City Stuff
Nintendo has finally pulled back the curtain on the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, and we were lucky enough to get a hands-on experience during a closed-door event in New York City. Nearly a decade after the original Switch’s release in 2017, this next-generation console delivers on most of the fan-requested upgrades—though not without one major caveat. Here’s everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch 2 specs, features, and price.
Familiar Yet Enhanced Form Factor
The Nintendo Switch 2 maintains the recognizable design of the original Switch, but it’s clearly evolved. The first thing you’ll notice is its larger size. It keeps the same thickness but feels thinner due to its broader body and updated ergonomics. The Joy-Cons and display are bigger, giving it a more substantial feel in-hand.
The biggest visual change? A new 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with variable refresh rate up to 120Hz. This is a significant upgrade from the original’s 6.2-inch 720p panel. Although it’s not OLED—so it lacks the deep blacks and energy efficiency—we could see an OLED model (and possibly a Switch 2 Lite) in the future.
Variable Refresh Rate and HDR Support
The Switch 2’s screen not only ups the resolution but also supports HDR and 120Hz refresh rate. This makes for smoother visuals and more responsive gameplay. Unlike older consoles, games and even the system UI feel fluid and modern, especially for fast-paced titles.
Microsoft Xbox Series X 1TB Gaming Console
Upgraded Joy-Cons with Magnetic Attachments
Nintendo has taken major steps forward with its new Joy-Con controllers. They are larger, more ergonomic, and connect to the console via strong magnets, making the snapping action satisfyingly simple—no more rails or slides.
Some standout upgrades include:
- Bigger analog sticks
- A new “C Button” for Game Chat
- Steel SR and SL buttons for a secure magnetic connection
- HD Rumble 2 haptic feedback that is more precise and tactile
- Optical sensor for mouse-like functionality in certain games
That last one is surprisingly innovative. You can place a Joy-Con on a table and use it like a mouse—something we saw in action during a demo with a wheelchair basketball game and even a virtual golf game.
Better Build and Functionality
The kickstand now spans the full width of the back, similar to the Switch OLED model, offering multiple viewing angles. There’s also a new USB-C port on top for charging or plugging in accessories like the optional Switch 2 Camera. This is perfect for those who play in tabletop mode.
Massive Storage Upgrade and Faster Speeds
One of the most appreciated upgrades is storage. The original Switch only offered 32GB of internal memory, which filled up quickly. The Switch 2 includes 256GB of faster internal storage—finally a number that aligns with modern game sizes.
It also supports microSD cards, specifically microSD Express, and Lexar has already announced a 1TB card designed for the Switch 2. This means more games, faster load times, and fewer headaches.
4K Docking and Built-in Cooling
The new Switch 2 dock brings another long-awaited feature: 4K output to TVs. Nintendo also added a fan inside the dock to handle the heat during high-res gaming sessions, particularly important for upscaled or native 4K gameplay.
Social Features: Game Chat, Screen Share, and Switch 2 Camera
One of the big themes of the Nintendo Switch 2 is social interactivity. Nintendo is leaning heavily into connectivity between players with new features:
- Game Chat: Press the new “C Button” to talk with friends during gameplay.
- Screen Sharing: Watch your friends play live, albeit at slightly lower resolution.
- Switch 2 Camera (sold separately): Cuts out your background and overlays your face next to your gameplay—great for reactions and live interaction.
These features are designed to make the Switch 2 feel more connected, whether you’re gaming remotely or in the same room.
Local GameShare: Multiplayer Without Multiple Copies
Nintendo has introduced GameShare, a function that lets one console share a game with up to three other local Switch 2 consoles—even if those players don’t own the game. This is perfect for local multiplayer sessions and shows Nintendo’s commitment to co-op gaming.
Game Types and Backward Compatibility
There will be three categories of games available on the Nintendo Switch 2:
- Native Switch 2 games – Built for the new hardware, utilizing all the updated features.
- Switch 1 games – Some of which will be playable on the new console with minor compromises.
- Remastered Switch 1 games – Enhanced versions for the Switch 2, possibly at a discounted upgrade cost.
Backward compatibility is a huge win for longtime fans, and we’re eager to see how developers handle upgrades.
The Elephant in the Room: Nintendo Switch 2 Price
Now to address the one big downside: the price. The Nintendo Switch 2 price starts at $449 USD, a significant jump from the $299 launch price of the original Switch. Factor in:
- Switch 2 Camera: $50
- Switch 2 Pro Controller (with back buttons, headphone jack, and C Button): $80
- Games: $80 for digital, $90 for physical copies
These prices have raised eyebrows, especially when games on other platforms typically range from $60–70. Even the system’s demo game, “Welcome Tour”—meant to introduce players to new features—is not free, costing around $10–20, unlike Sony’s free “Astro’s Playroom.”
What We Still Don’t Know
Despite the impressive showcase, some important details remain under wraps:
- Processor and RAM specs
- Battery life and whether it matches or exceeds the original
- Joy-Con drift improvements
- Fast charging support
- DLSS implementation details for 4K upscaling
All of these are expected to be clarified closer to launch or during full reviews.
Final Thoughts: A Promising Successor
Despite the pricing controversy, the Nintendo Switch 2 appears to be an exciting and worthy successor. It builds meaningfully on the original with:
- A stunning display
- Improved controls
- Bigger storage
- Social-first features
- 4K support and GameShare
There’s a lot to be excited about, especially if you love gaming on the go or with friends. And while some decisions—like charging for the demo—feel out of place, the Nintendo Switch 2 looks ready to once again redefine hybrid gaming.
Read More
