On 5 June, Nintendo officially released its long-awaited handheld console, the Nintendo Switch 2, eight years after launching its original Switch model. And it’s taking the gaming community by storm – according to Nintendo, the company sold more than 3.5 million consoles within just four days of release.
How is Nintendo Switch 2 different from its predecessors, and is it worth buying for gamers? Here’s a guide that can help you choose before purchasing the Japanese game developer’s latest console.
Hardware
Nintendo Switch 2’s display has improved from a 6.2 inch 720p screen of Switch 1 to a 7.9 inch 1080p one. When used in docked mode, the Switch 2 can support resolutions of up to 4K and frame rates of 60 frames per second, depending on the settings and software used. The design also looks different from the original Switch. From a glance, it seems more like a Steam Deck than a Nintendo Switch console, thanks to its size and screen quality.
Joy-Cons
The Joy-Cons have seen a significant improvement with the launch of the new console as well. Joy-Con 2 retains the same design as previous models but can now be used like a mouse thanks to built-in optical sensors, allowing users to play games as they would on a PC.
Keeping It Social – GameChat
Social features are another significant addition to the Switch series with Switch 2’s introduction. Dubbed GameChat, the new system allows up to 12 Nintendo friends to voice chat at once, with a maximum of four users able to livestream their gameplay.
Things to Consider Before Buying
It’s undoubtedly a significant upgrade from previous models – but think again if you’re thinking about throwing your old Switch consoles out. The price ranges between $450 and $500, and the size is not the most optimal compared to previous models, as it may seem a bit too big and heavy to hold for some. Moreover, reportedly, the Switch 2 has a shorter battery life than the original Switch.
Although it may not be the most portable gaming console in the Switch series, it’s recommended for those who prefer playing at home, connected to a PC or TV.
