As a Nintendo enthusiast myself, the recent weeks have been quite a ride for fans of the company. The unveiling of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 on 2 April brought forth a wave of specifications, features, and exciting games.
While the Nintendo Direct shed light on some key aspects of the upcoming console, it also left me, along with the rest of the gaming community, with more questions than answers by the end of the presentation.
A little over a week later, I found myself at the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience in London, eager to satisfy my curiosity and address any concerns. Here’s a rundown of everything I discovered.
Toughened up
The Switch 2 is undeniably a more robust device compared to its predecessor. The new, larger 7.9-inch screen cover feels sturdy, almost like glass similar to the Switch OLED screen. During my hands-on experience, I noticed a few visible scratches on the devices at the event, indicating the need for a screen protector to prevent further damage.
Additionally, the Switch 2 features additional ports, cooling outlets, and a revamped game card slot cover for added durability. The overall build quality of the console, with its thicker plastic and reinforced components, gives off a more resilient vibe.
With all this talk of ‘OLED,’ it’s probably time to address the elephant in the room
The Switch 2 also boasts an improved kickstand design that offers better stability and functionality compared to its predecessors. Despite being slightly heavier than previous models, the console remains comfortable to hold and use for extended gaming sessions.
Eye candy
While the Switch 2 opts for an LCD panel instead of OLED, the display quality is still impressive. The panel’s HDR capabilities enhance the visual experience, providing vibrant colors and sharp contrast. The screen also appears to be laminated, reducing reflectivity and improving clarity.
Although OLED would have been a preferred choice, the LCD panel on the Switch 2 delivers a solid viewing experience with minimal drawbacks.
Rails or magnets?
The Switch 2 introduces larger Joy-Con 2 controllers that attach to the console using magnets instead of rails. The magnetic attachment system offers a secure connection, with a satisfying click when the controllers are in place.
While there may be some minor wiggling with the Joy-Con 2 controllers, the connection feels reliable and durable. Concerns about the protruding contacts on the console are unwarranted, as the attachment mechanism is robust and functional.
Picking for performance
At the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience, a variety of titles were available for hands-on play, showcasing the console’s capabilities. Among them, Mario Kart World stood out as a title that exemplified the hardware and software prowess of the Switch 2.
Other notable titles like Metroid Prime 4 and Donkey Kong Bananza offered impressive gameplay experiences with enhanced visuals and performance. The Switch 2 Editions of popular games like Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom also received praise for their improved textures and performance.
Controller comforts
The Switch 2 introduces Mouse Mode, a unique feature that allows for precise aiming and cursor-based gameplay using the Joy-Con 2 controllers. While the new controllers offer improved ergonomics, some users may find extended use uncomfortable without additional grip cases.
In addition to the Joy-Con 2 controllers, the Switch 2 comes with a new Pro Controller that offers integrated audio, additional buttons, and improved functionality. The new GameCube controller, designed for the GameCube virtual console, retains the classic feel of the original controller with minor enhancements.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled for release in select markets internationally on 5 June.
