The launch of a new Nintendo console like the Switch 2 is a rare and exciting event, akin to a special celebration combining a birthday, graduation, and Christmas all in one. However, acquiring the Switch 2 comes with financial implications and considerations about how it will fit into your life. After spending nearly 15 hours playing with the Switch 2, I wanted to share my final preview of Nintendo’s latest console and whether you should consider buying one when it officially goes on sale on June 5.
It’s worth noting that this preview is especially crucial since media members won’t receive review units before the launch, unlike in previous years. Therefore, this preview provides the most up-to-date information available before the console hits the shelves.
Design
The Switch 2 maintains the original Switch’s design but with several upgrades. The screen is larger at 7.9 inches and boasts a higher resolution, supporting HDR and variable refresh rates of up to 120Hz. The Joy-Con controllers have been redesigned, featuring a new magnetic attachment system, improved haptic feedback with HD Rumble 2, and a unique mouse functionality when tilted sideways. The new C button for Game Chat and the innovative mouse feature enhance gameplay experiences.
While the Joy-Con’s mouse mode works well in various settings, its durability in the long run remains a concern. Nintendo claims to have implemented a more robust system to prevent drift issues experienced with the original Switch, but only time will confirm its effectiveness.
Performance
The Switch 2 boasts significant improvements in performance, featuring a custom NVIDIA chip with support for real-time ray tracing, G-Sync, DLSS, and 10 times the graphics performance of its predecessor. With 12GB of RAM, 256GB of built-in storage, and third-party game ports like Cyberpunk 2077 and Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut, the Switch 2 demonstrates enhanced capabilities that were unattainable on the original Switch.
Battery life
The Switch 2 is equipped with two USB-C ports, with only the bottom port supporting video output. The image source is from Yahoo with a link that includes a long string of characters. The image shows the Switch 2 with two USB-C ports, with only the bottom one supporting video out. The image is credited to Sam Rutherford for Engadget.
The Nintendo Switch 2 features a 5,220mAh battery that offers a runtime of 2 to 6.5 hours depending on the game being played. A real-world test playing Mario Kart World at maximum brightness showed a runtime of around two and a half hours. Adjusting settings could potentially increase this time. The Switch 2 is also compatible with older Switch 1 games, expanding its library.
The launch titles for the Switch 2 include Mario Kart World and the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour. The lack of fresh launch titles may deter some buyers, but upcoming games like Donkey Kong Bananza and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond are expected to be released later in the year. The Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is a $10 purchase that offers tutorials and quizzes about the console.
Mario Kart World is a standout title for the Switch 2, featuring interconnected tracks, a large roster of characters and vehicles, and new gameplay mechanics. The game supports up to 24 players in a single race, making gameplay more chaotic and exciting. Cheep cheep, a new character in the game, adds a fun element to the gameplay. Buying a Switch 2 without Mario Kart World is considered a mistake by the reviewer. However, it’s worth noting that Mario Kart World is included as a digital download rather than a physical cartridge in the bundle with the console and game. While this may be disappointing for some, the bundle still offers a $30 discount off the regular $80 price for the game.
Important add-ons and accessories
When it comes to accessories for the Nintendo Switch 2, there are a few key items to consider. Firstly, a microSD Express card is recommended due to the large file sizes of games like Mario Kart World. With the Switch 2 offering 256GB of onboard storage, additional space may be needed depending on your digital library.
Additionally, the Switch 2 requires a microSD Express card, which offers faster speeds for file transfers and loading times. While these cards are more expensive than traditional microSD cards, they provide enhanced performance for gaming.
Another essential accessory is a camera, which is needed for features in games like Mario Kart World and Super Mario Party Jamboree. Nintendo offers an official camera for $50, but there are also third-party options available.
The importance of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
Nintendo Switch Online offers two tiers of membership, with the basic plan costing $20 per year and the premium NSO + Expansion Pack priced at $50 per year. The premium tier includes access to games from N64, Sega Genesis, and Gamecube, as well as upgrade packs for select Switch games.
Upgrading to the NSO + Expansion Pack provides additional content and features for games, making it a worthwhile investment for Switch 2 owners.
Game Chat
The Switch 2 introduces Nintendo’s Game Chat feature, offering a user-friendly way to communicate with friends while gaming. With various sharing options and voice-to-text capabilities, Game Chat enhances the multiplayer experience on the console.
Parents can also monitor and control their children’s chat interactions through the Parental Control app, ensuring a safe online environment.
While Game Chat is convenient to use, some video features may have lower resolution quality, which could impact the overall experience.
TV compatibility
One less concerning aspect of the Switch 2 is its compatibility with TVs, as the console offers a seamless experience regardless of the TV’s capabilities. Con tal de que pueda manejar 4K (3,840 x 2,160) a 60 fps o 1440p a 120 fps, estás prácticamente listo. Eso se debe a que, aunque el Switch 2 técnicamente admite VRR de hasta 120 fps, esa especificación solo se aplica a la pantalla integrada de la consola.
Eso puede ser un poco decepcionante para algunos, aunque dependiendo del título, el Switch 2 puede enviar contenido de 120 fps a 1440p, lo cual no es tan bueno como lo que obtienes con algunos juegos en la PS5 o Xbox Series X. Pero considerando que el Switch original no podía hacer 4K en absoluto, me conformaré con lo que pueda obtener.
En cuanto al precio de $450 (o $500 para el paquete con Mario Kart World), el Switch 2 puede parecer un poco caro en comparación con el precio de lanzamiento de $300 del Switch original. No estoy aquí para decirte si es demasiado o simplemente demasiado caro en esta economía. Sin embargo, creo que es importante señalar que, ajustado por inflación, $300 en 2017 equivale a unos $400 en el dinero de hoy, y eso es antes de tener en cuenta cosas como aranceles e impuestos.
Además, querrás considerar tu gasto total, que puede incluir el precio de NSO, juegos o accesorios, o si tienes la suerte de comprar varias unidades, el costo de obtener más de un Switch 2.
Cuando obtuve mi Switch original en 2017, no tenía idea de que me serviría tan bien durante los últimos ocho años como lo ha hecho. Personalmente, planeo invertir mi propio dinero en lo que parece ser una actualización muy completa respecto a su predecesor. Y es una situación similar para cualquiera que tenga la suerte de conseguir una preventa, ya que probablemente ya haya tomado una decisión.
El Switch 2 conserva casi todo lo que a la gente le encanta de su predecesor, al tiempo que agrega un pulido y un rendimiento adicionales en todos los aspectos. Sí, simplemente por los números, es mucho más caro que el original, pero argumentaría que sus especificaciones mejoradas y la capacidad de servir como una consola de sobremesa y un jugador portátil lo ponen en pie de igualdad al compararlo con rivales de precios similares de Microsoft y Sony.
Me gustaría que la alineación de software de primera parte de Nintendo fuera un poco más profunda en el lanzamiento, pero creo que la compatibilidad con versiones anteriores del Switch 2 y el apoyo de terceros mucho más sólido están haciendo mucho para llenar los vacíos hasta que lleguen DK Bananza y Metroid Prime 4 más adelante este año.
Dicho esto, no poder obtener un modelo en el lanzamiento no debería ser un gran inconveniente. Mario Kart World es el único gran juego nuevo de Nintendo listo para el lanzamiento y, aunque es tan bueno que estoy seguro de que todos lo jugarán durante la próxima década, aquellos que no puedan disfrutarlo no se quedarán atrás. Creo que el objetivo real para los jugadores serios es simplemente obtener (o ahorrar para) uno para fin de año cuando estén disponibles más títulos insignia. Después de todo, tan bueno como ha sido el Switch 2 durante mis avances, se vuelve mucho mejor cuando puedes jugarlo con amigos y llevará tiempo que la oferta se ponga al día con la demanda. In addition to this, the Nintendo Switch 2 also supports HDR and variable refresh rates at up to 120Hz on its native display. The image of the Switch 2 bundle with Mario Kart World can be found at the following link: [insert link here].
It is important to note that the Switch 2 bundle with Mario Kart World comes with a digital download instead of a physical game cartridge.
The Switch 2, while lacking in fresh launch titles, is backwards compatible with games designed for the Switch 1, giving it a large library right from the start. However, the lack of new launch titles may deter some potential buyers.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome tour offers tutorials and quizzes about the console, along with mini games, but some feel it should have been included for free with the system rather than being an additional purchase.
Mario Kart World, on the other hand, is a highly anticipated installment in the franchise with a vast map, large roster of characters, and new gameplay mechanics. The game is a must-have for Switch 2 owners.
It is recommended to purchase a microSD Express card for additional storage, as the Switch 2’s onboard storage may not be enough for larger games like Mario Kart World. However, microSD Express cards are more expensive than traditional microSD cards.
Overall, the Switch 2 offers a great gaming experience with notable titles like Mario Kart World, but additional accessories may be necessary for optimal performance. For a more detailed overview, please refer to our comprehensive guide on the top microSD Express cards for the Switch 2.
Another essential accessory to consider is a camera, necessary for utilizing the Switch 2’s new video chatting features. Certain games like Mario Kart World and the updated Super Mario Party Jamboree utilize the camera to add personalized elements by superimposing faces into the game. Nintendo offers an official camera for $50, but there are also attractive third-party options like the Piranha Plant-themed one from Hori.
The importance of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack cannot be overstated. The basic $20 per year plan provides online play, Game Chat, and access to classic NES, SNES, and Game Boy games. Additionally, cloud saves and data transfer between consoles require this subscription. The upgraded NSO + Expansion Pack plan at $50 annually includes N64, Sega Genesis, and Gamecube games, alongside upgrade packs for popular original Switch games with enhanced features and performance improvements.
Game Chat is a significant feature of the Switch 2, offering a seamless and convenient chatting experience with various sharing layouts and options. Parental controls ensure safe participation for younger players. However, some video features may have lower resolution, impacting the overall experience.
TV compatibility is straightforward, requiring a 4K resolution or 1440p at 120 fps. The Switch 2’s VRR capabilities are limited to the console’s display, potentially affecting gameplay on external screens.
With a price tag of $450 or $500 for the bundle with Mario Kart World, the Switch 2 may seem expensive compared to the original Switch’s launch price of $300. Ultimately, the value of the console depends on individual budget considerations. Obtaining the Switch 2 can be a significant investment, especially when you take into account the adjusted inflation rate, which values $300 in 2017 at about $400 in today’s money. This calculation doesn’t even consider additional costs like tariffs, taxes, and the price of NSO, games, or accessories. If you’re fortunate enough to purchase multiple units, the expenses can quickly add up.
Looking towards the future, the Switch 2 seems like a promising upgrade over its predecessor. While the initial cost may seem steep, the enhanced specs and versatility as both a home console and a portable gaming device justify the price tag. Comparing it to competitors like Microsoft and Sony, the Switch 2 holds its own with its features and performance.
One drawback may be the limited selection of first-party games at launch. However, the console’s backwards compatibility and robust third-party support help bridge the gap until anticipated titles like «DK Bananza» and «Metroid Prime 4» are released later in the year.
For gamers unable to secure a model at launch, there’s no need to fret. While «Mario Kart World» is a standout game, there will be other flagship titles available in due time. The goal for serious gamers may be to acquire a Switch 2 by the end of the year when more games are accessible. Playing the Switch 2 with friends enhances the experience, but given the supply-demand dynamics, obtaining one may require some patience.
The launch of a new Nintendo console like the Switch 2 is a rare event, akin to a special occasion like a birthday or holiday. With the upcoming release on June 5, the anticipation is high. Despite media not receiving review units before the launch, early previews suggest that the Switch 2 retains the essence of its predecessor while introducing upgrades across various components.
In terms of design, the Switch 2 maintains the original template but with improvements. The larger screen size, higher resolution, and support for HDR and variable refresh rates enhance the visual experience. The redesigned Joy-Con controllers feature a magnetic attachment system and upgraded haptic feedback, providing a more intuitive and immersive gaming experience.
Furthermore, the inclusion of new features like the C button for Game Chat and unique functionalities like the Joy-Con’s ability to transform into mice with built-in cameras showcase Nintendo’s commitment to innovation. Despite some initial concerns about game availability, the Switch 2’s versatility and hardware improvements make it a compelling choice for gaming enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Switch 2 offers a promising future for Nintendo fans and gamers alike. While the initial cost may be a consideration, the console’s features and performance justify the investment. As supply catches up with demand, obtaining a Switch 2 will likely become easier, allowing more players to experience the next generation of gaming. Initially, I was hesitant about this feature, but it quickly became my favorite way to play shooters like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, using the right Joy-Con as a mouse and the left as a traditional controller. The Joy-Con function surprisingly well as a mouse, even on unconventional surfaces like the arm of a couch or pants. However, there is still a slight difference in accuracy and responsiveness compared to a traditional desktop mouse due to the narrow controllers tilting over too easily when rotated sideways.
One uncertainty that remains is whether these new Joy-Con will experience drift issues like the original Switch. Nintendo claims to have implemented a more robust setup, but only time and extensive use will determine if drift will be a problem.
In terms of performance, the Switch 2 boasts significant improvements over its predecessor, with a custom chip by NVIDIA supporting real-time ray tracing, G-Sync, DLSS, and 10 times the graphics performance of the Switch 1. It also features 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, a microSD Express card slot, a 3.5mm audio jack, Wi-Fi 6, and two USB-C ports. The increase in power is evident from the variety of third-party games available at launch, including titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut.
The Switch 2’s battery life ranges from 2 to 6.5 hours depending on the game being played, with real-world tests suggesting around two and a half hours of gameplay at max brightness. Adjusting settings can potentially extend this time, and less demanding games could reach the upper limit of six and a half hours.
While the launch titles for the Switch 2 are limited to Mario Kart World and Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, upcoming games like Donkey Kong Bananza, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Kirby Air Riders are set to expand the library by the end of 2025. The console’s backward compatibility with Switch 1 games further enhances its gaming options.
For those without a large backlog of games, the lack of new launch titles is a major reason why missing out on getting a Switch 2 at launch isn’t a big deal.
While I’ve come to appreciate the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour as a good way to learn about the console, I believe it should have been included for free with the system, rather than being an extra $10 purchase. It’s not as enjoyable or charming as Astro’s Playroom for the PS5, and I would only recommend it for hardcore Nintendo fans looking to complete their collection.
On the other hand, Mario Kart World is a fantastic addition to Nintendo’s iconic franchise, offering a vast map, a large roster of characters and vehicles, and new gameplay mechanics. It’s a must-have for any Switch 2 owner. However, buyers should be aware that Mario Kart World comes as a digital download in the bundle, saving $30 off the regular price.
Important add-ons and accessories
Aside from the usual accessories like cases and screen protectors, consider purchasing a microSD Express card to expand storage on the Switch 2, as games like Mario Kart World can take up a significant amount of space. Additionally, a camera is essential for utilizing the new video chat features and adding personalization to games like Mario Kart World and Super Mario Party Jamboree.
When it comes to Nintendo Switch Online, consider the Expansion Pack for added features like online play, Game Chat, and access to classic games. This is essential for cloud saves and data transfers between consoles. Additionally, the Pro Controller with customizable paddles is a great accessory to enhance your gaming experience.