First Impressions of the Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived, bringing with it a larger display, upgraded performance, and the long-awaited promise of 4K gaming. In this hands-on review, I’ll share my first impressions of the hardware, software ecosystem, and how it fits into a multi-gamer household. Whether you're upgrading from the original Switch or diving into Nintendo’s hybrid console for the first time, here’s what you need to know about the Switch 2 experience—from launch-day quirks to the most exciting games on the horizon.
Hardware and Design
The Switch 2 greets you with a noticeably larger, more vibrant screen that makes handheld play feel immersive right out of the box. Its balance and weight distribution are spot-on, so it’s surprisingly easy to hold for extended sessions. Docked, the promise of 4K output is a welcome upgrade, though the few titles I’ve tested so far don’t yet showcase what that resolution can truly deliver. The new magnetic “snap” controllers feel slick to attach and detach, improving on the original design. However, if you have adult-sized hands, the Joy-Cons still feel cramped. A more ergonomic solution for larger hands would have been welcome. Virtual cards are a thoughtful software addition, too.
Software and Game Library
At launch, the Switch 2 doesn’t bring a flood of brand-new titles. Many of the marquee games are still the originals, some running in upgraded fidelity, which feels nice but stops short of being transformative. It’s encouraging to see several existing games receive free “Switch 2” patches, though given the sparse release schedule, a few more complimentary upgrades would have gone a long way toward goodwill.
Using the online store is a breath of fresh air after the sluggish performance on the original Switch. Setup and transferring your library took just a few minutes, once initial confusion around how to setup a second switch in the household was resolved. Between the improved storefront speed and the virtual card feature, the overall software experience feels more polished.
Family Dynamics
The biggest win so far is simply having a second console in a household of gamers. With kids in the mix, sharing screen time no longer involves yelling “my turn”! Interestingly, they didn’t display the same unbridled excitement I remember as a kid opening a new console, but they were perfectly happy firing up their favorite old cartridges on the shiny new device. That said, Mario Kart World—a download-only bundle—quickly became the de facto favorite.
Pricing and Accessories
What was intended to be an under AU$800 purchase quickly ballooned past AU$1,000, once you factor in a second pair of controllers, a protective carry case, and a few essential accessories. The jump stings, especially when the included game is download-only. If you’re equipping a family, be prepared for sticker shock.
Looking Ahead
These first impressions leave me optimistic. The hardware hits most of the right notes, family play is smoother than ever, and the ecosystem improvements are real. Now it’s down to developers to deliver games that push that 4K output and justify the premium price.
Games on the Horizon
While the current library feels a bit sparse, there are some exciting titles on the way that I’m genuinely looking forward to:
- Donkey Kong Bananza (July 17): The first proper 3D Donkey Kong platformer in decades. It looks like a wild return to form with intricate puzzles and that classic DK charm.
- Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 Remaster (July 11): A nostalgia-fueled double pack with modern visuals and crossplay support—finally, a reason to land 900s on the go.
- Super Mario Party Jamboree (July 24): A new party game with fresh modes and the intriguing “Jamboree TV” feature that uses audio and facial recognition for a more immersive experience.
- WWE 2K25 (July 23): A full-featured wrestling sim that looks surprisingly sharp on the Switch 2. It’ll be interesting to see how it holds up in handheld mode.
- Shadow Labyrinth (July 18): A stylish 2D platformer with a Pac-Man-meets-Metroid vibe. Looks like a sleeper hit in the making.
- Wild Hearts S (July 25): A fantasy action RPG with Monster Hunter-style gameplay set in feudal Japan. The blend of traditional and futuristic elements has me intrigued.
Final Verdict: Is the Nintendo Switch 2 Worth It?
he Nintendo Switch 2 delivers meaningful upgrades in display quality, performance, and usability—especially for families and longtime fans of the platform. While the launch lineup leans heavily on enhanced versions of existing titles, the improved hardware design, more responsive software experience, and promising slate of upcoming games make it a compelling next-gen console. If you're weighing the cost against the value, it certainly doesn’t feel like a revolutionary leap, but it’s a confident refinement that enhances everything that made the original Switch a success. That said, with a launch price north of AU$700 and additional accessories quickly driving up the total, some might wonder whether holding out for a better deal is worth it.
Historically, Nintendo plays the long game when it comes to pricing. The company rarely offers significant discounts on its hardware in the first 18–24 months, so price drops before late 2026 seem unlikely. Even then, markdowns typically come through bundled deals rather than outright reductions. If you’re the patient type, a mid-cycle refresh—perhaps a “Switch 2 Pro”—could emerge by 2027, bringing incremental improvements at a similar or slightly higher price point. For more on Nintendo’s pricing patterns, this breakdown from SimplyCodes is worth a look.
What features or games are you most curious to see on the Switch 2 next?
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