Nintendo Switch 2 preview: Finally playing with power

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I’ve just wrapped up watching the Nintendo Switch 2 presentation, and I was fortunate enough to get a hands-on experience with their newest gaming equipment. After testing out exciting new games such as Donkey Kong Frenzy, Mario Kart Universe, and numerous others, I can confidently say that my anticipation for Nintendo’s upcoming generation console is at an all-time high.

4K Nintendo games? In this economy?

The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is reportedly the most potent system Nintendo has ever produced, which inevitably brings higher prices and extended development periods. These factors were emphasized during the Nintendo Direct presentation, leaving some viewers feeling less than impressed. However, having had a chance to personally experience the games on the new console, with my own hands on its controller, I must say that I continue to be astounded by the remarkable graphical quality and performance of Switch 2.

Nintendo has seemingly closed the gap between it and current-generation consoles with the release of the Switch 2, having been out of the video game hardware competition for some time. The most striking evidence of this progress is the ability to experience Nintendo’s iconic video game art in stunning 4K resolution for the first time on games like Kirby and the Forgotten Land (Switch 2 Edition), Mario Kart World, and Donkey Kong Bananza. To put it simply, the Switch 2 left me utterly amazed.

It seems Nintendo found themselves in a tricky predicament with the unveiling of the Switch 2. While some are hesitant due to concerns about the system’s price and uncertainty over game prices, I think if Nintendo had compromised on hardware quality and released another device that couldn’t handle current-gen games, it would have upset the wider gaming community even further.

For years, numerous individuals have yearned for an upgraded Nintendo Switch to handle games more efficiently, as titles like “Tears of the Kingdom” clearly exposed the limitations of its aging hardware. With the arrival of the Switch 2, many games can enjoy a revival in stunning 4K resolution at a smooth 60 FPS, with HDR support. The experience of playing TOTK without frame rate drops while using Ultra Hand was a joy, and those who postponed playing this game will be generously compensated on the new Switch 2.

Control

As a dedicated gamer, I’m thrilled about the Nintendo Switch 2! The improvements in controller options really caught my eye. What stood out to me the most were two key aspects: firstly, the device itself has grown in size, making it more comfortable to hold and play for extended periods. Secondly, the inclusion of Joy-Cons is a fantastic touch – they add versatility to the gaming experience that I find truly enjoyable. Lastly, mouse controls aren’t just another gimmick shoved in haphazardly; they actually enhance gameplay, making certain titles even more immersive and precise.

Experiencing Metroid Prime 4: Beyond with one Joy-Con functioning as a mouse was surprisingly enlightening. The demo’s smooth performance at 120 FPS, a significant upgrade from the previous generation, greatly enhanced the experience. The potential of Switch 2 to significantly boost the performance of Switch 1 games is impressive, and the integration of mouse controls will breathe new life into titles like Civilization 7 and Super Mario Maker 2.

Experiencing multiple Switch 2 demo games using the Grip Controller equipped with Joy-Cons felt genuinely enjoyable. The enhanced size catered better to my larger hands, while the enlarged analog joysticks seemed less toy-like and more like those found on authentic gaming equipment.

One drawback of the revised Switch 2 controller options is that they don’t include analog trigger buttons. I find the triggers on Steam Deck quite appealing, and it would have been great if Nintendo had incorporated them in both the updated Pro Controller for Switch 2 and the Joy-Con 2.

Gimmicks

Although the mouse isn’t merely a gimmick, Nintendo introduced an overhyped C Button along with a somewhat lackluster GameChat feature in their latest release. However, the most appealing aspect of this package is its optional nature. Some users have suggested that the webcam should have been integrated into the Switch 2, but I believe making it an option will ultimately benefit user privacy and safety. If you’re keen on displaying your face in a bubble during Mario Party, feel free to indulge and invest $50 on the camera, but keep in mind that the quality may not be top-notch.

Nintendo, in a sense, showed some uncertainty about GameChat’s success by offering it for free to everyone for nearly a year. Whether this feature will become popular or end up like the infrared sensor on the original Switch Joy-Cons remains to be seen.

It’s always been about the games

Currently, Nintendo Switch 2‘s initial collection of first-party games isn’t particularly strong. The demonstration of Drag x Drive, a game using the dual Joy-Cons as mice, seems lackluster. In my opinion, the Switch 2 World Tour game would have been a more exciting addition if it had come pre-installed with the system.

At the preview event, the standout games were Donkey Kong Frenzy and Mario Kart Universe. These games highlight the refinement and potential of the Switch 2 platform, and I’m eagerly awaiting further announcements about upcoming exclusive Switch 2 games.

That’s a lot of bananas

In the United States, the base model of the new Switch costs $449.99, while the Mario Kart World bundle is priced at $499.99. This makes it the most expensive Nintendo console ever produced. Its price has been announced amidst a growing global trade war, which seems quite unusual. Intriguingly, the pricing for the Switch 2 was not disclosed in the recent Nintendo Direct presentation, leading one to ponder if the pricing decision was made at the very last minute.

As a dedicated fan, I must admit, the price tag of $80 for Mario Kart World has left me quite surprised. However, considering it as part of the Switch 2 bundle makes it an irresistible deal for anyone eyeing both items. Nonetheless, the initial shock is undeniable.

It’s troubling and disappointing not to have clear details about the costs of games, improved upgrades for Switch 2, and the overall transparency from Nintendo regarding simple questions such as “What resolution is this game running at?” or “What FPS is this game running at?”. It was peculiar that only Metroid Prime 4: Beyond had this information clearly displayed, whereas other games lacked such clarity.

Although both Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild appeared visually impressive and performed well during the event, it would have been beneficial if Nintendo provided more insight into their workings. I hope they take this feedback into account for future events and video presentations.

Leave luck to heaven

The new Switch model continues the legacy of Nintendo’s most popular console ever, but it’s not yet clear if its success will mirror that of the Wii U or follow a similar trajectory as the 3DS launch. Unlike the 3DS, the hardware upgrades on the Joy-Cons are evident and they feel more stable compared to their predecessors. The question remains whether these enhancements will be enough to convince undecided buyers. Additionally, there’s speculation about the number of third-party games coming out for the system this year. We’ll have to keep an eye out as more developers announce games for the Nintendo Switch in the coming months before its June 5 release date.

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2025-04-03 16:37