How do you review one of the greatest games of all time?
Elden Ring is one of those games that needs no introduction. Launched in 2022, the difficult fantasy RPG rapidly skyrocketed into the year’s top spot. Then, it got even better with 2024’s Shadow of the Erdtree, a sizable DLC that packed in a new map with new challenges. Now, I’ve reviewed both and found them well worth the price of admission. So, what else is there to say?
Well, late last month, Elden Ring launched its much-awaited port for the Switch 2 through a Tarnished Edition, a bundle that conveniently pairs the base game with the DLC in one package. In an instant, there are now two new things to talk about: How well does the game perform on a Switch 2? What does the Tarnished Edition add?
Is Elden Ring worth getting for the Switch 2?
Compared to the original Switch, the second Switch features a way better processor. Games aren’t locked to the limitations of yesteryear: 720p resolution, 30fps. However, the Switch 2 still isn’t the best console for chasing performance. Personally, I’ve been using it almost exclusively for first-party Nintendo games and older (and smaller) titles.
That said, Nintendo has grandiose dreams for its latest console. Starting with Cyberpunk 2077, the console wants to be a home for modern games, too, and Elden Ring is the perfect candidate for that.
Naturally, a Switch 2 port can fill fans with consternation especially after they’ve experienced the legendary game on more powerful consoles. Is the Switch 2 a good match?
Yes, if you don’t mind playing at 30fps. Unfortunately, Elden Ring is locked to only 30fps on the console. Though a good chunk of the population is clearly fine with the framerate, it’s a bit of a struggle for me especially in handheld mode.
Maybe it’s my aging eyes, but having a game so close to my face but locked at 30fps doesn’t make for a good time. I got dizzy pretty quickly. It also didn’t help that the handheld mode had several stutters.
As with other games on the platform, docked mode had significant improvements. Sure, it’s still locked at 30fps, but a consistent framerate is much better than a stuttering one. Despite the downgrade, the Switch 2 can handle the game well.
Is the Tarnished Edition worth getting?
Most FromSoftware games will get a complete edition eventually. All of the Dark Souls titles got one, and Elden Ring is no exception.
The biggest difference here is that the Tarnished Edition is technically exclusive to the Switch 2. It’s the only package available for the console. It includes the base game, the expansion pack, two new starting classes, new skins for Torrent, and new armors. It’s the most comprehensive way to play the entirety of Elden Ring, excepting Nightreign.
If you’re on another platform, the Tarnished Edition updates — the new classes, skins, and armors — are available only through a Tarnished Pack purchased separately. Is it worth the price?
The most exciting part of the update is the addition of two new classes: Heavy Knight and Idus Knight. For me, I prefer the Heavy Knight, a hardy class focused on heavy armor, endurance, and strength. It’s a very straightforward class for those who prefer direct damage. Idus Knight, on the other hand, focuses on dexterity and faith, if you prefer playing with quicker attacks and miracles.
The rest, in my opinion, is just cherry on top. The new armor and customization options are nice to have, but I don’t have a strong feeling that it’s worth the price of an extra DLC.
Is Elden Ring Tarnished Edition your PlayMatch?
As I said, it’s hard to review the special edition or a port of a universally acclaimed game. Focusing on the minutiae of performance and slight upgrades doesn’t feel like it does Elden Ring justice. The game earned 2022’s Game of the Year for a reason.
That said, I can’t recommend Elden Ring and Shadow of the Erdtree enough. If you haven’t played it yet and only have a Switch 2, the Tarnished Edition gets a Swipe Right and a Super Swipe.
However, if you’ve already finished the game and have no intention of playing it elsewhere (especially on a potentially weaker platform), this gets a Swipe Left. You can shell out a few bucks for the Tarnished Pack, though, if you really want to support the game.
SEE ALSO: Elden Ring review: Should you play the hardest game of 2022?
Gaming
KINGDOM HEARTS Collection [I–III] now available on PS5, Switch 2
All-in-one collection launches
The KINGDOM HEARTS Collection [I–III] is now available on PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia and Square Enix announced the collection’s launch on October 15, 2026, alongside the release of physical editions for PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2 in Southeast Asia.
The collection bundles three releases: KINGDOM HEARTS -HD 1.5+2.5 ReMIX-, KINGDOM HEARTS HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue, and KINGDOM HEARTS III + Re Mind (DLC). These include multiple games and cinematic compilations from the franchise, offering newcomers and returning fans a convenient way to experience Sora’s adventures.
The collection is available on Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam, Xbox on PC, and the Epic Games Store. Individual titles are also available, while KINGDOM HEARTS -HD 1.5+2.5 ReMIX- will be available natively on the original Nintendo Switch.
Try Kingdom Hearts III for free
Newcomers can also try the free KINGDOM HEARTS III + Re Mind (DLC) demo on Nintendo Switch 2. It features two playable sections inspired by Disney’s Hercules and Disney-Pixar’s Toy Story.
Progress from the opening section through the early stages of Olympus carries over to the full game. However, save data from the Toy Box section does not transfer.
The Nintendo Switch 2 version also supports Japanese voiceovers through a separately downloadable Japanese Voice Pack DLC.
Platform-exclusive Keyblades
Players who purchase eligible editions of the collection or KINGDOM HEARTS III + Re Mind (DLC) can receive a platform-exclusive Keyblade.
- Nintendo Switch 2: Long Night
- PlayStation 5: Midnight Blue
- Xbox Series X|S: Phantom Green
The physical edition requires an internet connection to download additional game data. Digital pre-orders on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S also included 48-hour early access.
Players who own digital versions of the games on Nintendo Switch (Cloud Version), PS4, or Xbox One are eligible for discounts on digital purchases of the corresponding releases on Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Nintendo Switch Cloud Version owners can also transfer their save data to Nintendo Switch 2. Other platforms do not support save data transfers.
The KINGDOM HEARTS series will celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2027.
LE SSERAFIM member Sakura has a game recommendation for Nintendo Switch 2 owners, and it is an unexpected pick for fans looking for something to play.
During a fan send-off at the group’s PUREFLOW tour stop in Newark, New Jersey, a FEARNOT reportedly asked Sakura which Switch 2 game she would recommend. She pointed the fan toward Torneko’s Mystery Dungeon, a classic RPG from Square Enix.
The Newark concert took place at the Prudential Center on October 8, 2026. The game Sakura mentioned is now available internationally as Dragon Quest Heroes: Torneko’s Mystery Dungeon -Classic HD-.
What is Torneko’s Mystery Dungeon about?
The game follows Torneko Taloon, a merchant from Dragon Quest IV who dreams of becoming the world’s greatest weapons dealer.
Torneko hears rumors of a mysterious dungeon filled with incredible treasures. He ventures inside to collect valuable items, bring them home, and expand his shop.
The premise is straightforward, but surviving the dungeon is another story. Each expedition brings a new layout, different items, and new monsters. Torneko must make it out alive if he wants to keep the treasures he finds.
Source: Official Dragon Quest website
What kind of game is it?
Torneko’s Mystery Dungeon is a turn-based roguelike dungeon crawler with RPG and resource-management elements.
Every step counts as a turn. When Torneko moves, enemies move too. Players must decide when to fight, when to use items, and when to retreat. Poor decisions can quickly turn a promising run into a disaster.
Death also carries a hefty penalty. Torneko loses the items collected during a failed expedition and returns to the first floor at Level 1. However, successfully bringing items home helps expand his shop and provides a sense of long-term progression.
The game originally debuted in Japan in 1993. Its Classic HD release brings the pioneering dungeon crawler to international audiences with updated visuals, an official English localization, and adjustable difficulty options.
The game is available on Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
How long does it take to beat?
According to HowLongToBeat estimates reported by M4 Games, the main story takes around 7.5 hours to complete. A playthrough that includes additional content takes approximately 16 hours.
Those estimates offer a useful starting point, but the game’s procedural dungeons and punishing mechanics can affect how long individual players need to finish it.
What do critics and players think?
Torneko’s Mystery Dungeon -Classic HD- has received a mixed-to-positive response from critics.
Review aggregator listings put its critical reception around the high 60s to low 70s out of 100, depending on the platform and the aggregator. RPGFan awarded it an 80/100, praising its strategic dungeon runs, charming Dragon Quest monsters, and satisfying progression.
However, the game also shows its age. Critics have pointed to dated presentation, limited quality-of-life improvements, and pacing issues. Its demanding mechanics may also frustrate players who prefer more modern, forgiving roguelikes.
The general sentiment is that the core gameplay remains engaging, particularly for fans of classic RPGs and dungeon crawlers. However, this is a 1993 game at heart, and its remaster does not completely modernize the experience.
Sources: RPGFan, CriticDB, Steam player reviews
Would you play it because of the game or because of Sakura?
Let’s be honest. A recommendation from Sakura might be enough to make some FEARNOTs curious about a game they would otherwise overlook.
From a gameplay perspective, Torneko’s Mystery Dungeon -Classic HD- offers a glimpse into the roots of a genre that continues to thrive today. Its turn-based combat, randomly generated dungeons, and risk-reward loop could appeal to players who enjoy methodical RPGs.
Still, the game isn’t necessarily for everyone. Its old-school design and punishing mechanics may require some patience, especially for players accustomed to more modern dungeon crawlers.
Personally, I’d be tempted to give it a shot because of Sakura. 👀
Whether the game itself can keep me playing is another question. But if a FEARNOT is looking for a new Switch 2 game and Sakura recommends this one, that might be reason enough to take a closer look.
Would you play Torneko’s Mystery Dungeon because of the gameplay, or because Sakura recommended it?
Gaming
Just Dance: Decades of Hits out now, with 35 iconic songs across eras
Travel through time and share the joy of rediscovering iconic moments
Just Dance: Decades of Hits is officially out now on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
This gives players the opportunity to have unforgettable moments of fun with friends and family as the title brings every era to one dance floor.
Just Dance: Decades of Hits brings together 35 iconic songs across six different decades into one title.
Here’s the complete list:
1970s
- Mamma Mia by ABBA
- Come and Get Your Love by The Heartliners
- ABC by Groove Century
- Crocodile Rock by Elton John
- The Singing Garden by Hyacinth
1980s
- It’s Tricky by RUN DMC
- Uptown Girl by Billy Joel
- Into the Groove by Madonna
- Jump by Metal Russell
- Celebration by Equinox Stars
1990s
- Wannabe by Spice Girls
- Just A Girl by No Doubt
- Around the World by Daft Punk
- Sing Hallelujah! by Dr. Alban
- Coconut by SMiLE.dk
2000s
- Stronger by Britney Spears
- Bye Bye Bye by *NSYNC
- No Scrubs by TLC
- Feel Good Inc. by Gorillaz
- Starlight by The Superman Lovers (feat Mani Hoffman)
- In Too Deep – Sum 41
2010s
- Turn Down for What by DJ Snake & Lil Jon
- Danza Kuduro by Don Omar feat. Lucenzo
- Hello by Martein Solveig & Dragonette
- Santa Tell Me by Ariana Grande
- Give Me Everything by Pitbull featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack and Nayer
2020s
- Manchild by Sabrina Carpenter
- NUEVAYoL by Bad Bunny
- Midnight Sun by Zara Larsson
- drop dead by Olivia Rodrigo
- MORE & MORE by TWICE
- HOT TO GO! By Chappell Roan
- Across All Time by Lyra Gigavolt
- Supersonic by Lyra Gigavolt
- Hi Lyfe by Cult of Sound
New Adventure Mode
Aside from the songs and visuals, an all-new Adventure Mode is likewise included. These experiences are all designed to immerse players in the spirit that made each decade unforgettable, from the funky ’70s disco floors and electrifying ’80s rock scene to the glossy 2000s pop and beyond.
The game lets players travel through time and share the joy of rediscovering iconic moments with friends and family.
The game’s Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will release on November 10. Meanwhile, those who own both Decades of Hits and the 2023-2026 editions of Just Dance will be able to access all their songs in one place on the same console.
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