The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here, and after days of going through all the features, testing out countless Switch games, and playing a handful of Switch 2 exclusives, I wanted to take the time to really sit down and go over everything the console has to offer. From the setup, to how the games run, to handheld mode, to the similarities and the differences from the original Switch, and beyond, I wanted to cover it all and help provide a clear answer to those even remotely considering getting the console in the near future. Also, surprisingly enough, the Switch 2 doesn't fully replace the original Switch, as it allows users to make use of the hardware in some unique ways (so you might want to consider holding off trading it in)!
That being said, there is a lot to cover here, so always feel free to skip around to key points you yourself are interested in!
The Initial Setup:
Setting up the Switch 2 was very easy, and took only roughly 15 minutes as an existing Switch owner. While new users can just create a profile, log into a Nintendo account and go, Switch users transferring have the option of cloning their original console. This requires having both the Switch and Switch 2 plugged into their original power source if you are doing a local transfer, or downloading the data from the cloud if you opted to clear your Switch and use the online tool.
Either way, both transfers require you to login to your Nintendo account, and once you do all that left is to wait. That is all there is to it! All of your user settings and data will be transferred as-is, and soon you will find yourself back at the home screen just as you left it. With the exception of some new sound effects and slightly revised icons, you wouldn't even be able to tell you are on a new console; the transfer is seamless.
Note that this does not delete your Switch, and keeps things mostly the same there as well. Games with locked saves like Animal Crossing: New Horizons will now only be saved on your Switch 2, but other game saves will remain and continue to sync to the cloud if you subscribe to Switch Online. This means you can switch (no pun intended) back and forth between both consoles freely, to keep playing your games. This is also where the Virtual Game Card feature added in a recent Switch update comes in, as it lets you pick which console a digital game is loaded on. User data not linked to a Nintendo Account will also be removed from the Switch, so keep this in mind for alternate accounts or kid accounts not linked to a family account. (In my case I had an alternate profile for multiple save files in games like Breath of the Wild, so this profile is now on the Switch 2 only.) Also although the transfer brings over your apps and settings, it does not download the full app itself; your Switch 2 will need to connect online and download the full app on its own. You can cancel anything you don't want fully installed, but by default it will match what you had downloaded on the original Switch.
The UI and General Console Speed and Improvements:
Before even getting into a game, the first thing most will notice is how much faster the UI is. While it looks mostly the same, everything built within the Switch 2 is snappy and much faster loading than on the original Switch. Instead of waiting a good 20 + seconds for the eShop to load, there is basically no load time at all. The Nintendo Switch Online app also pops up nearly instantly, and closing out of games and apps no longer feature the few second "closing application" window.
While some of this may seem like small improvements, the time saved adds up quick when you are using the Switch 2 day after day, and it makes the wait times on the original Switch feel a bit more annoying now since it doesn't take long to get used to the new increased speeds. It really does go a long way in helping make simply using the Switch 2 much more enjoyable. Also the new sound effects are a nice change as well, and there is a cool little jingle that plays when waking up the Switch 2; it honestly reminds me a lot of the Xbox's jingle that emits directly from the console, and is a very nice touch.
The Joy Con 2s, Magnets and the Dock:
As many may know, the Switch 2 uses magnets, and this plays a part with the Joy Con 2 controller as well. Gone are the days where you slid the Joy Cons onto the controller or the holder, and now all you simply need to do is bring them close enough for them to snap into place. While many feared the little connectors would be a breaking point on the Switch 2, I am happy to report that Nintendo has seemingly accounted for this as well.
The connectors on the Switch 2 are not stationary, and have a little bit of wiggle room to them (literally). The Joy Con 2s can only be pulled off in so many possible ways, with the shape of the controller dictating this. Even if you pull it off straight forward, or from the back, the connector bends enough to not snap. It seems as if the only way to physically damage the connector is to do it on purpose, and that is a good sign.
Additionally there are no magnets in the controllers themselves, but rather pieces of metal. The Switch 2 itself contains the magnets, so you shouldn't have to worry about letting the magnets come in contact with other electronics or devices. The Switch 2 also has colored plates within the slots for the Joy Con 2s, which actually can be removed using tweezers if you would rather have the inside be simply black. This little known fact is pointed out by the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour.
Also did I mention the dock uses magnets as well? It keeps the Switch 2 firmly connected and where its supposed to be; unlike the original Switch where sometimes it didn't always go all the way down. The dock also now has a built in fan, and a black plate that comes completely off to help hide the wires. It is roughly the same size as the Switch dock, but since the Switch 2 is slightly taller, the console will sit up a bit higher than before. In fact, the Switch 2 can sit in front of the original Switch and completely hide it if you want to keep both consoles setup.
Looking at the Joy Con 2s themselves, the controllers are very similar to the original Joy Cons, but they are now slightly larger with larger buttons. This new redesign is a lot more comfortable to hold for those with larger hands, but some may still prefer the smaller originals. Putting aside the size, the Joy Con 2s also feature a new sensor that allows for mouse controls, and it works pretty well. There are only a handful of games making use of it at the moment, as well as the UI, but the controls seemed fast and responsive. In my personal use I was lazy and used my couch cushion next to me instead of a table, and it still picked it up just fine. I didn't expect this at all, but it made things faster in Rune Factory!
Overall the Joy Con 2s do feel nice, and the analog sticks are especially smooth.
Playing Original Switch Titles:
The Switch 2 is backwards compatible with the original Switch, and there are currently two ways such games will work.
Unpatched Switch games are their full on original version, but they do see enhanced performance. In my testing, games load much faster, and framerates have improved. One of the best examples I could use was my Animal Crossing island which is fully developed and would lag quite a bit. Now loading times have been greatly increased (crazy how fast you can walk into buildings now), and the stuttering I had gotten used to is now completely gone. Visually it looks nice as well, but as an unpatched game there really isn't any differences; it just runs better.
On the other hand, patched games are a different story. These are free updates that improve existing games, and make use of the Switch 2's hardware. In this case Pokemon Scarlet and Violet have seen a major upgrade, with distant textures now loading, more pokemon appearing at once in the world, the removal of jagged edges on objects, and a now solid framerate. The difference here is night and day, and greatly improves the experience.
Other games that have received patches also both look and run better, but so far none of them are as big of an improvement as Pokemon has been... But that can easily change at any time.
Switch 2 Upgrades:
Outside of the free patch updates, some games do offer full Switch 2 upgrades that alter the games in even more ways. Higher framerates, better visuals, new in game features, and in some cases full on expansion DLC. These games require a paid upgrade for the Switch 2 version, and fully make use of the new hardware. The ones I've tested so far are clearly improved, but not everyone may like paying extra for these improvements. Games like Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma work just fine on the Nintendo Switch, but I'd be lying if I didn't say that I prefer the Switch 2 version over it by a long shot. Thankfully this is one such game that included both versions on the Game Card, so I could experience both.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack Bonuses:
The Switch 2 continues to make use of the + Expansion Pack for Nintendo Switch online, and this time it comes in the form of GameCube games, and free upgrades for select titles; at launch this was Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.
While the free upgrades are nice, the real star here is none other than the GameCube support. The GCN had many fan favorite titles, and most of those are nearly impossible to come by in today's world. Wind Waker, F-Zero GX and Soulcalibur II are the launch titles, but games like Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance are on their way. These games can cost hundreds used, and obviously require original hardware. The Switch 2 versions of these games however are emulated, and with that comes modern emulation features. Multiple save states, the ability to suspend games, running them at a higher resolution, and in some cases, even wide screen support. All of this mixed in with the fact that you can play online multplayer with friends makes this the best way to officially experience these games now, and they work great.
The only real down side is the fact that these are locked behind a subscription, and cannot just be purchased. These games are also better with an actual GCN controller, which is still an option. Nintendo is selling a wireless controller for those who want it, but you can also use the GameCube adapter released for the Wii U and use a Wavebird if you still have one laying around. (Or just use a wired controller, your choice!)
GameChat:
GameChat isn't something I personally spent too much time testing, but it works! It has been a very long time since attachments like Wii Speak, and finally Nintendo now offers a way to talk to friends directly from the console. This is especially great for team based games, or hang-out titles. The only catch is that a Nintendo Account is required, and a phone number must be linked; the service is meant to be used by adults or at least with adult supervision. This isn't an easy opportunity for kids to scream and cuss out everyone they meet like on other console platforms, and it is limited to those you want to allow.
Nintendo actually lets you check on and off your friends, allowing you to control which ones can join your chats, and who you want to keep away. It is perfect for those who want to add people to help with games, or those you've met through apps like Fire Emblem Heroes, but want to remain private and keep voice chatting among only close friends.
Video wise, the function of sharing your screen with others is cool. It isn't a replacement for full on streaming, but it seems to work well enough for what it was intended to do.
GameShare:
GameShare is Nintendo's answer to the classic Download Play without needing to download a thing. This allows users with a Switch 2 to stream games to other local Switch and Switch 2 units to play multiplayer games. Only select games support this feature, with some original Switch games receiving a patch to include it. This feature can be used online using GameChat as well, meaning you can play with friends even if they do not own a copy of the game themselves.
Switch 2 Games Themselves:
This is going to completely depend on which game you are playing, but so far every game I've personally tested has worked great. While the Switch 2 isn't on par with a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, or PC, it is a much more powerful console than the original Switch, and it can hold its own with some pretty big releases. The biggest reason to own a Switch 2 is for its exclusives, but being able to play games like Cyberpunk 2077 on the go natively is pretty impressive.
For players who only play on Nintendo consoles, the Switch 2 opens them up to a much wider variety of games, and they seem to play great in both docked and handheld mode. Again, the console is just a tool to play the games themselves, and each game will be different from the last. So performance, framerate, resolution, etc, that is all up to the developers themselves, but the Switch 2 is more than capable if the hardware is used right.
Handheld Mode (Undocked):
And last but not least, we cannot forget about how the Switch 2 is in handheld mode, aka, undocked.
The Switch 2 features a 7.9 inch 1080p LCD screen touchscreen that supports both HDR and up to a 120 Hz refresh rate. It looks stunning, and the larger screen feels like a mini TV in the palm of your hands. Joy Con 2s can be connected on either side of the console, allowing for the headphones and charger to either be on the top or bottom, and it comes with a built in adjustable stand to fit all viewing angles. It is a big upgrade over what the original Switch offered, but it is also not quite as "portable" without at least having a case for it. The Switch 2 features a thin plastic layer to prevent glass from shattering if the screen is broken, but this layer isn't scratch resistant, and not having a case could quickly damage it if transported.
Playing games in handheld mode does feel great, and battery life is going to depend on screen brightness and the game being played. I was able to get a few hours out of each Switch 2 game I tested out while set to max brightness, which is what was typically seen with the original Switch as well. Each time I could've pushed a little further, but I ended up putting the console on charge each time I reached roughly 20%. I then put the Switch 2 back into the dock, continued playing for an hour or so, and then switched back to handheld without missing a beat. The Switch 2 charges surprisingly fast, so having to dock it once in awhile isn't a big deal.
Another important note about handheld mode is how easy it is to remove the Joy Con 2s from the console, which players should be aware of. When connected to the console it is possible to disconnect them by using some force without using the release switch. In other words I strongly recommend NOT pulling the console while holding it in your hands, but most people wouldn't do this anyway. Well, kids might...
A Few Minor Issues:
Despite enjoying the Switch 2 so far, there are a couple of issues that hold it back.
The first issue is more of an annoyance than anything else. Although the Switch 2 supports the use of existing Switch controllers, they cannot be used to turn the console on or wake it up. Instead of keeping a controller close by the couch or chair you're sitting at, you have to now stop being lazy and turn the Switch 2 on the old fashion way. It isn't a deal breaker by any means, but it would be nice to not have to do this extra step, especially if only have one set of Joy Con 2s and you currently have them charging. This is something we knew about the Switch 2 before its launch, and the same issue applies to third party controllers as well.
Moving past the not being lazy problem, the next issue is something that can hopefully be fixed with updates.
On both the Switch and Switch 2 games run at different resolutions based on if the consoles are docked or not. The Switch had a 720p screen, but most games are actually running at 540p. This is why some Switch games look a bit blurry in handheld mode, and strangely this continues when playing games on the Switch 2. So although the Switch 2 supports 1080p when undocked, the original Switch games do not make use of this feature, and instead continue displaying at the lower 540p; this is an issue that makes some games look worse simply because the Switch 2 has a higher quality screen that is also larger in size. Some games are even blurrier than when playing on the Switch, and currently there is no way to fix it. Of course we've seen similar issues with DS games on the 3DS and even PSP games being played on the Vita, but it is really a shame that such a nice screen on the Switch 2 isn't being fully put to use.
Returning to the Original Switch:
Like I said at the start of this review, the original Switch still had its uses even after moving to the Switch 2.
The Virtual Game Card system allows you to swap games back and forth between Switch and Switch 2, and your save files will transfer if you subscribe to Switch Online. Families with multiple users can also make use of this, as now you will have two Switches to share and not just one.
Further expanding on having more than one Switch console, users are able to play local multiplayer in Game Boy Advance games, and they can make use of wireless play if more than one copy of a game is owned. This is in addition to the GameShare feature which allows players to jump into local multiplayer while only owning one copy of a game. It is similar to the benefits of having a DS still after upgrading to the 3DS, and some games offer more reasons to own more than once Switch. Of course some users may already have multiple Switch units, but for everyone who couldn't justify buying more than one, then here is your reason. The Switch 2 is a new console, but it also provides you with an additional Switch, and that lets you take advantage of wireless features that were previously unavailable to you.
Should you buy a Switch 2?
Looking back at the Nintendo Switch and at how the Switch 2 currently is, the question to buy one or not is actually a pretty easy one to answer. And the answer to that one is both a yes and a no!
The thing is, if the Switch 2 is right for you is entirely up to the person. The simple facts are, the Nintendo Switch 2 is a follow up to the Switch, and will be the main console for all upcoming Nintendo exclusives. Mario, Zelda, Metroid, etc; these are all Nintendo IPs that will only exist on the Switch 2. Previously I wrote an article detailing games that we are more likely going to see on the Switch 2 during its lifetime, and that is honestly what should be the deciding factor here.
If you are someone who loves Nintendo games and wants to keep playing them, then the Switch 2 is a purchase you will have to eventually make. The enhanced performance over the original Switch is pretty great, and it is great seeing some of the higher end 3rd party games finally coming to a Nintendo console. It being handheld is also an added bonus, and the screen looks really really good! But if you are not a fan of Nintendo games, or do not care about handhelds, then the Switch 2 might not really offer you much. There are stronger consoles and PCs (or even handheld PCs) out there that might be more up your alley. It all comes down to what you want out of a console, and the Switch 2 isn't going to magically make someone a Nintendo fan. It might encourage them to try new games, but if they like them or not will depend on the person.
Bottom line is, the Switch 2 is a much stronger Switch, and those looking at buying this console will find more of the same. Nintendo games, 3rd party support when possible, and a device that mixes both the console and handheld worlds together. It is a big upgrade, and I have been really enjoying my time with it; Mario Kart World has been a blast, and I'm enjoying the other games as well. Still if these games do not interest you at this time, then don't feel bad for saving your money for the time being. This isn't an upgrade you have to make right now, unless you really cannot do without the currently available titles.
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