Nintendo Switch Online has just made a significant addition to its SNES library, introducing three classic titles, including the first-ever release of the Japanese game Mario & Wario outside of Japan. This expansion not only adds to the nostalgia but also highlights the importance of preserving gaming history for a new generation of players. Mario & Wario, a puzzle platformer developed by Game Freak before their Pokmon fame, challenges players to guide Mario through 100 levels while he is blinded by Wario’s antics.

In a surprising turn of events, Nintendo has officially denied claims that it is lobbying against the use of generative AI in Japan. This response came after Satoshi Asano, a member of Japan’s House of Representatives, alleged on social media that the gaming giant was avoiding generative AI to safeguard its intellectual property rights and was involved in lobbying activities with the government. Nintendo swiftly countered these claims, stating, “Contrary to recent discussions on the internet, Nintendo has not had any contact with the Japanese government about generative AI.

A highly anticipated Nintendo Direct presentation is reportedly set for mid-September, and fans are buzzing with excitement. According to sources, including Switch Force and VGC, this event could unveil significant updates, particularly the long-awaited release date for Metroid Prime 4. With a history of September presentations, this year’s event is especially notable as it falls just one day before the 40th anniversary of Super Mario Bros. While the exact details of the presentation remain under wraps, the recent ratings by major boards like the ESRB suggest that Metroid Prime 4 is on the verge of a major announcement.

In a recent interview, Kosuke Yabuki, the producer of Mario Kart World, revealed a fascinating insight into the game’s design philosophy: the decision to exclude crossover characters from other Nintendo franchises was intentional. Yabuki explained that the development team felt that introducing characters from outside the Mario universe would disrupt the game’s core identity, which is deeply rooted in the beloved Super Mario world. This focus allows players to fully immerse themselves in the familiar and vibrant universe that has captivated audiences for decades.