For several years now, Nintendo has been the king of handheld gaming consoles with its Nintendo Switch.

The Switch is a versatile console you can take with you on the go or dock it at your television and game on the big screen.

When the console was originally released in 2017, there was only one real option. Your only choice was the color of the Joy-Cons.

The original Switch stood by itself for a while before the company finally released different console versions.

The Nintendo Switch Lite was introduced a couple of years after the original console was released. Then, two years later, Nintendo came out with the improved Nintendo Switch OLED version.

READ MORE: How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch

For those looking to get their hands on a Nintendo Switch console, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. Check out the different Nintendo Switch versions below:

Nintendo Switch vs. the OLED Nintendo Switch

The two versions of the console that are the closest are the original Switch and the OLED version, released in 2021.

Both of these versions of the console feature a screen with detachable controllers that can be docked for use with a television.

And now for the differences: The OLED version of the Switch features a few upgrades (as well as an upgraded price).

First, the dock on the OLED switch features an ethernet port, so you can plug in straight to the internet for better download speeds.

But probably the more important difference has to do with the console itself. As the name implies, the OLED version features an upgraded 7″ OLED screen.

Compared to the 6.2″ LCD screen on the original version, the OLED option is a pretty decent upgrade.

The OLED version is also fitted with a larger 64 GB hard drive compared to the 32 GB drive on the original Switch.

While this is definitely an improvement, it’s still not going to be enough to load up a bunch of games.

You’ll likely have to take advantage of the microSD expansion slot (found on all versions of the Nintendo Switch).

The OLED switch retails for $349.99, while the original version still sits at its original price of $299.99.

Difference between Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite

And, of course, we can’t forget about the Switch Lite. The Lite version of the console was designed as a handheld-only option for gamers that aren’t interested in gaming on their TVs.

The Switch Lite features the smallest screen in the Switch lineup, at just 5.5 inches. It doesn’t come with removable Joy-Con controllers.

If the infamous Joy-Con drift happens to you, you’ll need to send the unit in for repair.

The console is essentially the same as the original Switch, except for these minor differences and the inability to play the console on your TV.

The Nintendo Switch Lite retails for just $199.99, so it is, by far, the most affordable in the Switch lineup. However, it also features the least amount of versatility, so that’s something that you’ll definitely want to consider.

So which Nintendo Switch is best for you?

Short answer: It depends on how you plan to use the console

Looking at the specifications, the biggest difference in Switch consoles lies between the Lite and the other two versions.

If you are looking for a console to use strictly for handheld gaming, then the Nintendo Switch Lite is perfect.

You won’t be able to use it on your TV, but you’ll be able to save a good amount of money by snagging the Lite.

As for the other two options, it really comes down to preference. I don’t think there’s enough of an upgrade between the original Switch and the OLED version to justify the $50.

But, if you want that bigger, better screen with a little more storage and the option to hardwire your internet when docked, then the Switch OLED version is the one you will want.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Here are the best-selling and most-played games on Steam in 2021
• PlayStation 5 Standard vs. Digital Edition – which is best for you?
• When does the Steam Deck come out?
• Which Xbox Series X|S games have Dolby Atmos support?
• How to add friends on your Nintendo Switch

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Which Nintendo Switch is best for you? appeared first on KnowTechie.

It’s another weekday, which means another Apple rumor to chew up and spit out. This time, the rumors focus on a potential Apple gaming console.

Today’s Apple rumor comes to us from the generally reliable Apple rumor source Clien.net.

One user has reported that Apple is conducting feasibility studies on turning Apple TV into a gaming console.

It stands to reason that at some point, with Apple working hard on AR/VR devices, Apple might consider marrying those outputs with gaming.

It’s doubtful that Apple Arcade would support AR/VR products long-term. Apple would need something more substantial.

Rumors of an Apple video game console have been around for years

This isn’t the first rumor of this nature to fall from the Apple rumor tree in recent memory.

In 2021, the Apple gaming console rumors started swirling, giving optimistic tech writers reason to justify the rumors.

READ MORE: Is Apple working on its own gaming controller?

Then back in January of this year, it was rumored that Apple was poaching engineers from Xbox to work on its own console.

Naturally, that news was met with a hefty dose of skepticism. The existing Apple Arcade was reason enough to hire devs and engineers with gaming console experience.

With Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard and Sony’s purchase of Bungie, it makes it harder for Apple to enter the console arena with some sort of exclusive game appeal.

According to the rumor, Capcom and Ubisoft are active partners in creating exclusive titles for the imaginary Apple gaming console.

It’d be a strange world indeed if Street Fighter ends up locked to an Apple gaming console.

Does Apple have a gaming console?

Yes, Apple has tried its hand at game consoles before.

If the company works on an official Apple game console in 2022, it won’t be its first dip into the pool. We must never forget 1996’s Apple Bandai Pippin.

The Apple Pippin was forgotten and faded away into obscurity. It was flawed and unable to keep up with the technical specs of the time.

But from that came years of rumors, usually popping up shortly after the release of a new console from Microsoft, Nintendo, or Sony.

Gamers are a sticky bunch, generally affixed to their console of choice.

It stands to reason that if Apple were to enter the gaming console market, it would do so with a complimentary device rather than a device intended to convert gamers directly.

While Apple TV supports third-party controllers and Apple Arcade is a thing that exists, it’s nowhere near a gaming console. It can’t even compete with the games on your iPhone.

So, once again, we are left asking ourselves whether this rumor is real. Is Apple truly working on a gaming console, and could it compete with Microsoft, Sony, or Nintendo?

Will it be a handheld console similar to the Switch or something beefier? Could it be an amalgamation of a Mac computer and Apple Arcade?

Or should Apple stay in its lane and stick to slick laptops and iPhones?

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Sony’s new PlayStation Plus subscription launches in June
• GTA Online now has a subscription service for $5.99 a month
• Steam is now on Chrome OS – can your Chromebook run it?
• The new iPhone SE has production slashed due to low demand

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Is Apple working on a game console? appeared first on KnowTechie.

The popularity of Nintendo Switch games has been on the rise in recent years, making it a great option for seamless game streaming.

Gamers are drawn to the Switch’s fun and engaging gameplay, and being able to share those experiences with others through streaming only adds to the enjoyment.

Can you stream the Nintendo Switch to Discord? Yes—this allows you to share your gameplay with others in real time for an even more engaging experience. But it’s not as easy as one would think.

That’s why today, I’m going to dive into everything you need to know to start streaming video and audio streams from your Nintendo Switch screen to Discord.

How to stream Nintendo Switch to Discord

Before getting into all the specific steps, you need to take to stream Nintendo Switch on Discord, let’s see what you need to have on hand.

Preparing your Switch to stream to Discord – what you’ll need

• A Nintendo Switch console
• The Nintendo docking station
• Your PC or Mac device that you use
• A Discord account that is both genuine and active
• Video capture card and the relevant video capture card software
• VLC media player
• HDMI cable, USB cable, and all relevant connectors and cables you need
• High-quality internet connection

Now that you have all of the pieces of equipment that you need, here is what you need to do to set everything up.

The setup

Here’s how to get your Nintendo Switch ready for streaming.

1. Connect the Nintendo Switch to its docking station, and do so with the USB cable and relevant USB-C ports, because that’s how you’ll have the best connection speed.

2. Take your HDMI cable and connect your video capture card to the docking station by using said cable. Make sure everything is compatible in case you have to order these pieces online.

3. Now, take your computer and go straight and open the capture device software. Different video capture cards can be compatible with other software, so make sure you’ve downloaded the proper one.

Setting Up The Nintendo Switch

1. Now that your capture card is ready, it’s time to take your Nintendo Switch into your hands. First and foremost, you will need to turn it on by pressing the power button in the Switch’s top left corner.

2. Take your capture card and USB cable, and plug them into the computer.

3. Nintendo’s display screen will now be on the bigger screen of your computer.
4. Now you need to set up a video window on the computer you’re using, and to do that, you will need to open the capture card software and copy the code of your video card. After that, paste the said video card software to Notepad.

Setting Up VLC Media Player

1. The next part of the setup deals with the VLC media player settings, so open it by clicking on your screen’s VLC media player icon.
2. Once the media player is open, click on the Media button. Then, click the VLC screen and the open capture device button.

3. You should find the capture mode section in the new window and ensure it is set to DirectShow.

4. Click the ‘Show more options‘ button and find an edit options text box. Find your Notepad app, copy the code you previously wrote, and paste it into this text box. Besides the video card, you should also do this for the audio card to have a voice channel.

5. Close the VLC media player.
6. Right-click on the VLC icon, and click on properties.
7. In the target section, please change the location of your video capture card by setting it to the location of your capture card.

8. Click on the ‘OK‘ button and close the VLC media player.
9. Open VLC again, and by doing that, you will have a VLC media stream as the new window that will be streamed on Discord.

Getting Discord set up for your Nintendo Switch stream

Why should you stream Nintendo Switch on Discord?

You might want to stream Nintendo Switch games on Discord for several reasons. Some of the benefits of streaming Nintendo Switch games on Discord include:

• Sharing your gameplay experiences with others
• Showcasing your skills and accomplishments
• Finding new friends and collaborators
• Connect with other players who are passionate about the same game

You probably already have a Discord server that you’re using on a day-to-day basis, so being able to gather everyone like that is a great option.

If you have the same favorite Nintendo Switch games, and in case you’re connected with other gamers on Discord who also like them, then you should stream Nintendo Switch content on Discord.

Ultimately, Discord can help you make new friends and find new gaming partners who can help you improve your skills and enjoy your favorite game even more.

Why VLC media player is the best choice for streaming video games

There are several reasons why a VLC media player is considered the best choice for streaming video games. But, the benefits of using VLC to stream Nintendo Switch games are numerous:

• Compatibility with a wide range of formats and platforms: VLC media player is known for its versatility and compatibility with a wide range of video formats and platforms.
• Support for high-quality video and audio: VLC media player is also known for its support for high-quality video and audio.
• Low resource consumption and high performance: It is a lightweight and efficient media player that can run smoothly, even on older or less powerful computers.
• Customization and flexibility: VLC media player allows you to customize various settings and options, such as video and audio filters, subtitles, and playlist management.

VLC is open-sourced and well-tested. The best part? You can use it for free as long as it’s for personal needs.

No matter which platform you’re working with on your computer, it’s compatible with VLC, as it works with Mac, PC, and even Linux platforms.

The installation file is only around 100MB, so it won’t take up too much space on your storage, providing you with many customization options.

Conclusion

Streaming Switch games on Discord is a great thing to do and an easy thing to set up.

Before you stream Nintendo Switch on Discord, you need to do only a few prep steps, for example, get a video capture card, and most video capture cards will do, so that won’t be a chore.

After setting everything up for your Nintendo, streaming software, and Discord, you’ll be all set to stream games with your servers seamlessly.

FAQ

What do I need to stream Nintendo Switch on Discord?

To do this, you need to have your Switch, its docking station, a few cables like HDMI and USB cables, a video capture card, and its software from a relevant website.

Plus, an active Discord account, a computer, and streaming software of choice.

What is the best media player to capture Discord’s video and audio data streams?

The best option for streaming video games on Discord from a Nintendo Switch is the VLC media player, as it’s one of the better third-party options.

However, you can use something else or most cards’ pre-installed software.

Do you need a capture card to stream Switch on Discord?

If you want to stream Switch to Discord without a capture card, you need to use another device or software to help you because Switch doesn’t support streaming apps.

You can do it via the Streamlabs app on your phone or by connecting your Xbox One to the same WiFi as Switch.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch
• The best Nintendo Switch accessories (2022)
• Mirfak Audio introduces the TU10, a stunning microphone for streaming and gaming
• Live streaming on Twitch vs. YouTube: What to choose?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post How to stream Switch on Discord: A step-by-step guide appeared first on KnowTechie.

That’s great if you have a favored set of cans or want a wired connection to your super-portable console, but what about the rest of us?

The mobile industry is moving away from the headphone jack, so you will likely have a favored set of earbuds or headphones.

So, can you use those with your Nintendo Switch, or do you have to carry two sets of headphones at all times?

Can the Nintendo Switch use Bluetooth headphones?

Short answer: Yes.

Thanks to a September 2021 update, Nintendo added Bluetooth audio support, allowing players to use Bluetooth headphones with the Switch.

But it comes with some caveats. For example, there’s no microphone support, and you can only pair two wireless controllers if Bluetooth audio is enabled.

Another option is the $69.99 Genki adapter kit.

Genki’s Bluetooth kit comes with a USB-C adapter that plugs straight into your Nintendo Switch, adding Bluetooth 5.0 audio support with aptX Low Latency, multi-pairing audio, and passthrough charging.

READ MORE: Which Switch games are 4 player?

The kit also has a tiny boom mic for voice chat, a metal stand for your console that raises it high enough to use the adapter, and a USB-C to USB-A adapter to use the Genki with, well, anything with USB audio support.

But again, this is just another option. Now that the Nintendo Switch supports Bluetooth audio, you won’t need an adapter unless you want to use a microphone.

Do you use Bluetooth headphones with your Switch console? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How much storage is on the Nintendo Switch?
• The Best Nintendo Switch cases money can buy right now, according to Amazon shoppers
• Is the Nintendo Switch waterproof?
• Will the Switch be on sale on Black Friday?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Can the Nintendo Switch connect to Bluetooth headphones? appeared first on KnowTechie.

The games include the original Mario Party, released in 1999, and the sequel Mario Party 2, released a year later. Both games were originally launched for the N64. 

If you have never played a Mario Party game before, the games are based around various themes, including card games, tile games, and others that you play with up to four friends.

At the end of each dice roll, players are presented with mini-games. Winning them earns players points, and the more points players get, the higher their chance of winning the game. 

Mario Party games are super fun, and the more people you have playing, the more exciting it becomes. But fair warning, I’ve seen friendships ruined because of it, so be gentle.

Nintendo says these games will be available via its Switch Online Expansion Pack on November 2. The Switch Online + Expansion Pack costs $50 for a yearly subscription.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• GoldenEye 007 is coming to Switch with online multiplayer
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is coming in 2023
• How to stream Switch on Discord
• How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Two ‘Mario Party’ classics headed to Switch Online Expansion Pack appeared first on KnowTechie.

First-party games such as Zelda: BotW, Mario Odyssey got me onto the console, but it’s the third-party independents known as “Nindies” that keep me coming back.

With all that playtime (seriously, I use it more than any other console I’ve ever owned), it’s always being plugged into the dock or recharged when I’m not using it.

With how treasured my Switch is, the only question I have about recharging is:

Can I use any charger with my Nintendo Switch?

Short answer: Yes (but with some whopping huge provisos)

Now, I imagine this is a question that many of you also have. Nintendo’s only official Switch charger is $30 and is fairly single-minded in how it’ll charge the Nintendo Switch or the Pro Controller.

But not many other devices properly as it is out-of-spec for the USB-C PD specifications.

READ MORE: Here’s how to cancel your Nintendo Switch Online subscription

You might wonder if other chargers, like the USB-C ones you use with your laptop, are up to recharging that slate of Nintendo’y goodness.

If you use your Switch more on the go, you might be wondering which, if any, power packs are up to the challenge. If so, read on:

The official line

At the beginning of last year, numerous reports of third-party docks doing everything from deleting data to bricking Nintendo Switch consoles.

In response, Nintendo sent a statement to Kotaku which read:

Unlicensed products and accessories do not undergo Nintendo’s testing and evaluation process. They might not work at all with our game systems, and they could have compatibility problems with certain games, the Nintendo Switch system itself, and other licensed accessories and peripherals.

Pretty clear, right? Only officially licensed products are guaranteed to not give you issues in normal operation.

That’s backed up by Nintendo of America’s FAQ pages for the Switch, which state: “The Nintendo Switch console is compatible with the Nintendo Switch AC adapter only (model No. HAC-002).”

If you don’t want to buy the official adapter

Switchchargers.com has tested a bunch of non-official AC adapters and has rated them according to safety and a few other metrics.

I still wouldn’t trust any charger other than the official one with my Switch, but that’s a decision for you to make.

Power-packs for portable juice

You could get the Nyko Power Pak, which adds 5,000 mAh of battery capacity for $30, but it has some tradeoffs of its own.

Mimoco has some officially-branded power banks, as well as Anker, that can also be used to charge other devices, but you might not want the Nintendo branding all over it.

READ MORE: Are the games included with Nintendo Switch Online worth it? 

There haven’t been any reported incidents with power banks damaging the Nintendo Switch. Just stick to one of the already-tested models to make sure you’ll be able to recharge while you play.

Did you find this article helpful? How do you charge your Nintendo Switch? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Are Switch Joy-Con controllers Bluetooth?
• Are Nintendo Switch games region locked?
• How to change your region on the Nintendo Switch
• Are Nintendo Switch games cheaper in Japan?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Can I use any charger with my Nintendo Switch? appeared first on KnowTechie.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is the long-awaited sequel to 2017’s The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

We had heard rumors that Nintendo would be sharing an update on the sequel, and the company delivered.

While we didn’t get a lot in the way of specifics about the upcoming game, this is the first time we’ve heard the official title. Additionally, Nintendo shared a release date for the sequel, May 12, 2023.

Again, Nintendo didn’t share too much in terms of what the game will look like. The short trailer showed the game’s protagonist, Link, gliding through the air on a glider and controlling a massive rock.

We first heard about the sequel to Breath of the Wild back in 2019. But the game has since been delayed, leading to the new May 2023 release date.

Fans have been waiting for this one for a while now. And I’m sure most everyone will have a blast embarking on a new adventure through Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.

Let’s just hope there are no more delays.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch
• Nintendo Switch Joy-Con support is coming to Steam
• How to gameshare on your Xbox console
• New Steam phishing scam uses fake tournaments to steal accounts

The post The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is coming in 2023 appeared first on KnowTechie.

For more seasoned gamers, like myself, one of the first introductions we had to first-person shooters was GoldenEye 64. You’d sit in the living room with your friends and fight over who got to use the good controller.

Now, it’s coming to the Switch with Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. And better yet, it’ll have online multiplayer, so you won’t have to fight with your friends for the best controller anymore.

In addition to being added to the Nintendo Switch Online, GoldenEye 007 is also making a surprising debut on Xbox Game Pass. So even if you don’t have a Switch, you can get your hands on this classic soon.

It should be noted that the Xbox version is getting improved 4K visuals and 60 FPS, but will not be getting the multiplayer option.

Nintendo is also adding a bunch more Nintendo 64 gems to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack lineup. The service is adding three Mario Party games, Pokémon Stadium, Excitebike 64, and more over the next year.

We didn’t get an official release date for when GoldenEye 007 will be making its way to the Nintendo Switch or Xbox Game Pass. In fact, Nintendo didn’t share release dates for any of the new Nintendo Switch online games.

All we know is that a few of the games are coming this year. The rest are scheduled for sometime next year.

If I had to guess, I would say that GoldenEye 007 is more likely to come out next year, but the company could surprise us.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• This streamer just beat every Nintendo 64 game ever live
• The new Xbox Elite 2 Core controller is a cheaper alternative
• Sony’s new PlayStation division points towards a mobile future
• New Steam phishing scam uses fake tournaments to steal accounts

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post GoldenEye 007 is coming to Switch with online multiplayer appeared first on KnowTechie.

Dark mode is an alleged miracle cure for several common problems. For instance, using a darker theme in low light may reduce eye strain.

Dark mode may also lower blue light exposure, helping to keep your circadian rhythm in tune. Additionally, using a dark-themed interface can help conserve your device’s battery life, as a darker screen uses less power.

How to turn on the Nintendo Switch’s dark mode

The Nintendo Switch, by design, doesn’t have a feature that it explicitly calls ‘dark mode.’

Instead, you are able to change the overall user interface of the console from a white background to a black background, which accomplishes the same thing.

And there you have it. While this isn’t technically called dark mode, changing to the Basic Black theme will change your Nintendo Switch’s background from white to black.

The Switch’s Basic Black theme has one serious side effect

After switching to dark mode, you may notice that your Nintendo Switch’s UI looks much better than before. This is a known side effect of enabling darker themes on electronic devices.

It’s nothing to be concerned about, so sit back and embrace the change. You know what they say about going black and never going back, right?

If, however, dark mode is too slick for you to handle, you can switch back to the standard theme and enjoy your white-bread life.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to schedule dark mode in Windows 11 automatically
• Can you use a keyboard and mouse with the Switch?
• How to adjust your brightness on the Nintendo Switch
• How to add another profile to your Nintendo Switch

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch appeared first on KnowTechie.

The company announced this update on the Steam forums late last week. In addition to adding support for Joy-Cons, the update also “improved support for the Nintendo Online classic controllers.”

The new beta update lets users take advantage of the modular Joy-Con controllers that Nintendo offers. You’ll be able to use just one side of the Joy-Cons as a full-blown gamepad when playing Steam Games.

Or, you can connect the two controllers to create a more standard controller using both sides of the Joy-Con. This unique capability works well on the Switch, so it will be interesting to see how it plays out on Steam games.

The other focus of this beta update was on improving support for Nintendo Online’s classic controllers. That includes the modern, Bluetooth versions of the NES, SNES, Genesis, and Nintendo 64 gamepads.

The platform added support for these controllers in the official build of the Steam client a couple of weeks ago, and this beta seemingly improves upon that support.

Of course, this update is currently only available for the beta build of the Steam client. You can opt into the Steam client beta by heading to Steam>Settings>Account>Beta Participation.

But be aware that any new feature on the beta build has the potential to be a little buggy. Valve is usually pretty quick, however, and it should only be a couple of weeks before this client build is available to everyone.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Is Steam Deck better than PC?
• Valve’s upcoming VR headset possibly shown off in new patent
• The 10 best-selling Nintendo Switch games of all time
• Booting up your Xbox Series X|S just got a whole lot faster

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Nintendo Switch Joy-Con support is coming to Steam appeared first on KnowTechie.

But if you’re new to the console, it can be somewhat overwhelming. Unlike PlayStation or Xbox, Nintendo’s online systems can seem pretty archaic to some.

Adding friends on Nintendo Switch isn’t as straightforward as on other consoles. It involves sharing convoluted friend codes that you then have to enter to initiate the request in the first place.

But follow along, and we’ll try to make the process a bit simpler for you.

How to find your Nintendo Switch friend code

Nintendo doesn’t give users unique gamertags when they create an account. Instead, the platform assigns everyone a unique friend code that they share to add new friends.

READ MORE: How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch

As you can imagine, it’s not the most intuitive design that exists. It’s tough to try and remember your own unique code to share with your friends. And that’s not to mention the hassle of typing in the codes using the Switch’s controller or touchscreen.

But that’s how Nintendo has set it up. So first, we’re going to look at how to find and share your friend code on the Nintendo Switch so you can start adding friends.

Start by loading up your console and logging into your account. Then, follow along with the steps outlined below:

And that’s where you can find your friend code. This is the code that you will give to your friends so they can send you a friend request. So now, we’ll look at how to do that.

How to send a Nintendo Switch friend request using a friend code

So now we’ll go over how to actually add a friend on your Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch Lite. On your Nintendo Switch itself, you have a few different options. We’ll start by looking at friend codes.

1. Tap your profile picture in the top right

2. Scroll down to the Add Friend tab on the right

3. Select Search with Friend Code

4. Enter the friend code and select OK

Once you’ve done that, the person whose friend code you enter will receive a notification the next time they log in. Then, they can navigate to the same Add Friend menu to accept it.

Alternatively, you can use the Search for Local Users feature to add friends. If you and your friend both have your Nintendo Switch in the same location, you can use this option to quickly add friends.

The final option that you have on the Switch console itself is adding friends that you’ve recently played with online.

Choose the Search for Users You Played With option to bring up a list of users that you have played online matches with. From there, you can send them a quick friend request to not have to bother with friend codes.

Use your phone to add friends on Nintendo Switch

As you can see, adding friends on your Nintendo Switch isn’t the easiest thing in the world. Unless you’re right next to your friends who also have their console or you’re looking for someone you’ve already played with, you have to work with those annoying friend codes.

However, Nintendo at least recognizes that this method isn’t easy or intuitive for most gamers. The company has actually added a couple of additional ways to add friends using the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app.

You’ll have to start by downloading the Nintendo Switch Online app for your iOS or Android device. Then, follow the steps to link your Switch account to the app account.

Once you finish that, you’ll have a few other options for adding new friends on your Nintendo Switch.

How to use the Nintendo Switch Online app to copy your friend code

One of the initial features of the Nintendo Switch Online app is the ability to copy your friend code to your phone’s clipboard. Then, you can just paste it on your device and send it to anyone you want to add as a friend. Here’s how that works:

1. Open the Nintendo Switch Online app and tap your profile picture in the top right

2. Tap the copy symbol next to your friend code

Once you do that, you can then go and paste your friend code anywhere and share it with your friends. They can also use the app to enter the code by tapping on the Friend Requests section from the same menu.

That’s already an easier method than having to manually remember or shout out your friend code so that someone can send you a friend request.

But Nintendo recently went a step further, adding the ability to add friends using a URL or QR code.

Add friends using a URL

To help make things even easier, you can copy your friend code as a URL. Then, when you share it with your friends, it will automatically open the app with your friend code entered so they can send you a request. It’s found in the same section of the app:

1. Open the Nintendo Switch Online app and tap your profile picture in the top right

2. Tap the three-dot menu next to your friend code

3. Select Copy as URL

The app will then create a custom URL and save it to your clipboard. You can then share that URL with friends, and when they open it, they will be given a prompt to send you a friend request.

Do keep in mind that anyone with your custom URL will be able to send you a friend request on your Nintendo Switch.

Add Nintendo Switch friends using a QR code

Maybe the most convenient option that Nintendo has added to the app is the ability to save your friend code as a QR code.

Then, you can always have it handy in your phone’s photo gallery to share whenever you want. Check this out:

1. Open the Nintendo Switch Online app and tap your profile picture in the top right

2. Tap the three-dot menu next to your friend code

3. Select Save as QR Code

With this method, the app will create a unique QR code for you and save it on your device. Then, whoever scans the code will be automatically prompted to send you a friend request.

But remember, like the URL option, anyone with the QR code will be able to send you friend requests.

Nintendo’s complex friend request process is made easier by the mobile app

While it’s completely possible to add friends on Nintendo Switch from the console itself, it’s not the most straightforward process there is. You have to deal with 12-digit friend codes that can be hard to remember.

You can add friends who are in close proximity a little easier. And if you use the Search for Users You Played With option, the process isn’t that bad either.

But the easiest way to add friends on the Nintendo Switch is through the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. There, you can easily copy your entire friend.

Or you can go a step further to copy your code as a URL or a QR code that will automatically prompt other users to send you a friend request.

However you plan to add friends, this article should help you on your journey. Don’t you just love Nintendo’s overly complicated processes?

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• The 10 best-selling Nintendo Switch games of all time
• The best Nintendo Switch accessories
• Do Nintendo Switch retro controllers work with Steam?
• Is it safe to play the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch in hot weather?

The post How to add friends on your Nintendo Switch appeared first on KnowTechie.

In its report (PDF), Nintendo noted some subpar earnings, following the same trend other video game manufacturers have experienced this year.

When it comes to Nintendo, hardware sales are down around 23 percent, and software is down another 8.6 percent.

The company also updated its top 10 best-selling games on the Nintendo Switch. Check the full list below to see which games are most popular on the Nintendo Switch.

After a quick glance at the Nintendo Switch top 10 list, there aren’t really any major surprises. Mario Kart 8 is the best-selling Switch game ever by a pretty substantial margin.

Additionally, Animal Crossing: New Horizons comes in second, with almost 40 million units sold.

And of course, both Pokémon and Super Mario are incredibly popular on the Nintendo Switch, with each holding three different spots in the top 10.

READ MORE: How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild comes in at number four, and I’d expect its sequel will end up being just as popular.

While it has been a slow year for the video game industry so far, things aren’t looking so bad over at Nintendo. The company has several game beloved game franchises that are still selling pretty well.

And considering it’s dealing with an almost six-year-old console, the company likely isn’t too upset by falling hardware sales.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Booting up your Xbox Series X|S just got a whole lot faster
• Sony announces new, free PlayStation Stars loyalty program
• Do Nintendo Switch retro controllers work with Steam?
• Logitech announces new handheld console built for cloud gaming
• How to add friends on your Nintendo Switch

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post The 10 best-selling Nintendo Switch games of all time appeared first on KnowTechie.

Yes, an 11.6-inch screen. Up-Switch says it’s 188% bigger than the screen on the Nintendo Switch.

The back opens up, you slot your console inside, and you’re away. The Orion even has an additional HDMI input so that you can use it as a second screen for your laptop.

Additionally, you get built-in speakers with removable controller grips on the sides for Joy-Con controllers.

Those extra grips will prove helpful; here’s why: The Orion weighs 1.5 pounds, adding to the already hefty 0.66 pounds of the Nintendo Switch.

To go mobile, you’ll need a power bank strapped to the back of the Orion to keep it charged, so you’ll carry quite a bit of weight. Not exactly the portable gaming experience that the Nintendo Switch is famed for.

The other thing is that Orion’s display has a 768p screen. That’s slightly better than the Switch display, but it’s over a much larger display. That means you’ll see pixels, making your gaming experience worse.

Anyway, if you have the lower arm strength of The Hulk, you can get the Orion from Up-Switch or Amazon for roughly $300.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Which Nintendo Switch is best for you?
• iOS 16 lets you hook up Nintendo Switch controllers to your iPhone
• How to group Nintendo Switch games into folders
• Will the Nintendo Switch download games in Sleep Mode?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post This $300 Switch accessory doubles your screen size by 188% appeared first on KnowTechie.

Before you jump in with your friends and play gaming gems like Breath of the Wild and Mario Odyssey, you’ll want to pick up additional accessories to make your gaming time more enjoyable.

Let’s face it, while the Nintendo Switch is pretty great, there is a bunch of quality-of-life improvements that can be made.

For example, replacing the original dock with a more portable version, blinging your console up with a glittery case, or adding a carrying bag for your portable but oh-so-fragile console.

Oh, and don’t forget to add a screen protector because replacing a shattered screen is expensive.

From controllers to protection and everything in between, we’ve found the best Nintendo Switch accessories you can buy now. Well, let’s get to it.

The best Nintendo Switch accessories (2022)

Controller time ($80)

Look, we were going to look for third-party controllers to put here, but they’re pretty much all trash. The only notable exception is the $50 PowerA enhanced wireless range, because of their sweet licensed artwork.

If you need more controllers, buy Nintendo branded ones like the growing range of colored Joy-Cons, or the Pro Controller. Oh, I guess if you play lots of Super Smash Bros., get the PowerA GameCube style one, cause that’ll feel like you’re playing the original game.

Hori Split Pad Pro ($50)

You can get the full-sized controller experience in handheld mode, with this sweet split controller from Hori. The big bonus here? You get two customizable back buttons, so you can easily trigger your most used in-game controls. Hori also adds turbo functionality so you don’t have to wear your thumbs out mashing fire buttons.

Genki Covert Dock for Nintendo Switch ($75)

The dock that comes in your Nintendo Switch box is great if all you want to do is put your console behind your TV, but what if you want to use it while traveling? It’s bulky to stick into your bag and kinda looks fragile.

Enter Human Things yet again, with the new Genki Covert Dock. It uses GaN tech to stuff a USB PD charger, an HDMI output, and a USB port, so all the functionality of your bulky dock is shrunk into something the size of the Nintendo Switch power adapter. All you need to do is plug in some cables. Awesome.

We’ve been using one for some time now, and it really is a marvelous device. Ditch your dock, Genki is the future.

Nintendo Switch light up dock shield by PDP ($16)

PDP has your back if you still want to use the stock dock but feel it could do with some jazzing up. Each kit has two light-up dock covers like this one with the sheikah slate motif from Breath of the Wild to make the boring dock look awesome.

READ MORE: How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch

They’re so cheap that you can get a few and change it up if you get bored of the pattern. Add 17 different color/pattern effects to the mix, and your boring gray dock will never be the same again.

Up-Switch Orion ($300)

Ever wished your Nintendo Switch screen was larger? Up-Switch has you covered with the Orion. Dock your console into the back, and you’ll get an 11.6-inch screen to play on.

The trade-off? You’re in the docked mode, so no touchscreen. You’ll also need an external power source, like a power bank. Oh, and the screen adds 1.5 pounds to the weight you’ll be carrying around.

Ammo Kinergy game cartridge holder ($13)

If you haven’t read it yet, you should totally go read the backstory of this nifty Nintendo Switch cartridge case. While Josh is pretty perplexed by the weirdness of the instruction manual, I’m all for it. I mean, how often do you actually get a device that’s both useful and mysterious?

It’s like the little snippets of lore found on weapons and collectibles in the game Destiny, and I love that game’s weirdness. Anyway, the Ammo Kinergy case also holds 18 games, both Joy-Con wrist strap attachments, and the mystery it holds. Sweet.

KontrolFreeks thumbsticks ($15)

While we love both the Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller here at KnowTechie, we’re less enthused about the thumbsticks used by Nintendo. I mean, besides the drift issues, those stubby little Joy-Con thumbsticks aren’t really usable by anyone out of grade school.

That’s where KontrolFreek comes in, with a full range of height-enhancing, grip-fixing extenders for those thumbsticks so you can finally play Mario Odyssey without wanting to throw your controllers more than Nintendo suggests.

SanDisk MicroSDXC memory card (varies)

Once you’ve put a few games onto your Nintendo Switch, you’ll find that the internal storage fills up pretty quickly. Even playing games from cartridge adds files to the internal storage, so you’ll find yourself needing a microSD card to add more space. This is one of the best accessories you can buy for your Nintendo Switch, and really should be the first thing you order.

Sure, you could just buy any old microSD card, but where’s the fun in that? SanDisk has some officially-licensed microSD cards for the Nintendo Switch, with Zelda logos for the 64GB size, a Mario Mushroom on the 128GB size, and an all-yellow Invincibility Star on the 256GB, so you can pack in more games in style.

Orzly Grip Case for Nintendo Switch Lite ($15)

If you’ve opted for the Nintendo Switch Lite, you might be wanting a protective case so you don’t smash it while you’re playing Super Smash Bros. outside of the house.

Orzly has a great grip case that covers everything except the buttons in protective TPU material. It’s got cut-outs for all the vents and ports, a kickstand, and even two hidden compartments in the grips so you can carry two additional game cartridges. That’s pretty darn cool.

Funlab Travel Carrying Case Compatible with Nintendo Switch System ($33)

Since most Nintendo accessories tend to be Mario-themed, why not switch it up with this Luigi-themed carrying case.

It’s designed to mimic his signature green and blue overalls, with the inside featuring an insert with sculpted sections to fit the Nintendo Switch, the dock, the charger, the Joy-Con straps, the insert that connects Joy-Cons into a normal controller, pockets for game cartridges, cables and more.

Whew, bet you didn’t know that the skinny Mario Brother could pack away the goods.

Ring Fit Adventure ($80)

Every Nintendo console in recent years has come with motion controls, and the Nintendo Switch and its Joy-Cons is no exception. That means it’s perfect for motion-activated games or in this case RingFit Adventures which Nintendo-fies your daily workouts.

Using the Ring accessory and leg strap, your two Joy-Cons turn your body into the controller, letting you jog, sprint, and throw knees through dozens of adventure-packed levels. Attack by throwing shoulders, refill your life counter by throwing shapes (yoga shapes, to be exact), and become a “master squatter.”

Oh, and don’t forget to play the minigames, which Nintendo is always fantastic at creating.

Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit ($100)

Ever wanted to turn your home into a Mario Kart circuit? Well, now you can, because this game kit gives you everything you need.

Place the cardboard gates around your home to make the racetrack, then turn your Nintendo Switch into an augmented reality controller to race the included RC car through the course you created.

Add more kits to race multiplayer cars around your living room, but look out for those virtual shells!

Nintendo LABO (varies)

Remember all the fun you had with cardboard boxes as a kid? Bring that fun back to the digital age, with the LABO kits.

Pop out the sheets of cardboard, put them together in the order the game cart tells you to, and enjoy some insanely fun augmented reality experiences.

Depending on which kit you get, you can turn your Switch into a race sim rig, or a VR blaster, or even a piano.

UGREEN USB Ethernet adapter ($15)

The wireless connection on the Nintendo Switch is good enough for most cases, but sometimes you want the stability of a wired network connection.

You could buy the official Nintendo Ethernet adapter, but this one is half the price and just as good. Plug it into the dock, and you’ll be brawling in Super Smash Bros. with low latency in no time.

HORI Compact Playstand ($22)

Nintendo put a handy kickstand on the back of the Switch for if you want to use the Joy-Cons without a TV. That’s cool, but they also put the charging port on the bottom, so you can’t keep your Switch powered up while using the kickstand.

HORI fixes that issue with its foldable, compact Playstand, which raises the screen to a better height for your neck while allowing access to the USB-C charging port.

These are our picks for the best Nintendo Switch accessories

There’s a lot here, we know. But no matter if you are playing from the comfort of your home or on the go, these are some of the best Nintendo Switch accessories money can buy right now.

And without a doubt, these accessories will certainly add another level of entertainment to the Nintendo Switch.

Did we miss anything? Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Which Nintendo Switch is best for you?
• Can you refund games on the Nintendo Switch?
• Can you gameshare with the Nintendo Switch?
• Which Nintendo Switch is hackable?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post The best Nintendo Switch accessories (2022) appeared first on KnowTechie.

Throughout your time exploring the world of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 on your Nintendo Switch, you’ll build yourself a party of six different characters that join along on your journey. And eventually, you’ll be able to customize the look of all six of those characters.

Character customization has been a huge part of previous Xenoblade Chronicles titles, and the same holds true for Xenoblade Chronicles 3.

Can you change outfits in Xenoblade Chronicles 3?

Short answer: Yes, once you start chapter 3.

If you’ve just started playing the game, you might be asking yourself, “Can you change outfits in Xenoblade Chronicles 3″?

During the first couple of chapters of the game, you actually can’t access the clothing customization option.

But once you get to chapter 3 and finish one of your companions, Ethel’s, Hero Quest, you’ll unlock the ability to change your characters’ outfits. And you can access the clothing page by heading to the Clothing tab on your Character page.

That’s all you have to do to change your character’s appearance in Xenoblade Chronicles 3. You can use the L and R buttons in the Clothing menu to switch between your characters and customize your entire party.

You’re not even limited to wearing clothing from your character’s class. Any character can wear any piece of clothing, as long as you’ve unlocked it already.

How to unlock more clothing and appearance options

Of course, you won’t start out in chapter 3 with all the clothing options already available. You have to do some exploring and leveling up if you want to unlock more options.

The first and main method for unlocking new clothes is by just playing through the story. As you do quests and progress in Xenoblade Chronicles 3, you’ll unlock new clothing options that your characters can use.

Another way to unlock new clothes is by leveling up your character’s class. Once you reach Rank 10 in a class, you’ll unlock a special clothing option for that class. And any character will be able to wear it, not just the character with that class.

READ MORE: Can you change Xenoblade Chronicles 3 difficulty?

The final option has to do with purchasing the first Xenoblade Chronicles 3 expansion pass. The game’s first expansion pass will include new, helpful in-game items and new colors for the six base class outfits in the game.

Chances are, there will be new outfits and customization options added in future DLC for the game. But there hasn’t been anything like that announced quite yet, so keep your eyes peeled for future Xenoblade Chronicles 3 DLC.

Use outfits to customize your Xenoblade Chronicles 3 characters

The use of outfits to customize your characters is a staple in many RPGs, and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 follows the same path. You can switch up the outfits for your entire party, truly making the party your own.

Just remember, you don’t unlock the option to change outfits until you’ve reached chapter 3 in the game’s story. After reaching chapter 3 and completing Ethel’s Hero Quest, you can switch up outfits as much as you’d like through the game menu.

And you’ll unlock more outfits as you progress through the story and level your characters up. Keep your eyes peeled for new DLC in the future that could add even more clothing customization options for you to play around with.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How many chapters does Xenoblade Chronicles 3 have?
• Do Nintendo Switch retro controllers work with Steam?
• Is it safe to play the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch in hot weather?
• Stray: What to know about the new game where you play as a cat

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post How to change your appearance in Xenoblade Chronicles 3 appeared first on KnowTechie.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 launched on the Switch on July 29. It’s the follow-up to 2017’s Xenoblade Chronicles 2, which builds upon the foundations its predecessor developed.

Early reviews of the game have been pretty good so far, with most people enjoying the new game early on. And the general consensus is that RPG fans will have tons of content to enjoy within the game. So, just how big is it?

How many chapters are in Xenoblade Chronicles 3?

Short answer: 7 chapters.

The story of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 spans seven different chapters. Each chapter is unique, with its own themes and challenges to overcome. Here are the names of all seven chapters:

• Chapter 1 – Ouroboros
• Chapter 2 – Moebius
• Chapter 3 – Saffronias
• Chapter 4 – Life
• Chapter 5 – Eclipse
• Chapter 6 – Choices
• Chapter 7 – Time Moves Again

At first glance, seven chapters might not seem like much content. You might think you could get through seven chapters of a game in little to no time, so why are people saying that Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has tons of content?

That’s because each chapter has around 10 to 12 hours of content available for you to complete. Each chapter will have its own storylines and quest chains that you’ll be able to spend tons of time doing.

Most early impressions claim that Xenoblade Chronicles 3 will take most players around 70 to 80 hours to play. There are likely ways to cut that down, however, like focusing on main story quests.

But on the other hand, reviewers claim that completionists could easily spend 100 or more hours in Xenoblade Chronicles 3 if they want to experience everything the game offers.

READ MORE: Can you change Xenoblade Chronicles 3 difficulty?

So yes, there are only seven chapters in Xenoblade Chronicles 3, which is fewer than its predecessor. But there is tons of content shoved into each chapter, and you will be able to enjoy the game for a very long time.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Is Xenoblade Chronicles 3 worth buying? Here’s what reviews say
• Do Nintendo Switch retro controllers work with Steam?
• Is it safe to play the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch in hot weather?
• iOS 16 lets you hook up Nintendo Switch controllers to your iPhone

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post How many chapters does Xenoblade Chronicles 3 have? appeared first on KnowTechie.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 launched recently on the Nintendo Switch, and early reviews for the game are pretty good. It’s a JRPG focused on character building and unique combat.

But what about difficulty? Maybe you started the game out on Hard difficulty, but realized that it’s too tough. Or maybe it’s the other way around, and you want to make more of a challenge for yourself. Does that mean you’ll have to start a new game?

Can you change the difficulty in Xenoblade Chronicles 3?

Short answer: Yes, at any time.

Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to change your difficulty at any time during your journey in Xenoblade Chronicles 3. You can change the difficulty on the fly as soon as you take control of your adventuring party.

To change the difficulty, you have to head to the game’s settings. Press X to open the game’s main menu and scroll to System.

READ MORE: How to change your appearance in Xenoblade Chronicles 3

From there, choose Options, then Game. Once in the Game options menu, you’ll see the option to cycle through the game’s difficulty settings.

So you don’t need to worry about starting a new game if you want to change the difficulty.

If you’re looking for a little extra challenge, or maybe you want a more relaxed, easier experience, you can always adjust the difficulty in Xenoblade Chronicles 3 during your playthrough.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Is Xenoblade Chronicles 3 worth buying? Here’s what reviews say
• Here are your free Xbox Games with Gold for August 2022
• Here are your free PlayStation Plus games for August 2022
• Do Nintendo Switch retro controllers work with Steam?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Can you change Xenoblade Chronicles 3 difficulty? appeared first on KnowTechie.

For a quick refresher, Steam is a PC gaming platform with thousands of available games to choose from.

With tons of classics to choose from, Steam would be a great platform for users to feel nostalgic using one of Nintendo’s classic controller designs to play some retro games.

But Nintendo designed its retro controllers with the Switch in mind. So, will they work on Steam? Let’s find out.

Can you use Nintendo Switch retro controllers on Steam?

Short answer: Yes

When the retro Nintendo controllers originally came out, Nintendo designed them specifically for the Switch. But in July of 2022, Steam pushed an update to its client that added support for the retro controllers on Steam.

Of course, it’s probably not easy to play some computer games with Nintendo’s retro controllers. I imagine you’d have a hard time using an older controller layout in a game like Elden Ring.

But if you play a lot of retro games, these controllers might feel pretty good. Imagine hopping on the original Final Fantasy VII with a throwback NES controller. It could transport you back to a time when video games were made for love instead of absolute greed.

However, you will have to get past the supply limits to snag one of these controllers.

When writing this, the SNES and the original NES retro controller are available on Nintendo’s website. And the website states, “an active Nintendo Switch Online membership is required to purchase.”

But the Nintendo 64 and SEGA Genesis retro controllers are currently sold out at the time of writing. Thankfully, retailers like Amazon and others have them available too, but scalpers have them overly priced, so just a fair warning.

So if you want to go retro on Steam, you’ll have to settle for NES or SNES for now. Or keep your eye on the Nintendo website for restocks of the other controllers.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• The Nintendo Switch Online app finally makes it easy to add friends
• Is it safe to play the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch in hot weather?
• iOS 16 lets you hook up Nintendo Switch controllers to your iPhone
• No Man’s Sky touches down on Nintendo Switch this October
• How to add friends on your Nintendo Switch

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Do Nintendo Switch retro controllers work with Steam? appeared first on KnowTechie.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a unique RPG that takes place in the strange world of Aionios. You’ll build a party of six characters and travel the world, taking on outrageous enemies and completing various stories and quests.

This is the third installment to a fan-favorite franchise that has been on Nintendo consoles for over a decade.

With early reviews starting to come in this week, we have a good idea of how players are enjoying the game so far. So let’s see what it’s all about.

Unique story inside of a strange world

The unique story and setting of Xenoblade Chronicles games in the past have set them apart from other RPGs. And Xenoblade Chronicles 3 follows the same formula.

The game takes place in the world of Aionios where all inhabitants must train to fight for one of two factions.

They start training at an early age and must practice combat for 10 years straight. If they survive that time, the queen of Aionios sends them away in strange motes of light.

READ MORE: How to order Xenoblade Chronicles 3

“Even after more than 60 hours I’m left wanting more, eager to explore the world of Aionios in search of its myriad secrets and to be a part of countless smaller stories I’m yet to see unfold,” exclaimed The Gamer’s Jade King.

But not everyone is in love with the world of Aionios. Jason Guisao from Game Informer says, “Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a bloated trek across vast but lifeless environments further diminished by an unaffecting narrative with one of the worst ensemble casts in the franchise.” That’s not the best endorsement, I’d say.

Slow pace with tons of content

GameSpot’s Jake Dekker says, “the story really doesn’t come into its own until about halfway through the first chapter when you’ve been introduced to all six party members.” And that says a lot about the game’s pace.

Where some RPGs tend to focus on the main story and push the player through specific quests as quickly as possible, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 does the opposite. The game features tons of cutscenes and dialogue that slow down the pace.

Aionios is a massive world with tons of different environments and locations to explore. Gamers will easily spend dozens of hours exploring the world, embarking on sidequests, and completing various downtime activities.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has shining new combat mechanics and in-depth quests

What reviewers seem most excited about in Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is the improved and revamped combat system. It features the familiar, combo-driven combat with basic attacks and abilities. But Monolith Soft has added tons of options, seemingly creating a more dynamic fighting experience.

The game feature six playable characters that make up your adventuring party. Each character can learn their own combat mechanics. This creates a diverse and dynamic system that players can tweak and build to their liking.

“Playing around with all the classes not only serves as an addictive loop that kept me busy throughout the adventure, but also helps break up some of the monotony we had to slog through in prior iterations of the combat system that tethered you to a single class and lacked variety,” claims IGN’s Travis Northup.

The quests that you’ll find along your journey through Aionios are also more in-depth and impactful than previous entries. Many quests have important outcomes like unlocking new characters or locations.

Side-quests seem to feel pretty important in the game. Autumn Wright from Polygon says “these quests conceal some of the best stories Xenoblade Chronicles 3 has to offer, with politicking, espionage, and trade negotiations as recurring themes.

Impressive graphics for a Switch-only title

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a Switch-only title. So it’s important to not expect too much from the game regarding graphics and looks. That being said, the game certainly looks impressive in videos, and many reviewers agree.

Chris Carter at Destructoid was a big fan of the game’s graphics, saying that “while a lot of people will likely balk at any form of Switch visuals, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is impressive looking by any standard.”

The Sixth Axis’s Dominic L, on the other hand, wasn’t too impressed, stating that the “resolution is dialed down a bit too far.”

To me, the graphics seem pretty good for a game of its caliber on the Nintendo Switch. It reminds me of a sort of Genshin Impact or Breath of the Wild style with movement and mechanics that replicate older Nintendo RPGs.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 looks like a solid entry for Nintendo Switch gamers

For the major Nintendo fans out there, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 will feel like a great title to enjoy. It includes tons of what makes Nintendo unique, like its broad, dramatic storytelling and incredibly unique concepts and setting.

Monolith Soft has revamped the combat mechanics and improved on other aspects of its previous titles in this culmination.

If you’re looking for that next Nintendo RPG that you can sink dozens, maybe even more than 100 hours into, then Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is for you.

The game launches exclusively for the Nintendo Switch tomorrow, July 29. You can snag it for yourself for $59.99 from Nintendo, Best Buy, Amazon, GameStop, Target, or Walmart.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• The Nintendo Switch Online app finally makes it easy to add friends
• Booting up your Xbox Series X|S just got a whole lot faster
• Sony announces new, free PlayStation Stars loyalty program
• What games can the Steam Deck not play?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Is Xenoblade Chronicles 3 worth buying? Here’s what reviews say appeared first on KnowTechie.

Now, you don’t have to worry about remembering or typing in those annoyingly long 12-digit friend codes when you want to add a new friend.

The latest update for the Nintendo Switch Online app for Android and iOS (version 2.2) added a couple of new ways that you can add friends. You can either create a QR code for your account that friends can scan to quickly add you to their friends’ list.

Or you can create a URL tied to your friend code. So when a user selects that URL from their mobile device, it will automatically enter your friend code and send a friend request to your account. Here’s what it looks like below:

This new update will make adding new friends to your Nintendo Switch a lot easier

Previously, Nintendo added the ability to copy your friend code to your clipboard through the app. You could then send the code straight to your friends. This way, you don’t have to memorize the 12-digit code.

But your friend on the other end would still have to type the code into the app. And that was still pretty tedious. The new method is thankfully so much easier.

iPhone users need to be on iOS 14 or later

Of course, there are limits. If you’re on the iOS version of the Nintendo Switch Online app, you’ll have to be on at least iOS 14 for the feature to work.

Additionally, you should be careful about who you send those links or QR codes to. Anyone with the link or QR code will have the ability to send you friend requests. And that can get a little annoying.

However, it’s nice to see that Nintendo has made it much easier to add friends on the Switch. Those 12-digit codes have been a pain in the ass since the Switch came out. And this new method helps to alleviate a lot of that pain.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Is it safe to play the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch in hot weather?
• No Man’s Sky touches down on Nintendo Switch this October
• The X3 controller turns your phone into a Switch-like gaming machine
• People are destroying their TVs with Nintendo Switch Sports

The post The Nintendo Switch Online app finally makes it easy to add friends appeared first on KnowTechie.