The Nintendo Switch 2 brings a sense of nostalgia, but it’s definitely not a replica of its predecessor. I recently had the chance to try it out at a special New York event. While the overall excitement stems from the games rather than the system itself, the console doesn’t disappoint.
Initially, the Switch 2 impresses with its design. Priced at $450, it’s versatile, serving as both a handheld device and a console, and it depends heavily on the games from Nintendo and other developers to truly shine.
Weighing in at 1.18 pounds with its new Joy-Con 2 controllers attached, the Switch 2 feels a bit heavier than what you’d expect from a Switch, although lighter compared to devices like the Steam Deck OLED. Its enhanced 7.9-inch screen adds to its appeal, despite the change in weight.
Visually, the Switch 2 sports a subdued black matte finish, both on its body and controllers, which is a step away from Nintendo’s usual vibrant look. Though my nostalgia might lean towards brighter palettes, black does have its charm, as was the case with my original GameCube.
The new Joy-Cons snap in securely, thanks to robust release buttons. I didn’t experiment extensively with detaching them multiple times, but they seem well-built. They are notably longer than the original Joy-Cons, providing better grip, though some users might not notice much difference.
Interestingly, the control sticks remain similar to the original in their basic potentiometer design. When talking to the developers, they emphasized that these new sticks allow for smoother and broader movements. I couldn’t notice a huge difference during the demos I tried, but deeper interaction might reveal more.
A major improvement is the redesigned kickstand. Unlike the flimsy one on the original Switch, this one is sturdy and adjustable, making it ideal for use on uneven surfaces, like airplane trays.
But the real game-changer is the new display. It’s not OLED, but an upgraded 1080p LCD screen with HDR10 support and a 120 Hz variable refresh rate is fitted. This setup made gaming visually stunning, even with the demo being displayed primarily on televisions.
Regarding the dock, I only caught a glimpse of it paired with the Switch 2 camera. It’s a bit bulkier to accommodate a cooling fan but functions similarly to the original.
Speaking of specs, the Nintendo Switch 2 is packed with a custom Nvidia processor supporting DLSS and ray tracing. Its expanded features, including Wi-Fi 6 for smoother online gaming and a sizable 256GB storage, extend its versatility. When you combine that with thoughtful upgrades like multiple USB ports and impressive audio features, it’s clear Nintendo aimed for refined performance.
Moreover, the console introduces an interesting twist with mouse-like controls. By using the sensors within the Joy-Cons alongside accelerometers, they can act as mice. This feature brings a unique element to gaming, although its practicality may vary in different setups. During my trials, some games allowed you to easily switch between mouse and traditional control schemes, which was both fun and a bit challenging, depending on the title.
Resolution flexibility is another highlight. The Switch 2 supports various graphics options, even offering the ability to output 4K at up to 60 fps when docked. The screen’s ability to handle 1080p at 120 fps in handheld mode is a significant upgrade, too. Games on this system offer customizable graphics modes, providing players with the choice between superior quality and high performance.
Nintendo hasn’t stopped at the core console; they’re releasing a new Pro Controller alongside, featuring enhanced buttons and customization options. The Nintendo Camera, another addition, opens up possibilities for interactive gaming, though its reception might be mixed given its current performance.
As for games, Nintendo unveiled several promising titles. Mario Kart World stands out, with its expansive racing experience keeping players on edge. Metroid Prime 4 Beyond impressed with its seamless graphics and gameplay, and the Switch 2’s varied environments in Donkey Kong Bananza showcased the device’s capabilities remarkably well.
While not all experiences were polished, the potential of the Nintendo Switch 2 to host powerful, engaging games is evident. It’s exciting to think about how these features might evolve and what new experiences Nintendo will unveil in the coming months. Not just a sequel, the Nintendo Switch 2 feels like an ambitious step forward, promising plenty of gaming joy ahead.
