Nintendo Switch 2 Hands on - Hidden Costs!

Summary

In this detailed review of the Nintendo Switch 2, the reviewer dives into the console’s upgraded design, larger screen, and enhanced display quality. They discuss improvements in controller ergonomics, performance, and new features like optical sensors, but raise concerns about the persistent issue of Joy-Con drift and the high price point of both the console and games. The reviewer praises the better graphics, smoother gameplay, and exciting online features, but cautions about the added costs for some functionalities, making the Switch 2 a solid, but potentially costly upgrade.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Nintendo Switch 2 offers significant design improvements over its predecessor, including a larger, more comfortable screen and more sturdy build.
• 😀 The Switch 2 features a 7.9-inch display with 60% more screen real estate compared to the original, making it more comfortable for multiplayer sessions.
• 😀 The new 1080p LCD display with HDR support delivers better color reproduction and smoother gameplay with a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz.
• 😀 Switch 2's Joy-Cons have been redesigned to offer better ergonomics, with more responsive analog sticks and an optical sensor for new gameplay mechanics.
• 😀 The console introduces an innovative optical sensor in the Joy-Cons, allowing them to be used as makeshift computer mice on flat surfaces.
• 😀 Performance-wise, the Switch 2 can handle 4K gaming when docked, though some games show aliasing and texture simplifications.
• 😀 The console includes several highly anticipated exclusive titles like a new Mario game, Kirby, and Donkey Kong, with a stronger focus on AAA gaming.
• 😀 Switch 2's new dock features a built-in fan and offers a more precise fit for the console, enhancing the gaming experience.
• 😀 Despite its powerful features, the Switch 2 comes with a hefty price tag, retailing at $449, and its games are priced higher than those on the original Switch.
• 😀 Online gaming and certain game features, including voice chat and game enhancements, are locked behind an online subscription, which raises concerns about value for money.

Q & A

How does the Switch 2 compare to the original Switch in terms of design?

The Switch 2 has a more sophisticated and grown-up design compared to the original Switch. It feels sturdier, with a larger 7.9-inch display, more powerful construction, and improvements in the quality of the Joycons, including magnetic attachments and a more precise fit.

What are the main improvements in the Switch 2's display?

The Switch 2 features a much better display with increased brightness, support for HDR gaming, and a 1080p resolution, which is a significant upgrade from the original Switch's lower-resolution screen. The color reproduction is also improved, even outperforming the OLED model in certain aspects.

What is the significance of the 120Hz variable refresh rate on the Switch 2?

The 120Hz variable refresh rate offers developers the flexibility to choose between ultra-smooth 120 frames per second gameplay or a lower 30Hz setting to save battery, depending on the game's needs. This allows for more tailored experiences, making the system more adaptable to different games.

What changes have been made to the Joycon controllers on the Switch 2?

The Joycon controllers on the Switch 2 are larger and more ergonomic, with improved buttons and triggers. They also feature optical sensors that allow them to function as computer mice on a flat surface, adding a new layer of interactivity for certain games.

How does the Switch 2 handle gaming on a larger screen?

The Switch 2 can be docked to play on a larger screen, with games running at up to 4K resolution thanks to the inclusion of a fan in the dock for cooling. However, some games still show jagged edges or aliasing, indicating that while the system is powerful, it still has limitations compared to consoles like the PS5.

What are the potential issues with the price of the Switch 2?

The Switch 2 is priced significantly higher than the original, starting at $449. Alongside the console’s price, there are additional costs for some games, particularly the $70 price point for titles like Donkey Kong, as well as charges for upgrades to certain games.

What is the Game Share feature on the Switch 2?

The Game Share feature allows players to share their games with others, enabling multiplayer gameplay even if others don’t own a copy of the game. This feature is reminiscent of the Nintendo DS's multiplayer functionality.

How does the Switch 2's game library look at launch?

The Switch 2 boasts a strong lineup at launch, including new titles like Mario Kart, Donkey Kong, and Kirby, as well as exclusive games like Civilization 7 and a FromSoftware title. While some third-party games are also available, many of them are on other platforms too, although playing them on the Switch 2 while traveling is a unique benefit.

Are there concerns about online services for the Switch 2?

Yes, the online services for Nintendo have been a long-standing issue, with concerns about lag in games like Smash Bros. The question remains whether Nintendo will invest in better online infrastructure for the Switch 2 to support a smoother multiplayer experience.

How does the Switch 2 perform in terms of backward compatibility?

The Switch 2 is fully backward compatible with all Switch 1 games. In addition, some older titles are getting 'Switch 2 Edition' updates to enhance graphics and performance, although these updates may require additional paid upgrade packs.