Trying out the Nintendo Switch 2 at a recent event in New York brought back the thrill one would expect from a console bearing Nintendo’s iconic brand. However, while the hardware left an impression, I must admit it was the selection of upcoming games that truly thrilled me. The Switch 2 aims to continue where its predecessor left off, but it’s really the upcoming game library that’s stealing the spotlight.
Now, the Switch 2 itself is a fine piece of hardware. It’s priced at $450, bridging the gap between handheld and console gaming, but it shines when it showcases the masterpieces created by Nintendo and other developers.
True to its nature as a follow-up, the Switch 2 feels like a sequel while simultaneously nudging Nintendo’s gaming philosophy forward. The brief time I got to experience the early games was enough to make me eager to explore more. It might be time to start saving for this next-gen console.
### Delving into Nintendo Switch 2 Hardware
The Joy-Con controllers in their sleek black matte finish and the console itself make a striking first impression. Weighing in at 1.18 pounds, it’s a bit bulkier than I’d expect, although the spacious 7.9-inch display more than compensates. It’s still lighter than portable PCs like the Steam Deck OLED, so all’s good on that front.
Reflecting on its aesthetic, the subdued color scheme diverges from Nintendo’s usual playful tones. Past efforts, like the GameCube, offered vibrant options alongside the monochrome ones. Maybe there’s a chance for more colorful variations in the future.
In practical use, detaching the Joy-Cons feels satisfyingly secure, thanks to buttons placed conveniently on each side. While I didn’t get much time to fiddle with them, the few tries indicated a solid connection, minimizing worries about accidental disconnections.
Playing around with the enhanced Joy-Cons felt notably better in my hands than the original. Although they’re still rather slim, the longer design adds comfort which should appeal to many users.
The control sticks, while not drastically different in quick demos, are said to have been overhauled for smoother movements. There’s no talk of adopting hall effect technology, though, so time will tell how significant these changes are in prolonged gameplay sessions.
The new kickstand is a game-changer compared to the flimsy one from the original Switch. It’s bigger, more stable, and incredibly adjustable, making it a handy companion on a plane ride.
One can’t help but appreciate the new screen, despite its LCD makeup instead of the OLED on the previous model. The 1080p resolution, 120 Hz variable refresh rate, and HDR10 significantly enhance the visual experience, clearly noticeable in games like Mario Kart World. The demos, mostly displayed on TVs, left me hopeful about trying more titles directly on the Switch 2’s display.
The dock reveals functionality akin to its predecessor, with added features like a cooling fan. Although not deeply explored, it seems to serve its purpose effectively.
### Nintendo Switch 2 Specification Insights
Underneath its sleek exterior is a custom Nvidia processor with DLSS and hardware ray tracing support—a sign of power. The 7.9-inch screen offers vivid clarity at 1920 x 1080 resolution, empowered by HDR10 technology. Storage is generous at 256GB, expandable via microSD Express, ensuring ample room for games.
Enhanced connectivity options with Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, and Ethernet support make this device versatile. The console comes packed with user-friendly ports, including USB Type-C and a 3.5 mm audio jack. Moreover, its dock carries USB 2.0, HDMI, and Ethernet jacks.
Battery endurance varies between 2 to 6.5 hours depending on use, adequate for portable gaming. With a launch slated for June 5, 2025, it is set to retail at $449.99, or $499.99 when bundled with Mario Kart World.
### Unveiling Mouse Controls
Bringing PC elements into the fray, the Switch 2 introduces mouse functionality via Joy-Cons. Equipped with sensors, gyroscopes, and accelerometers, both controllers can act as mice, a nod to classic PC gaming methods.
Sampling it at Nintendo’s showcase, the feature works well but with mixed results in practice. In Metroid Prime 4 Beyond, switching between mouse and traditional controls was an interesting experience, though prolonged use posed slight discomfort. Meanwhile, Civilization VII was a smoother sail, evidencing its strategic, less intense gameplay.
In a surprising twist, Drag x Drive combines mouse use in a mechanically engaging Rocket League-style game, pushing creativity boundaries. Hopefully, further tweaks will accommodate various player styles.
### Exploring Resolution Options and Quality Modes
The Switch 2 caters to high-performance gaming with customizable resolution options. Docked, it supports up to 4K at 60 fps or a dynamic 120 Hz at lower resolutions like 1080p and 1440p. Portably, it achieves 120 fps at 1080p, a noticeable upgrade for handheld play.
Games echo these innovations, offering quality modes for enhanced player control. Metroid Prime 4, specifically, showcased a buttery smooth 1080p at 120 fps experience, reminiscent of PC gaming quality.
### Pro Controller and Nintendo Camera Enhancements
New accessories accompany the Switch 2, including an upgraded Pro Controller and Nintendo Camera. The Pro Controller mirrors the old design but introduces back buttons for additional functionality and features the new C button for Game Chat.
The Nintendo Camera, designed for Game Chat and games like Mario Party Jamboree, showed mixed results in green screen effects but offers flexibility in use with USB-C compatibility.
### Exciting Game Highlights
Nintendo’s standout lineup will likely drive console sales more than anything else. Mario Kart World, a launch title, looks poised to capture hearts again, especially with its thrilling new Knockout Tour mode.
Titles like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition highlight the hardware’s prowess, though early builds showed room for graphic improvements. Other games like Donkey Kong Bananza and Metroid Prime 4 exhibit Nintendo’s classic magic—gameplay that feels both familiar and refreshing.
Sum it all up, and the Nintendo Switch 2, with its innovative hardware and captivating games, paves an exciting path forward in gaming.
