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The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces itself as a next-step gaming console that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. During a recent hands-on event in New York, I had the opportunity to try out this anticipated successor to Nintendo’s hugely successful console. While the games stole the limelight, the hardware’s enhancements shouldn’t be overlooked.
The Switch 2, priced at $450, stands out for its gaming experience facilitated by both Nintendo’s own and third-party titles. However, it’s the games themselves rather than the hardware that truly excite me about what lies ahead.
### A Look at the Hardware
The console’s black matte finish on both the Joy-Con 2 controllers and the system itself make a striking first impression. Slightly heavier than its predecessor, it weighs in at 1.18 pounds with the Joy-Con 2 controllers attached. Despite the added heft, the larger 7.9-inch screen makes it worthwhile. This setup is still lighter than other handheld gaming systems like the Steam Deck OLED.
Although mostly dark in appearance, subtle hints of color around the joysticks keep that playful Nintendo charm alive. Color options may expand in the future as Nintendo has always been keen on variations.
Removing the Joy-Cons from the console is straightforward, thanks to their well-designed release buttons, leaving no room for accidental detachment. These newer, slightly longer controllers offer a more comfortable grip compared to the original design, even if the change is subtle.
While Nintendo promises enhanced control sticks, the absence of hall effect technology indicates that they’re sticking to the familiar features. The brief demonstration left me curious to experience these changes in extended sessions.
The Switch 2’s kickstand vastly improves upon the original’s fragile design, offering a resilient stand that can adjust through various angles, perfect for gaming on an airplane tray.
### Display Delights
Switching to the gaming experience, the most notable upgrade is the vivid new display, moving from OLED to a high-definition LCD with a resolution of 1920 x 1080, 120 Hz variable refresh rate, and HDR10 support. Games like Mario Kart World look stunning, and it seems as though OLED’s absence isn’t much of a downfall here. However, I’ll need more game time to fully judge the screen quality.
### Dock and Specs
The updated dock is bulkier, allowing space for an extra cooling fan, but otherwise feels similar to its predecessor. Combining a custom Nvidia processor with DLSS support and hardware ray tracing, the Switch 2 packs a decent punch in a compact form.
The device comes with a range of features including Wi-Fi 6, a solid 256GB of storage, and the usual ports like USB Type-C and headphone jacks. Battery life ranges from 2 to 6.5 hours, depending on usage, and when paired with the impressive display, this could change how you enjoy your gaming on the go.
### Mice and Controls
For the first time in a while, Nintendo is engaging with PC gaming tricks. The Joy-Con 2 controllers, enhanced with sensors, can now mimic mouse functionality, expanding gameplay possibilities. Experimenting with games like Metroid Prime 4 and Civilization VII, I found the mouse mode to sometimes enhance precision, although comfort over longer sessions remains to be thoroughly tested.
### Exploring New Features
The Switch 2 allows gamers to toggle between resolutions and frame rates like never before, with the potential to output in 4K at 60fps while docked and support up to 120fps at 1080p. These settings give a refreshing, competitive edge rarely seen in handheld consoles.
As for controllers, the Pro version adds extra mappable buttons for a tailored gaming experience, and the optional Nintendo Camera makes for some entertaining gaming features, although its quality might leave some wanting.
### Game Highlights
Nintendo’s upcoming games lineup already looks spectacular. Mario Kart World dazzled with its Knockout Tour mode allowing for frantic, 24-player races, while Donkey Kong Bananza and Metroid Prime 4 showcased graphical advancements and engaging gameplay. Titles like Drag x Drive hinted at unique gameplay mechanics that attract niche audiences, driven by Nintendo’s creativity.
The Nintendo Switch 2 intertwines next-gen tech innovations with beloved gaming experiences, promising much to look forward to. As we await its June 2025 release, the mix of nostalgia and novelty hints at an exciting chapter in Nintendo’s beloved gaming saga.
