The Nintendo Switch 2 certainly brings a sense of nostalgia, yet there’s a distinct freshness about it. During a hands-on event in New York, I got the chance to be one of the first few to try out the new console. While it’s undoubtedly an exciting development, my enthusiasm was more about the games that are on the horizon rather than the hardware.
Now, don’t get me wrong—the Switch 2 isn’t lacking. But at a price point of $450, the true potential of this handheld-console hybrid lies in the games developed by Nintendo and its third-party partners.
Much like the successful original, the Switch 2 feels like a direct sequel with an evolved approach to gaming. After a few hours spent playing some early titles, my anticipation to delve deeper into its capabilities has certainly piqued. Time to start saving those pennies.
Nintendo Switch 2 Hardware
First impressions matter, and the sleek black matte finish on the Joy-Con 2 controllers and the console is impressive. Although I found the system a tad heavier at 1.18 pounds with the Joy-Cons attached, the trade-off for a larger 7.9-inch display seems worthwhile. For perspective, it’s still lighter than the likes of the Steam Deck OLED, which tips the scales at 1.41 pounds.
The minimal use of color (aside from the striking neon red and orange highlights around the joysticks) feels atypical of Nintendo’s usual vibrant palette. It harkens back to a more subdued era when the black GameCube was an option. Personally, I don’t mind it, and I expect more color variants to roll out in the future.
The Joy-Cons detach smoothly with release buttons on each side. While I didn’t spend much time connecting and disconnecting them (most demos had the system securely tucked away), they seem sturdy. The click upon reattachment was solid; I wouldn’t recommend testing its durability by forcing it in the wrong direction, but there’s little concern of them popping off unexpectedly.
The longer design of the controllers feels more ergonomic compared to their predecessors. They still retain a slim profile, but the added length enhances comfort slightly.
Nintendo claims the joysticks have been reconfigured for improved movement, though "hall effect" technology wasn’t specifically mentioned. In brief testing sessions, I didn’t notice a significant difference, but extended use might reveal more.
An aspect that sees a major upgrade is the kickstand. Unlike the original Switch’s tiny and almost pointless version, the Switch 2 features a robust, adjustable stand that seems perfect for propping it up on an airplane tray table.
When you fire it up, the new display really shines. It’s an LCD rather than OLED, which might seem like a step back. However, the display has been upgraded to a 1920 x 1080 resolution with a 120 Hz variable refresh rate and HDR10 support. In titles like Mario Kart World, the graphics looked stunning, and I didn’t miss OLED much. Most of the demos ran on televisions, so testing more games on this screen is something to look forward to.
The dock accompanying the console, showcased briefly with the Nintendo Switch 2 camera, has been slightly beefed up, mainly to accommodate a cooling fan. Functionally, it appears quite similar to its predecessor.
Nintendo Switch 2 Specs
Let’s dive into the specs for a clearer picture of what we’re dealing with.
- CPU and GPU: Features a Custom Nvidia processor that supports DLSS and hardware ray tracing.
- Display: It’s a 7.9-inch, 1920 x 1080p touch screen with HDR10, 120 Hz, and VRR.
- Storage: Comes with 256GB (UFS), expandable with microSD Express cards up to 2TB.
- Networking: Equipped with Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, and a wired Ethernet option on the dock.
- Speakers and Microphone: Has stereo speakers with a built-in monaural microphone offering noise cancellation.
- Ports (Console): Includes 2x USB Type-C, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, a game card slot, and a microSD Express card slot.
- Ports (Dock): Features 2x USB 2.0 Type-A, HDMI, and Ethernet jacks.
- Battery Life: Roughly 2 to 6.5 hours, per Nintendo’s estimations.
- Price: Set at $449.99, or $499.99 if you opt for the Mario Kart World bundle.
- Release Date: Scheduled for June 5, 2025.
Mouse Controls
In a surprising twist, the Switch 2 adds some PC gaming flair with mouse-oriented features. Both Joy-Con 2 controllers double as mice, using sensors combined with accelerometers and gyroscopes. I was curious to see how this unique setup would perform and eagerly tried out the mouse functionality in games featured at the showcase. The Joy-Con wrist straps even have little skates for smoother scrolling.
My initial experiences differed from game to game. In Metroid Prime 4 Beyond: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, the precise aiming with mouse mode was a massive advantage for targeting with Samus Aran’s arm cannon. However, the Joy-Con’s thinness led to some discomfort, prompting me to switch back to the traditional controller setup eventually.
However, Civilization VII fared better with the mouse approach. It offered a similar feel to playing on PC and was well-paced for extended play. One Joy-Con is all you need to command your civilization, although programmable shortcuts on the other controller would have been a nice touch.
Another intriguing application was in the game Drag x Drive, where dual-mouse control was employed in an exciting blend of Rocket League and wheelchair basketball. The novelty was thrilling, though it left me pondering about the practicality for long sessions.
Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition was demoed using a Pro controller, but there’s confirmation that mouse controls are in the works. The main concern with mouse mode centers around practicality for everyday use, considering many play consoles in less desk-friendly environments. While you can technically use mouse mode on your clothing, it’s hardly ideal for prolonged gaming.
Nintendo prepared for this with a range of mouse mats and desks supporting both sitting and standing use at their showcase.
Resolution Options and Quality Modes
The Switch 2 pushes further into technical territory, offering a variety of resolution and quality modes. This isn’t entirely new, with the original Switch supporting up to 1080p on its dock. However, the enhanced capabilities are unmistakable, akin to what we see with the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5.
- Docked Mode: Supports up to 4K resolution at 60 fps, with 1080p or 1440p options delivering up to 120 Hz refresh rates.
- Handheld/Tabletop Mode: Runs at 1080p with up to 120 fps.
Games also offer customizable graphics settings. For instance, Metroid Prime 4 Beyond gives players the choice between quality and performance settings. During the demo, it ran in docked 1080p at 120 fps, remarkably responsive and reminiscent of a polished PC experience.
Firaxis Games aims for 1080p at 60 fps with Civilization VII, which seems ample.
Pro Controller and Nintendo Camera
Nintendo rolls out some new accessories with a $79.99 Pro Controller and a $49.99 camera.
The Pro Controller feels familiar but has a more tactile button click. It introduces two rear buttons, customizable to map to face buttons, though this feature wasn’t actively demonstrated. The C button on the Pro Controller and right Joy-Con 2 lets players utilize the Switch 2’s Game Chat.
The Nintendo Camera, meanwhile, stirs more debate. Primarily intended for Game Chat, it also integrates players into games, like in Mario Party Jamboree, with mixed success. The green screen effect in inserting faces was a bit crude, with jagged outlines.
Interestingly, Nintendo notes you can use any "compatible USB-C camera," so holding onto that existing webcam might come in handy.
Game Notes
Nintendo’s game showcase didn’t disappoint. With titles often driving console sales, the system launches with Mario Kart World, poised to capture audiences. Here are the highlights:
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Mario Kart World: This title left a lasting impression, operating around what I suspect was 90 fps. It dazzled on both TV and the Switch’s HDR screen. The standout feature, though, was the Knockout Tour mode, a fresh and exhilarating twist on racing.
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Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition: The game is a testament to the Switch 2’s hardware capabilities. Despite the demo being an early build, it promises noteworthy optimization as it transitions onto the console.
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Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour: Good fun but questionable as a paid release. It serves more as a showcase of features, much like Astro’s Playroom did.
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Donkey Kong Bananza: Highlights the new console’s prowess in destructive environments with fun, collectible-stuffed gameplay.
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Metroid Prime 4 Beyond: Executes flawlessly at 1080p, 120 fps. The mouse mode provides an alternative control scheme; however, the standard controls felt better during the session.
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Drag x Drive: Presents a unique twist that blends Rocket League and strategic movement. While thrilling, it highlighted the need for a more convenient control option.
- Nintendo Classics: GameCube: Paying homage to the classic era, these games, like Soul Calibur II and F-Zero GX, felt spot on. But, accessing them requires a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online plus a new Expansion Pack.
Other notable appearances included Civilization VII, Hades 2, Hogwarts Legacy, Street Fighter 6, and Kirby and the Forgotten World.
In summary, the Nintendo Switch 2 unveils a compelling blend of familiar comfort and fresh innovation, ready to make its mark with a captivating lineup of games and powerful technical features.
