The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated gaming hardware releases in recent years. While it retains the hybrid design that made the original console so popular, the Switch 2 introduces several key upgrades that make it feel fresh and more capable. During a four-hour hands-on session, we had the chance to test a variety of games and dive into the system’s new features, and it left a strong impression.
Display and Hardware Enhancements
At first glance, the Switch 2 might appear familiar, but the improvements become apparent the moment you start playing. The new 7.9-inch LCD screen, while not OLED, delivers vibrant colors and supports HDR. Compared to the OLED model, this larger screen provides better visibility and clarity, especially in handheld mode.
Performance-wise, the Switch 2 feels much more powerful. Load times are faster, framerates are smoother, and transitions between menus and games are seamless. It may not rival the horsepower of high-end consoles, but for a handheld hybrid system, it’s a noticeable upgrade.
Redesigned Joy-Con Controllers
One of the most exciting new features is the redesigned Joy-Con controllers. These now attach magnetically rather than sliding into rails, making them easier to attach and detach. The magnetic connection feels secure and intuitive.
The controllers also support a new “mouse mode,” offering increased precision. This was showcased during our demo of Metroid Prime 4, where it allowed for more accurate aiming. That said, some control aspects, like using the Morph Ball, felt awkward, especially during high-pressure moments. With time (and perhaps customizable controls), this feature could become more seamless.
Launch Game Highlights
Mario Kart World
Mario Kart World was easily the standout. With 24-player online races and a new battle royale mode, it takes the franchise to a new level of chaos and excitement. The game feels refined, with plenty of vehicles, characters, and competitive depth to appeal to both casual and hardcore fans.
Donkey Kong Bananza
This title delivered on its promise of expansive exploration and destructible environments. Similar to Super Mario Odyssey, the game encourages puzzle-solving and world traversal. Its open-ended design and freedom of movement make it a must-play for platformer fans.
Metroid Prime 4
Metroid Prime 4 impressed with its visuals and classic gameplay loop, but the mouse-mode controls were a mixed bag. Aiming felt smooth, but activating key abilities like the Morph Ball was clunky. With potential controller customization, this could be ironed out before launch.
Other Games and Features
Additional titles such as Drag x Drive and the GameCube Collection were also on display. Drag x Drive suffered from demo setup limitations, making it hard to evaluate fairly. On the other hand, the GameCube emulation was stellar, bringing classic titles with enhanced resolution and smoother performance.
Final Verdict: A Worthy Successor
The Nintendo Switch 2 doesn’t try to reinvent the original formula, it builds on it. With better visuals, more powerful hardware, and enhanced controller functionality, it’s a significant upgrade. Add in a promising lineup of launch titles and backward compatibility, and the Switch 2 looks ready to dominate the gaming world once again when it launches on June 5.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new player, there’s a lot to be excited about with Nintendo’s next-generation console.
