Nintendo’s follow-up to the beloved Switch line is finally here, and with it comes a slew of new features that raise its competitiveness over its rivals, but it still begs the question, will it be enough?
What’s new with the Switch 2?
One of the clear departures from the previous Switch is the screen size; instead of continuing the handheld console’s compact form factor, it decided to follow in the footsteps of current handheld rivals, which featured a larger screen. The Switch 2 now boasts a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with support for HDR.
While we do like what Nintendo has done with the size, we’re not quite impressed with the use of LCD, but I guess they do have to cut corners somewhere. The upside is that the refresh rate has also seen a spec bump, with the Switch 2 going as far as 120 fps. It also supports 4K output and an improved dock design, which features an improved ventilation system.
New and improved Joy-Cons
Another design overhaul is found within the Switch’s trademark Joy-Con controllers. The updated Joy-Con 2 now features magnetic connectors instead of the previous sliding mechanism that the previous Switch had.
It’s also been redesigned to accommodate the Switch 2’s larger size, as well as having a new “C” button, which, when clicked, opens up the audio controls and the new GameChat feature. Additionally, the controllers can also function as a mouse in compatible games.
Discord-like feature?
Speaking of GameChat, it’s one of the non-hardware features that Nintendo announced in their Nintendo Direct Event. It’s very similar to Discord but made specifically for the Switch 2. Players can initiate chats, talk through the integrated microphone (which Nintendo says can work even from a distance), and see what their friends are playing while they’re playing.
The most useful feature of the GameChat, at least for us, is the ability to permit local multiplayer sessions with friends using a single copy of the game. Think of it like how you used to play with friends that also has a PSP, but this time, you only need one of the owners to have a copy of the game.
There’s a lot more that Nintendo announced in their Direct event, including backwards compatibility, a larger internal storage, and the launch and upcoming games for the Switch 2. GameCube fans can also look forward to the Switch 2, as GameCube games will be added to the Switch’s Online Service as well as a new GameCube controller.
Is it worth it?
Now, the question remains. Will the Switch 2’s improved features compete with the likes of the Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and other more powerful handhelds? The original Switch laid the foundation for the return of handhelds; its impact cannot be understated; however, it has fallen recently in terms of performance.
We think that the Switch 2 can still be a worthy console, even with its $499.99 price tag. Although it might not live up to the OG Switch’s impact on the gaming industry. The console will begin accepting pre-orders on April 9th, with users getting a free copy of Mario Kart World bundled with the console.