Edwin gave Ostrich Farm header honours in this week’s Maw, and with good reason I think. “Breed vibrant ostriches”, he wrote. I misread it as “breed violent ostriches” and got excited. I still liked the concept even after realising my mistake. I pinned the Steam page tab (aka “The Coward’s Wishlist”), and forgot about it for a couple of days.
This morning, I clicked on the tab again while browser tidying. “I wonder how Steam likes the ostrich game?”, I mused. One review. A single, negative review. “The performance tanked for me once I had around 70 ostriches and made the game totally unplayable”.
We’re now just weeks out from the smashing arrival of Donkey Kong Bananza on the Switch 2 and Nintendo has now released a overview trailer.
It uploaded plenty of these in the leadup to key releases during the Switch generation and this trend continues with eight minutes of footage for the new Switch 2 exclusive. It highlights DK and Pauline’s abilities, transformations, boss battles, and much more.
Bandai Namco ended its latest showcase with another look at Digimon Story: Time Stranger. If you were wondering about the possibility of a Nintendo release, there’s reportedly been a new development.
As highlighted by multiple sources, a new listing has popped up on the EAN database in Europe which includes a code for an apparent “Switch 2 version”. These codes are used by retailers to identify products at sale.
As you’ll know if you’ve been around RPS for a while, we love the Steam Deck. Valve’s system blends the library and options of a PC with the portability and ease of use of a console, and a big part of that is Steam OS.
Like the Switch 1 before it, the Switch 2 will no doubt play host to dozens of third-party controllers over the course of its (hopefully) long lifespan. First out of the gate is PowerA with its Advantage Wired Controller, which I received in a rather jovial Mario Time theme. You can also get a Mushroom Kingdom themed variant along with a standard black design – y’know, if you’re boring (joking!).
Boasting a similar layout to Nintendo’s official Pro Controller, the Advantage pad features offset analogue sticks, two mappable ‘AGL’ and ‘AGR’ buttons on the backside, and a handy headphone jack on the bottom. Really, the only major change in terms of layout is the placement of the start, select, home, GameChat, and capture buttons, which are all housed beneath the d-pad and right analogue stick.
June, quite unsurprisingly, set a high bar, launching the console itself, selling out almost instantly, and delivering a flood of third-party releases, Switch 2 Editions of hits like Tears of the Kingdom, and even a brand-new Mario Kart.
But July isn’t slowing down. From major first-party launches to more surprises, it’s already shaping up to be another strong month for early adopters.
Switch 2 Games in July 2025 – At a Glance
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 Remastered – July 11
Donkey Kong Bananza – July 17
Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV (Switch 2 Edition) – July 24
No Sleep for Kaname Date – AI: Escape Code – July 25
Wild Hearts S – July 25
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4: July 11, 2025
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on July 11, and is one of the first new major third party releases for the new console. It’s not just Nintendo exclusives anymore, folks.
In our recent preview of the game, IGN’s Nick Maillet had this to say: “In a time where it seems like every game from the early 2000’s is getting a modern facelift, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 is shaping up to be a welcome addition to a year full of excellent remakes and remasters.”
“From its faithful recreation of what made the PS2-era classics so memorable, to its modern quality of life improvements, excellent soundtrack, and overall love letter to the series early days, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 is very much something that should be on your radar if you’re a fan of skateboarding, enjoy action sports games, or just want to play something that’s simple and fun. It might be the easiest kickflip you’ll land this year.”
Donkey Kong Bananza finally swings onto Switch 2 on July 17, marking the first all-new 3D Donkey Kong game since 1999’s Donkey Kong 64.
Nintendo has now confirmed it’s developed by the Super Mario Odyssey team, and that polish shows in everything from the destructible environments to the game’s momentum-driven platforming.
This time around, DK and Pauline team up to run, climb, roll, and, most importantly, dig through a world that’s practically begging to be smashed apart.
The new digging mechanic lets Donkey Kong burrow into the ground or tunnel through cliff faces, uncovering hidden treasure like Banandium Gems and gold, or surf on chunks of debris.
Nintendo is also releasing a new Donkey Kong and Pauline amiibo on the same day. Scanning it in-game unlocks Pauline’s Diva Dress early and boosts your chances of finding discs, collectibles that let you replay individual tracks in the game’s music player.
Shadow Labyrinth: July 18, 2025
In case you’ve got a hankering for some kind of twisted Pan-Man Metroidvania, Shadow Labyrinth could be great option to play on the go on the Switch 2, starting on July 18. It’ll run at 4K 60 FPS with a free Switch 2 Edition download from day one of release.
“8’s raw power and durability, or the fact that Pac-Man can turn into a mech that shoots lasers out of its mouth, everything about this Metroidvania is absurdly fun. The game features something for everyone here, as the platforming, combat, and puzzles each stand out on their own as enjoyable experiences.”
“I implore you to suspend your disbelief about how this bizarre concept can even work, and at least give Shadow Labyrinth a try when it is released, as this insane creative bet by Bandai looks like it might actually pay off.”
Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV: July 24, 2025
Super Mario Party Jamboree – Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV drops exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on July 24. This expanded version includes everything from the original Super Mario Party Jamboree on Switch, plus the brand-new Jamboree TV expansion, a flashy game show mode hosted by Toad that leans even harder into chaotic party-game energy.
This is also another example of Nintendo’s new pricing strategy for Switch 2. While most first-party games on the original Switch launched at $59.99, Switch 2 titles are climbing higher.
Super Mario Party Jamboree – Switch 2 Edition will retail for $79.99, matching the price of Mario Kart World and Tears of the Kingdom – Switch 2 Edition, though not every game is hitting that ceiling.
This version includes the original game, an HD upgrade with smoother performance, and the new expansion content. If you already own Jamboree on the original Switch, you can skip the full re-buy and grab the Switch 2 Edition Upgrade Pack separately for $19.99 via the Nintendo eShop or participating retailers.
No Sleep for Kaname Date – From AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES: July 25, 2025
Step into the mind of Kaname Date, a special agent with an AI partner living in his cybernetic left eye, as you race to uncover the truth behind a missing internet idol.
No Sleep for Kaname Date throws you into a surreal mystery where Iris, a popular streamer, has been trapped inside a bizarre, high-stakes escape game, and the only way to find her is to interrogate suspects, dive into dreams, and decode the secrets buried deep in the subconscious.
Expect psychological twists, dream logic puzzles, and plenty of stylish weirdness when the game launches for Nintendo Switch 2 on July 25.
Wild Hearts S: July 25, 2025
Wild Hearts S is back with a vengeance on Switch 2, bringing its beast-slaying action to a new generation. Set in a fantasy world inspired by feudal Japan, this enhanced edition lets players wield ancient tech to track and take down colossal nature-infused monsters.
Hunt solo or team up with up to three friends in seamless co-op as you craft weapons, build your own hunting grounds, and face off against towering threats in a world where nature fights back—hard. It’s fast, frantic, and completely untamed.
Plenty More New Switch 2 Games Are on the Way
That’s all for July on Nintendo Switch 2. Next up, we can look forward to Madden NFL 25, Drag x Drive, Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar in August, alongside even more big releases later in the year like Borderlands 4 in September, Pokemon Legends: Z-A in October, and hopefully a confirmed release date for Metroid Prime 4: Beyond sooner rather than later.
Matt Firor, boss of The Elder Scrolls Online developer ZeniMax Online Studios, has stepped down amid the cancellation of the studio’s unannounced MMO.
Sources close to the project told IGN that this MMO was a brand new IP unrelated to both Fallout and The Elder Scrolls, and that it had a sizeable team behind it. This team is now cut as part of the layoffs hitting Microsoft today.
In a memo to staff verified by IGN, Jill Braff, head of studio for Bethesda and ZeniMax, named Joseph Burba as Firor’s replacement as the new studio director for ZOS.
Dear Team,
Building on Matt’s note below, I first want to take a moment to acknowledge the changes happening today across Microsoft Gaming, including Bethesda/ZeniMax. Saying goodbye to talented colleagues and friends is painful. These individuals have contributed meaningfully to our studios, our games, and our culture. I want to thank them for the contributions they have made that shaped our journey as a team and as a company.
Today is a day to support one another. Please know we are working closely with impacted employees to ensure they are treated with respect and have our full support during these difficult times. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your manager or HR support team.
I also want to share today that Matt Firor has decided to step down from his role as the head of ZeniMax Online Studios, effective July 14. I want to offer heartfelt thanks to Matt for his incredible leadership of ZOS over the last 18 years. As a driving force behind the success of The Elder Scrolls Online, Matt has grown the game into one of the most enduring and beloved MMOs in the industry.
I’m pleased to announce that Joseph (“Jo”) Burba will be taking over for Matt Firor as the new Studio Director for ZOS. With over 20 years in the industry, his extensive experience in live service multiplayer titles, and a strong background in various roles across ZOS the past thirteen years, Jo is well-prepared to lead the team into its next chapter.
Matt, Jo, and I will work together to finalize our transition plan – more to come soon. In the meantime, please join me in wishing Matt all the best and congratulating Jo on his new role.
Thank you to all of you for your dedication to Bethesda/ZeniMax, our community, and to each other.
Jill
The reference to Matt’s note here is the prior memo Matt Booty, head of Xbox Game Studios, sent to Microsoft gaming staff today confirming the cancelation of Rare’s Everwild and the Perfect Dark reboot, as well as the closure of Xbox studio The Initiative. Booty also mentioned the cancelation of “several unannounced projects” – the ZOS MMO was one of them.
IGN has reviewed Booty’s memo and published it in full, below:
Following Phil’s note, I want to share more about the changes to the Studios business units. We have made the decision to stop development of Perfect Dark and Everwild as well as wind down several unannounced projects across our portfolio. As part of this, we are closing one of our studios, The Initiative. These decisions, along with other changes across our teams, reflect a broader effort to adjust priorities and focus resources to set up our teams for greater success within a changing industry landscape. We did not make these choices lightly, as each project and team represent years of effort, imagination, and commitment.
Our overall portfolio strategy is unchanged: build games that excite our players, continue to grow our biggest franchises, and create new stories, worlds, and characters. We have more than 40 projects in active development, continued momentum on titles shipping this fall, and a strong slate headed into 2026.
For those directly affected, we are working closely with HR and studio leadership to provide support, including severance, career transition assistance, and where possible, opportunities to explore roles on other teams.
To everyone across our studios: thank you. Your creativity and resilience continue to define who we are. I believe in the strength of our teams and the direction we’re taking on the path ahead.
Speaking to IGN in June 2024, Xbox boss Phil Spencer said: “I have to run a sustainable business inside the company and grow, and that means sometimes I have to make hard decisions that frankly are not decisions I love, but decisions that somebody needs to go make.”
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.
I’ve rounded up some killer deals today, stuff I’d actually grab myself. We’re talking fan-favorite book sets, a vinyl gem for Pokémon collectors, and a fresh wave of PC games from Humble Choice. There’s even a white noise machine and a bladeless neck fan in the mix, both priced low and ready to save your summer sanity.
TL;DR: Deals For Today
From cozy farm sims and cat pirates to the grimdark chaos of Warhammer and Westeros, this list covers all kinds of tastes. If you’re looking to cool down, gear up, or zone out, there’s something here worth checking out before prices shift or stock vanishes.
Coke Zero Sugar 12 Pack
Even if you change your mind and don’t want to subscribe and save, you can still get this great deal on Coke Zero when you purchase. It’s Coke with zero sugar, and there’s 12 cans that you can drink out of and recycle (thumbs up).
Dreamegg Portable White Noise Machine
This Dreamegg portable white noise machine is down to $16.15 with the on-site 15% coupon, shaving nearly a quarter off the list price. It’s small enough to fit in your palm but loud enough to drown out hotel noise, snoring, or busy office chatter. With 16 nature sounds, a beefed-up 1000mAh battery, and USB-C charging, it’s a smart little travel buddy. The nubbed button makes it easy to use in the dark, and the memory function keeps your settings locked in. For sleep, focus or baby naps, it punches way above its size.
FrSara Neck Fan
The FrSara neck fan is down to $26.99 and it’s built for real heat relief. It’s bladeless, quiet, and pushes air from both sides with a 360° flow that cools you fast. The 5200mAh battery lasts up to 16 hours, so it won’t quit halfway through your day. It’s comfortable, won’t tug your hair, and the three speed settings give you full control.
Prismatic Evolutions Super-Premium Collection
Prismatic Evolutions Super-Premium Collection is going for $195 right now, beating Amazon by 6%. You’re getting a full-art foil Eevee ex promo card, a plushy-soft Eevee deck box, and a matching playmat with all the Evolutions. 15 Prismatic Evolutions booster packs and 65 themed card sleeves round out the box.
The Witcher Boxed Set
This is the core of Sapkowski’s epic—Blood of Elves, The Time of Contempt, Baptism of Fire, The Tower of Swallows, and Lady of the Lake—finally bundled in one set. If you’ve only seen the show or played the games, this is where the real magic lives. The writing is sharp, the world-building deep, and Geralt’s story hits harder on-page.
George R. R. Martin’s A Game of Thrones 5-Book Boxed Set
The full A Song of Ice and Fire box set (Don’t blame me for the listing name) brings together George R. R. Martin’s five epic novels in one heavyweight bundle. Game of Thrones, Clash of Kings, Storm of Swords, Feast for Crows and Dance with Dragons form a world of brutal politics, ancient threats and unforgettable characters. If you’ve only watched the show, you’re missing huge layers of intrigue and detail the books lay bare.
Humble Choice
Humble Choice is bringing the heat this month with a killer lineup for just $14.99. You’ll snag Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, Daemon X Machina, Cat Quest III, Death’s Door, and more including a free month of IGN Plus. That’s over $200 in games ready to drop into your library. Every month you stay subbed, you get exclusive discounts and new indie gems in the Vault. Oh, and 5% of your sub supports charity too.
Symphonic Journeys Pokémon Red & Blue Vinyl
his one’s a real collector’s gem. Symphonic Journeys: Pokémon Red & Blue is getting the orchestral treatment, and the exclusive IGN variant presses it to Fire Red vinyl. It ships September 2025, but you can lock in your pre-order now for $34.99. Nolan Markey leads the score with full performance by Budapest Scoring, reimagining everything from Pallet Town to the Champion Battle.
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows Limited Edition (PS5)
Assassin’s Creed Shadows finally delivers the long-awaited leap into feudal Japan, and it doesn’t waste the opportunity. This Amazon-exclusive Limited Edition includes the full game plus the Sekiryu Character Pack, and it’s now down to $49.99—29% off the original $69.99 price. You’ll switch between Naoe, a nimble shinobi, and Yasuke, a powerhouse samurai, across a moody and expansive Sengoku-era Japan. We praised the game’s dynamic environments, more focused pacing, and demanding combat. It doesn’t reinvent the series, but it smartly trims the bloat while offering rich stealth and action-driven storytelling. At this price, it’s a sharp buy for any AC fan.
M3GAN 2.0 – Limited Edition Steelbook (4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital)
M3GAN 2.0 dials up the chaos and trades in some of the original’s horror flair for a louder sci-fi action vibe. The Limited Edition Steelbook packs in 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and Digital formats for $37.99, with a pre-order guarantee that locks in the best price. While we noted the sequel stumbles trying to balance satire and spectacle, M3GAN still steals the spotlight with her savage wit and unpredictable presence. It may not reinvent the killer robot genre, but if you’re in for stylish carnage and sharp-edged commentary, this edition delivers plenty of polished personality for the price.
WOWBOX 32 PCS Clear Plastic Drawer Organizer Set
For $15.99, this 32-piece WOWBOX drawer organizer set is an easy win for cutting clutter across any room. You get four sizes of clear black bins, perfect for separating everything from office supplies to cosmetics and kitchen tools. The plastic is sturdy enough to handle daily use without cracking, and the stackable design lets you double your storage without taking up more space.
Tunise Rechargeable Portable Neck Fan
It’s a fan that you don’t have to hold because it sits comfortably around your neck. This is such a cool and handy product for under $15, especially if you’re like me and get warm at the thought of some sunshine.
The Silmarillion Deluxe Illustrated by the Author
I can’t describe how much I need this work of art. This edition of the Silmarillion arrives in a deluxe stamped clothbound hardcover edition housed in a custom slipcase and lavishly illustrated with over 50 color pieces by J.R.R. Tolkien himself. This collector’s version presents the complete text in two-color print and includes exclusive extras like two fold-out maps of Beleriand, a booklet on the making of The Silmarillion by Christopher Tolkien, and a collectible art card. From the crafting of the Silmarils and Morgoth’s theft, to the fall of Númenor and the forging of the Rings of Power, this volume captures the vast mythological backdrop of The Lord of the Rings. Beautifully quarterbound with foil-stamped black cloth boards, silver-edged pages, and a ribbon marker, it’s a definitive edition for Tolkien devotees.
Amazon Prime Day Is Coming
We’re all over Prime Days 2025, and some deals are going live now. For more information about the event and an inside scoop on hot deals and top tips, check out our Prime Day hub.
6 Months Free Amazon Prime For Young Adults
This one is a no-brainer. If your 18-24, snap up this 6-months free deal for Amazon Prime. It includes the free and fast delivery Amazon is known for alongside unlimited streaming, free delivery on GrubHub+, free Prime games every month and loads more.
3 Months for $0.99 Audible Deal
Audible’s doing that 99c a month deal again for Premium Plus, and it’s a steal. Amazon Prime Members get three months free, so make sure to check for an active subscription before looking for this deal. You get three audiobooks to keep, full access to the big library, and it works even if you’ve had a sub before as long as it’s not active now. I just logged in, saw the banner, and grabbed it. Sunrise on the Reaping is already in my library, and I’m eyeing that massive new Sanderson one next. Less than three bucks for all that? Easy win.
3 Months Free Kindle Unlimited
I’ve never really stuck with audiobooks before, but this Kindle Unlimited deal finally got me into them properly. Right now you can get three months free if you’ve got Prime, and it works on your phone or tablet, not just a Kindle. I gave it a go, downloaded a couple of books, and now I’ve actually started finishing them while I’m out walking or doing stuff around the house. It’s made getting through my backlog way easier and I didn’t have to pay a thing to try it. If you’ve been on the fence, this is a solid excuse to dive in.
Pokémon TCG Price Comparison
Some of the pricing here by Amazon is insane, but there’s some deals to be had when comparing these products to TCG Player. For example, Prismatic Evolutions Super-Premium Collection was a massive 56% below market value, but TCG Player is coming in cheaper now at $195. On the other end of the scale, TCG Player has Cynthia’s Garchomp ex Premium Collection at a massive 48% below Amazon’s current price, which is very close to MSRP. I’ve compared all the prices in the carousel above, but another pro tip is clicking through to eBay to see if there’s any new bargains to be had.
This Weeks Pokémon Card Crashers and Climbers
I’ve been keeping a close eye on the Pokémon TCG market this month, and we’re seeing two very different stories unfold. On one side, Surging Sparks cards are going through a steep correction.
On the other hand, Crown Zenith cards are showing early signs of what could be a long-term value surge. The bottom line? If you’re a collector or investor, now is the time to buy into both.
I’m picking up what I can from both sets. The current dip in Sparks is a glimmer of hope for long-suffering 2024-2025 collectors. And Crown Zenith is a train I want to be on before it leaves the station.
Pokémon TCG Classic
The Sam’s Club Pokémon TCG Classic deal is back, and it’s massively undercutting other big box retailers and the secondary market. Just for comparrison, the top four cards from this set, Charizard, Blastoise, Venusaur and Mewtwo, are worth the same price as this discounted offer. This deal is well worth it and should be snapped up as soon as possible.
Mega Evolution Pokémon Cards Are Climbing
I can’t believe the X Y era of Pokémon cards came out 12 years ago, but it was an amazing era for the TCG introducing the Mega Evolution mechanic. Mega’s will be returning later this year with the start of the Mega Evolutions era and the end of Scarlet and Violet, so snapping up these top Mega cards before prices go even higher is a wise move. We know how it’ll play out, no one will be able to grab the new sets at launch, then the nostalgia will kick in and these cards will skyrocket. Just the Charizards and Rayquazzas alone are worth a look.
Magic: The Gathering Price Comparison
MTG doesn’t seem to be struggling to keep up with demand despite it being one of the biggest trading card games on earth, but that doesn’t stop big box retailers getting cheeky when they notice a peak in demand. Like with Pokémon TCG, i’ve gone through the majority of MTG stock on Amazon and compared their pricing to market values on TCG Player. The Theros Beyond Death booster made me spit out my tea. Amazon is listing a single booster for $378.08, but these can be picked up any day of the week for $5.59 on TCG Player. Go figure. Another big difference is Marvel’s Spider-Man – Play Booster Box. Amazon has their preorder price guarantee on this, but it’s still 17% cheaper to preorder on TCG Player.
This Weeks MTG Crashers and Climbers
As we covered in our recent synergies feature, Harmonic Prodigy gives double Wizard triggers – nice! That means it’s gone up by 118.70% in the past month (246.76% in three) – not so nice!
That’s good for those that own the card, not so good for those who are looking to pick it up standalone. Still, market is still just $12.75 right now, so it could be a lot worse.
Moving away from Vivi, Tifa’s getting some love from Bristly Bill, Spine Sower. This Outlaws of Thunder Junction card can help power up our martial artist heroine, but at a cost of almost $40 now.
Another nifty synergy that’s climbing is Perch Protection. This Instant has climbed from a dollar to almost $6, since it handily ties into Chocobo decks.
If you’re sensitive to light while sleeping, this 3D contoured eye mask from WAOAW might be worth trying. It’s designed with deeper eye cavities so there’s no pressure on your lids, and the wide, adjustable strap helps it stay put without pulling at your hair. The material is soft and breathable, and it comes with earplugs and a travel pouch, which makes it a handy option for travel or quick naps.
Christian Wait is a contributing freelancer for IGN covering everything collectable and deals. Christian has over 7 years of experience in the Gaming and Tech industry with bylines at Mashable and Pocket-Tactics. Christian also makes hand-painted collectibles for Saber Miniatures. Christian is also the author of “Pokemon Ultimate Unofficial Gaming Guide by GamesWarrior”. Find Christian on X @ChrisReggieWait.
The current custodians of the World of Darkness tabletop RPG universe are bang up for doing more video game adaptations like the troubled Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2, according to White Wolf brand marketing manager Jason Carl. In fact, they may be working on a few already, with Carl naming Mage: The Ascension, Changeling: The Dreaming and the Dark Ages setting as deserving of “the Bloodlines treatment”.
People who’ve been keeping up with the vamps and their video game misadventures may find that last phrase a bit rich. For clarity, I assume that by “Bloodlines treatment” Carl means “we’re going to make a big 3D RPG with a lot of lore”. Rather than “we’re going to delay it so often it becomes a running joke, fire the original narrative director, hand it to a different studio with no real track record for RPGs, then tell people it’s more spiritual successor than sequel“.
