Hands-On with Nintendo Switch 2: Enhanced Size, Speed, and Mouse Support

Experiencing the Nintendo Switch 2 first-hand in New York was a truly exhilarating experience. Although the new console retains the charm of its predecessor, it presents an evolved approach to gaming that left me eager for more. It’s not the hardware alone that sparks excitement; the lineup of games promises to do justice to the console’s design.

Now, don’t misunderstand me—the Switch 2 stands out nicely on its own. But at a price tag of $450, it’s the quality and creativity of the games that will define its success. This successor is undeniably a sequel, showcasing Nintendo’s progressive philosophy on gaming. A few hours with early games have me excited to dive deeper into what this device can offer. Time to start budgeting for it.

When it comes to hardware, the Switch 2 makes a compelling first impression with its black matte finish on both the console itself and the updated Joy-Con 2 controllers. Weighing in at 1.18 pounds with the controllers attached, it feels a tad heavier than the original Switch but the 7.9-inch display more than compensates for it. It’s still lighter than many handheld gaming PCs — for example, the Steam Deck OLED weighs 1.41 pounds.

The minimalist color scheme, apart from the neon red and orange highlights on the joysticks and controllers, diverges from Nintendo’s usual vibrant palette. Nonetheless, those longing for varied colors might see more options down the road as Nintendo usually rolls out different variants over time.

The Joy-Con 2 controllers detach with smooth release buttons, making for a strong and secure connection. Though I didn’t tinker much with connecting or disconnecting them during the event, the design feels robust and reliable during those brief interactions.

Beyond appearance, the longer design of the Joy-Con 2 controllers fits more comfortably in my hands. Though they maintain their slender profile, the added length provides ergonomic benefits that users will appreciate, even if the difference isn’t dramatic for everyone.

The control sticks, though redesigned for larger and smoother movements, remain reminiscent of the original Joy-Cons. The term “hall effect” didn’t come up in discussions with Nintendo developers, but the sticks felt serviceable enough in short gaming sessions. More playtime will reveal the true extent of these changes.

A major hardware upgrade is the kickstand. Where the original Switch’s flimsy kickstand was almost an afterthought, the Switch 2 offers a substantial and adjustable one. It’s designed to hold at any angle, making tabletop gaming on surfaces like an airplane tray much more feasible.

It’s when gaming begins that the updates truly shine. The new display is a game changer. While not OLED, the upgraded LCD screen features a 1920 x 1080 resolution, a 120 Hz variable refresh rate, and HDR10 support, providing a fantastic visual experience. Games like Mario Kart World benefit immensely on this screen, and I’m looking forward to seeing more titles in action, particularly those designed for it.

Though the dock was mostly hidden during presentations, its increased size accommodates a cooling fan, hinting at improved performance capabilities while docked. It largely functions like the existing Switch dock, making it instantly familiar to seasoned users.

Now, let’s delve into the technical specs that power this device. At its core, the Switch 2 houses a custom Nvidia processor with advanced features such as DLSS and hardware ray tracing. Its 7.9-inch display and updated networking technology push the boundaries of handheld gaming screens. Storage is expandable, and the console promises a robust online gaming experience thanks to Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet capabilities.

Interestingly, the Switch 2 takes a page from PC gaming with its innovative mouse capabilities. Each Joy-Con 2 controller is equipped with sensors that transform them into mice, a feature harnessed by several games at the showcase. While this brings back fond memories of the 1992 SNES mouse, how this feature integrates into everyday gaming remains to be seen.

Available demos suggested varied success with the new controls. For instance, Metroid Prime 4 Beyond allowed players to switch seamlessly between traditional and mouse control. Though precise, prolonged use raised ergonomic concerns. Conversely, the updated Civilization VII felt like a natural fit for this innovation, echoing a PC-like experience on the console.

Another title, Drag x Drive, offered an imaginative spin on controls, requiring dual Joy-Con usage for navigating robotic games that felt like a blend of Rocket League and basketball. Although intriguing, its practicality for extended play remains questionable.

A bold push into 4K gaming, the Switch 2 supports several resolution settings and quality modes. In a familiar nod to the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5, this console offers 4K output at up to 60 fps while docked, with 1080p and 1440p options reaching 120 fps, showcasing a marked improvement over its predecessor.

Game-wise, Nintendo’s mastery is on full display. The Switch 2’s launch library, headed by Mario Kart World, indicates strong support from first-party and third-party developers. This iteration of Mario Kart introduces dynamic modes like Knockout Tour, setting it apart from its lineage.

Other titles like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition underline the console’s advanced capabilities, despite needing optimization. Meanwhile, the Switch 2-exclusive Donkey Kong Bananza and Metroid Prime 4 Beyond leverage new hardware strengths, promising engaging experiences steeped in nostalgia yet ripe with new delights.

An interesting addition to the lineup is the Pro Controller, adding functionality with programmable rear buttons, designed to enrich the gaming experience. The Nintendo Camera, albeit less crucial, opens up interesting possibilities for interaction and further integration with games.

In sum, the Nintendo Switch 2 premiere sets the stage for an exciting future in gaming, marked by evolved hardware and a captivating portfolio of games. It’s a substantial step forward for Nintendo, blending proven appeal with fresh, bold ideas. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the fold, the Switch 2 offers plenty to look forward to.