🟪 #102: GeForce Now for Steam Deck is here, the Switch 2 is nearly here, and the Xbox handheld won't be here

In today's overkill digest, we'll take a look at the new native GeForce Now app, why Microsoft is shelving their official Xbox handheld, and count the days until the Switch 2 releases.

Hi, hello, and welcome to a new edition of the overkill digest newsletter, the finest newsletter in the overkill Cinematic Universe.

I just drove for 7 hours across France, so I'm kinda wiped, but I promised a newsletter, so here is today's newsletter. (Or rather, didn't say I wouldn't send one.)

Let's get to it!

🚀 Big Moves

The native GeForce Now app is out for Steam Deck. And, of course, Timo dove deep to find the best settings to maximize the native client's capabilities.
The official Xbox handheld might not come after all. According to Jez Corden, Microsoft instead plans to focus on a much better Windows 11-on-handheld experience, before working on their own portable handheld again. I wonder how much of this shift is due to SteamOS beating Windows 11.

🎮 Platform Updates

The Switch 2 is out there already. The official launch is only on June 5th, but it looks like the first people got their hands on Nintendo's next console. A few more days left, the hype is hyping! (Also, don't peel off the pre-applied film layer!!!)
Apple is working on a revamped Game Center app. Apple is planning to show a new app focused on video games during their developer conference next week. According to Bloomberg, it will replace Apple’s Game Center, feature editorial content, and let you access games also available on the App Store. So basically one more app to delete when iOS 18 26 drops later this year.

💻 Hardware & Software

Anbernic teased a PSP GO-like handheld. We don't get more than the name (RG Slide) and what the front looks like. Talking of Anbernic:
Best Buy will sell Anbernic handhelds. It's not quite clear if this is part of Best Buy's upcoming Marketplace, or if they are indeed now selling the handhelds directly. But from the looks of it, they'll be more expensive than if you bought them directly from Anbernic. (Though I guess, you'd get support through Best Buy instead, which might be worth the markup.)
Microsoft is putting AI into your Xbox App. Because of fucking course they do. It's basically a clone of ChatGPT, which is aware of what game you are currently playing and can answer questions. I don't know who asked for this.

🎲 Playthings

Skywind gets a new gameplay demo. Skyblivion is not the only ongoing project to bring an older Elder Scrolls title to Skyrim. And after two years, we've finally got a new look at what the team behind the Skywind project is up to. Still no release date, but I am not expecting a release anytime soon.
A new Pokémon Presents is set for July 22nd. Also, the release of Pokémon Legends Z-A is set for October 16.

📌 Quick Hits

The Witcher 3 is getting console mod support. PS5, Xbox Series S/X and PC will get cross-platform mod support later this year. No words on Switch 2.

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