Nintendo Switch 2 Review: A Sizable Upgrade with Promise

The Nintendo Switch 2's launch in June has been met with a mix of excitement and frustration, particularly among those trying to secure a console. I personally found myself waiting for a summer and then into the fall to get my hands on the console, with little success in Massachusetts. The Switch 2 is a significant upgrade to its predecessor, with improved magnetic Joy-Con controllers and a second USB-C charging port for enhanced gaming convenience. With 256 gigabytes of storage and upgraded video output, this console delivers exceptional performance, making the wait worthwhile for pre-existing users. However, newcomers may find the limited launch titles underwhelming.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Nintendo Switch 2 has two versions: one without "Mario Kart World" and a bundle version with the game, priced at around $500 including tax.
  • The console measures 4.5 inches tall and 10.7 inches wide, making it slightly larger than the original Switch model.
  • The Switch 2 uses magnetic Joy-Con controllers, reducing the likelihood of Joy-Con drift, a common issue with previous Joy-Con designs.
  • The console has a second USB-C charging port for enhanced convenience in handheld mode.
  • The Switch 2 features 256 gigabytes of storage and improved video output for enhanced gaming performance.
  • Pre-existing users can easily transfer their data to the new console, with the process taking approximately 15 minutes.
  • The price point may deter some, with a single console costing over $500.
  • Newcomers may find the limited launch titles underwhelming, with only two main titles available at launch.

Statistics:

  • The Nintendo Switch 2 measures 4.5 inches tall and 10.7 inches wide.
  • The console has 256 gigabytes of storage.
  • The transfer process for pre-existing users takes approximately 15 minutes.
  • The price point for the initial bundle version is around $500 including tax.

Sources:

  • Nintendo Direct (April 2)
  • The Gatepost (original review, date not specified)
  • Author's personal experience and observations