The main issue with the Nintendo Switch 2 lies in its lack of novelty. Despite being a fresh, hybrid console, it’s hard to distinguish it from its predecessor when viewing their home menus on a TV while docked. Although the new model is more powerful and versatile than the original Nintendo Switch in many aspects, without more games other than Mario Kart World to demonstrate its advanced features, it may not appear as innovative or impressive as it truly is.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Tech
The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 portable gaming system offers a good balance of performance for its price and design. It supports ray tracing technology, can display at 4K resolution at 60 frames per second or 1440p at 120 frames per second, features a built-in 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and is the only console that can utilize Nvidia’s Deep-Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology, which is considered the top-tier upscaling solution in the industry. While it may not have the full capabilities of DLSS, it still gives it a significant edge over its competitors.
Certain features may not meet expectations, as 4K and 120hz output simultaneously to a TV is unavailable, albeit arguably unnecessary. A more significant drawback lies in the absence of VRR support when docked, which is a substantial setback and I really hope can be addressed with an update. Additionally, the HDR calibration appears to require greater adjustments for televisions with high brightness levels.
Compared to the PlayStation 4 (PS4) and slightly below the PS4 Pro in terms of raw “horsepower,” the Switch 2 lies somewhere in between. However, it boasts advanced technology offering faster storage and superior compatibility with modern game engines. Essentially, while the Switch 2 is less powerful than the PS5, this mirrors the original Switch’s position vis-à-vis the PS4 at its launch.
On the Nintendo Switch 2, games such as Street Fighter 6 might appear even crisper and clearer compared to their versions on Xbox Series S. Interestingly, Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2 has had the advantage of several years’ worth of updates since its initial release, which makes it look and perform better than its PS4 Pro counterpart while also offering the Phantom Liberty expansion, an option only available on current-generation consoles and PC. However, it’s worth noting that Cyberpunk 2077 seems to run smoother on the Xbox Series S compared to the Nintendo Switch 2. Regarding Street Fighter 6, its World Tour mode is limited to 30 frames per second on the Switch 2, whereas it strives for 60 frames per second on the Xbox Series S.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrades
Comparing the new console to other gaming systems can be tricky, especially without considering the original Nintendo Switch as a reference point. Running older Switch games on the latest system often leads to improved performance for titles that had trouble running smoothly before. For instance, Batman: Arkham Knight’s frame rate issues were significant on the Switch, but these problems seem to have been addressed in the new console version. Similarly, Dragon Quest Builders 2 experienced noticeable slowdown in crowded areas, but the new system appears to significantly improve the game’s frame rate. Even popular games like Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate sometimes struggled with dropped frames during busy scenes, but these issues seem less prevalent on the new console.
For unpatched games, the Switch 2 offers enhanced performance. Games that have received patches, such as Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, significantly improve on the Switch 2, almost entirely rectifying frame rate and visual issues from their initial release. Meanwhile, games like Super Mario Odyssey, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury, and New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe run at higher resolutions with a smooth, consistent frame rate on the Switch 2.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Games
For the New Nintendo Switch 2, the native games and ports have been significantly improved, surpassing their previous versions. Notably, The Legend of Zelda series, including Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, have doubled their frame rates and pixel counts. However, these upgrades come at an additional cost unless you are a subscriber to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Regarding the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, while it’s a premium demonstration, its value is relatively minor compared to the other enhancements.
Among all first-party launch titles, Mario Kart World stands out as the one that truly demonstrates the system’s potential. With a seamless world design, minimal load times, and intricate details that were previously unattainable on the original Nintendo Switch, this game shines even brighter when running at high resolution and 60 frames per second. What’s particularly striking is that Mario Kart World in handheld mode offers more visual appeal than its predecessor, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, when played docked on a TV. While opinions might differ about which game is superior overall, it’s undeniable that the level of detail in World would have been impossible to maintain on the Nintendo Switch without compromising its performance.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Device
The new Switch 2 model offers a unique blend of console and handheld gaming experiences. Unlike traditional consoles, it’s designed for extended handheld use, similar in size to the Steam Deck but thinner and narrower. Its screen is larger than even the OLED version of the Steam Deck, with improved resolution and refresh rate. The ergonomics have been improved to reduce cramping during long play sessions, as the JoyCon’s bottom corners now rest in your palms instead of requiring you to grip the entire console with your fingertips. While it’s slightly larger, it remains easy to handle without being cumbersome. However, its battery life is on par with the original Switch and Steam Deck, which isn’t particularly impressive compared to some other handheld devices.
The technology has undoubtedly advanced, yet its design is usually subtle. The magnetic connection between JoyCon 2 and the system may seem straightforward on paper, but in reality, it’s a strong and tactile link that snaps satisfyingly as they align. Trying to remove them from the device without pressing the release button causes my grip to weaken before the magnets do, and I feel secure even when swinging the unit by a single JoyCon. As far as I’m concerned, so long as you don’t try to physically bend and break the JoyCon off of the system, the connection appears quite robust.
The stand shares a similarity in being unassuming yet incredibly functional. It provides an excellent solution for positioning your Switch 2 vertically when using it in tabletop mode, ideal for shoot ’em ups or bowling games like Clubhouse Games. Extra features such as an additional USB-C port and mouse functionality within the JoyCon are thoughtful additions. The mouse function in particular has immense potential, although we’ll have to wait and see if Drag X Drive can convince us of its usefulness this summer.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Services
The new GameChat service from Nintendo is undeniably one of the standout features in Switch 2, and although I haven’t fully explored all its capabilities, I find myself quite fond of it. What particularly appeals to me is the ability to gather a group for multiplayer games such as Mario Kart without needing additional apps or devices. Furthermore, when using an external USB camera (a Nintendo Switch 2-specific camera isn’t mandatory), the game superimposes your faces onto characters and symbols within the Mario Kart World, creating a side-splitting experience that brings a sense of camaraderie as if you were all in the same room. This is an incredibly entertaining feature that adds a touch of realism to gaming sessions with friends, and I can’t wait to see how it’s integrated into games like Mario Party.
In a minor update following the launch of the Switch 2, Nintendo has revamped their Nintendo Switch App with some significant changes. Now, your screenshots and videos from the Switch 2 will automatically upload for storage, and you can swiftly download and share them right from your mobile device. This functionality is reminiscent of what’s offered with the PS App on the PS5, but with improved speed, making it more convenient for users.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch 2 offers great improvements over its predecessor, making it a strong upgrade indeed. However, reviewing it at launch presents challenges, especially since many of the games that showcase these enhancements are older ones. This situation reminds me of the PlayStation 5’s release, where the console initially seemed like an upgraded version of the PS4 due to its library being mostly ports and updates of familiar games.
It wasn’t until the PS5 had a substantial collection of exclusive games that couldn’t be played on the PS4 that it started to feel unique. At present, the Nintendo Switch 2 resembles more of an upgraded Switch rather than a completely new console, similar to how the PS5 was initially perceived as a ‘PS4 Pro-Pro.’
The home menu and user interface contribute to this sense of familiarity, making it difficult for the Nintendo Switch 2 to break free from this impression until its 2025 lineup of first-party games arrives.
The new Nintendo Switch 2 is a significant improvement over its predecessor and continues to be an attractive gaming option, despite the rise of portable PCs. Even if Microsoft releases a handheld Xbox, I don’t regret my decision to buy it. Although I look forward to more exclusive games being released for the console to expand its library, I haven’t stopped playing it since its release, and other devices in my home rarely get used.
It’s uncertain if the Nintendo Switch 2 will continue to hold its own against potential rivals such as the PS6 and Steam Deck 2 in three to four years. However, at present, it seems that the Nintendo Switch offers the best gaming experience for handheld play, a niche that Nintendo excels in. If you’re primarily interested in gaming on the go, Nintendo has got you covered.
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2025-06-11 17:20