Conceptually, everything about this game sounds interesting. It’s a game about wheelchair basketball (though, curiously, the game itself never quite seems to refer to it as such), which is inherently an interesting concept to make a game around; then on top of that, this is a game designed to showcase the mouse control capability of the Switch 2. The entire game is played by holding two Joycon 2 controllers as mice and using their motion to control the movement of the individual wheels on your wheelchair as you play basketball.

It’s definitely an interesting concept, but the final game ends up coming up unfortunately short. Earlier I mentioned ARMS. While ARMS too was designed to showcase the Joycon controllers’ motion capabilities, it was also a full fledged game on its own merits, coming with a fair bit of content, post-launch support, an obviously high budget for its audiovisual presentation, and even options to play the game without using the signature motion controls at all – making it a normal unique fighting game for those who had no interest in playing one with motion input. All of that made ARMS a reasonably easy recommendation, and the game went on to accumulate a dedicated fanbase for itself over the years.

"There is no single player campaign of any sort, which I think is a missed opportunity, because I feel like it would address a lot of the game’s shortcomings."

Very little of that is true for Drag X Drive. The game comes with very little content, for example. You get to play multiplayer games either locally or online, and you can play single player games against bots. And… that’s about it? There’s a tutorial mode, of course, and there are some fun time or score attack challenges that are included, but ultimately, outside of playing these core matches, the game doesn’t really give you anything to do.

There is no single player campaign of any sort, which I think is a missed opportunity, because I feel like it would address a lot of the game’s shortcomings – a campaign would not only provide a chunk of added content which immediately raises the value proposition, but it would also let players get familiar with the controls better, and presumably give players more to work towards – whether it is unlocking new characters, or customization options, or stadiums, or titles, or anything.

Some of that is in the game already, to be fair. For example, technically you can customize the look and play style of your character in-game, and some of those customization options are unlocked by completing specific tasks in-game (such as playing a certain number of matches, winning a certain number of matches, scoring a certain number of points, performing a certain number of tricks… you get it). The options here are fairly limited, however, and more importantly, not particularly compelling.

"Unfortunately, the lack of content and audiovisual flair counts against the game fairly heavily, because there isn’t much else here."

This brings us to what has been the central observation or criticism of Drag X Drive from the moment it was revealed earlier this year – the audiovisual presentation. Some Nintendo games have charm, personality, and a sense of aesthetic. The character designs stand out, the environments are tactile and beckoning, and the games as a whole are designed with a toy style mentality, inviting you to interact with them and seeing how they react in unexpected ways. A lot of this simply is not true for Drag X Drive, which uses unfortunately bland and drab character designs, with minimal customizations allowing for opportunities to fix that.

This is something where a campaign, with proper designed characters presumably, could have helped give the game more material to work with – because right now we have some fairly generic, unremarkable looking chibi figures in these wheelchairs, and they don’t look cool enough for me to care at all about customization options for them.

This lacking style and aesthetic extends from the character design through to the rest of the game. There’s no particular color in the environments, and the menus and UI are totally bland. Puzzlingly enough, the actual game design still retains that core playful Nintendo sensibility – the main “menu” basically puts you in a series of courts where you go around and select modes, but it is also littered with things for you to interact with that serve no purpose other than simply being there for you to play – things like bowling pins you can run into and knock over, or half pipes for tricking, or even jump ropes. The core game design still has that Nintendo spark – it’s just the utter lack of content and audiovisual charm that’s muddying that.

Unfortunately, that lack of content and audiovisual flair counts against the game fairly heavily, because there isn’t much else here. The core of the game, the gameplay – is actually pretty good. The mouse controls work fairly well, the haptic feedback is good, and the controls are well thought out, allowing for a surprising degree of player expression. There’s also some interesting depth here, between the tricks and the team dynamics, especially in multiplayer, but ultimately, there isn’t enough for this to be a whole game. Equally importantly, as impressive as the controls are, they are not as reliable or responsive as simple buttons would be.

"I think this game would definitely have gone down better if, rather than being a whole standalone product that has to be assessed by itself, it had been a part of a larger collection of mini games."

There can be times when it feels like you are fighting the controls – this happens a lot less frequently than for any motion controlled game I can think of, which is a testament to how well the mouse controls are implemented, but it happens more than it would in a game that uses buttons. And that is a problem, because that core gameplay is the only thing the game has going in its favour – if the controls mess with that, there’s very little left to pick up the slack. Unlike with something like ARMS, you also cannot switch to regular controls to play this game – either you are playing with mouse controls, or you are not playing this at all.

I think this game would definitely have gone down better if, rather than being a whole standalone product that has to be assessed by itself, it had been a part of a larger collection of mini games. It has a surprising amount of depth, and the core mechanics are fun to engage with. But the absolute lack of content, combined with the lacking audiovisual presentational aspects, and the occasional control issues, all create a lot of problems to consider.

At a budget $20 price, Drag X Drive is not breaking the bank, and may be cheap enough for several to pick it up as an impulse buy, to have a game that shows off what the mouse controls should be like – but even at that price, it has enough issues that unfortunately hold it back from being something, if not special, then more.

This game was reviewed on Nintendo Switch 2.

Drag x Drive launches on August 14th for the console and costs a mere $19.99 (excluding the cost of Nintendo Switch Online for online play). Here’s everything you should know before diving in.

Premise

Wheelchair basketball. As unconventional as it seems for the sports game genre, dominated as it’s been by NBA 2K year in and year out, the presentation felt somewhat familiar. It’s also akin to streetball with smaller teams and looser rules. Points for style are also important in more ways than one, but overall, it’s something new and different.

Mouse and Motion Controls

One such area where it stands out from the crowd is its controls. Movement is predominantly mouse-driven. Using the Joy-Con 2s, players drag them up to accelerate forward and down to reverse pace. You can also turn by moving either the Left or Right Joy-Con 2 up or down while the other remains still. Of course, motion controls also factor in – a simple flick of the wrist with a Joy-Con 2 translates into a shot.

3v3 Over Three Minutes

Matches are three-on-three. After meeting up with other players online and organizing into teams, you must score more points than your opponents within the time limit to win. The catch is that matches are only three minutes long, lending to a faster and more frantic pace. Of course, you would think there’s some kind of risk vs. reward mechanic that would fit perfectly within this format, and you would be right. But we’ll get to that.

Ball Possession

There are other time limits to consider, especially when it comes to ball possession. Your team can only hold the ball for 14 seconds, so in that interval, you need to shoot or else lose possession. Pretty straightforward, but you also need to keep in mind that opponents can slam into you and take the ball away.

Shot Success

While lining up for a shot, a little bar will be visible at the bottom, indicating the chances of success. If it’s blue, then it’s very likely; red means you’re probably not aiming at the hoop, and I’m reporting you. Then again, considering the time limits for ball possession among your team and getting that perfect angle, which means carefully moving a single Joy-Con 2 into just the right position, it could be much harder than it looks.

Playing Defense

Slamming into opponents that have the ball is one way to prevent them from scoring, but thanks to motion controls, you can also…lift your hands. Interestingly, even slamming has some nuance. While a head-on collision shakes the ball loose, it’s tougher to pull off since you need to predict an opponent’s movement path. Hitting them from the side won’t make them drop the ball, but it can still disrupt shots.

Tricks

If all that wasn’t enough, you can also pull off tricks, like hitting the halfpipe and dunking. Depending on how impressive this is, additional points, usually in decimal increments, are awarded, which could be all the edge needed to emerge victorious. There’s also tilting, which is done by lifting a Joy-Con 2 while braking, causing your character to balance on their side. It’s great for reaching higher to block shots and increases the success of your shots if someone is attempting to block.

And for those who prefer to hang back for those three-pointers, there’s the Bunny Hop. Executing a Tilt and then suddenly lifting the other Joy-Con 2 causes your character to jump, which adds more points for long shots, and that +0.1 can make all the difference. You can also Bunny Hop for even more blocking height or hit it on a half pipe for a dunk to score even more points.

Styles

Drag x Drive features three different player styles, which are essentially equivalent to classes: Guard, Center, and Forward. The Guard accelerates the fastest and boasts impressive agility, but their rebounding and strength are pitifully low. The Center is taller, which is great for blocking and shooting, and they also won’t be as easily disrupted by collisions, but obviously lacks Quickness. The Forward, as you’ve probably guessed, is a middle ground – three out of five in Quickness, Rebounding and Strength.

Customization

Naturally, you can customize the look of your character from their helmet and “armor” to the wheelchair frame and tires. Multiple colors and textures are available, and you can also adjust their jersey number. It isn’t the most in-depth cosmetic customization, but there are enough options to distinguish yourself from opponents and teammates.

Parks

All matches unfold in Parks, with options for Public and Friend Parks. Both hold up to 12 players for online matches, and when the teams are set, two matches can occur simultaneously. As such, you can choose to spectate instead of play and cheer on others from the sidelines. The Park also features various half pipes, ramps, and other attractions for messing around and practising tricks. You can also set preferences for mini-games and how you’ll join matches (like only being added if you’re needed or joining any open slots).

Circuit Sprint

There are also mini-games, like Circuit Sprint, a more traditional racing mode. Executing tricks grants a speed boost, and the first one to reach the goal wins. Getting a feel for the park and finding the best ways to navigate it beforehand proves even more important.

Rebound Scramble

Alternatively, you can play Rebound Scramble, where a single ball drops into the park and everyone races to grab it, with the first one to gain possession winning out. This feels like something even snappier than Circuit Sprint, though you never know what battle royale-style shenanigans and collisions may occur as players fight for the ball.

Free Throw, Jump Rope and Other Challenges

What would a basketball game be without a free-throw challenge? The objective is to score as many successful shots as possible within the time limit. You can also participate in a jump rope challenge where Bunny Hopping is essential (and a handy meter keeps track of successful hops) and what appears to be an impromptu sumo match. Other challenges seemingly await on the outer edges of the court, so seek them out for fun or to sharpen your skills.

Offline Matches With CPU

Alternatively, you can play offline matches against the CPU. Drag x Drive doesn’t offer a Career Mode or any other single-player mode aside from this, but the CPU does have nine difficulty levels. Levels 1 to 3 fall under Easy; levels 4 to 6 are Standard; and levels 7 to 9 make up Hard difficulty (with the ninth level needing to be unlocked).

Installation Size

The other big selling point for Drag x Drive, beyond its price? The installation size. The Nintendo eShop listing estimates it to be only 1.4 GB in size, making it one of the smallest titles for the Switch 2, and much easier to justify keeping around for some quick games.

For instance, Drag x Drive offers three player archetypes: Guard, Center, and Forward. Guards have faster acceleration, Centers can withstand slams and more height, and Forwards are all-rounders. Other intriguing mechanics include a meter that indicates the viability of certain shots and the 14-second possession rule.

Performing tricks before shots can also result in more points, so there’s an incentive to go for more stylish plays. Lobbies support up to 12 players separated into two simultaneous 6v6 matches. However, there are also mini-games like Circuit Sprint (racing with obstacles) and Rebound Scramble (nab a falling ball before everyone else).

Check out the trailer for more details on customization, challenges, and much more. Drag x Drive launches on August 14th for Switch 2.

Mafia: The Old Country

Almost nine years after Mafia 3, Hangar 13 is going back, at least chronologically, with Mafia: The Old Country. Set in 1900s Sicily, players control Enzo Favara as he transitions from an indentured labourer to a Torrisi family mafioso. Quaint countrysides and ruins replace sprawling cities while Enzo engages in as many knife duels as gun fights. As more of a linear narrative, Mafia: The Old Country could be the revival that the series needs when it launches on August 8th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC.

Echoes of the End

Announced four years ago, Echoes of the End launches on August 12th for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. As Ryn, players work alongside Abram Finlay to explore the fantasy world of Aema and stop a conspiracy. With a healthy mix of magic, exploration, puzzle-solving, platforming and, of course, combat, Myrkur Games promises a new yet also comfortingly familiar adventure.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 (PS5)

After debuting on PS4 (and PC) all those years ago, Senua finally returns with her latest adventure, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, which launches on August 12th for PS5. “Adventure” is probably being a little kind since she ventures to Iceland to battle the Northmen, draugar and other horrors, all while managing her psychosis. Still, with gorgeous visuals, a cinematic presentation and a new update that adds 60 FPS, it may be worthwhile for PS5 players.

Madden NFL 26

Madden NFL is back yet again, and we can’t even say it’s personal. Nevertheless, Madden NFL 26 does offer a few new features, including the new Sphere of Influence system in Career Mode, new coach archetypes for Franchise mode, extreme weather conditions that affect gameplay, and a revamped presentation. It’s out on August 14th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2.

Drag x Drive

Honestly, I don’t know what Nintendo is thinking with Drag x Drive. As unique as the concept is and how much the Switch 2’s mouse controls are interwoven, the marketing has been mysteriously sparse. Nevertheless, there’s some hope that the actual game offers much more than we’ve already seen (which looked solid, if nothing else). We’ll find out when it launches on August 14th for $19.99.

Black Myth: Wukong (Xbox Series X/S)

One year after launching on PS5 and PC (no timed exclusive deal, by the way), Black Myth: Wukong launches on August 20th for Xbox Series X/S. With over 20 million sold in its first month and Overwhelmingly Positive reviews on Steam, it’s finally time for Xbox players to witness the legend first-hand. Of course, if you’re craving a stellar action-adventure title with fun boss fights, gorgeous visuals and a unique art direction, Wukong is more than worth the journey.

Gears of War: Reloaded

It’s yet another end of an era for Xbox as Gears of War: Reloaded brings the cover-based shooter to PlayStation for the first time. Even if you’ve already enjoyed the original, there are plenty of reasons to revisit it, including 4K and 120 FPS support in multiplayer, no loading screens in the campaign, and improved shadows and reflections. Best of all, it’s free for all Ultimate Edition owners on Xbox and PC.

Helldivers 2 (Xbox Series X/S)

Arrowhead Game Studios’ hit co-op shooter Helldivers 2 is finally diving onto Xbox Series X/S on August 26th, bringing all the bug stomping, Automaton crushing and Illuminate…battling to a brand new audience. Crossplay is the biggest feature, which should bolster the already healthy player count, even as would-be fans hope for some kind of crossover with the likes of Halo. Whether it happens or not, Helldivers 2 is a must-play for those on Xbox.

Space Adventure Cobra: The Awakening

Among the many anime adaptations out there, few may have expected a side-scrolling platformer based on 1982’s Space Cobra. Space Adventure Cobra: The Awakening follows the titular Cobra once more, as they venture forth across planets to save the universe. On top of blasting foes with the Psychogun, you’ll have to platform and avoid traps, either alone or in two-player co-op. Whether you’re seeking a new action platformer or a faithful adaptation of the anime’s first 12 episodes, Space Adventure Cobra: The Awakening launches on August 26th for Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, PC, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World

Even after all these years, Kirby and the Forgotten Land is still a great 3D platformer. The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition enhances the visuals and adds Star-Crossed World, where a mysterious meteor has altered various levels. There are new paths and enemies to deal with alongside new Mouthful Modes and a new Wild Mode for a higher difficulty. Is it worth dropping $80? Probably not, but if you own the original, the $20 upgrade might be worthwhile when the Switch 2 version launches on August 28th.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater

Another classic franchise that’s being revived almost a decade later (we don’t talk about 2018), and this time, it’s arguably Konami’s most iconic yet. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater arrives on August 28th for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, featuring revamped environmental textures, character models, and effects. The classic narrative remains, but Konami (with help from Virtuos) has added a new over-the-shoulder perspective and quality-of-life features. Of course, those who want the original’s control style and camera can still enable the same.

Lost Soul Aside

There are games which have been in development for a long while, and then there’s Lost Soul Aside, which took inspiration from Final Fantasy 15 when it was still called Versus 13. Despite numerous delays – including one this year already – it’s finally launching on August 29th for PS5 and PC. A lot is going on with its art direction and story, but most importantly, the combat has held up remarkably well all this time. For those seeking a more character-driven action title, Lost Soul Aside could be the answer.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance channels the brutal side-scrolling action of the classics with a drop-dead gorgeous 2D art style courtesy of Lizardcube. Between the combo-based action, stellar Ninja Arts, detailed environments and seamless movement, you couldn’t ask for a better revival. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is slicing its way onto Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and PC on August 29th.

The Rogue Prince of Persia

You’d be hard-pressed to recognize The Rogue Prince of Persia since it entered early access last year, but it’s seen an art style change and heaps of new content since then. The essence of the premise – the Prince being stuck in a time loop as he tries, again and again, to save his kingdom – still holds, but there are more levels, weapons, branching paths, and bosses. Version 1.0 promises to cap it all off when it launches in August – here’s hoping it can top Evil Empire’s previous work on Dead Cells.

Sword of the Sea

From the studio behind ABZU and The Pathless comes another meditative exploration title where you, the Wraith, must restore the ocean to a mysterious barren Necropolis. You’ll traverse it on a Hoversword, which simultaneously allows for surfing, grinding and snowboarding while appreciating the incredible vistas (and vibes). Sword of the Sea launches on August 19th for PS5 and PC.

Drag x Drive is a competitive multiplayer title where two teams of three players compete in basketball matches. The controls are the main hook as you’ll utilize the Joy-Con 2s’ mouse functionality to move the wheelchairs necessary for getting around. Of course, you can also use motion controls to hit shots and perform tricks.

Nintendo didn’t reveal too much beyond a singular competitive mode and online play (which requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription). Even the lack of an official trailer is somewhat odd. Nevertheless, there’s some hope that further details could drop next month.

Stay tuned for updates in the meantime (including potential post-launch plans). Unfortunately, it’s exclusive to the Nintendo eShop, so physical collectors are out of luck.

Metroid Prime 4

The Metroid Prime games have been one of the biggest games in recent years, and funnily enough at one point, Metroid Prime 4 was supposed to be an early release title for the original Switch. It’s finally coming out for the Switch 2 (and even the original Switch) after undergoing plenty of delays, and it looks absolutely fantastic. Samus looks quite resourceful, decked with so many powers and weapons, and it’s going to be an absolute blast. It’s scheduled to come out sometime this year.

It’s a 3v3 competitive basketball title starring competitors in wheelchairs with sleek gear, but the controls set it apart from the crowd. In the mouse position, players must drag both Joy-Con 2s downward to move and flick the controllers to shoot the ball. They can also set up for some impressive slam dunks.

As simple as the concept may appear, the mouse functionality adds an interesting wrinkle. The question is whether Drag x Drive will offer more content beyond competitive play (which requires Nintendo Switch Online to square up against other people). Stay tuned for more details and updates, along with a proper release date in the meantime.