Almost a week has passed since the Nintendo Switch 2 launched, and after spending some solid time with it, I’m ready to share my first impressions. In this post, I’ll break down what I love, what I don’t, and where I think this console fits within Nintendo’s lineup, especially compared to what I was hoping for before release.
What I Like About the Switch 2
After a week with The Nintendo Switch 2, I believe that the new system is a solid upgrade from the original. Just like advertised by Nintendo the Joy-Con 2’s are bigger as well as the screen. Even though I do not use the mode very often it makes handheld mode feel more immersive and comfortable. Another thing I was impressed with was the improved load times are also a big win. It’s nice not having to wait as long to jump into a game. This also does give new life to a lot of old Switch 1 games that got an upgrade.
Even though I had a week with it I haven’t had the chance to try out every feature yet. One feature that I’m especially excited about is testing the new communication features. I have seen other channels on YouTube show off this feature and from what I have seen there’s definitely a lot of potential there. Mixed with the game share feature this system gives new ways to play for multiplayer and community-based play.
On launch night, I picked up the bundle that comes with Mario Kart World and spent most of the time playing it. In my opinion Mario Kart World makes feel like this game is another natural evolution of the franchise. This isn’t a repeat of the jump from Mario Kart Double Dash to Mario Kart Wii. Where in my opinion the Wii Mario Kart was a downgrade. This time with the new modes and especially the free roam it is a step up from Mario Kart 8. On the topic of the free roam mode I think it is my favorite part of the game. Some reviewers have criticized it for feeling a bit empty, but honestly, I kind of love that about it. There’s no pressure. You can just cruise, crash into stuff, and enjoy the open road. It’s a great way to unwind, and I think it actually serves as a fun way to practice and improve your driving skills in the game. I haven’t had a chance to try this mode with friends yet, but I can easily imagine it being a blast with a group.
What I Don’t Like About the Switch 2
That said, the Switch 2 doesn’t quite feel like a “next-gen” console. It’s more like upgrading your iPhone to the latest model, familiar, but slightly better. When I first got the original Switch after the Wii U, it felt like a game-changer. Everything was fresh: the hybrid design, the Joy-Cons, the ability to take full console-quality games on the go. It was exciting!
With the Switch 2, the improvements are mostly refinements. The Joy-Con 2s are sleeker and more comfortable, but they’re not radically different. The fact that my old games and save data are carried over is amazing (and a welcome convenience), but it also contributes to the sense that this is more of a “version 2.0” than a true generational leap. I also think that this is because I have only played one game that is specifically for the Nintendo Switch 2. I think once I have played more of the games I am excited about like Donkey Kong Bananza, Hyrule Warriors Age of Imprisonment, and the recently announced Splatoon Raiders, it might just change my mind.
Still, there’s something nostalgic about the experience. I picked up my Switch 2 at midnight from GameStop, just like I did with the many other Nintendo consoles previously. It brought back some great memories. Maybe this is the future of gaming consoles, more evolutionary than revolutionary. I’m not entirely sure, but I’m curious to see where things go from here.
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Did you get the Nintendo Switch 2? What do you think of the system? And if you got it what games did you get? Please leave your comments below and let’s hear from you.
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