"Switch 2 Outshines Original: 10 Key Improvements"

Rejoice, fellow Nintendo fans! On Wednesday, the clouds parted, the sun rose, and the divine hand of Miyamoto graced us with Nintendo's latest marvel, the Switch 2. After years of speculation, we finally have a clear view of this much-anticipated console hybrid.

While sleek, compact, and powerful, the Switch 2 does not, unfortunately, come with a tiny Reggie packed into every GPU, contrary to some rumors. However, after an hour of dissecting the Direct, analyzing every word, screenshotting every image, and poring over captured videos for clues, we can now provide you with solid facts about the Switch 2 and how it surpasses its beloved predecessor.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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1. Switch 2 packs in a lot more raw graphical power than Switch

   This revelation, though expected, is a significant leap forward. Each successive Nintendo console has typically outshone its predecessor in performance (yes, even the Wii). The original Switch, released in 2017, was not a cutting-edge powerhouse compared to Sony and Xbox consoles, and after eight years, it struggles with more demanding games. The Switch 2 promises a vastly improved experience with handheld resolutions up to 1080p, docked up to 4K, both with HDR, and frame rates extending to 120 fps. This upgrade should attract a broader range of games to the platform. EA's decision to host soccer and football games on Switch 2, and 2K's plans for wrestling and basketball, are early indications of this potential. Third-party developers showcased current-gen games like Elden Ring and Street Fighter 6, demonstrating the Switch 2's enhanced capabilities. Nintendo's first-party offerings also looked stunning.

2. Switch plays GameCube games. Switch 2 doesn’t

   GameCube games are now available on Nintendo Switch Online, but exclusively on the Switch 2. This move effectively separates the online experiences between the two consoles. To enjoy Nintendo's best retro games, including gems like The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soul Calibur 2 (with Link), you'll need to upgrade to the Switch 2.

   Soul Calibur 2 is a treat, especially when played with a friend.

3. Switch 2 recognizes the existence of the Internet

   The most significant departure from Nintendo's traditional approach is the easy integration of online features. The new GameChat system offers robust communication and visual sharing capabilities. With a noise-cancelling mic and an optional desktop camera, you can chat with friends and share your face in compatible games like Mario Party. Screen sharing across consoles is also available, making online play with friends simpler and more engaging.

   

   This feature holds immense potential, particularly for games like Monster Hunter, where teams can benefit from shared screens.

4. Magnetic Joy Cons

   As expected, Joy-Cons now magnetically snap to the Switch 2's body, rather than slotting in. The steel shoulder buttons on each controller attract to the magnetic facing along the sides of the screen, locking them together securely. A simple button press releases the magnetic grip, making it easier to attach and detach Joy-Cons, especially in home setups where space can be limited.

5. A bigger screen

   The Switch 2 boasts a 7.9-inch screen, slightly larger than its predecessor. This increase, combined with the sharper 1080p resolution, should enhance the gaming experience for most players. The original Switch prioritized portability over screen size, but the Switch 2 strikes a better balance, giving complex games more room to shine.

6. Mouse controls

   Nintendo introduced an innovative mouse feature for the Joy-Con. By laying a Joy-Con on its side and moving it across a tabletop, its telemetry tracks to provide precise pointing and rotation. Games like Drag x Drive, Civ 7, and Metroid Prime 4 will support this feature at launch. While it may not be widely used beyond the initial launch window, it offers a liberating option for FPS enthusiasts, particularly those accustomed to PC gaming.

   Playing Metroid Prime 4 with a mouse could be a game-changer for some players.

7. More storage

   The Switch 2 comes with 256GB of external storage, a significant increase from the original. However, with larger game files due to enhanced graphics, the actual benefit might be less pronounced. The memory is also quicker, requiring a new, faster memory card for supplemental storage.

8. Quality of life improvements are no small deal on Switch 2

   Nintendo has responded to nearly a decade of feedback with several hardware tweaks. The Switch 2 features two USB-C ports, with one added on top for charging in kickstand mode. A fan in the dock aids in cooling consistency, while larger sticks and improved sound capabilities enhance the overall experience. The Switch 2 Pro Controller includes an audio jack and assignable buttons, though it remains to be seen if it retains the legendary battery life of its predecessor.

   An adjustable screen angle in kickstand mode is a subtle yet significant feature, especially for tabletop play in various environments.

9. Switch 2 gives you more choices

   The Switch 2 is backward compatible, allowing you to play most Switch games on the new hardware. Special Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of certain titles, like Metroid Prime 4, offer new features such as a choice between a higher-res Quality Mode and a faster frame rate in Performance Mode. If you already own the original game, you can purchase a Switch 2 Edition upgrade to enjoy these enhancements. This feature could also improve the notoriously janky Pokémon games on the Switch 2.

   Hopefully, these upgrades won't be too expensive.

10. You need Switch 2 to play the newest games by the best developers on earth

    Mario Kart World brings everything we love about Mario Kart and adds continuous world traversal, Forza Horizon-style, and an expanded field size of 24 carts. This promises chaotic fun. Kirby's Air Riders, announced by Masahiro Sakurai, hints at a revival of the Air Ride series, which could be a pleasant surprise. The Duskbloods, an exclusive Miyazaki game from FROM Software, promises challenging gameplay and a thrilling experience. Finally, Donkey Kong Bananza marks the return of the iconic ape in a 3D adventure that aims to redeem the legacy of Donkey Kong 64. With the Switch 2's enhanced hardware, these games have the potential to set new standards in their genres.

    Which Nintendo Switch 2 Game Are You Most Excited For? ------------------------------------------------------

    The DuskbloodsDonkey Kong: BananzaMario Kart WorldHollow Knight: Silksong

    AnswerSee Results