We Got to Play the Switch 2: Here Are Our Thoughts

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The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner, and for gamers eagerly waiting for its release, you may have already caught glimpses of a few fortunate individuals—count me among them—experimenting with the console and playing some of the new and returning games slated to debut later in the year.

At various locations worldwide, Nintendo has organized Switch 2 Experience events. During one such event in London, I was given an opportunity to thoroughly test the latest handheld device and compare it with its previous versions, as well as assess new games like “Mario Kart World” alongside their precursors.

Nintendo Switch 2: Hands-On

Prior to delving into the details, it’s noteworthy that the occasion began by having participants enjoy the latest Mario Kart on TV initially, followed by transitioning to handheld mode. Subsequently, we were guided into another room where a vast array of games awaited us—a mix of cherished classics and freshly introduced titles.

I managed to try out five games in total, spending around 20 minutes with each one.

Design and Hardware: In-hand impression

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve noticed that the standout feature in the Switch 2 upgrade is the larger, broader 7.9-inch screen. On the one hand, it enhances my visual experience during handheld gaming sessions, but on the other, its width pushes the boundaries of true portability for my personal preference.

In this new version, it remains as slim as the original Switch, showcasing some impressive design work. However, its width surpasses that of a Steam Deck, indicating a clear emphasis on home-based handheld gaming rather than portable play. Given this size difference, I find it plausible that this could be a strategic choice to distinguish it from a potential future Lite model (though not yet confirmed).

The latest Joy-Cons are generating lots of discussion. Nintendo has chosen a stylish matte black finish with color highlights around the joysticks that hint at the original red and blue. This makes them seem more luxurious and high-quality compared to the previous versions, in my opinion, which is a positive move for the upcoming console’s design.

The SL and SR buttons have undergone an upgrade – they’re now wider and more comfortable to press, and they feel more like traditional buttons as compared to their previous versions. Interestingly, you no longer need to attach button-rails to use them, although technically it’s still possible on the original Joy-Cons. However, during regular use, I found that rail attachments were primarily used for the wrist straps rather than the actual buttons. I didn’t get a chance to test removing and reattaching the rails, but the straps themselves are similar to their previous versions.

One significant improvement is the method used for attaching and detaching the Joy-Cons. Now, they connect via strong magnets, providing a secure feeling when attached. However, removing them isn’t as effortless, particularly with just one hand. You need a firm two-handed grip on the console and press the rear release buttons simultaneously to do so effectively. My first attempt at removing the left Joy-Con, for instance, only dislodged half of it (the top part), even though I was holding the console with one hand. Therefore, detaching the Joy-Cons isn’t always a seamless process.

Similar to the OLED Switch, the Switch 2 comes equipped with a versatile stand that lets you set the device up for handheld gaming. Whether you’re using it on a table, desk, or any other flat surface, this stand offers great flexibility.

In simpler terms, this new stand functions similarly to its predecessor and appeared robust upon initial use by holding up my device. It managed to support the Switch 2 and its added weight without any problems. However, I couldn’t fully test if it would remain stable during sudden movements like someone bumping into the table or knocking the stand, as I didn’t have the opportunity for such testing conditions. Additionally, the setting did not permit me to evaluate the sound quality while using the device in handheld mode, which is regrettable.

In the course of my gaming session, I managed to test out the latest “HD Rumble 2” haptic feedback featured on the Joy-Cons. Despite being quite subtle, these vibrations definitely enhanced my gameplay experience, and I’ll delve deeper into this aspect in the following section.

Concerning the additional equipment, I caught a peek at the sleek, elongated new camera model, as well as the newly designed “C” button for group chatting, however, I didn’t have the chance to try them out myself.

From my perspective, the video demonstrating “GameChat” appeared to be a bit complex and jam-packed with features that, based on my judgment, might not be used frequently. Although I didn’t have a hands-on experience with it, it seemed that way to me.

Additionally showcased were various attachments such as wheel enhancements, the Pro and GameCube controllers, among others. Regrettably, I didn’t have the chance to test these items, but I did get to handle the Joy-Con Grip, which I found made the Joy-Cons feel more like a conventional controller compared to the grip options for the initial Nintendo Switch model.

Performance: Noticeable gains in tesolution, and frame rate

In terms of performance, it’s clear that the Switch 2 outshines its previous model. The improvement to 1080p handheld resolution is immediately noticeable, and when coupled with a fluid 120fps, the gaming experience becomes notably smoother and more crisp compared to before.

The game “The Welcome Tour” demonstrated this particularly well in one mini-game where you estimated the frame rate per round. This exercise served as an excellent demonstration of how a frame rate of 120 significantly enhances smoothness and fluidity. The movement and animation simply felt superior, so I wholeheartedly approve of the Switch 2 based on this aspect.

Including HDR support is another delightful feature I’ve noticed. I experienced it firsthand during a fireworks mini-game in Welcome Tour, where the enhanced contrast and brightness truly made the graphics stand out. It’s also noticeable in more colorful games like Mario Kart World, where the vivid colors and lighting are showcased in a way that would have been difficult, if not impossible, on older systems.

Enhancing its high-quality visual performance, this console can display TV content in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. This combination is impressive, even though not all games will immediately take advantage of it. However, it’s comforting to know that the hardware is prepared for such capabilities.

To put it simply, while there are many exciting aspects about the Switch 2, one minor letdown is its non-OLED screen. After the OLED display on the original Switch significantly enhanced handheld screen quality, going back to an LCD feels like a small step backwards. I understand that incorporating an OLED panel would have increased the price even further, but considering it would have been a welcome feature from the start, it’s hard not to think about a possible OLED upgrade for the Switch 2 in the future.

At the event, one of the main highlighted features was the ability to utilize the Joy-Cons similar to a mouse – placing them flat on a surface and moving them to control a cursor or object. Each Joy-Con I observed using in this way had small black pads underneath, likely for a smoother glide and to protect them from damage. If you plan to use your own Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons in this mode, it’s worth noting that these black pads might come in handy.

Initially, controlling the Joy-Cons as if they were a mouse proved surprisingly effective across various surfaces, including my denim pants, however, it became tiresome rather swiftly. While innovative, it seems this function is primarily designed for mini-games—something you might encounter in a future Mario Party, say—rather than a significant aspect at present. I tried Drag x Drive, a game entirely based on this control scheme, but it didn’t leave a lasting impact (more details about that later).

This aspect might not be considered a significant advantage right now, but if game developers can creatively incorporate it into their games, it has the potential to revolutionize gaming on a Nintendo console. However, for the time being, it appears more like an amusing novelty rather than a substantial feature.

At the event, less discussed but a key factor that attracted me was the addition of rumble feedback in the Joy-Cons. It’s usually subtle, yet it can intensify when necessary and in fitting moments. A Welcome Tour minigame showcased the full spectrum of tactile feedback, making these new Joy-Cons stand out compared to their predecessors. The experience is similar to what PS5 and Xbox gamers have been enjoying for some time now.

Nintendo Switch 2: Games I Played

Although I wasn’t able to test every game at the Switch 2 Experience, I did make sure to check out the major titles that were displayed. Unfortunately, Cyberpunk 2077 was the one game I missed. I was eager to see how it would look on the new hardware, but the queue was incredibly long, and I didn’t want to spend a large portion of the event waiting in line instead of playing other games.

Mario Kart World: The best game I played on the day

Among the standout experiences during my time using the Nintendo Switch 2, Mario Kart World truly shone. With a staggering 24 racers on the track at once, the game takes on an exhilarating, intense, and entertaining atmosphere.

The range of characters is impressive indeed! I had the chance to embody both the beloved Moo Moo Meadows cow and Luigi dressed like a gondolier. What made it even more interesting was the ability to swap costumes during the race by striking special lunch boxes strategically placed on the track, ensuring each lap felt unique and engaging.

Among all the attractions, Knockout Tour stood out as my personal favorite. At the event, I had the chance to compete against 24 others in this fast-paced, multi-stage game where players who fall behind are eliminated at each milestone. Initially, I held a strong position, but consecutive attacks left me vulnerable and I slid down to 19th place, exiting at gate 2 out of 5. It was tough, yet entertaining, and if I ever get a Switch 2, I’m looking forward to participating in it more frequently.

Besides testing the traditional Grand Prix mode, I found it reminiscent of the vintage Mario Kart, yet offering a more engaging twist. As I played, I observed (and Nintendo personnel confirmed) that each Grand Prix’s tracks were intricately connected and possessed a unique dynamism. They transform from day to night, incorporating weather elements and minor layout alterations that keep you alert.

I’ve observed an interesting change: in this version, when your go-kart hits an obstacle such as another car, it flips onto its side and keeps moving on two wheels instead of stopping completely like in older games. This feature makes the game more forgiving if you make a minor mistake rather than crashing fully. Additionally, it seems to be influenced by the new grind rail element in Mario Kart racing. After all, if the mechanic is available, why not take advantage of it?

It appears that Mario Kart World includes an open-world aspect, but I’m still uncertain about it. It could have been a part of a shared, explorable space while we waited for a Knockout race to begin, but my exploration felt somewhat sparse and unfulfilling.

The game appeared to have an automatic help feature activated, limiting my ability to thoroughly explore. However, I was able to soar past a raised area’s edge and plunge into a deep lake that functioned much like the Bedrock in Minecraft, restricting my movement within the digital boundaries of the game.

In my descent to the very depths of this world, I found it astonishingly prolonged, and upon reaching the bottom, all I saw was a vast slide to ascend once more to the main level. Fingers crossed, the open-world aspect seems more vibrant in the final version, as it appears that this layout may have been specific to the preliminary Mario Kart Tour lobby. So far, my impression is that while Mario Kart World appears to be open, its openness might often feel quite barren.

Donkey Kong Bananza: Give me something to break

At the event, the next game I played was titled Donkey Kong Bananza. For the twenty minutes I spent with it, I managed to complete the introduction and the first substantial level. Immediately, it became evident that this game is heavily emphasizing destruction – an excellent choice for a new Donkey Kong title.

In most cases, nearly everything within the game’s environment can be broken, hit, or tossed around. However, there were a few exceptions, such as the concrete boundaries at the map edges – think of the lake in Mario Kart World. I understand why this is necessary; even expansive games require limitations.

The mechanic I enjoyed the most allowed me to uproot a colossal rock from the earth and transform it into an improvised skateboard for stone. I glided effortlessly over the map on this before leaping off to hurl it at a gang of foes, resembling a deadly bowling ball in motion. It was as preposterous as it seems, but undeniably entertaining.

Without a doubt, Bananza has a knack for maintaining a light-hearted approach, which is one of its key attractions, combined with the mayhem. However, beneath the turbulence, I found that the game seemed somewhat lacking in additional features.

The majority of secrets I uncovered (hidden bananas, items, etc.) were usually concealed behind breakable objects, suggesting a lack of originality in level design. Aesthetically, something appeared amiss as well. While I acknowledge the significant discussion surrounding Donkey Kong’s redesign, it was more than that. The graphics seemed somewhat pixelated or ‘blocky,’ and the entire experience had an air of a game that might have been launched when the original Switch was released, rather than a flagship title for this second generation.

Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour: Why isn’t this free?

In essence, Tour welcomes players in a way similar to how ASTRO’s Playroom introduces users to the PS5 experience, except with less polish and finesse. I apologize for starting on a negative note here, but allow me to clarify that this game requires payment to play, which is surprising given its limited content. Please be cautious not to be deceived by this as it essentially functions as a demo that should ideally come pre-installed on every device, just like ASTRO’s Playroom.

However, moving forward to the gameplay segment…

Essentially, Welcome Tour provides a collection of mini-games designed to highlight each innovative aspect of the Switch 2. For instance, you can dodge exploding mines using your Joy-Cons as mice, estimate the frame rate from a video of a ball bouncing on the screen, and identify the location where the Joy-Con’s rumble feedback is most intense on an on-screen ruler – feel free to let me know if any of these games sound enticing enough for you to consider purchasing it.

Honestly, this game I played turned out to be quite disappointing, yet I felt it was necessary to experiment with it to fully grasp the new capabilities of the hypothetical Switch 2. Indeed, it showcased the enhancement that HDR brings in terms of vividness and how 120 frames per second is noticeably smoother than 60, but when compared to mini-games available on mobile apps today, I don’t foresee myself revisiting Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour anytime in the near future.

Drag x Drive: The ultimate forearm workout

Among all the games I played at the event, Drag x Drive was the least impressive. In essence, it resembled a blend of ARMS and Rocket League, but it fell short in terms of refinement or impact compared to both. It seemed more like a demonstration of the new Joy-Con mouse-style controls, much like Welcome Tour, and even then, its execution was underwhelming.

During my play session, the main action involved a basketball-like contest, where you move by gliding the Joy-Cons across a level surface and shoot by flicking them upwards. On paper, this concept seems enjoyable. However, in reality, it felt awkward and challenging to master. Even after 20 minutes of playing, I wasn’t comfortable with my actions, and the game offered little guidance—particularly when trying to shoot. It was unclear whether my flick affected the shot or if my character’s position was more crucial.

The most exciting moment, if you could even call it that, was hitting a three-pointer during practice. Otherwise, things were quite dull. To make matters worse, the control method proved to be quite taxing physically. Manipulating the Joy-Cons on a desk became uncomfortable rather quickly. I did find it marginally less tiresome when using the Joy-Cons on my lap, but that’s not really how the game seems intended to be played based on what I observed.

In simpler terms, Drag ‘n’ Drive seems to be an idea still needing further development. Though the mouse control system could work well in certain games, it didn’t fit here. Frankly, the game comes across as incomplete and rough around the edges.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land (Switch 2 Edition): A fun return for the character

Although Kirby and the Forgotten Land is essentially an upgraded edition of its 2022 release, the Switch 2 version I played felt remarkably new to me since I hadn’t experienced the original. Diving into the opening level on the harder difficulty setting, Wild Mode (with Spring-Breeze Mode being the easier), I was delightfully entertained by how enjoyable the gameplay turned out to be.

In a fresh approach, the latest Star-Crossed feature introduces an exciting variation to every stage, making it intriguing even for seasoned players. I’ve encountered some modifications in power-ups too, with Mouthful Mode making a comeback and offering additional abilities upon unlocking. Moreover, the blue crystals scattered throughout the world not only add aesthetic charm but also impact the level dynamics, creating an environment that feels more responsive and invites multiple replays.

On the Switch 2, it ran beautifully and provided an enjoyable gaming experience. To be honest, I found myself preferring it over Donkey Kong Bananza due to its enhanced graphics and captivating level layouts. Despite being a recurring title, it continues to feel fresh and worthy of exploration, whether you’re revisiting it or experiencing it for the first time.

Final Verdict: Should You Pre-Order the Switch 2?

At this stage, probably not.

Although the Switch 2 offers some significant enhancements, such as enhanced resolution, fluid 120fps performance, and innovative hardware additions, it’s challenging to make the switch (pun intended) given the existing library of games and the console’s increased cost.

Among the games I tried, some were entertaining, yet none seemed to offer the significant advancement typically associated with next-generation gaming. However, it could be that Super Mario Kart World was an exception, or perhaps my perception was influenced by the fact that some other games didn’t meet expectations.

Among all the games, Mario Kart World truly shone and left me eager to delve deeper into its fresh Knockout Tour mode. Despite the fact that the fundamental gameplay felt quite familiar, akin to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, it offered enough novel elements to maintain our anticipation for its launch.

Donkey Kong Bananza offers a chaotic, enjoyable experience, but its level design isn’t particularly memorable, and graphically, it appears rather outdated compared to other games available. However, this is a brand new game. On the other hand, Kirby and the Forgotten Land for the Switch 2 is essentially an updated version of a previous game with some additional features. It’s entertaining, but it’s not a completely innovative game that would justify purchasing a new console solely for it.

Nintendo often saves its top-tier games for later in a console’s life, and I anticipate that trend continuing with the Switch 2. At this moment, it appears as though the Switch 2 is setting the stage rather than providing an immediate must-have experience. Unless you’re eager for slightly improved performance or a larger screen, it might be wiser to wait and see what new offerings are on the horizon before making a purchase.

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2025-04-14 19:14