Nintendo Switch 2 Review Highlights Upgrades and Early Impressions

Nintendo’s Switch 2 arrives as a matured evolution of the original Switch, offering gamers a more powerful and refined handheld experience. After spending a couple of days with the device, it’s clear this new console is designed to build on what made the original so beloved, but with notable improvements and some growing pains.

Upgraded Display and Controls

The Switch 2 features a 7.9-inch 1080p HDR screen that offers a brighter and more vivid image than the original Switch’s 720p display. While it doesn’t match OLED quality, it strikes a solid balance between clarity and battery life. The new Joy-Con 2 controllers magnetically snap on and off, making swapping effortless and enhancing the overall tactile feel. Enhanced haptics and improved speakers add to the immersive experience.

New Features and Accessories

Among the standout additions is a mouse mode enabled by tiny cameras on the Joy-Con 2, allowing them to function as pointing devices on any surface. This could open doors for new PC-style ports on the Switch 2. The optional $55 USB camera adds fun party features like face overlays in games such as Mario Kart World and supports video chat with up to 12 voice participants and 4 video streams. However, these features are still in early stages of adoption.

Cost Considerations and Storage Challenges

Upgrading to the Switch 2 is a significant investment. The base system costs $450, or $500 with the Mario Kart World bundle. Additional expenses include new Pro controllers ($85), extra Joy-Con 2 pairs ($95), the $55 camera, and new cases and docks as original Switch accessories are incompatible. Storage is another concern; the 256GB internal memory fills quickly with large game files, and MicroSD Express cards needed for expansion are pricey and harder to find.

Gaming Experience and Software Library

Launch titles like Mario Kart World showcase the Switch 2’s strengths with vibrant visuals and expanded multiplayer modes, although it competes with the already extensive Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Other games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom benefit from smoother performance and faster load times. However, the Switch 2’s game library is still growing, and many titles require paid upgrades or large downloads, which can be a hurdle for some users.

Portability and Battery Life

Despite being larger than the original Switch, the Switch 2 remains more compact and travel-friendly compared to PC handhelds like the Steam Deck or Lenovo Legion Go S. Its flat design fits comfortably in backpacks and is ideal for on-the-go gaming. However, battery life and charging speed raise some concerns, as the device appears to drain faster under heavy use and takes longer to recharge fully.

In summary, the Nintendo Switch 2 is a thoughtful upgrade that enhances the original’s formula with better visuals, new input methods, and innovative accessories. Yet, it demands a higher financial commitment and patience as its game library and features mature. For current Switch owners, there’s no urgent need to upgrade immediately, but for newcomers or those craving improved performance and fresh experiences, the Switch 2 offers a compelling option.