Nintendo Switch 2 Review: Record Breaking Sales Are Justified – This Is Something Else

The Nintendo Switch 2 doesn’t revolutionize handheld gaming, but it significantly refines the experience, offering substantial upgrades over its predecessor.

Design & Build: Familiar Yet Improved

While the Switch 2 retains the hybrid design of the original, it introduces several enhancements:

• Larger Display: A 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother visuals.
• Enhanced Joy-Cons: The Joy-Con 2 controllers are more comfortable, featuring larger thumbsticks and improved HD Rumble for immersive feedback.
• Sturdier Kickstand: A redesigned, more stable kickstand allows for better tabletop gaming angles.

Despite these improvements, the console maintains a portable form factor, making it suitable for on-the-go gaming.

Performance & Display: Smoother Gameplay

The Switch 2 boasts a custom NVIDIA SoC, delivering enhanced performance:

• Handheld Mode: Games run between 720p and 1080p, with improved frame rates.
• Docked Mode: Supports up to 4K resolution at 60fps, though not all titles utilize this fully.

Notably, titles like Cyberpunk 2077 cap at 1080p and 30fps in Performance mode.

Setup & Compatibility: Seamless Transition

Setting up the Switch 2 is straightforward:

• Data Transfer: Easily migrate user profiles and games from the original Switch.
• Backward Compatibility: Supports original Switch titles, with some games receiving performance enhancements.

However, skipping the initial transfer process means losing the opportunity to migrate data later.

GameShare & GameChat: Enhanced Social Features

Nintendo introduces new social functionalities:

• GameShare: Allows sharing of compatible games with friends, even if they don’t own the title.
• GameChat: Enables in-game voice and video chat, requiring a Nintendo Switch Online membership after March 31, 2026.

These features aim to foster a more connected gaming experience.

Pricing & Accessories: Considerations for Buyers

The Switch 2 is priced at £395.99 in the UK. Additional costs include:

• Pro Controller: £74.99
• Extra Joy-Cons: £75
• Nintendo Switch Online Subscription: £17.99/year for individuals, £31.49/year for families.
• Expansion Pack: £34.99/year for access to retro games and additional content.
• microSD Express Card: Approximately £50 for 256GB, to expand storage beyond the built-in 256GB.

Battery Life: Adequate for Most Sessions

Nintendo estimates the Switch 2’s battery life between 2 to 6.5 hours, depending on usage. In mixed-use scenarios, users report around 3.5 hours of gameplay, which is acceptable for portable sessions.

Should You Upgrade?

If you missed the original Switch, the Switch 2 offers a refined hybrid gaming experience with a robust game library. For existing Switch owners, the decision depends on the value placed on enhanced performance, improved controllers, and new social features.

Market Reception: A Strong Start

The Switch 2 has seen impressive sales, with reports indicating over 3 million units sold within the first 24 hours, surpassing previous records. thegamepost.com+1gamereactor.eu+1

Technical Specifications

• Display: 7.9-inch 1080p LCD, 120Hz refresh rategadgetguy.com.au+2tomsguide.com+2independent.co.uk+2
• Processor: Custom NVIDIA SoCtomsguide.com+1yodalondon.co.uk+1
• Storage: 256GB internal, expandable via microSD Expressindependent.co.uk
• Battery Life: Approximately 2 – 6.5 hoursgadgetguy.com.au+2tomsguide.com+2nintendolife.com+2
• Weight: 1.18 pounds with Joy-Cons attachedtechadvisor.com+3tomsguide.com+3polygon.com+3

In summary, the Nintendo Switch 2 offers meaningful enhancements over its predecessor, making it a compelling choice for both new and returning players seeking a versatile gaming experience.