As a dedicated Nintendo fan, I can’t help but notice the unique challenge facing the Nintendo Switch 2. It seems to be caught in the shadow of Nintendo’s storied past, where each new piece of hardware was expected to be not just a game-changer, but something entirely unusual and innovative. From the Wii, DS, 3DS, Wii U, and now the Switch, Nintendo has carved out a niche by creating not just games, but entirely novel ways to play them.
The Switch 2, however, seems to be more of an evolution rather than a revolution – a powerful upgrade to its massively successful predecessor. While some may mourn the loss of another groundbreaking system, it does feel like Nintendo has finally found a design that aligns perfectly with their unique development culture and design philosophy.
In this sense, the Switch might just be setting the new standard for Nintendo, rather than breaking it again.
From my perspective, when assessing the Switch 2, it’s crucial to view it for what it is, not what it isn’t. By this standard, it truly shines. It’s a refined successor to the original Switch, boasting numerous thoughtful details and design enhancements that elevate its overall quality. This transformation from toy-like to more premium makes me slightly apprehensive about giving it to my kids, but in many aspects, it seems the Switch has matured.
Now you’re playing with power
As a gamer, I can certainly confirm that raw hardware power is the cornerstone of my gaming experience. Back in 2017, the Nintendo Switch wasn’t exactly a powerhouse console, and over time, technology has surpassed its capabilities by leaps and bounds. This has made it rather peculiar to see third-party games matching up with PlayStation and Xbox counterparts, let alone keeping up with Nintendo’s increasingly demanding development needs. I’ll delve deeper into this topic later on.
The main focus of Nintendo Switch 2 seems to be an improvement in power and performance. Nintendo assures us of a significant boost, although I’m not skilled enough for detailed hardware scrutiny. However, signs from the initial game library are somewhat encouraging. For instance, Nintendo’s flagship title, Mario Kart World, appears significantly superior to anything the original Switch could handle. Additionally, Cyberpunk 2077, a third-party game, showcases promising visuals and playability, which might not have been achievable on the first Switch. Yet, the overall results seem somewhat inconsistent, with Hitman: World of Assassination delivering underwhelming performance, especially in docked mode where variable refresh rate support is not beneficial.
Instead of aiming for top-tier hardware leadership, Nintendo typically takes a different approach, but the Switch 2 appears to hold its own against the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, not quite equaling them, but definitely in the same league. Whether it can keep up with future advancements remains to be seen, but as a portable system, it’s doing well even amidst the growing competition in the handheld PC market. The enhanced power under the hood makes the Switch ecosystem more enjoyable to navigate, and improvements are noticeable, such as the eShop becoming smoother from being almost unusable before.
As a gamer, I can’t help but notice that the new console feels like an extension of my beloved Nintendo Switch. From its design to its user interface, it’s almost as if I’ve stepped right back into the world of my favorite games. However, just like the original, it comes with some frustrating quirks – no folders for organizing games and no real download management queue. While the enhanced processing power improves software in certain aspects, overall, it feels like a continuation of the Switch’s ecosystem. Nintendo seems to have aimed for familiarity and comfort, and whether that’s a good or bad thing, it definitely achieves its goal.
It just clicks
Additionally, let’s consider the structure of the system. While the hardware has seen significant enhancements to give it a luxurious feel, there are aspects where the design seems constrained by its own preconceived notions.
As a devoted fan, I must say, the revamped Joy-Cons have won me over! They’ve grown in size and sport a matte texture that provides a comfortable grip against my hands. The magnetic feature was initially met with doubt, but now I’m a convert – a self-proclaimed magnetic Joy-Con advocate!
The instantaneous snap-into-place mechanism, followed by the simple release button to detach them, is leagues ahead of sliding controllers along the rail. It not only feels more intuitive, but it also seems like it might prevent the unwanted wobble that was common with the previous Joy-Cons.
The latest Joy-Cons incorporate mouse capabilities that perform surprisingly well. To be honest, my initial expectations for this feature were quite low, but it exceeded them effortlessly. When you attach the new Joy-Con strap, control is incredibly smooth and requires minimal setup. In fact, it works so well that you can even use it on your pants if necessary, though I wouldn’t recommend it extensively due to the small surface area of your leg. It remains to be seen how many games will utilize this mouse functionality, but its availability could be advantageous for developers who wish to make use of it.
Regrettably, despite being larger in size, the fundamental design of the Joy-Cons remains unchanged. They retain a slim profile that matches the system, making them uncomfortable for extended gaming sessions due to their slender shape. Competing devices are now incorporating more rounded handles like traditional controllers, which would have been beneficial here. Many users, including myself, have resorted to third-party controllers or grips for a more comfortable experience. It would be ideal if Nintendo offered a first-party solution that combines all the Joy-Con features such as magnetic connectors, NFC reader, and HD rumble, while providing a more ergonomic design, especially considering that this issue might affect adults with large hands and possibly smaller children struggling with the new Joy-Cons’ increased size.
In a move beneficial to both parents and those who tend to be untidy, Nintendo’s Joy-Cons now have the ability to be located remotely by vibrating or making a sound. This feature comes in handy when you misplace them under furniture. It may seem like a minor enhancement, but it showcases a thoughtful design philosophy that takes into account lessons from the original Switch.
Just like the rest of the system, the optional Pro Controller boasts a premium, sleek look and feel. It now includes two customizable back buttons, similar to other high-end controllers on various platforms, adding to its upgraded appeal. These buttons offer a satisfying tactile response without compromising the controller’s overall slim design. However, the absence of such back buttons on the Joy-Cons makes their less ergonomic design stand out even more. As someone who primarily uses the Switch in handheld mode, it’s unfortunate that the gap between them is so significant.
In the original Switch, the kickstand was an adorable concept, yet it often seemed too frail for practical use. In contrast, the kickstand on the upcoming Switch 2 is robust and sturdy, proving to be an underappreciated gem of the system. I’ve found myself relying on it extensively during my travels, as it provides a stable platform for playing with detached Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller on a tabletop. Although handheld mode and docking are still my primary methods of play, the kickstand now offers a reliable alternative that I hadn’t previously considered.
After using my Nintendo Switch 2 extensively for over a week, I’ve been quite satisfied with its battery performance. Among the games I played at launch, Mario Kart World seems to be the one that drains the battery the fastest, but I was still able to squeeze several hours of gameplay before the low-battery warning popped up. A significant factor contributing to this battery life is the inclusion of a USB-C port on both the top and bottom of the device. This feature has made it possible for the first time to play with the kickstand while the system is plugged in, which is just more convenient overall when charging.
Ultimately, the LCD screen has been significantly upgraded compared to the initial Switch model, boasting a notably larger size. This enhancement not only looks appealing but also adds a sense of solidity, particularly when used in kickstand mode. With the enhanced processing power showcasing intricate details in games like Mario Kart World, the larger screen displays these details crisply and beautifully, effectively highlighting the visual charm of its games.
In essence, when placed side by side, the original Switch OLED offers a more pronounced contrast. However, the difference might not be as striking as you’d think. So, while the Switch 2 OLED display is slightly less advanced than its predecessor, the difference is minor enough that the larger screen size could make it worthwhile, depending on your preferences. For me, I appreciate the bigger screen, which is also larger than my initial Steam Deck. Additionally, some users at TopMob have reported ghosting issues in handheld mode, with some finding it severe enough to cause discomfort. This issue may differ from game to game.
In an unusual manner, Nintendo has applied HDR across the board without providing a default paper-white setting, which is hidden within the settings menu. This can be adjusted, but it’s possible that many new Switch 2 users might not know where to look and thus end up with a suboptimal experience. Additionally, the absence of VRR support or the 40hz mode in docked mode is rather disappointing.
But what about the games?
Purchasing a brand-new video game console inevitably stirs excitement to explore its gaming possibilities. However, when the Switch 2 initially hits shelves, its collection of games may appear somewhat sparse compared to other consoles. Yet, there are some exceptional titles that truly shine. Consequently, early buyers will predominantly be backing this system based on the promise of its future growth and potential.
While it’s true that the game library may not be perfect at this stage, there are certainly some highlights. For instance, Mario Kart World serves as the flagship launch title, and it’s the long-awaited sequel to one of Nintendo’s most successful games so far. It offers a fantastic addition to the series with plenty of activities and intricate gameplay mechanics. Furthermore, it showcases beautifully what Nintendo can achieve with enhanced capabilities in terms of visual design.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, another notable first-party release at launch, functions less as a game and more like an intricate tech demonstration. Although I still believe it should have been free, my reasoning is primarily because it’s a unique trinket that deserves wider playtime. It serves as an excellent introduction to the features of Switch 2 and hidden quality-of-life enhancements you might not have discovered otherwise.
Regarding third-party games, there are some noteworthy options available too. Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remastered is an appealing adaptation of one of my favorite more recent RPGs, and it’s great that it’s now available on platforms other than the DS, where finding and playing it might have been challenging. Cyberpunk 2077 has adapted its renowned futuristic RPG for a smooth handheld experience. Other games are gradually being ported over, which is promising as it suggests that Nintendo platforms are starting to receive relatively current third-party games.
For many proud owners of Switch 1, the real delight lies in the fact that Switch 2 is backward compatible. With a similar hardware setup and design, an overwhelming majority of games can operate on Switch 2. Some of these games offer paid “Switch 2 Edition” upgrades for additional features and enhanced performance, while others have received free updates solely to run more smoothly on the new hardware. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom stand out, as their vast open worlds often pushed against the boundaries of the Switch’s hardware capabilities. However, with the upgrades, these games showcase a stunningly detailed world that seems to embody Nintendo’s original vision for them perfectly. Similarly, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet were well-crafted Pokemon games, but they struggled on Switch due to trying to fit their world into it. They are among the games that have benefited from free Switch 2 updates, and these revised versions now run smoothly and look much better, even though some of their art design may appear simplified as a compromise for older hardware.
It’s slightly inconvenient that the Switch 2 was released right after Nintendo introduced a new Virtual Game Card system. This system aims to simplify sharing a single game across multiple consoles within a household, but the setup process can be a bit troublesome. The main reason I find it necessary to share games is to let my kids play on the non-primary Switch, and having to move both Switch systems to initiate sharing was an annoying obstacle. Additionally, I’ve had to disconnect two Switch consoles in order to link my new Switch 2 with another original Switch, which appears to restrict options for multi-Switch households. However, it’s worth noting that this is optional; if the license check option suits your household better, you can choose that instead.
Have a chat
If Nintendo introduces one significant software upgrade as a key highlight for the Switch 2, it’s called GameChat. Previously, they made a modest attempt at social interactions via the Nintendo mobile app on the first Switch, but this new feature offers an integrated way to communicate with friends. An exciting aspect of GameChat is that you can not only listen to your friends’ voices, but also view their games as well.
Although GameChat appeared somewhat rough in Nintendo’s initial demonstration, and it can be slightly choppy when used, I must admit that I’ve been pleasantly impressed by it. The system-wide integration allows for swift and responsive adjustments of settings like camera, microphone, and screen sharing, giving you the flexibility to customize any combination of these options. Previously, the Nintendo Switch didn’t strike me as a particularly social console, and with its friend list still relying on Friend Codes, the potential successor may follow suit. However, GameChat represents a positive step forward. The convenience of easily initiating a chat with a friend and keeping it running in the background while we collaborate or even play different games adds a pleasant touch to the gaming experience.
In this system, the camera operates smoothly, either capturing your environment and automatically blurring the background or zooming in on your character for an avatar that follows you in Mario Kart World. The Screen Sharing tool allows you to view up to three friends’ screens side by side, giving you a glimpse of their game progress, regardless if it’s different from yours. Although not perfect, it functioned reasonably well, with some initial issues like a friend’s screen appearing green before returning to normal. Watching their gameplay in full-screen provided a closer look at their session. While not as smooth as playing on native hardware, it serves its purpose of quickly checking on friends’ games, even under less than ideal internet connections like hotel Wi-Fi.
Apart from the user-friendly interface for managing different chat features, there are also thoughtful details that enhance the overall experience. For instance, you have the ability to convert text into speech, which, during my trials, functioned smoothly and accurately captured words on both sides of the conversation. Additionally, if your friend is playing a game, you can simply click on it to be redirected to its page in the Nintendo eShop, potentially improving discoverability.
The user interface of this platform is generally straightforward, however, it does have minor issues that can cause some confusion. For instance, the GameChat menu does not directly link to the Friends list. To add a new friend, you must exit the GameChat menu and navigate back to the Home screen entirely, then proceed with adding friends as usual. Afterward, you can invite them to GameChat. The placement of the GameChat button is also near the Home button, which is frequently used, leading to accidental presses. This issue might just be a matter of getting accustomed to it, and Nintendo did design the buttons differently for easier identification. However, my fingers haven’t adapted yet.
Switch hitter
Over multiple gaming consoles, Nintendo has often played the role of the determined underdog. To keep pace with rivals like PlayStation and Xbox who were leading in hardware technology, Nintendo adopted an innovative strategy. Innovations such as the Wii Remote controller, the 3D capability of the 3DS without glasses, and even the original Switch’s dual console-handheld function were born out of a desire to compete against giants without directly matching their power. However, today, the Switch has become one of Nintendo’s most successful hardware products ever made. For the first time in years, other industries are emulating Nintendo’s approach, as demonstrated by the rise and increasing popularity of portable PCs, and the renewed interest in handheld gaming from Sony and Microsoft.
It’s not unexpected that Nintendo is taking a slightly safer approach this time with the Switch 2. The new console is essentially an upgrade of the original Switch, offering many of the same strengths and weaknesses. However, it does seem like a more refined and upgraded piece of hardware, with features such as magnetic Joy-Cons and GameChat adding to its appeal. Nevertheless, what truly excites Nintendo fans is the software produced by Nintendo itself. The increased processing power in the Switch 2 should allow it to run high-end third-party games like Cyberpunk 2077 smoothly, while also handling exclusive titles such as Mario Kart World. This superior gaming experience is something that its competitors can’t replicate, making the Switch 2 an attractive purchase for many.
Read More
2025-06-13 00:11