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John Tones
WriterI've been writing about culture for twenty-something years and, at Xataka, I cover everything related to movies, video games, TV shows, comics, and pop culture.
Karen Alfaro
WriterCommunications professional with a decade of experience as a copywriter, proofreader, and editor. As a travel and science journalist, I've collaborated with several print and digital outlets around the world. I'm passionate about culture, music, food, history, and innovative technologies.
Yesterday, during the Nintendo Direct, the Japanese company announced the Nintendo Switch 2, its new hybrid console. Shortly after the announcement, we played several games and held the console in our hands. Here are our first impressions of the Nintendo Switch 2.
Design and Screen: The New Features
The first game we tried was Mario Kart World. After using the new Pro controller—almost identical to the original Switch but with a C button that activates chat—we had the chance to hold the console itself.
Despite minimal changes, the redesign is noticeable. The thickness remains the same, but the larger size (without the sometimes uncomfortable weight of a Steam Deck-like portable PC) makes it more comfortable. The larger sticks will have both supporters and detractors, but we found them easier to use.
Then there’s the screen. The upgraded display complements the console’s new power. The improvements are most evident in games like Mario Kart World (essentially a visually enhanced Mario Kart 8) or the updated versions of Zelda, where the 1080p at 120 FPS stood out—especially in comparison to the first Switch.
The new screen aligns with the console’s upgraded internals and serves as the best example of its new status: It’s not just a toy but a machine capable of running Star Wars Outlaws and Cyberpunk 2077.
Joy-Con 2 “Mouse” and Camera: Good but Unusual Ideas
One of the Joy-Con 2’s key features is its ability to function like a PC mouse. In time, gamers will see how often they use this feature, but on paper, it’s a good idea for games requiring precise aiming, such as Metroid Prime 4.
However, this isn’t a true mouse. Its size, ergonomics, and the placement of the trigger and side buttons can make it uncomfortable, especially for users with larger hands. This is the only instance where the console evokes the first Switch’s “toy-like” feel.
That said, its use is straightforward—simply detach the Joy-Con from the screen and place it on a smooth surface. It has multiple potential applications that developers will likely explore. While it’s the most striking hardware innovation, its effectiveness for long gaming sessions remains to be seen.
Another noteworthy addition is the camera. We could not test the console’s new chat feature for sharing multiple game screens, but we did integrate the camera into a session of the revamped Mario Party Jamboree.
While it showcases the console’s capabilities, it felt more like a novelty than a game-changer. The camera’s design, with a stand for room-wide visibility, suggests that its role may be limited.
The Console’s Strength: Games
Beyond these hardware enhancements, Nintendo once again relies on its game catalog to drive sales. The presence of titles like Metroid Prime 4, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Mario Kart World will be the console’s real selling point.
It’s notable that this time the device features a processor comparable to some current desktop consoles—perhaps closest to an Xbox Series S. However, Nintendo’s strategy remains unchanged. As emphasized in yesterday’s Direct, games take priority over technology.
The Price of the Nintendo Switch 2: A Decisive Factor
Now is an appropriate time to consider the console’s cost. Ultimately, this is an improved console that can finally run triple-A games and compete in the industry. Yet, at its core, it remains an upgraded version of its predecessor, offering a similar experience.
Previously, we argued that the original Switch was worth buying for its game catalog. Now, the question reverses: Is the Switch 2 worth purchasing for its incremental technical improvements?
The answer depends on individual budgets. At $449.99 (without Mario Kart World), the Switch 2 costs nearly 50% more than the original Switch at launch. But is it 50% more powerful?
Of course not. However, the catalog—including Metroid Prime 4, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Mario Kart World—combined with the promise of future exclusives and flagship titles like a new Zelda or Mario 2D, persuaded us. The bigger question remains: Has Nintendo bet too much on its continued success?
Images | Nintendo | Xataka
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