But keep those tissues at bay because he won’t be ghosting us like a Boo in a haunted castle. As an ambassador, he’ll continue to spread Mario’s love worldwide, just without the studio mic.

Nintendo, in a statement as heartfelt as a Princess Peach letter, thanked Martinet and teased a special video message from him and Mario’s creator, Shigeru Miyamoto.

My new Adventure begins! You are all Numba One in my heart! #woohoo !!!!!!! https://t.co/3YWYewlnXt

— Charles Martinet (@CharlesMartinet) August 21, 2023

“Charles Martinet has been the original voice of Mario in Nintendo games for a long time, as far back as Super Mario 64. Charles is now moving into the brand-new role of Mario Ambassador,” writes Nintendo in its farewell tweet. “With this transition, he will be stepping back from recording character voices for our games, but he’ll continue to travel the world sharing the joy of Mario and interacting with you all!

It has been an honor working with Charles to help bring Mario to life for so many years and we want to thank and celebrate him. Please keep an eye out for a special video message from Shigeru Miyamoto and Charles himself, which we will post at a future date.“

Martinet was in the recent Super Mario Bros Movie, where he voiced Mario’s dad. The film, starring Chris Pratt and Charlie Day, scored a massive glowing 1-Up, grossing over $1 billion.

With Martinet stepping back, the big question is, who will voice our favorite plumber in the next game, Super Mario Bros Wonder?

Nintendo reps remain as silent as Luigi in a ghost house. But hey, no rush. It’s just the voice of the most iconic character in gaming. No big deal, right?

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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• Super Mario RPG is making a triumphant return to the switch
• What is Mario Day?
• The best Nintendo Switch accessories (2023)

The post The voice of Super Mario hangs up his overalls for retirement appeared first on KnowTechie.

Mother 3, a game that has never seen an official English release. Secret of Evermore and Terranigma are also a pair of games that Nintendo seems to forget exists.

The true crime, however, was that outside of the Wii U Virtual Console and the Super NES Classic, Nintendo failed to acknowledge Super Mario RPG existed.

Well, that was until this most recent Nintendo Direct.

During the Nintendo Direct event, we learned that the company is completely remaking the cult favorite JRPG with new graphics, music, and potentially even enemies.

“Originally released on Super NES, Super Mario RPG has been overhauled with new graphics! Join Mario, Bowser, Princess Peach, and original characters Mallow and Geno, in an RPG filled with twists, turns and treasure. Mario must team up with his allies to face down a menacing force known as the Smithy Gang in order to recover seven stars and repair the Star Road.”

The updated graphics enhance Super Mario RPG’s magic without detracting from it. The trailer features refreshed music that adds a new twist to the already legendary soundtrack. Here, judge for yourself:

The joint effort of Square Enix and Nintendo really is an unexpected treat for those that are fans of classic, turn-based RPGs.

Super Mario RPG is a game that was, in many ways, an entry point for some people to get into JRPGs and a keystone title for others that enjoyed a solid game.

With this news and the news of Star Ocean: The Second Story R coming to the Nintendo Switch as well, JRPG fans will be having an amazing come November 2023.

As for a release date, expect to see Super Mario RPG launch on the Nintendo Switch on November 17.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to turn on dark mode on Nintendo Switch
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• Are Nintendo Switch games saved on the cartridge?
• Absolute sicko buys every 3DS and Wii U game in Nintendo eShop

The post Super Mario RPG is making a triumphant return to the switch appeared first on KnowTechie.

Most devices offer this feature. However, it goes by different names, including night mode and, in the case of the Switch, Basic Black.

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.

Here at the KnowTechie office, we coined it as ‘Nintendo Switch Night Mode,’ because hey, it switches from day to night, just like our screens do.

So, let’s show you how hot to turn on night mode or dark mode on the Nintendo Switch.

Although Nintendo does not officially feature ‘dark mode,’ opting for the Basic Black theme will transform your Nintendo Switch’s background from white to black. Here’s how to set it up.

Head to settings

Select System Settings from the console’s home screen

Change your theme

Scroll down and select Themes, then Basic Black

Hello dark mode

And there you have it, your Nintendo Switch should show display a blacked-out design.

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. 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.

Wrapping up – Dark Mode everything

While the Nintendo Switch doesn’t have a traditional ‘dark mode,’ it does offer a Basic Black theme that can give users a similar experience.

This theme can be manually activated through the system settings, providing a visually soothing alternative to the standard bright display. However, the console currently lacks features like automatic scheduling or a quick shortcut for this mode change.

Yea, annoying, we know.

So, why not take the plunge and switch things up with the ‘Basic Black’ theme? For now, it’s the closest thing you’ll get to a dark mode.

While you’re still here if you need to outfit your Switch with some of the hottest Nintendo Switch accessories, we have an entertaining roundup of the best Switch accessories. Buckle in, though; there’s a lot in it, so we apologize in advance.

Is dark mode better for your eyes?

The jury is still out on that. Dark mode can indeed cut down on glare and reduce blue light exposure, which may help with digital eye strain, especially in low-light conditions. This makes it a solid choice for nighttime or low-light use.

However, it’s also important to note that dark mode doesn’t directly reduce eye strain. The contrast between text and background can be a significant factor in legibility, which in turn impacts eye strain. So, in well-lit environments or during the day, dark mode might not offer the same benefits.

Can I schedule dark mode on my Nintendo Switch to turn on automatically?

Currently, there is no feature available to automatically schedule dark mode on the Nintendo Switch. The system does not support automatic transitioning between light and dark modes based on the time of day.

Is there a shortcut to switch to dark mode on the Nintendo Switch?

Currently, there is no shortcut available to switch to dark mode on the Nintendo Switch instantly. To change to dark mode, users have to navigate through the system settings manually.

Is dark mode better for your eyes?

The jury is still out on that. Dark mode can indeed cut down on glare and reduce blue light exposure, which may help with digital eye strain, especially in low-light conditions. This makes it a solid choice for nighttime or low-light use.

However, it’s also important to note that dark mode doesn’t directly reduce eye strain. The contrast between text and background can be a significant factor in legibility, which in turn impacts eye strain. So, in well-lit environments or during the day, dark mode might not offer the same benefits.

Can I schedule dark mode on my Nintendo Switch to turn on automatically?

Currently, there is no feature available to automatically schedule dark mode on the Nintendo Switch. The system does not support automatic transitioning between light and dark modes based on the time of day.

Is there a shortcut to switch to dark mode on the Nintendo Switch?

Currently, there is no shortcut available to switch to dark mode on the Nintendo Switch instantly. To change to dark mode, users have to navigate through the system settings manually.

Is dark mode better for your eyes?

The jury is still out on that. Dark mode can indeed cut down on glare and reduce blue light exposure, which may help with digital eye strain, especially in low-light conditions. This makes it a solid choice for nighttime or low-light use.

However, it’s also important to note that dark mode doesn’t directly reduce eye strain. The contrast between text and background can be a significant factor in legibility, which in turn impacts eye strain. So, in well-lit environments or during the day, dark mode might not offer the same benefits.

Can I schedule dark mode on my Nintendo Switch to turn on automatically?

Currently, there is no feature available to automatically schedule dark mode on the Nintendo Switch. The system does not support automatic transitioning between light and dark modes based on the time of day.

Is there a shortcut to switch to dark mode on the Nintendo Switch?

Currently, there is no shortcut available to switch to dark mode on the Nintendo Switch instantly. To change to dark mode, users have to navigate through the system settings manually.

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.

Quick Answer: No, Nintendo game save files live on the Nintendo Switch console’s onboard memory, not on game cartridges.

The Nintendo Switch might be selling like hotcakes, but that’s in spite of a few questionable design decisions by Nintendo. I mean, the 32GB of onboard storage fills up pretty quickly.

Zelda: Breath of the Wild is over 13GB, and that’s without accounting for the operating system or game save files.

Considering the restriction on space, one might expect the ability to back up save files, store them on SD cards or game cartridges, or even upload them to the cloud.

Only some of these things can be done, so read on to find which:

So, are your Nintendo Switch save files stored on the cartridge?

Short answer: No

Nintendo, in its inestimable wisdom, decided that game save files would live on the Nintendo Switch console’s onboard memory, not on game cartridges. I can only imagine some of that was because of the 32GB storage limit of the game cartridges.

What’s more, until recently, you couldn’t even transfer those save files off the console, making your game progress tied to the hardware. Because, of course, consoles never break, get lost, or stolen, right Ninty?

READ MORE: How to change your region on the Switch

If you pay for Nintendo Switch Online, you can back up most, but not all, of your game, saves to the cloud. Yay, finally, Nintendo’s latest console (almost) has all of the modern conveniences we’ve become accustomed to.

Surprised that the Switch doesn’t store saves on the game cards? How do you backup your game files? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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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 Are Nintendo Switch games saved on the cartridge? appeared first on KnowTechie.

After showing off various new gameplay mechanics, the 13-minute video also included a look at a Tears of the Kingdom-themed Nintendo Switch OLED.

You can grab it a couple of weeks before the game launches on April 28th.

What comes with the Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch OLED?

The “Zonai” themed artwork adorns the dock, the Joy-Con controllers, and the Switch itself. The Switch that comes with it is the 2021 OLED model, functionally speaking.

This means it has that nice 7-inch screen and 64GB of expandable storage capability. If you use the kickstand, it has a much better kickstand than the original, too.

The OLED model is snazzy for those planning on upgrading from your retro original launch model of Nintendo Switch. If you’re a Zelda fan, the colors and designs are great.

The price tag is $359.99. This makes it $10 dollars more than the boring old black-and-white version of the OLED system.

Sadly, the Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch doesn’t come with any games. But, that’s alright. You can buy the Standard, Digital, or Collector’s Editions separately to more properly fit your level of fandom.

There’s an option for those who don’t need to upgrade their entire game console just yet for some fancy designs. You still can make it all your own with a Tears of the Kingdom Controller and Carrying Case.

They utilize similar patterns to the OLED Switch. So, you can save some money and not feel left out from the customization.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Where to preorder

You can secure your preorder for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom at Amazon, Best Buy, and GameStop, where the game is priced at approximately $69.99.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

$69.99

After being announced in 2019, Nintendo has remained secretive about the game. Very little has been shown since it was announced, and leaks have been nearly non-existent.

Preorder at Best Buy Preorder at GameStop

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

If you’re looking to save money on an OLED Nintendo Switch and don’t care about the really cool Zelda theme, you could always just grab one today at $40 off retail price.

Otherwise, the Tears of the Kingdom Switch model will be available on April 28th, 2023.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom game comes out on May 12th, alongside the controller and carrying case.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

$69.99

After being announced in 2019, Nintendo has remained secretive about the game. Very little has been shown since it was announced, and leaks have been nearly non-existent.

Preorder at Best Buy Preorder at GameStop

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is coming in 2023
• N64 games like Legend of Zelda on the Switch look and feel like an absolute dumpster fire
• Which Nintendo Switch is hackable?
• The Nintendo Switch is now the third best-selling console ever

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 OLED Switch goes full Hyrule with new Tears of The Kingdom design appeared first on KnowTechie.

The Wii U wasn’t nearly as popular, but still had some great games available. Sadly, both consoles’ eShop will be shutting down in the near future.

Nintendo is currently focusing all of its efforts on the Switch, which has become one of the most popular gaming consoles in the world.

In fact, Nintendo recently announced that it would soon be ending its eShop support for both the 3DS and Wii U in March of 2023.

To catch you up, the 3DS was a dual-screened handheld console that solidified Nintendo’s spot as king of handheld gaming.

And the Wii U was the predecessor to the popular Switch, offering users the ability to play games on their TV or on the touchscreen included on the Wii U GamePad.

With gamers losing the ability to purchase games digitally on the 3DS and Wii U this week, we put together a list of some of the best eShop games you should download before losing the ability.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the games that stand out on both of these consoles. This is by no means a comprehensive list of the games available on the 3DS and the Wii U. These are just some of the ones that stood out to us.

These Nintendo 3DS games defined a generation

We’ll start by looking at some of the Nintendo 3DS games on the eShop that you won’t want to miss out on.

For years, the 3DS was the ultimate handheld gaming experience, and Nintendo supported the console with tons of games.

From Mario to Zelda and tons of other familiar Nintendo franchises, the 3DS has an outstanding library of Nintendo games that you can experience. Here are some of our favorites.

Super Smash Bros. for 3DS

First up on our list is a franchise that most Nintendo fans will be familiar with.

Like others in the franchise, Super Smash Bros. for 3DS brings some of the most iconic Nintendo characters together for some all-out-brawl entertainment.

Super Smash Bros. for 3DS gives you the excitement of Smash Bros. right in the palm of your hand. Smash Bros. has always been chaotic excellence in the form of a video game, and this game follows that same pattern.

New Super Mario Bros. 2

Next up, we have everybody’s favorite Italian plumber siblings in a 2012 return to form. New Super Mario Bros. 2 brings back the 2D side-scrolling, platformer action that helped millions fall in love with Nintendo in the first place.

But this time around, the focus is a little different. You may notice that everything is gold in New Super Mario Bros. 2, and that is definitely by design.

Not only must you make your way through the various levels in the game, but you’re also tasked with collecting as many gold coins as you can, to try to compete against high scores from other players.

Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate

Monster Hunter is another recognizable franchise in the Nintendo gaming world. And Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate is one of the franchise’s best entries.

Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate contains tons of monster-hunting action that you can experience with your friends. And it’s no walk in the park, either.

You’ll spend hours mastering monster mechanics as you hunt the game’s hardened enemies and fight through its amazing storyline.

Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation

Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation is a unique entry in this list. It is the third campaign in the 2016 title Fire Emblem Fates. And Revelation is only available as downloadable content.

Fire Emblem Fates was released in two different versions. Each version tells the same story of two kingdoms at war.

Fire Emblem Fates: Birthright sees the player fight for the side of the kingdom where they were born. The second version, Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest, has the player fighting for the other side.

Fire Emblem Fates: Revelations is sold as a DLC for one of the games. This campaign sees the player unite the two kingdoms to fight together against a shared enemy.

This campaign is only available digitally, so you’ll want to grab it before the eShop is gone for good.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D

Of course, we couldn’t make this list without showing some love to the Zelda franchise. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D is the 2015 remake of the classic Nintendo 64 title.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask 3D sees the player take control of Link, the series fabled protagonist, as he is stuck in a three-day time loop.

Stuck inside the parallel world of Termina, you must use what you learn over the three-day period to defeat Skull Kid and stop the moon from crashing into and destroying the world.

Mario Kart 7

And here we have one of my favorite game franchises of all time. If I could have majored in Mario Kart in college, then it definitely wouldn’t have taken me five years to graduate.

Mario Kart 7 for the Nintendo 3DS took everything we loved from the franchise and delivered it to the most popular handheld console at the time.

The game introduces new mechanics, like gliders and underwater driving, while maintaining the tight, exciting mechanics that we all know and love from previous Mario Kart titles.

Metroid: Samus Returns

Metroid: Samus Returns is a 3DS remake of the Game Boy title by the name of Metroid 2.

This sidescrolling shooter features improved mechanics over the original, like 360-degree aiming and an arsenal of new powers and abilities.

And the graphics are miles ahead of what the original game had to offer. Metroid 2 was released back in 1991.

Metroid: Samus Returns catapults the game into the 21st century, and it’s a game you won’t want to miss on your Nintendo 3DS.

Fire Emblem: Awakening

Closing out our list of 3DS games, we have Fire Emblem: Awakening. Considered to be a very difficult game in its time, Fire Emblem: Awakening is a strategy RPG with unique mechanics and deep customization.

You will have to use a combination of tactics and character-building as you move your way across the battlefield in Fire Emblem: Awakening.

If you are a fan of turn-based or tactical RPGs, then you definitely want to check out Fire Emblem: Awakening on the 3DS eShop while you still can.

Now for a few Wii U games that you’ll want to check out

And for those of you still enjoying gaming on the Wii U, you’ll also, unfortunately, be losing access to the eShop in March of 2023.

But you still have some time to download and try out some of the games that the console has to offer. Here are some of the Nintendo Wii U games that you should check out while you have the chance.

Xenoblade Chronicles X

First up on the list, we have Xenoblade Chronicles X. Being a spiritual successor to the original Xenoblade Chronicles, this game brings a combination of familiar gameplay alongside some new mechanics and improved graphics.

Xenoblade Chronicles X is an open-world action RPG. The player explores the vast open world of the planet Mira. You will fight enemies and complete quests to gain experience along the way.

Experience is used to enhance your character’s abilities with new skills and improved stats.

You can even hop into a Skell, an armored mech that makes traversing the dangerous planet of Mira a bit easier.

If exciting, action RPG combat is what you like, head to the eShop and give Xenoblade Chronicles X a try. Or, wait until Xenoblades 3 is available.

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD

And next, we’re on to another amazing addition to the Zelda franchise that you won’t want to miss.

Released back in 2013, fans were initially skeptical about the graphical decision that Nintendo made with The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD.

That skepticism quickly vanished after players got their hands on the game. At its core, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD is a Zelda game, and it stays true to its roots.

This HD version is a remake of the 2003 GameCube title.

It features familiar characters, gameplay, and a barrage of new enemies and obstacles. Zelda fans who haven’t tried this game out yet should definitely add it to their collection.

Nintendo Land

Next up we have the popular party game Nintendo Land. Somewhat reminiscent of games like Mario Party, Nintendo Land is a game best enjoyed with friends. It features several exciting mini-games that will keep you on your toes as your Mii avatar.

But you can still enjoy this game by yourself.

Some of the mini-games are solo, so it’s just you against the clock. Much like Wii Sports for the original Wii, Nintendo Land became one of the staples of the Wii U console.

Splatoon

That brings us to our next entry on the list, Splatoon. Splatoon is the original colorful mess that bred the successful sequel, Splatoon 2.

Where Splatoon 2 has become a fan favorite on the Nintendo Switch thanks to its exciting multiplayer gameplay, the original Splatoon is where the excitement all started.

In Splatoon, you and your team take a variety of paint guns onto the map to try and cover it with as much of your team’s color as possible. It’s chaotic and bright and full of non-stop colorful action.

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate

Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate was one of the best games to come to the Nintendo Wii U early in the console’s lifetime.

This game was released on both the Wii U and the 3DS. And it featured cross-save gameplay so you could play at home or on the go.

The Wii U version of the game was received much better than the 3DS version, with improved gameplay and better graphics.

The Monster Hunter franchise has been a huge success on Nintendo consoles, and Monster Hunter 3 HD for the Wii U is one of the series’ most popular entries.

Mario Kart 8

Lastly, to close this list out, we have maybe the best Mario Kart game to ever come out.

I’m a little biased, having spent dozens of hours learning how to cheat my way to victory on Rainbow Road in Mario Kart 64. But the success of Mario Kart 8 speaks for itself.

The game built upon everything that gamers love about the series, and refined it. You can customize your carts and experience 16 all-new tracks.

With all of your favorite Mario characters, like Peach, Yoshi, Toad, and Bowser, you can have endless hours of fun in Mario Kart 8.

Honorable mentions

We couldn’t fit every game that you should try on the Wii U or the 3DS on our list.

There are tons of games on the Nintendo eShop for these consoles that are worth a try. Here are a few honorable mentions that we found along the way.

There are a few honorable mentions for each console. Again, we couldn’t fit every single game on this list. If we missed a must-play game for either of these consoles, let us know down in the comments.

There are dozens more Nintendo Wii U and 3DS games to experience

In this list, we have 14 games that stand out the most to us on the Nintendo Wii U and 3DS consoles.

But that doesn’t even begin to scrape the surface of what these consoles have to offer. These consoles were popular for years. And each one has dozens of great games that Nintendo fans will love.

But these are the ones that caught our eye. And with Nintendo abandoning the eShop on both consoles on March 27, 2023, your chances to try out these games are slim.

Now is the time to explore the eShop on your Wii U or 3DS and try out some new games. Before too long, you’ll no longer have a chance to do so.

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:

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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 Get these games before Nintendo shuts down 3DS and Wii U eShop appeared first on KnowTechie.

Quick Answer: Serial numbers that exploit this vulnerability are with early production Nintendo Switch models. These include XAJ7, XAJ4, XAJ1, XAW7, XAW4, and XAW1. KnowTechie is sharing this for informational purposes only.

If you have recently decided to purchase a Nintendo Switch, congratulations. You are in for a ton of fun.

For those who have owned Nintendo consoles from previous generations, you may be accustomed to hacking your console to include homebrew software.

Nintendo enthusiasts have been jailbreaking their consoles and incorporating custom software and other features for years, from the 3DS to the Wii U, so why not the Nintendo Switch?

Two years ago, an exploit was discovered in the Tegra chipset that powers the Nintendo Switch, which allowed unpatched consoles to boot into a recovery console for technicians to fix non-working devices.

This recovery mode also provides an opportunity to add custom firmware to the console and install homebrew software that is specifically designed for the Nintendo Switch.

So, how can you tell if the Nintendo Switch you purchased is compatible with this type of hack?

So, which Nintendo Switch is moddable?

Short answer: You want an early serial number

Due to an exploit in the Nvidia chipset that powers the Nintendo Switch, only certain Nintendo Switch serial ranges are hackable with the current methods available.

This is because those serials can boot into RCM or Recovery Console Mode, which is required to flash custom firmware onto the Nintendo Switch.

Without it, you can’t hack your Nintendo Switch in the same way, effectively closing the door to custom software and other modifications.

Hackable Switch serial numbers

Here’s a full list of unpatched serials, thanks to SuchMemeManySkill:

Serials XKW1, XKJ1, XJW1, and XWW1 are completely unhackable now, so don’t bother with those if you want to run homebrew apps.

It’s important to note that there are a couple of reasons why it’s best to stick to buying Switch games instead of hacking them. First, it’s unfair to the developers who work tirelessly to create these games.

Owning a hackable Switch has its consequences

The fact that the Nintendo Switch is hackable may be enticing to some users, but it’s important to note that hacking the console can have serious legal and ethical consequences

In fact, two years ago, two members of the piracy group “Team Xecuter” were arrested and indicted by the US Department of Justice for developing and selling illegal devices that hacked popular video game consoles.

In 2022, Nintendo won its case, and one member faced up to 10 years in prison, along with a looming fine of $10 million hanging over his head.

“Theft of intellectual property hurts U.S. industry, game developers and exploits legitimate gaming customers, all of which threaten the legitimacy of the commercial video game industry,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Eben Roberts of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Seattle.  “We are committed to working with our international partners to find criminals like these who steal copyrighted material and bring cyber criminals to justice.”

These arrests serve as a reminder that hacking video games is not a victimless crime and can lead to serious legal consequences.

So, if you want to enjoy the best possible gaming experience, it’s recommended to purchase games legally and support the hard work of developers.

Not only is it the right thing to do, but it can also help ensure that the video game industry continues to thrive and produce innovative and exciting games for years to come.

What do you think? Have plans on hacking your Switch? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Can the Switch play games from Nintendo’s other consoles?
• How many Nintendo Switch games are two-player?
• Is there a PC that is like the Switch?
• Which Nintendo Switch games are 4-player?

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 hackable? appeared first on KnowTechie.

And it’s not just actual Mario games on sale, either. Donkey Kong, Luigi, and more make an appearance during this sale, as well.

But that’s enough talking. Let’s dive into the Mario Day Nintendo deals available from March 6 through March 12.

The best Mario Day deals available right now

During the week of Mario Day, Nintendo, Best Buy, and others have tons of Switch deals featuring Mario and friends up for grabs. If you have any Mario games on your wishlist, you won’t want to miss this week’s deals.

From March 6th to March 12th, all week, Nintendo is offering $20 off of select games. Additionally, the Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit bundle is available for a $40 discount.

Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit

$59.99

Who says you can't bring the thrills of the Mushroom Kingdom into your own home? With this ingenious game kit, you can turn any room into a Mario Kart circuit with augmented reality and virtual obstacles.

What We Like:

• You literally race an RC car in your home, and in the game
• Brings the full experience of Mario Kart into a real-life environment
• The RC car you control in the game and in your home is controlled with the Nintendo Switch

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

08/20/2023 12:38 am GMT

Check out the games up for grabs in this year’s Mario Day sale.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Mario Kart is one of the classic Mario games that continues to impress decades after its introduction. And Mario Kart 8 is the latest entry available, originally launched for Wii U and remastered for the Nintendo Switch.

This definitive edition is the ultimate Mario Kart 8 experience, including all tracks and vehicles from the Wii U version of the game upgraded for gaming on the go.

Pick your combination of iconic characters and unique racing vehicles as you drift, fight, and jump your way to victory in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe - Nintendo Switch

$39.99

The Mario Kart series is a staple when it comes to Nintendo games, and Mario Kart 8 does the series justice. It is packed with new tracks, new playable characters, and more.

What We Like:

• Fast-paced gameplay
• A ton of characters and Karts to choose from
• Fun single player and multiplayer gameplay

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Super Mario Odyssey

In Super Mario Odyssey, you take the lovable plumber on a massive adventure across the globe. On your journey, you’ll pick up new skills and abilities to help you traverse the dynamic world.

The goal is to collect Moons to power up your airship. Princess Peach is set to marry Bowser, and it’s up to Mario to thwart the villain’s plans.

Super Mario Odyssey is filled with secrets and surprises alongside unique new abilities and ways to play that we’ve never seen before. The ultimate Mario RPG, any Mario fan should check out Super Mario Odyssey.

Super Mario Odyssey Standard Edition - Nintendo Switch

$39.99

Super Mario Odyssey takes your familiar 3D Mario gameplay and flips it on its head - literally. Well sort of. In Odyssey, players wear a bunch of different hats to solve platforming puzzles.

What We Like:

• Crisp platforming gameplay
• Classic Mario styling
• Loads of replayability

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08/22/2023 12:26 am GMT

Super Mario Maker 2

Ever wanted to create your own Super Mario platforming levels? Well, you can do exactly that in Super Mario Maker 2.

This game lets you create, share, and play your own Mario levels. It features a single-player Story Mode with 100 built-in courses, but that’s where the magic starts.

Creating your own side-scrolling courses is where the game really shines. You get to create the rules as you build your own masterpiece or have a friend join in with another Joy-Con.

Plus, with a Nintendo Plus Online subscription, you can share your maps with the world. It also offers a virtually unlimited amount of unique worlds for you to try. The possibilities are endless.

Super Mario Maker 2 - Nintendo Switch

$39.99

Think you can make a better Mario level than Nintendo? Well, now's your chance. In Mario Maker 2, you get access to a ton of Nintendo assets that allow you to build an endless variety of levels for you and your friends.

What We Like:

• Let your creativity run wild
• Create challenging courses for the world to try out
• Classic Mario feel

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08/22/2023 12:43 am GMT

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze

Donkey Kong helped Mario get his start, but the lovable gorilla has a bunch of great games himself, including Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze.

Released in 2014, Tropical Freeze is a stellar sidescrolling platformer that tasks players with once again saving the day.

This time, DK’s world has been frozen solid by arctic invaders, and players must tackle 63 different levels if they hope to beat the game.

Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze - Nintendo Switch

$39.99

Donkey Kong: Tropical Freeze features stellar sidescrolling platform action, and you can even grab a friend to tackle the game's 63 different levels.

What We Like:

• Classic platforming gameplay
• Great level design and soundtrack
• Grab a friend for multiplayer

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More Mario Day deals

Those are just some of our favorite Mario Day deals, but there are many more worth considering. We’ll do a rapid-fire round below with even more titles you can sink your teeth into.

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe - Nintendo Switch

$39.99

Join Mario, Luigi, and pals for single-player or multiplayer fun. Take on two family-friendly, side-scrolling adventures with up to three friends as you try to save the Mushroom Kingdom.

What We Like:

• Classic Mario gameplay
• Co-op for up to four people
• 164 platforming courses

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Luigi's Mansion 3 - Nintendo Switch

$39

Mario always gets the spotlight, but in Luigi's Mansion 3, Luigi gets his chance in the spotlight. Players have to save Mario and their friends, while vacuuming up ghosts and solving puzzles.

What We Like:

• A unique twist on the classic Mario formula
• Great visuals and unique themes
• Co-op story gameplay

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08/23/2023 12:32 am GMT

Yoshi's Crafted World - Nintendo Switch [Digital]

$39.99

Play as Yoshi in a world crafted from household items. 39 levels and 5 boss battles will give players plenty of time to explore and master their skills.

What We Like:

• Fun platforming action
• Adorable stuffed Yoshi
• 2-player co-op gameplay

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08/19/2023 12:39 am GMT

Mario Golf: Super Rush - Nintendo Switch

$39.99

Love Mario and golf? Well, do we have some good news for you. Mario Golf Super Rush features crisp gameplay but keeps things fresh with powerups that turn golf into a contact sport.

What We Like:

• Tons of characters to choose from
• Unique twists on traditional golf games
• Great fun for 1-4 players

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Mario Party Superstars Standard Edition - Nintendo Switch

$39.99

Mario Party is the perfect party game and Mario Party Superstars is the latest version available to players. Tackle five different retro boards with up to three of your friends.

What We Like:

• Tons of fun mini-games
• Great for 1-4 players
• Retro boards from classic Mario Party games

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08/23/2023 12:29 am GMT

Nintendo Switch Game Traveler Deluxe Travel Case

$14.99

This deluxe traveling case works with both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite, and it features everyone's favorite plumber.

What We Like:

• An affordable way to protect your Switch
• Great art on the case

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08/22/2023 12:43 am GMT

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury - Nintendo Switch

$39.99

Enjoy two different Mario adventures alone or with friends across 13 different worlds in Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury.

What We Like:

• Beautiful graphics
• Fun co-op gameplay
• Challenging puzzles

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08/21/2023 12:29 am GMT

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Here are your free PlayStation Plus games for March 2023
• Here are your free Xbox Games with Gold for March 2023
• The Nintendo Switch is now the third best-selling console ever
• First-person mode could finally be coming to Fortnite

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 Celebrate Mario Day with the best gaming deals around appeared first on KnowTechie.

Thankfully, Nintendo has made it a bit easier over the years. But if you’re new to the console, it can be somewhat overwhelming.

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. It’s tough to try and remember your own unique code to share with your friends. 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. You will give this code 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 you have played online matches with. From there, you can send them a quick friend request.

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 process is made easier by the app

While it’s completely possible to add friends on Nintendo Switch from the console itself, it’s not the most straightforward process. 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?

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 add friends on your Nintendo Switch appeared first on KnowTechie.

Nintendo released its latest financial results (PDF) for its fiscal third quarter. In those results, the company revealed that the Switch has sold 122 million units, enough to put the console in third place.

The latest consoles that the Switch passed up in sales numbers are Sony’s PlayStation 4 (117 million) and Nintendo’s own Game Boy (118 million).

That leaves only two consoles ahead of the handheld hybrid Switch. And, you guessed it, those consoles also belong to Sony and Nintendo.

In first place on the all-time sales list is the PlayStation 2, with 155 million units sold. Nintendo follows closely behind with the Nintendo DS selling 154 million units.

Nintendo predicts the Switch will sell around 18 million more units in its next fiscal year. And there will likely be another couple of years before Nintendo produces a true successor to the Switch.

That said, the all-time sales record is still within reach for the Nintendo Switch. If it meets its goals for next year, that will put the console at around 140 million units.

Then, it’s just another 15 million sales before the console reaches the top. However, it will still be a tough task to complete.

The Switch originally came out in 2017, marking this as the sixth year the console has been in production.

Sales of the console have certainly slowed in recent years amidst higher competition from the PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and other handhelds like Steam Deck.

Still, Nintendo is resilient, and its library of exclusive titles could propel the Switch to victory.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Xbox, Nintendo, and Sony reportedly skipping E3 this year
• Sony looks to the future with more PS5-only games in 2023
• Remastered GoldenEye 007 launches today on Switch and Xbox
• Nintendo reportedly scrapped Switch Pro development

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 Nintendo Switch is now the third best-selling console ever appeared first on KnowTechie.