, there was no support for Bluetooth audio. Luckily, if your Switch’s system version is updated to 13.0.0 or higher, Bluetooth audio should work without the need for an adapter. That means you can use the best wireless earbuds, headphones, and speakers with your Switch. However, Bluetooth microphones still aren’t supported. Take a look here for more information about how to connect via Bluetooth to your Switch.

What comes with the Switch Lite?

The Switch Lite is also on the lighter side when it comes to included accessories. This Switch model doesn’t connect to gaming TVs, so a dock and HDMI cord aren’t in the box. The Joy-Cons don’t detach either, meaning you won’t find straps or a grip for them. Instead, you’ll only find a USB-C charger. That’s why you’ll want to grab some of the accessories we’ve listed to make the most of your console.

When do Nintendo Switch Lite accessories go on sale?

Generally, the overall best times to buy a Nintendo Switch Lite console are also the very best times to buy Switch Lite accessories. Some of the more popular events where you’re guaranteed to find discounts on controllers, headphones, cases, and more, are Amazon Prime Day in July and Black Friday in November.

Danielle Abraham is a freelance writer and unpaid music historian.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles – Here’s What Comes in Each Edition

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is set to release for PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on September 30. It’s a new take on the classic tactical RPG, which many gamers of a certain vintage consider an absolute masterpiece. This new version comes with the original game, plus an enhanced version that includes new content and features and is available to preorder now (see it at Amazon). We have all the details below, plus buy links and info about what comes in each edition.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles

Physical Copy (Amazon Exclusive)

Digital Copy

Physical copies of the game are exclusive to Amazon. They come with the standard edition of the game, plus the preorder bonuses detailed below.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Digital Deluxe Edition

The digital-only deluxe edition comes with the game itself, plus the following in-game items:

  • Weapon: Akademy Blade (Raises a unit’s speed attribute slightly while equipped)
  • Headwear: Akademy Beret (Prevents the Charmed status while equipped)
  • Combat Garb: Akademy Tunic (Grants Shell while equipped)
  • Accessory: Ring of Aptitude (Boosts JP earned while equipped)
  • Consumable Items: Phoenix Down x10
  • Black Equipment for Ramza
  • Red Equipment for Ramza

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Preorder Bonus

Preorder Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, and you’ll receive the game itself, plus the following in-game items:

  • Mythril Knife
  • Spiked Boots
  • White Equipment for Ramza
  • High Potion x10
  • Ether x10

If you preorder from Amazon, you’ll receive the game itself, plus a physical bonus item:

  • Double-Sided Poster

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Collector’s Box (SOLD OUT)

The Collector’s Box sold out almost immediately after going on sale. It’s a Square Enix Store exclusive that does not contain the game, but has the following physical extras:

  • Ramza Beoulve figure (Akademy version)
  • Chocobo mini plush set
  • Pop-up art – “Outlying Church”
  • Special art box
  • Art sheet set
  • Zodiac stones acrylic magnet set

What Is Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles?

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is a tactical RPG that originally came out for PS1 in 1997. It takes place in Ivalice, the same setting as Final Fantasy XII and Vagrant Story. In it, the king has died, and his successor is only two years old. That means the regent will effectively be in charge of the land. Two dukes are gunning for the regent position: Goltanna the Black Lion and Larg the White Lion. Their battle is called the War of the Lions, and it acts as the backdrop for the game. You play as Ramza and Delita as you battle your way through all sorts of political turmoil.

The battles themselves are turn-based affairs that have you positioning your units on a grid-based battlefield as you duke it out against the enemy troops. One of the main selling points is the jobs system, which offers over 20 classes of characters for you to choose and customize. There’s a lot of strategy going on in this game.

This new version of the game includes the full original game, updated to look good on modern displays. That’s called the Classic Version. But it also has an enhanced version of the game, complete with a new user interface, improved graphics and voice acting, new difficulty levels, battle speeds, and a tactical view to get an overview of the battlefield. Sounds like a solid update to me.

More Preorder Guides

Chris Reed is a commerce editor and deals expert for IGN. He also runs IGN’s board game and LEGO coverage. You can follow him on Bluesky.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Switch 2 Compatibility Issue Breaking Matches With Mii Fighters, Nintendo Politely Asks Fans to Stop Using Character Until Fix Deployed

Nintendo has updated its list of Switch 2 compatibility issues to request that Super Smash Bros. Ultimate owners refrain from using the Mii Fighter characters, as they’re currently breaking the game.

According to Nintendo’s Japanese support website (thanks, OatmealDome), the issue with Mii Fighter only occurs when Smash Bros. Ultimate is being played online, and a match takes place between one person on Switch 1 and another person on Switch 2.

In this circumstance, should one player be using Mii Fighter, Nintendo warns that an online match may end “immediately,” kicking both players out before the usual punch-ups can be had.

Nintendo hasn’t explained the reason why this issue is occuring, though the fact it is limited to Mii characters may suggest there is some difference to how the two console generations handle the custom avatars — leaving the game to give up on matches instead.

Indeed, Nintendo also warns that Mii Fighter thumbnails may also not save correctly on Switch 2, pointing to some kind of compatibility problem.

“An update will be released soon,” Nintendo has said, though there’s no word yet on when.

Originally released in December 2018, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is one of Nintendo’s best-selling games for Switch 1, with more than 36 million copies shifted. With the series’ largest player roster and years of extra content, the game has earned its Ultimate moniker — leaving many fans to wonder what might be next for the series.

Nintendo recently announced a new game from Smash Bros. series boss Masahiro Sakurai — though it’s not a new Smash Bros. title. Instead, the veteran designer and director is working on Kirby Air Riders, a fresh game for Nintendo’s pink puffball that’s due to launch on Switch 2 later in 2025.

Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social

Pokémon Legends Z-A Is Now Up for Preorder

Calling all Pokémon fans: Pokémon Legends Z-A is officially up for preorder at a couple of different retailers. There’s a Nintendo Switch version available, which is listed for $59.99, and a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition that’s listed for $69.99, if you’ve been able to get your hands on the company’s brand new console.

It’s expected to release on October 16 this year. Head to the links below to secure a copy of your preferred version of the game.

Preorder Pokémon Legends Z-A

Nintendo Switch – $59.99

Nintendo Switch 2 – $69.99

If you preorder the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Pokémon Legends Z-A, you’ll be treated to improved graphics and frame rates. It’s also worth noting that if you buy the Nintendo Switch version, you can always upgrade it to the Switch 2 version by purchasing an upgrade pack.

What Is Pokémon Legends Z-A?

Set in Lumiose City, a place for both people and Pokémon, Pokémon Legends Z-A will see you living life as a Pokémon Trainer in the big city. You’ll be able to choose between Chikorita, Tepig, or Totodile as your starter Pokémon to join you on a journey around the city. As mentioned in the title as well, you’ll also be able to participate in a tournament called the “Z-A Royale”, with the goal of working your way through the competition to reach rank A.

A Pokémon Presents presentation is set for July 22, which could very well feature some more information on the highly-anticipated upcoming game as well.

Other Preorder Guides

This year already has a stacked lineup of releases that are worth keeping on your radar. If you’re looking for even more games to add to your library, have a look through the other options up for preorder below.

Hannah Hoolihan is a freelancer who writes with the guides and commerce teams here at IGN.

Nintendo Fans Surprised to Find Switch 2 Edition Game Cartridges Also Work on Switch 1

Nintendo fans have known for some time that Switch 2 is backwards compatible with Switch 1 games. But what happens when you do the reverse and stick a Switch 2 game in a Switch 1?

Insert a Switch 2-only game such as Mario Kart World in a Switch 1 and Nintendo’s last-gen console will simply display an error message, saying that the software is designed for Switch 2.

But pop a Switch 2 Edition cartridge of some games also available on Switch 1, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and… it works.

What is going on here? Well, Nintendo itself hasn’t gone into detail, but packaging for Switch 2 Edition games does note that cartridges contain both the original game and the Switch 2 upgrade.

“This Nintendo Switch 2 Edition comprises the Nintendo Switch game and the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition upgrade pack,” Switch 2 Edition packaging reads. “The upgrade pack is also available separately.”

In other words, when you put a Switch 2 Edition cartridge in a Switch 1, the older console knows to ignore the Switch 2 bit and just play the original game.

Nintendo doesn’t appear to have ever stated in plain English that this is how some Switch 2 Edition cartridges operate, but it’s a useful feature to be aware of. For example, if you’re a Switch 1 owner who plans to buy Switch 2 in future, you could buy a Switch 2 Edition of a game now to play cross-gen when the time comes, without worrying about upgrading your game down the line.

“Huh. Confirmed that this does indeed work on a Switch 1. (As the OG Switch game.) Kinda surprised,” John Ricciardi, founder of Tokyo-based video game localization firm 8-4, wrote on Bluesky today, upon testing his Zelda: Breath of the Wild Nintendo Switch 2 Edition cartridge on a Switch 1.

It’s a system that’s not a million miles away from how Xbox handles ownership of games across its family of consoles. Owning a copy of a game unlocks access to different versions of said game, which the hardware will detect.

One difference, of course, is that Nintendo has decided to charge extra for some Switch 2 Edition versions — such as with Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and (deep breath) Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV.

Of course, just to make everything even more confusing, Nintendo has also provided other updates and upgrades to Nintendo Switch 1 games on Switch 2 for free — and it issued a long list of patch notes for titles such as Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Zelda: Link’s Awakening and Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom earlier this week.

IGN has contacted Nintendo for more.

Earlier today, IGN reported on the issue of damaged Switch 2 consoles due to retailers puncturing the console’s thin boxes with staples. If you’re buying a console (with or without Welcome Tour), it’s something to be aware of. It has also emerged that Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour — the console’s $10 Switch 2 mini-game collection that many fans believe should have been free — requires you own at least $95 of accessories in order to complete 100%.

Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social

Naughty Dog Owner Sony Files Opposition to ‘Naughty Cat’ Trademark Application, Says ‘Dog’ and ‘Cat’ Are ‘Highly Similar’

Are the words “dog” and “cat” similar enough to cause confusion? Naughty Dog owner Sony thinks they are, and has used that as the basis of an official opposition to a trademark application for ‘Naughty Cat.’

Sony Interactive Entertainment has filed a Notice of Opposition with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) against the “Naughty Cat” trademark application filed by a company called Naughty Cat Co., Limited.

This Hong Kong-based company has two apps listed on the App Store, both gambling “games” that promise to reward users with real cash. That’s a world away from the likes of The Last of Us and Uncharted, but that hasn’t stopped Sony’s lawyers from baring their teeth and barking angrily at their feline competitor.

In documents reviewed by IGN, Sony’s lawyers argue that the Naughty Cat trademark is “confusingly similar” to the Naughty Dog trademark it owns “in overall commercial impression and connotation.”

“The first, dominant element of the two marks, NAUGHTY, is identical,” Sony said. “The second elements, DOG and CAT, are highly similar in that both refer to house pets and are likely to mislead consumers into believing, mistakenly, that Naughty Cat is affiliated with SIE and/or Naughty Dog or that its goods are licensed or approved by SIE and/or Naughty Dog.”

The opposition note goes on to insist that any registration of the Naughty Cat trademark is “likely to cause confusion, or to cause mistake or to deceive the public as to the source of Applicant’s goods offered under Applicant’s Mark, to the harm and damage of SIE and the public.”

“Registration of Applicant’s Mark will lead the public to conclude, incorrectly, that Applicant is or has been affiliated or connected with SIE, and/or that Applicant’s goods provided under Applicant’s Mark are or have been authorized, sponsored, endorsed, or licensed by SIE. Issuance of any registration to Applicant for the proposed mark will result in damage to SIE and the public.”

On top of this, the Naughty Cat application claims a first use date of December 25, 2023. The Naughty Dog trademark was of course in use many years beforehand.

Whether you agree with Sony’s assertion here or not, the USPTO has outlined a schedule to resolve the dispute and set trial dates if it comes to that. Naughty Cat Co., Limited has until July 12 to answer Sony’s opposition. If it fails to do that, the USPTO may mark the application as abandoned and Sony will have their victory. If not, the dispute may go to trial in 2026.

It seems unlikely any of the developers at Naughty Dog will have much of anything to do with this trademark business. Neil Druckmann and co are busy working on Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet and a second, secret, unannounced project.

We don’t know anything about it yet. Perhaps it’s about cats?

Photo by Patrick Pleul/picture alliance via Getty Images.

Wesley is Director, News at IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.

Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, Which Everyone Thinks Should Be Free, Requires $95 of Accessories and a 4K TV for 100% Completion

Nintendo’s $10 Switch 2 mini-game collection — the game that many fans believe should have been free — requires you own at least $95 of accessories in order to complete 100%.

Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is available today alongside the new console, and offers a selection of miniature games and experiences designed to show off the new hardware.

But this also includes mini-games designed to showcase the Switch 2’s camera, and the extra GL/GR buttons which are not found on the standard Switch 2 Joy-Con and instead require a Charging Grip or Pro Controller (thanks, NintendoSoup) — which of course are sold separately.

Oh, and you’ll also need a 4K TV, in case you don’t already have one of those, or were planning to only play your Switch 2 in handheld mode.

Three mini-games require specific equipment, fans now report, with a camera needed to play 1 minigame, a controller with GL/GR buttons for another minigame, and a 4K-supported screen needed for 1 minigame and a separate tech demo.

Nintendo fans who want to see absolutely everything in Switch 2 Welcome Tour will therefore not only need to pay up the $10 cost of the game, but also $54.99 for a Switch 2 Camera, and either $39.99 for a Charging Grip or $84.99 for a Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller to use those GL/GR buttons.

One useful PSA here is that the Switch 2 does support third-party cameras — so you could get hold of a USB-C webcam for cheaper.

But while the Switch 2 does also support the Switch 1 Pro Controller, this does not have the necessary GL/GR buttons — so you really will need to fork out separately for those. And, thanks to tariffs, these now cost slightly more at launch than Nintendo originally announced.

Nintendo has previously faced criticism for not including Switch 2 Welcome Tour with the console itself. An experience designed as an introduction to Nintendo’s new hardware and essentially act as an interactive instruction manual, Welcome Tour would have been a perfect fit to be packed-in with the console — just as Wii Sports was with the Wii.

Even former Nintendo of America boss Reggie Fils-Aimé has got stuck into the debate, highlighting the Wii Sports situation from his tenure in charge. At the time, Fils-Aimé disagreed with Nintendo’s Japanese bosses who said Wii Sports should have been sold separately (as it still was in Japan). But Fils-Aimé got his way for the U.S. and European markets, and Wii Sports went on to become one of the most successful games of all time.

“Everyone has to decide if it’s worth their $10 to learn about the Switch 2 cartridge slot and watch an HDR fireworks display, and the whole conversation surrounding Welcome Tour has suffered because of Nintendo’s irritating decision to charge for it,” IGN wrote earlier this week. It’ll be interesting to see whether the added costs further impact customer purchases.

Earlier today, IGN reported on the issue of damaged Switch 2 consoles due to retailers puncturing the console’s thin boxes with staples. If you’re buying a console (with or without Welcome Tour), it’s something to be aware of.

Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social

XDefiant Chief Quits Industry Entirely, Claims Ubisoft’s Doomed Call of Duty Rival Had ‘Very Little Marketing’ or ‘The Right Resources to Make Content’

XDefiant‘s servers went dark on Tuesday, June 3, a little over a year after Ubisoft’s free-to-play arena shooter was released. Ubisoft gave its Call of duty rival just four months before confirming it would discontinue support. Almost half the team lost their jobs as Ubisoft made a swath of cuts across its San Francisco and Osaka studios.

Producer Mark Rubin, who led development fo the game having previously worked on the Call of Duty series at Activision, called it a “sad day” in a lengthy statement posted to X/Twitter earlier today. After thanking his co-workers for making a “really fun and terrific game,” he announced he’s decided to “leave the industry” for good.

“In case everyone doesn’t know, the team behind XDefiant was all let go at the end of last year and I know many people have moved on to other studios, which is great, and I hope that for all of those still looking, that they find something quickly,” Rubin wrote.

“As for me, I’ve decided to leave the industry and spend more time with my family so unfortunately you won’t be hearing about me making another game. I do care passionately about the shooter space and hope that someone else can pick up the flag that I was trying to carry and make games again that care about the players, treat them with respect and listen to what they have to say.”

Rubin said the team made “remarkable” progress despite “very little marketing,” claiming that despite a lack of advertising, XDefiant “still had the fastest acquisition of players in the first few weeks for a Ubisoft title” just from word-of-mouth promotion.

“But unfortunately, with little to no marketing, especially after launch, we weren’t acquiring new players after the initial launch,” he added, before claiming Ubisoft’s in-house game engine “wasn’t designed for what [XDefiant] was doing.”

“We had other issues, though, as well that we tried to be transparent about. For one we had crippling tech debt using an engine that wasn’t designed for what we were doing, and we didn’t have the engineering resources to ever correct that. I do personally think that in-house engines are not the valuable investment that they used to be, and they are often doomed to fall behind big engines like Unreal.

“This tech debt included the dreaded netcode issues that we could just not solve given the architecture we were dealing with,” he added. “And so, for many players with solid network connections (in both speed and consistent reliability) the game played well but if your connection had even the smallest amount of inconsistency the engine just couldn’t handle it and you would have a bad experience. Normally, you should be able to weather those bad moments on your network. But this was a major issue with XDefiant.”

Rubin also lamented the lack of resources to make content.

“Another issue we had was having the right resources to make content for the game. What we saw at Season 3 wasn’t even enough content in my mind for launch. There were some really cool features coming later in Season 4 or even 5 that would have completed the game in a way that I felt it should have been for launch. I can say everyone’s (devs, HQ leadership, etc.) heart was in the right place, but we just didn’t have the gas to go the distance for a free-to-play game.”

In October 2024, Ubisoft insisted it wasn’t shutting XDefiant down, then announced it would be shutting XDefiant down just a few weeks later. We thought the fundamentals of XDefiant were good, but “conflicting ideas and mechanics stop it from standing above a crowded shooter field.” We ultimately awarded it a “Good” rating of 7.

Vikki Blake is a reporter for IGN, as well as a critic, columnist, and consultant with 15+ years experience working with some of the world’s biggest gaming sites and publications. She’s also a Guardian, Spartan, Silent Hillian, Legend, and perpetually High Chaos. Find her at BlueSky.

Sony’s All-New First-Party PlayStation Fight Stick ‘Project Defiant’ Goes On Sale in 2026

It’s 2025, and Sony PlayStation has finally designed its own wireless fight stick for PS5 and PC.

Edwin Foo, VP of product development at Sony Interactive Entertainment, said the stick — codenamed internally as Project Defiant — will give players “more flexibility to play their favorite fighting games.”

Sony promises ultra-low latency through a wireless connection on PS5 or PC, as well as the option to play with a wired connection. This is essential for fighting game fans who need their combo inputs to be as precise and as instant as possible.

It also boasts an ergonomic design, a “high-quality digital stick” that’s been custom-designed by Sony, and toolless interchangeable restrictor gates, so players can choose between square, circle, or octagon, all of which can be stored in the controller’s handy compartment when not in use. It even comes with a sling carry case.

What we don’t yet know is the cost, or when it will go on sale: right now, Sony will only commit to a 2026 window.

Sony’s fight stick is well-timed, given it’s working on Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls, a new 4v4 Marvel fighting game from Arc System Works, the developer of the Guilty Gear series. That’s also out 2026, so perhaps we’ll see the game and stick come out around the same time.

Sony kicked off the summer reveal season with a bang, presenting a smorgasbord of new games to whet our appetites going into Summer Games Fest Week. Here’s everything announced at PlayStation State of Play 2025 last night, including 007 First Light, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, Romeo is a Dead Man, and Silent Hill f’s release date.

If you’re new to fighting games or it’s been awhile since you indulged, here’s our picks of the 10 best fighting games of all time. Did your favorite reach the top spot?

Vikki Blake is a reporter for IGN, as well as a critic, columnist, and consultant with 15+ years experience working with some of the world’s biggest gaming sites and publications. She’s also a Guardian, Spartan, Silent Hillian, Legend, and perpetually High Chaos. Find her at BlueSky.

James Bond Fans Think They’ve Worked Out Secret Identity of 007 First Light Actor

Fans of secret agent James Bond haven’t taken long to decide who they think is the (not so) mysterious actor playing the role in 007 First Light.

The game’s new trailer, revealed at Sony’s State of Play broadcast, shows off a notably younger-looking Bond, fresh out of the Royal Navy and keen to earn his 00 agent status. But who is playing the title role?

Minutes after the trailer aired, fans on reddit began guessing that Dexter: New Blood star Patrick Gibson was the behind the new Bond — and he certainly shares a strong similarity with the character in the trailer.

“I clocked it THE SECOND I saw the dirty smirk of his,” wrote one 007 aficionado. “Yeah I peeped that as soon as I seen it,” said another.

“Watching the trailer and knew the face looked familiar,” said a third. “After about a minute or so I screamed ‘DEXTER.’ I’m pretty sure it’s him.”

Aged 30, the Irish actor is just a few years older than the 26-year-old version of Bond he looks set to portray in the upcoming game — and, if IO Interactive gets its way, several sequels.

And if Gibson looks familiar to you too, well, the actor already has a swathe of TV and film roles under his belt, including appearances in Shadow and Bone, The Tudors, and The OA. But it’s his role as a younger version of Dexter Morgan in prequel series Dexter: Original Sin for which he’s most famous.

Curiously, 007 First Light developer IO Interactive is yet to confirm Gibson itself — though IGN has asked the studio if it can comment on the internet’s speculation. Gibson also, for now, appears to keeping schtum.

A press release issued alongside Gibson’s apparent debut in 007 First Light’s trailer describes the game as as globe-trotting story-driven action-adventure game where you can choose how to navigate various challenges — either with brute force or 007’s trademark charm.

The trailer showed Bond cracking a couple of deadpan jokes as he got himself out of (and into) trouble. Gibson’s acting chops as the antihero Dexter look set to be put to good use.

007 First Light is due to launch at some point in 2026 for Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S. In case you missed it, here’s everything announced at Sony’s State of Play June 2025 showcase.

Photo by Francois G. Durand/WireImage.

Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social