Taking a closer look at software sales for the month of December, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 took the lead, with Battlefield 6 being ranked third. Other titles in the best-seller charts for the month are a mix of newer games like Donkey Kong Bananza and older titles like Grand Theft Auto 5, Minecraft and Red Dead Redemption 2.

While other console makers might have started struggling with console sales last year, Nintendo has been doing quite well with the release of the Switch 2. Piscatella had confirmed, the Switch 2 ended up being the best-selling console of the year in the US, with the country accounting for 4.4 million units. Along with this, the new console is also noted as selling faster than the original Switch from back in 2017.

As he noted, the Switch 2’s hardware sales single-handedly managed to offset industry-wide downward trends in console hardware sales. Sony’s PS5 ranked second for the period. The Switch 2 has also been described by Piscatella as being the “fastest selling video game console hardware platform” in history so far.

While things might be going well for Nintendo for the time being, research firm Niko Partners has predicted that the company will end up raising the price of the Switch 2 thanks to the worldwide memory shortages affecting manufacturing. The firm noted that, while the Switch 2 is priced competitively when compared to PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo might have to bring its latest console in line with its competitors to maintain profitability.

In the meantime, Battlefield Studios has been working hard on creating and testing more content for the upcoming second season of Battlefield 6. While it hasn’t yet revealed too many details aside from its February 17 launch date, the developers provided a few hints about what kind of content we can expect when Season 2 of Battlefield 6 is kicked off.

Among the new content coming to the game is a brand new map, dubbed Contagion, that will also feature its own unique gameplay mechanics. No details have been provided about these mechanics, aside from vague hints about players needing to use equipment to interact with them, a soldier wearing a gas mask in the teaser trailer, and the fact that the map’s name implies some sort of contagious infection will be involved.

Battlefield 6 is available on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. For more details, check out our review from back when it first came out.

2025 Top 20 Best-Selling Premium Games – U.S. (Dollar Sales, Physical and Digital from digital data sharing publishers, excludes add-on content)

— Mat Piscatella (@matpiscatella.bsky.social) 2026-01-22T14:00:07.506Z

December 2025 Top 20 Best-Selling Premium Games – U.S. (Dollar Sales, Physical and Digital from digital data sharing publishers, excludes add-on content)

— Mat Piscatella (@matpiscatella.bsky.social) 2026-01-22T14:00:07.505Z

Mario Kart World

The best Mario Kart in the series? Your mileage (pun fully intended) may vary, but it is by far the most feature-packed. Free Roam in an open world with P-Switch challenges and cosmetics to gather; new moves like hopping and wall-riding for a higher skill ceiling; brand new tracks that seamlessly link together; and new modes are just some of the things long-time fans can look forward to, and it all works well.

Kirby Air Riders

21 playable characters and 22 machines, each with unique abilities and stats respectively; brand new tracks and remasters from the first game; the return of Top Ride and City Trial, with the latter turned into a faux battle royale mode of sorts; boss fights; and a full-fledged story mode. But even if you want to hop on for a simple race or two, it’s pure unfiltered fun – just like the original.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A

While there’s plenty of criticism to be had for its visuals, Game Freak’s latest mainline Pokémon title manages to capture that same monster-collecting magic. Lumiose City is full of unique sights, sounds and Pokémon to collect, and new elements like the Z-A Royale and Rogue Mega-Evolved Pokémon, alongside simple delights like traversing the rooftops, make it stand out.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Catacomb-like levels, progressively unlocking new abilities and backtracking to uncover new areas, that expectation of something incredible around every corner – even after all these years, Retro Studios still knows how to capture that feeling. The new additions in Beyond, like Vi-O-La, also seamlessly slot in, and wouldn’t you know it, even the NPC companions, despite concerns pre-launch, aren’t terrible. More importantly, experiencing it with such fidelity, complete with mouse controls, elevates it to a new whole level.

Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2

Technically not a native Switch 2 release, experiencing two of the greatest platformers of all time in 4K is hard to resist. The new Storybook Chapters offer a bit of new content, but really, it’s all about scouring the galaxies once more, reliving the wonder of each planet and the discoveries they hold.

Donkey Kong Bananza

It almost seemed impossible that Jumpman’s worst nightmare would get his own starring role once more, but Bananza delivers on that and then some. Excellent platforming and bombastic visuals were a given – this is from the Super Mario Odyssey team after all – but the destruction elements work so well in tandem, resulting in a 3D platformer that’s more than worthy to stand side by side with Mario’s greatest adventures.

Hades 2

Supergiant follows up one of the best rogue-likes in years with – surprise, surprise – an incredible sequel. Between the sheer amount of stuff to do, whether you’re venturing into the Underworld or ascending into Olympus, the challenging and unique boss fights, or the sheer depth that each new weapon offers, Hades 2 feels like a massive step forward in every single way.

Split Fiction

Hazelight’s latest is one of the best co-op experiences of the year (and many before it), and feels tailor-made for Switch 2. Even if it’s not the most fully-featured port, being able to GameShare with local players or engage in cross-play, alongside the Friend’s Pass (which means not having to buy an extra copy), is still great.

Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road

You wouldn’t believe this took more than nine years and multiple delays to release, but that seems to be a theme for 2025. Regardless, Inazuma Eleven: Victory Road isn’t the most realistic adaptation of football so much as the best adaptation of the anime, complete with MAPPA’s cutscenes and over 5,400 recruitable characters. It’s truly unlike anything else out there and a blast once you get into it.

Hollow Knight: Silksong

Team Cherry’s long-awaited sequel is infuriating, frustrating, and challenging, but it’s also mesmerizing, addictive, and oh-so-good to control. The gameplay loop remains as finely crafted as ever, enhanced all the more with Hornet’s movement abilities, and the sheer attention to detail in areas, from their art to their secrets, will keep you coming back long after. It’s a tough bug to love, but Silksong is a stellar game.

Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition

The prospect of Cyberpunk 2077 running on the original Switch was laughable years ago, and yet, here we are more than five years later, experiencing it on the Switch 2 in all its glory. From the excellent base game to the stellar Phantom Liberty, this is still one of the best RPG experiences, and the addition of touch screen gestures for the UI and gyro aiming makes it feel that much better on the Switch 2. Also, shipping the entire package on an actual cart instead of a Game-Key Card? Chef’s kiss.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

Truth be told, the new features – like the phone maps and QR codes for sharing Zonai machines – weren’t the most game-changing for Nintendo’s masterpiece. Nevertheless, it’s still a masterpiece, and being able to play it in 1440p/60 FPS with improved fidelity and faster loading is what we’ve always wanted. For that reason alone, it’s worth picking up.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land: Switch 2 Edition + Star Crossed World

For those who didn’t get their fill from Air Riders, the Switch 2 version of Kirby’s acclaimed 2022 adventure is well worth diving into. Star Crossed World offers a brand new storyline with new sections in old stages alongside new abilities, Mouthful modes and enemies to tussle with as you investigate a mysterious meteor. And of course, it’s a significant upgrade over the original’s already gorgeous visuals.

Cronos: The New Dawn

Bloober Team made a big impact with last year’s Silent Hill 2 remake, but its newest title channelled an altogether different survival horror vibe. A post-apocalyptic future with mutating monstrosities, time-traveling, a more enigmatic pace and protagonist, and more kept Cronos from feeling like a Dead Space rip-off. Even in handheld mode on the Switch 2, it’s a tense, terrifying ordeal.

Star Wars Outlaws

Ignored at launch, Massive Entertainment’s Star Wars scoundrel had a quiet but notable redemption this year, aided by its Switch 2 port. How the development team (in collaboration with Red Lynx) managed to deliver such great performance and ray tracing while retaining image quality, even with DLSS, is fascinating to behold. The fact that the game itself still looks so gorgeous while playing better than ever also doesn’t hurt.

And the Best Switch 2 title of 2025 goes to…

Donkey Kong Bananza

Did you really expect anything else, especially when a Donkey Kong game lets you rip chunks out of the environment to toss at enemies or surf on them with utter abandon? Bananza is more than just the Mario Odyssey formula, but with more destruction and a different protagonist. It’s a masterclass in pacing, deftly balancing the collect-a-thon aspects and real-time destruction with superb level design. Donkey Kong controls like a dream; the new Bananza Powers are as ridiculous as they are fun; and there isn’t an ounce of filler or unnecessary padding. For that reason, and many more that we could spend all day listing, it’s our pick for the best Switch 2 game of 2025.

Put simply, this collection brings two games that people have been hoping to have modern versions and access for, to the Switch and Switch 2, making them widely available for the first time since the 2010s – addressing that scarcity alone would count as a worthy enough reason for this re-release, especially given their aforementioned revered and celebrated status.

"The incredible thing about both Mario Galaxy and its sequel is that they hold up flawlessly and impeccably well today."

That scarcity may also have created a scenario where, especially with Super Mario Galaxy 2, which is being re-released for the very first time ever, this release is functionally acting as the first time these games will be played by an entirely new generation of players. Essentially, for those who didn’t play these games back when they came out – and that was so long ago now that there are probably millions, if not tens of millions, who will be among that number – and for them, something like Super Mario Galaxy 2 is a brand new 3D Mario release in 2025.

The incredible thing about both Mario Galaxy and its sequel is that they hold up flawlessly and impeccably well today. They were considered as the peak of the platformer genre back in the Wii era when they first released… and they still count as that today, almost two decades later. Even in spite of the resurgence that 3D platformers have seen of late, and the excellent titles we have seen releasing in the genre in the last few years, there is a very compelling argument to be made that Mario Galaxy 1 and 2 are both better than those all.

Their core design is spectacular – though they strip away a lot of Mario’s expressive move set from the earlier 3D games, they expand the directions that the level design expands into in literal 360 degrees, leading to some of the most remarkably well designed and playing levels in gaming history. With these games also eschewing the free form sandbox nature of previous 3D Mario games, they instead rely on developer-driven pacing and spectacle.

And what spectacle it is! Super Mario Galaxy, in particular, has a sense of pomp and occasion and the appropriate reverence that should come when dealing with subject matter and vast and infinite as outer space. The game relies not only on its spectacular core design, but also a surprising emphasis on characterization, storytelling, pathos, and a sense of place, to create an incredibly moving experience, one that leaves an indelible mark based on not just the gameplay and design – as all Mario titles are won’t to – but also story and narrative.

"Mario Galaxy 2 sacrifices a lot of the thematic and narrative cohesion the first game brought to the table."

Galaxy’s focus on creating a broader world and a story within it is one of the reasons the game looms so large in the imaginations of so many to this day – this is a game abundant with gameplay riches and narrative weight in a way that the series simply did not attempt after this game, and it expands and adds to the series’ iconography and repertoire so thoroughly that even 20 years later, Mario taps into Galaxy’s lore and world often.

Where the first Mario Galaxy is a tour de force of spectacle, narrative, and gameplay alike, however, Galaxy 2 goes in a decidedly different direction. The game started life as an expansion pack for the first title, and you can definitely see it when you play it – I don’t mean this in a bad way, mind you. What I mean is that wit that game, it is clear that the developers now have the confidence in the new framework for movement and design that the first game established, and therefore, they go literally nuts with the levels and content.

Mario Galaxy 2 is wild – its levels are extremely creative, wildly inventive, almost never repeating, and constantly in a state of one upping themselves with each new area’s brand new gimmick that is used once thoroughly and then almost never again as the game moves on to am entirely new central idea and plays with it instead.

Mario Galaxy 2 sacrifices a lot of the thematic and narrative cohesion the first game brought to the table. In fact, narratively, Galaxy 2 is a deliberate step back from the aspirations of the original game. Gone is the grand, sweeping story (and storytelling) of the first game, stripping the tale down instead to the bare minimum motivation necessary to justify the psychedelic lunacy that are the levels that you will be going through.

Gone is that sense of place and the surprising emotional heft of Galaxy 1 – this is a purely gameplay driven experience through and through, and with its wilder swings, and greatly expanded movement options thanks to Yoshi joining you along for the ride, it runs circles (or spheres…) around the first game when it comes to actually being played.

"Where these games really shine, however, is on the Switch 2, where they run in a native 4K at all times, while maintaining that 60 frames per second frame rate."

But I do think there is something to be said for Galaxy 1’s incredible merits when it comes to the narrative and contextualization – I think those are what gave it a special sauce and made it stand out compared to pretty much every other game in the series. The sequel giving up on that does allow it to be even more memorable as far as the design and gameplay goes, but I feel like something was definitely lost in the process.

Regardless of which you prefer, though, the good news is that – finally – they are both here and available. And this is a great package they are both available in as well. While both games, even in their original form, still look and sound great, this release really cleans them up and polishes them to a shine.

On the original Switch, they run at a near constant 1080p in docked mode and 720p in handheld mode, and, like the Wii originals, a locked 60 frames per second. While the games use the work done for 2020’s Super Mario 3D All Stars’ update of the first Galaxy as a base, they do improve a lot of the texture work, making it more tactile and less blurry.

Where these games really shine, however, is on the Switch 2, where they run in a native 4K at all times, while maintaining that 60 frames per second frame rate. Mario Galaxy 1 and 2 are gorgeous games. These are games that do not look like they are nearly 20 years old, with their timeless art style – an art style that sings like never before in 4K resolution.

There are some shortcomings – for example, those great cutscenes in the original Galaxy I was talking about? Those are pre-rendered, in 1080p, and running in a pretty low bit rate. So those look noticeably lower quality than the surrounding game (or its sequel).

Then too, is there something to be said about how these games translate Wii inputs to the Switch. Both games relied on the Wii’s pointer remote very extensively for gameplay, Galaxy 2 even more so, with a lot of Yoshi’s move mapped to the pointer. The Switch and Switch 2 both lack a pointer, so these versions make do by mapping the pointer to gyro controls in docked, console mode, and touch screen in handheld mode.

"But honestly, Galaxy and Galaxy 2 are so spectacular as games, that simply being able to play them again, and in a better and more definitive form than ever before, is still more than worth it."

It… works, although in both cases, it is not quite as precise or elegant as the original games were. It’s unfortunate the Switch 2’s vaunted mouse controls aren’t used to replicate the pointer functionality either – they only work in co-op mode, with a second player independently controlling the pointer, and being able to use mouse controls if they want, but not otherwise. It’s an understandable, if unfortunate, omission.

In terms of this new release, that is pretty much all there is on offer. These two games, taken pretty much as-is, and updated to run in stunning 4K. Both games offer their entire soundtracks to players who want to check them out (and they should, these soundtracks are amazing), and they also both add an easy mode for gameplay that you can switch to any time. There is also some new story content added, particularly to Galaxy 2, focusing on fan-favourite character Rosalina, whose role in the sequel was originally pared back. But other than that, it’s the original two Galaxy games that were celebrated as among the best ever, now available in modern presentation and on modern consoles.

You can argue that there should have been more extras included with the package, especially with how much these games cost ($70 for the pack with both included, or $40 for each individually), and because this is, after all, an anniversary release. And sure, there’s a case to be made for that.

But honestly, Galaxy and Galaxy 2 are so spectacular as games, that simply being able to play them again, and in a better and more definitive form than ever before, is still more than worth it. Whether you are a long time fan wanting to revisit these formative experiences, or a newcomer wanting to see what all the hubbub is about, Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2 on the Switch and Switch 2 is a must have purchase for anyone who likes 3D platformers… or good games in general.

Welcome back to the Galaxy, Mario.

This game was reviewed on the Nintendo Switch 2.

It also sold nearly three times as many physical copies as Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 on the Nintendo Switch. In a follow-up tweet, Dring noted that physical sales are about 40 percent down from Ghost of Tsushima, but attributed this to increased digital sales and how Sony’s first-party titles were “often very close” to 50/50 in physical-to-digital sales in the past.

The publisher hasn’t offered any update on Ghost of Yōtei’s sales numbers, so stay tuned for further information. It’s currently available on PS5 – check out our review, where we praised the combat, presentation, and open world design (and went into more details here).

Ghost of Yōtei

Easily the biggest game of the month, and certainly a contender for Game of the Year, but that’s to be expected. Sucker Punch Productions’ skill for creating engaging open worlds is on full display once more as Atsu scours Ezo for revenge against the Yōtei Six. There’s more variety and less repetition, while the combat system has been expanded to include more weapons, fresh mechanics like disarming enemies (and throwing weapons into their imminent carcasses), and a wolf that occasionally helps out. In a year where Sony desperately needs some PS5 exclusives, Ghost of Yōtei looks to be an incredible showcase for the console when it launches on October 2nd.

Battlefield 6

About four years ago, the Battlefield franchise suffered a slump that few thought it could ever recover from. But here we are with Battlefield 6, a combined effort between DICE, Ripple Effect, Criterion and Motive Studio, which could take the series to new heights of success. The return of an epic globe-hopping campaign is already fantastic, but even the multiplayer with its Classes, weapon feel, and grounded atmosphere has us excited. Even Portal and the new Battle Royale don’t look too shabby. Launching on October 10th, Battlefield 6 will be available for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A

Game Freak’s latest Pokémon title also marks the series’ debut on Nintendo Switch 2 alongside the original Switch, but it goes even further by taking place in a single city. As a new trainer in Lumiose City, it’s your job to investigate the strange outbreak of Rogue Mega-Evolved Pokémon while having their wish granted in the Z-A Royale. Between new Pokémon and Mega Evolutions, a free-for-all competitive mode called Battle Club, and much more, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is certainly shaping up well. It’s out on October 16th for Switch 1 and 2.

The Outer Worlds 2

For a game that goes “bigger and deeper” than the original, with an overhaul to Skills and Flaws alongside much larger planets and a third-person perspective, The Outer Worlds 2 certainly feels like the underdog heading into October. Maybe it’s the sheer range of other big-name sequels to look forward to, but the new, more-serious story (which still packs moments of dark levity) looks intriguing, and there’s plenty of room for more niche playstyles. Whether you’re a team player or a solo operative intent on killing all NPCs, The Outer Worlds 2 could satisfy that role-playing fix when it launches on October 29th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC.

Digimon Story: Time Stranger

Seven years after Cyber Sleuth – Hacker’s Memory, a new entry in the Digimon Story is finally upon us with Time Stranger. Launching on October 3rd for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC, it was actually announced way back in December 2017 and offers a brand new story with time travel elements. Following an incident that would change the world, the player, as part of a mysterious organization, ventures back in time to try to prevent it. On top of over 450 Digimon to collect, players travel to Illiad in the Digimon World and attempt to unravel what’s going on. Will it end up overshadowed by Pokémon Legends: Z-A or stand out all the more? We’ll find out in the coming days.

Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2

Super Mario Galaxy has returned, and thankfully, it isn’t part of a compilation that’s available only for a limited time. This time, Nintendo Switch players can experience each title in the series for $39.99 separately or for $69.99 in a bundle. Switch 2 owners can play both games at 4K courtesy of a free update, and there are new features like more Storybook Chapters, amiibo support and Assist Mode. These are more like re-releases than remasters, but if you’ve ever wanted to play two of the best 3D platformers ever made, they may be worth checking out on October 2nd.

ARC Raiders

As if it isn’t competing for time with all the other big releases, Embark Studios’ ARC Raiders is sandwiched between two triple-A shooters (with Battlefield this month and Call of Duty in the next). Nevertheless, if the response has proven anything, it’s that it may very well hold its own. Launching with four maps with different conditions and challenging foes, the extraction shooter packs Embark’s sleek shooting with a distinct post-apocalyptic atmosphere. Between mastering different skills, competing quests, taking a shot at the leaderboards, or trying to understand the world as a whole, ARC Raiders promises a lot, and we can’t wait to dive in when it launches on October 30th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC.

Little Nightmares 3

The heavyweight survival horror titles are already out, but there’s still Little Nightmares 3 to look forward to ahead of Halloween. Set in The Spiral, the story follows Low and Alone as they attempt to escape its hellish landscape. Between towering monsters, sentient puppets, and other horrors, it’s a tall task, but each packs unique tools like arrows and a wrench for puzzle-solving and self defense. And while couch co-op isn’t supported, there is a Friends Pass, meaning another player can join in without owning the game. All the better to spread the terror when Little Nightmares 3 launches on October 10th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.

Keeper

You never truly guess what Double Fine Productions will pump out next, and Keeper, out on October 17th for Xbox Series X/S and PC, is truly unique. You control, of all things, a sentient lighthouse that ventures across the world to learn more about its purpose. Between encountering other strange entities in a wordless narrative and the trippy visuals, it’s certainly shaping up to be an adventure unlike any other.

Jurassic World Evolution 3

You kind of know what you’re getting with any Frontier Developments management sim, and Jurassic Park Evolution 3 is no exception. The usual campaign, sandbox and challenge modes return, but there are over 80 species, each with variants (including juvenile dinosaurs), and more complex creation tools to embrace alongside new attractions. Couple this with new locations, and there’s plenty to look forward to when it launches on October 21st for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC.

Ninja Gaiden 4

One of the gold standards for incredible hack and slash action-adventures, Ninja Gaiden, is finally getting a new mainline title on October 21st for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC. Ninja Gaiden 4 follows Yakumo of the Raven Clan as he ventures to the remains of Tokyo to slay the Dark Dragon. The Order isn’t having it, though, and neither is series mainstay, Ryu Hayabusa (who’s also playable), leading to some bloody battles. While possessing an array of armaments, Yakumo also has Bloodraven Form to modify his attacks and even unleash Bloodbath Kills to maim several foes at once. Promising accessibility via Hero Mode and hardcore challenge courtesy of Master Ninja difficulty, Ninja Gaiden 4 could be the most epic title in the series yet.

Kingmakers

What happens when modern soldiers are sent back in time to fight medieval battles containing hundreds of units? You get Kingmakers, with its unique mix of third-person shooting, extensive military equipment and base-building, launching on October 8th for PC. When you’re not engaging in the battle, you can take an overhead view and command units. All this and co-op for up to four players? If nothing else, it looks like a fun bit of controlled chaos.

Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault

Nothing can stop a good merchant, especially one like Will, who ventures into dungeons to collect the wares himself. Moonlighter 2 directly follows the first game’s events, as you venture into The Endless Vault, collect valuable artifacts, and sell them in your store. The profits can be used to upgrade the town of Tresna, your own shop and even equipment to delve deeper into the dungeons for more profitable finds. With a jump to full 3D and new mechanics – like using your own backpack as a weapon – there’s plenty to look forward to when Moonlighter 2 launches in Steam Early Access on October 23rd.

Double Dragon Revive

The classic side-scrolling beat ’em up franchise returns courtesy of Arc System Works and Yuke’s when Double Dragon Revive launches on October 23rd for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC. Alongside Story Mode with support for up to four playable characters, there’s Extra Mode with more than 50 mission types and a uniquely separate story across multiple unlockable episodes. Between this and Absolum, it’s a great month for beat ’em up fans.

Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted

After botching Battle for Neighborville and Plants vs. Zombies 3, PopCap Games is going back to the drawing board. Or more specifically, to the first garden in Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted, an HD version of the tower defense that started it all. Fortunately, there’s a lot to justify that $20 purchase, from a new hardcore mode to the more forgiving but still challenging Cloudy Day Mode. You can even compete in local PvP as the zombies or defend together in co-op. Replanted launches on October 23rd for Xbox One, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 1 and 2.

Tormented Souls 2

The original Tormented Souls didn’t push any boundaries, but for a title inspired by old-school Resident Evil, it wasn’t half-bad. Tormented Souls 2, out on October 23rd for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC, continues the story of Caroline as she ventures to a mysterious yet sinister new location. While you’ll be shifting between realities, solving puzzles and fighting off new enemies, tank controls are still in effect, and you won’t have unlimited saves, just like the survival horror games of yesteryears, but you can enable assist mode.

Once Upon A Katamari

A new Katamari title that isn’t a remaster? Somehow, it’s true as Once Upon A Katamari launches on October 24th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch. The Prince is once again tasked with fixing the sky after The King of All Cosmos destroys it yet again, and this time, you’re venturing through time, rolling up the Ice Age and other notable eras. With character customization, new tools and KatamariBall, a new four-player competitive mode, the good times may indeed be ready to roll.

Dispatch

What happens when Mecha Man no longer has his mech suit to fight crime? He does the next best thing, taking on a job as a superhero dispatcher. That’s only the start of Robert Robertson’s ordeals, however, as he works with ex-supervillains, dispatching them to different locations with unique consequences. Between unlocking new abilities and managing their various personality quirks, Dispatch is a unique mix of narrative adventure and hero strategy with a strong cast. The first two episodes debut on October 22nd, followed by the next two on October 29th for PS5 and PC, with the final four out in November.

Wreckreation

I’ll admit to being somewhat disappointed with Bugbear’s Wreckfest 2 (which has seen several updates after launching in early access), but Wreckreation, developed by the team behind Dangerous Driving, could fill that void. It’s out on October 28th for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, and introduces the 400 square kilometer sandbox that is MixWorld, which you’re free to build up and wreck alone or with others. With extensive customization tools and plenty to discover, it’s an interesting proposition, and hopefully one with a lot of staying power.

Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection

Have you ever wanted a definitive collection of all classic Mortal Kombat titles? Yes, even Mythologies: Sub Zero and Special Forces? Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection could be the answer as it contains Mortal Kombat 1, 2, 3, 4, Trilogy and much more with multiple versions, online play with rollback netcode and instant access to all secret characters. You can explore the lore of the series and its characters, and learn more about the franchise’s development courtesy of new creator interviews. Launching on October 30th for Xbox Series X/S, PS4, Xbox One, PC, PS5, Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, it could very well be a must-buy for any fighting game fan.

Of course, the new collection brings with it several new upgrades and changes, and we will be running through them so you can be well-informed if you decide to make the purchase. With that in mind, let’s begin!

Release Date

Let’s first talk about the release date; Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 is scheduled to release on 2nd October, 2025. The game will be priced at $69.99, which might be surprising considering it’s a re-release of sorts (but don’t be, since it’s Nintendo we are talking about), and the game will be releasing on both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo is offering both a physical release and digital edition of the game, so you are free to choose depending on your preferences but do note that physical editions might be limited initially.

New Tie-in Amiibo

One of the first new additions to Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 is the introduction of a new tie-in Amiibo. The figure in question is one where Mario and Luma can be seen jumping through a star, and Nintendo says that this Amiibo is larger than normal. It’s obviously a separate article meaning you will have to pay extra, but it looks cute and might serve as a great addition to your collection so it might be worth checking it out. But much like other such Amiibos, it’s selling out pretty fast so be quick if you are planning to pick one up.

Enhanced Resolution

Now that Nintendo has a lot more graphical grunt to work with as compared to the original Wii, Super Mario Galaxy and Galaxy 2 have received upgrades to enhance resolution as compared to the original. The upgrade is pretty evident from the trailers, and a quick side-by-side comparison of the original version against the re-release confirms that thought. The edges look smoother, textures are clearer, and you can make out a lot more detail that was buried under the weight of having to run this game on the Wii.

Extra Storybook Chapters 

Another new upgrade to Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 comes in the form of extra storybook chapters that players are free to explore at their own pace. The new storybook chapter outlines the tale of Rosalina and Luma, and there’s also a brand new storybook that puts the spotlight on the twin Luma brothers. It’s not much, but long-time fans will appreciate the addition of new lore elements that should help you immerse deeper in the world of Super Mario Galaxy.

A New Assist Mode

The Super Mario games aren’t exactly known for being super difficult, but having accessibility options makes these games a lot more inclusive, and Nintendo seems to be putting more effort into making its games a lot more flexible for its audience. To that effect, Super Mario Galaxy + Galaxy 2 is also adding a new assist mode to the game which should help struggling players enjoy the beautiful worlds and amazing soundtracks on offer.

Flexibility of Purchase – Get Both or One 

Another rare occurrence for Nintendo’s releases, Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 allows you some level of flexibility in how you go about the purchase. The standard version comes packaged with both titles, but you can also opt for a single purchase if you are more comfortable that way. If you opt for a single release, you can get Super Mario Galaxy or the sequel for $40 each. It’s obviously more advisable to go for the full package, but if you are someone who is obsessed with only one of these two games so it’s great that you have the option.

Support for Mouse Controls

Another factor in terms of flexibility in controls is the support for Joy Con mouse controls, which means that fans can preserve the playstyle of the Wii remote and nunchuck of the original. This will only be available on the Switch 2’s Joy Cons – so the original Switch’s install base will have to make do with the conventional control scheme.

Docked Mode Vs Handheld Mode 

There are obviously a few key differences between playing Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 in docked or handheld modes, but the chief among them has to be the resolution. On the docked mode, you can expect much higher resolutions of up to 4K, upscaled at a target frame rate of 60fps, while the handheld mode targets to run at 1080p and 60fps. If previous Nintendo releases are anything to go by and the fact that this is obviously an old game, the Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 shouldn’t face many issues in maintaining these resolutions or frame-rates.

Difference between Switch and Switch 2 Releases 

As for the difference between the Switch and Switch 2 releases, there aren’t many to speak of. You can be assured that Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 will look and play the same in broad strokes across both platforms but there are obviously going to be some incremental upgrades on the newer Switch 2. As mentioned previously, you can expect higher resolution, ranging up to upscaled 4K and the mouse controls are obviously not present in the original Joy Cons.

Does It Tie Into The Upcoming Movie? 

Mario fans might be aware of the Super Mario Galaxy movie which is set to release in April of next year. It’s obvious that the release of these games is directly connected to the upcoming movie, but what you might not be aware is that the movie will be connected to the games as well. It might not follow the exact storyline, but you can expect several references and callbacks to the games especially from the newly added Storybook chapters.

File sizes for each game on Switch and Switch 2

Another point of concern before buying a game these days has to the installation size, especially with Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 which have a lot lesser storage space than the PS5 or Xbox Series X/S. But fortunately, the updated texture packs and new content haven’t exponentially bloated the game out. The Nintendo Switch version of Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 will run you about 5 GB of storage, and it’s the same for the Switch 2 as well. It’s not going to eat out a significant chunk of your gaming space, which is great stuff.

Mario Transformations

The gameplay of Super Mario Galaxy and its sequel is largely based around exploring platforming in a low-gravity environment, but there are several transformative powers that make Mario a lot more fun to control and add a ton of variety to the platforming challenges. You can transform into a bee, take control of a Boo, or skate through thin ice as Ice Mario, just to name a few. It’s obviously not the same level of flexibility as Super Mario Odyssey, but the seeds of those innovations were initially laid out in these titles.

The Setting and General Gameplay Mechanics For Newcomers 

For anyone who is not informed about the Galaxy series, this is a friendly recap of what Super Mario Galaxy and its sequel are all about. Set against the boundaries of outer space, Super Mario Galaxy is a 3D platformer where you get to explore carefully curated planets as you collect stars in an effort to save Princess Peach from the wrath of baddie Bowser.

As previously mentioned, the central pillar of gameplay ar the new rules of gravity, and you can expect plenty of imaginative challenges and themes in the myriad of levels spread throughout the original and its sequel. Despite these games being more than a decade old at this point, the platforming mechanics truly shine to this date and you can expect to have a great experience even if you are jumping into this one for the first time.

But what about longtime fans? A new Storybook chapter is available in the first game, which seemingly tells the tale of Rosalina and Luma. A fresh Storybook has also been added to the sequel, focusing on twin Lumas who sound suspiciously like another pair of brothers.

Of course, there’s also Assist Mode, which makes both games easier. Mario can take more hits, and falling causes him to bounce back up, making for less frustrating platforming. You can also look forward to enhanced resolutions with a free update adding 4K support for Switch 2 players.

Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 launches for Nintendo Switch on October 2nd. Stay tuned for more details in the meantime.

While supporting 1080p on Switch, Switch 2 users can experience both titles in 4K resolution. They also include additional Storybook Chapters, improved menus and UIs, amiibo support, and even a new Assist Mode. The latter features added health and fall recovery to help ease new players in.

There’s also Soundtrack Mode for listening to the incredible orchestral scores in-game. Best of all, unlike Super Mario 3D All-Stars, these won’t be available for a limited time (at least, for now).

Stay tuned for more details in the weeks and check out the latest trailer for the next Super Mario Bros. movie, fittingly called The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. It releases on April 3rd, 2026, in theaters.