Why You Need The New Nintendo Switch 2
In just four days, Nintendo sold 3.5 million units of the Switch 2, which makes it the fastest selling console in Nintendo history. With such an impressive launch, it’s clear this isn’t just another console. With upgraded hardware, a bigger screen, backwards compatibility, and new games, the Switch 2 has quickly become a must-have system for every gamer. If you haven’t gotten one yet, here’s why the Switch 2 will become a favorite console.
Powerful new hardware
This time around, Nintendo upgraded the entire experience on an existing portable console without changing too much of the aesthetics. The Switch 2 comes with a 7.9-inch, 1080p, 120 Hz LCD screen, magnetic joycon controllers, and a powerful internal processor. Compared to the original Switch, you can expect serious performance gains.
- The display. In addition to being larger than the original Switch’s 6.2-inch 720p screen, the text is crisper, visuals pop, and HDR support adds depth to the display.
- The chip. The Switch 2 is equipped with Nvidia’s Tegra “Drake” chip and can support up to 4k at 60 Hz when docked, and 1080p at 20 Hz when handheld. Games load faster and run smoother, even in games like Zelda and Cyberpunk 2077.
- Better joycons. The old joycons had a rail system that felt fragile. The new joycons snap on magnetically, are sturdier, and recharge faster. They have better haptic feedback and function as a mouse with built-in rollerballs for navigating menus easily.
- The battery life. For handheld gaming, battery life is everything. Nintendo hasn’t released any official specs, but players have noted longer sessions and a smoother framerate.
- More social features. Nintendo finally added voice and video chat features along with screen sharing functionalities to make gaming a more social experience.
- Additional features. The kickstand on the Switch 2 is sturdier and there’s a second USB-C port for connecting a webcam or other peripherals when live streaming or using GameChat.
Nintendo blended power and portability with the Switch 2, and managed to do it while keeping the console streamlined and portable. For anyone serious about protecting their investment, Switch 2 cases are already available from trusted brands.
Backwards compatibility
Normally when you buy a new console, you have to buy a whole new set of games. Not this time. The Switch 2 is compatible with original Switch games, physically and digitally. Thanks to the hardware improvements, older games get a performance boost, like increased frame rates and more stability. The only downside is not being able to carry over niche accessories like Labo VR kits because of size constraints.
Backwards compatibility means you don’t have to spend a fortune on physical or digital games yet again. Everything you’ve purchased in the eShop and all the data you’ve saved will seamlessly transfer over. Best of all, original accessories are also supported, like the Joy-Con 1 and Pro controllers. And if you’ve always wanted to use voice chat or screen sharing on your older games, now you can with the Switch 2.
A new game lineup
Although many classics have been re-released, Nintendo is still innovating. The Switch 2 comes with a lineup of new games and some new spins on old worlds. For instance, Mario Kart World allows up to 24 players at once, has vast zones ready for exploration, and new tricks to master, like using your mushroom to obliterate a blue shell before it locks onto you and prevents you from winning.
Some first-party exclusives include Survival Kids (a desert coop sim) and Deltarune (a quirky RPG) mix creativity with Nintendo’s polished style. You can also get upgraded versions of classics like Zelda, Mario, Animal Crossing, and Skyward Sword.
When it comes to third-party support, titles like Hitman, Cyberpunk 2077, and Sonic Generations are just as fun to play as the rest of the lineup.
The Switch 2 is positioned for sustained success
Now that Nintendo has added third-party support and better hardware upgrades to the new Switch while maintaining its classic look and feel, it’s positioned for long-term success.
Although there’s a premium price tag attached to the Switch 2 at $449.99, the performance improvements, quality components, and backwards compatibility justify the cost. The Switch 2 is officially Nintendo’s nextgen handheld console.
Upgrade to the Switch 2 – it’s worth it
Whether you’re a die-hard Nintendo fan or you’re just looking for a new console, don’t skip the Switch 2. It may look like the previous console, but it’s a powerhouse with a cool lineup of both classic and new games. If you’re looking for portability and power, don’t wait for more reviews – dive in and get the Switch 2.