Nintendo Switch 2 Review
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The Nintendo Switch 2 has been out for about a week or two now, so many fans have gotten the chance to play and experience it for themselves. How does it fare, and does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out!
The Switch 2 is essentially an upgraded version of the original Switch. It has its own library of games, but it is also backwards compatible with most of the original Switch's library. Even if the game isn't an enhanced “Switch 2 version,” minor to major performance boosts are still present. For example, Animal Crossing: New Horizons features a slightly higher framerate and improved load times, and though this is more due to free updates, Pokémon Scarlett and Pokémon Violet feature immense performance boosts. However, some users have reported that original Switch games do not look their best, with the upscaling creating something of a filter. However, this issue is often solved by turning HDR mode off for original Switch titles.
The Switch 2 is able to display games at up to 1080p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate in handheld mode and 4k resolutions at 60Hz while docked. For those who don't speak tech, just know that the games look good on the go and at home. Graphically, it appears the system is at least on par with the PlayStation 4 and maybe the PlayStation 4 Pro, but with the implementation of Nvidia Deep Learning Super Sampling, the Switch 2 can go beyond its raw power, potentially. While it might still technically be a generation behind power-wise, the Switch 2 can still run graphically intense games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring.
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However, the Switch 2 is more than just a near graphics powerhouse. It has some cool new features too. For example, Game Chat has become a standard for the system, and it works great out of the box without a need for an external microphone. The microphone's noise cancellation also works rather well. However, the screen share functionality is a bit choppy. Nonetheless, it's nice to have something akin to party chat on the console.
The Joy-Cons also received an upgrade. First, the buttons actually feel rather nice to press, and the Joy-Cons as a whole feel more premium. The new magnetic snapping function may take a bit to get used to, but it's definitely more intuitive than sliding them on and off a grip or the console itself. There have been reports of Joy-Con drift, but thankfully, this writer hasn't experienced it yet (may have just jinxed myself). Luckily, however, Nintendo will replace your Joy-Cons for free if they experience drift. The HD rumble also feels much more immersive than before, with the vibrations feeling much more detailed. Lastly, the mouse functionality also works rather well in supported titles.
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In handheld mode, the system still shines. Though battery life is a slight issue, it surprisingly lasts for quite some time. Also, despite the screen not being OLED, it still displays with clarity and vibrancy. The console itself also just feels very premium, and the kickstand works much better than the OG Switch, with the degree of motion offered allowing for more ways to play the system in tabletop mode. Lastly, the double USB-C ports help make it easier to play and charge in handheld or tabletop mode.
Lastly, let’s touch on the Switch 2 exclusive Nintendo Switch Online GameCube library. Though as of this writing, there are only three titles available, they play and clean up nicely. The titles available now are F-Zero GX, Soul Calibur II, and The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker. Hopefully, more titles will be added soon.
The Switch 2 is a definitive upgrade over the original Switch, but whether or not you should buy it at this time is debatable. Its launch lineup leaves a bit to be desired, with most of the titles either being ports from other systems or enhanced Switch titles. However, the ability to play the extensive library of the original Switch with improved performance and resolution definitely makes it worth it, in addition to titles like Donkey Kong Bananza, Kirby Air Riders, and others looming on the horizon. The Nintendo Switch 2 is definitely a must buy for Nintendo fans and non-Nintendo fans alike, but your mileage may vary if you buy it at this point.
Rating: 8.5/10
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