This Week’s eShop Roundup: Game Boy Titles, Pre-Orders, Sweepstakes, and Sales

Oh man, here we are. The last hurrah for our beloved Nintendo Switch before the shiny Switch 2 crashes the party next week. This week’s eShop update is like a quirky little time capsule of retro treats, pre-orders, and some weirdly tempting sweepstakes. Let’s see what’s cookin’.

This might sound weird, but the Nintendo Switch Online library just grew a bit wilder with four, yes four, new Game Boy titles. We’re talking about stuff like Survival Kids—remember that Konami gem? Plus, there’s a cool Kirby side hustle and some Gradius action. It’s like a mixed bag of video game nostalgia. Last week, we actually chatted about these on the Pure Nintendo Podcast. Maybe give it a listen? Or not. Up to you.

Switch 2 fever is real, people. Launching June 5! But if you’re the impatient type, there’s stuff you can pre-order now. Titles like Rune Factory, Sonic X Shadows, and Fast Fusion. I mean, are you gonna dive into one of these adventures once your new console arrives? Decisions, decisions…

Oh, and sales. Gotta love a good deal, right? The Dragon Quest games are getting some hefty discounts this week—like 25% to 50% off. Last year’s Dragon Quest III HD-2D remake looks especially tempting. Might just blow my budget on that one.

Feeling lucky? Nintendo’s got a new sweepstake for a Mario Kart LEGO set. Awesome, right? Go ahead, cross those fingers and enter. You never know.

Meanwhile, why not check out other new Switch titles on the eShop? There’s still a good bunch to explore before the Switch 2 comes along and steals the spotlight. Let us know what’s on your radar!

Games & Details

SURVIVAL KIDS: Channel your inner survivor on a deserted island! This Game Boy Color classic (1999) is about using your wits and some crafty item combos to make it through. No help’s coming, so better learn fast or… well, you know. It’s live for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.

GRADIUS THE INTERSTELLAR ASSAULT: Bet you didn’t see this side-scrolling shooter from 1992 making a comeback. It’s one against a million, literally. With your trusty MISSILE, DOUBLE, and LASER weapons at the ready, those invaders better watch out. Available now online as well.

The Sword of Hope: Meet Prince Theo. Guy’s got a dagger-shaped birthmark, no big deal. This 1991 Game Boy RPG has Theo trying to find the legendary sword and save his realm. Use LOOK, OPEN, or HIT commands wisely, though. People might get a bit miffed otherwise. On to the Switch Online.

Kirby’s Star Stacker: Join Kirby in this falling star puzzle madness. You’ll need his pals Rick, Kine, and Coo to make it through. A hamster, sunfish, and owl—how could you go wrong? Just dodge Dedede’s schemes, and you’re golden! Yup, you guessed it—available for Switch Online folks.

Pre-orders

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma: Think magic. Think nature. Mix ’em and toss in some romance and farming, and you’ve got this reimagined adventure. Rebuilding villages isn’t for the faint of heart, though. Launching June 5 for Switch 2. Early birds can pre-order now.

SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS: Sonic’s back, but wait, there’s Shadow! Play through iconic stages and unlock powers to beat Black Doom. A mash-up of classic and modern all in one. Drops the same day as Switch 2. Pre-orders open.

Fast Fusion: Need speed? Try hurtling through crazy tracks using your DIY fusion antigrav racer. Sounds intense, right? Especially with hyper jumps in the mix. Fast Fusion races in on Switch 2 June 5. Pre-order and start your engines.

Random Stuff

My Nintendo – LEGO Mario Kart Sweepstakes: Rev your engines, LEGO enthusiasts! Try your hand at winning a LEGO Mario Kart set. Enter by Sept. 3, 11 p.m. PT. Could be fun.

And there you go—everything tangled up in a messy little preview before the big Switch 2 launch! Gonna be exciting times. So, what are you most pumped about?