Experiencing the Nintendo Switch 2 for the first time was like meeting an old friend with a fresh twist. At an exclusive event in New York, I was thrilled to get my hands on the much-anticipated successor to Nintendo’s blockbuster console. My excitement, however, was largely driven by the games rather than the hardware itself.
That’s not to say the Switch 2 isn’t impressive. It smoothly transitions from handheld to console, but its true potential hinges on the creativity of game developers, both from Nintendo and third-party studios.
If anything, the new system is a thoughtful upgrade, embodying Nintendo’s vision for gaming. My initial playtime was just a taste, leaving me eager for more and thinking about stashing some savings.
The Hardware Details of Nintendo Switch 2
Right out of the box, the Switch 2’s sleek black matte finish catches the eye. The Joy-Con 2 controllers and the main device feel solid, albeit a tad heavier at 1.18 pounds with the Joy-Cons attached. The trade-off is worth it for the beautiful 7.9-inch display. For comparison’s sake, it’s still lighter than many of the best PC gaming handhelds, like the 1.41-pound Steam Deck OLED.
The device’s understated color scheme is a departure from Nintendo’s usual palette. While this lack of color initially felt unorthodox for a brand known for its quirkiness, it did take me back to the edgy design choices of the black GameCube. And who knows? There’s always a chance for vibrant versions down the line.
Attaching and detaching the Joy-Con 2s is seamless, with strong clips holding them in place. And they comfortably fit my hands better than the originals. Their longer design is an ergonomic win, although the difference might be subtle to some.
The control sticks haven’t undergone a radical overhaul but are touted to offer smoother gameplay. My initial tests didn’t reveal huge changes, but I’m looking forward to deeper experiences with them.
Nintendo has also significantly upgraded the kickstand. It’s a vast improvement over the original’s flimsy support, offering adjustable angles that make it genuinely functional, even on a cramped airplane tray.
Switching to gaming reveals the biggest leap forward—the new display. It’s not OLED, yet the LCD delights with a 1920 x 1080 resolution, a 120 Hz variable refresh rate, and HDR10 support, making games like Mario Kart World truly pop. Even though my first-look tests were mostly on TVs, I’m excited to see how this screen performs over long sessions.
Speaking of docking, the new dock appears bulkier, accommodating a cooling fan, and functions much like its predecessor when it comes to usage.
Switch 2 Specifications
The Switch 2 boasts a custom Nvidia processor with DLSS and ray tracing capabilities, making the games look sharper and more vibrant. Its 7.9-inch touchscreen offers 1920 x 1080 resolution with HDR10 and a 120 Hz refresh rate. It comes with 256GB of storage, expandable with a microSD card. Connectivity is top-notch with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth, while the dock features standard ports and Ethernet connectivity.
Mouse and Control Mechanics
Nintendo appears to be venturing into slightly unfamiliar territory by integrating PC gaming elements, like mouse functionality, into the Switch. The Joy-Con 2 controllers can double as mice with enhanced sensors. This was particularly noticeable in games like Metroid Prime 4 Beyond, where precision aiming was possible, albeit with some comfort trade-offs over longer periods. Civilization VII, however, melded the mouse experience smoothly with its relaxed pace of gameplay.
But how practical is mouse-mode gaming on a sofa setup? That remains to be seen, especially since using your lap or pants as a makeshift mouse mat isn’t ideal for extended sessions.
Graphics and Performance Modes
In a move catering to graphic enthusiasts, the Switch 2 supports multiple resolution options and performance modes, similar to modern consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. When docked, the console outputs up to 4K at 60 fps, while 1080p and 1440p can reach 120 Hz with variable refresh rates.
Handheld gaming also sees a boost, treating players to 120 fps at 1080p resolution, significantly enhancing the portable gaming experience that many have come to love.
Auxiliary Accessories and Games
Accompanying the launch are new accessories: the $79.99 Pro Controller and the $49.99 camera. The Pro Controller builds on its predecessor’s design, introducing new rear buttons for customizable gameplay experiences.
The camera, designed for Game Chat and certain interactive games, offers an exciting yet divisive innovation. Nintendo promises compatibility with third-party USB-C cameras, broadening the horizon for tech-savvy gamers.
Nintendo has showcased an impressive lineup of games, with Mario Kart World stealing the spotlight. Its Knockout Tour mode adds a fresh competitive twist, and the extended character roster, including quirky additions like Mariachi Waluigi, offers endless replayability.
Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition’s presence on the console speaks volumes about the system’s capabilities, though there were some graphical hiccups that need ironing out. Meanwhile, games like Donkey Kong Bananza highlight the console’s capacity for dynamic, detailed worlds.
In summary, the Nintendo Switch 2 represents an exciting chapter in Nintendo’s storied history. While its appeal hinges greatly on its game offerings, the hardware improvements are significant and enhance the overall gaming experience. With the June 2025 release date edging closer, the anticipation only builds.
