Hands-on with Nintendo Switch 2: Enhanced Gaming Unveiled
After months of speculation, leaks, and mounting anticipation, we finally got our hands on the Nintendo Switch 2. While the original Nintendo Switch revolutionized portable gaming when it debuted in 2017, the Switch 2 is here to redefine what a hybrid console can truly achieve. In our exclusive hands-on preview, we explore how Nintendo is pushing the boundaries of performance, visuals, and versatility—all while staying true to the charm that fans love.
A Refined Design That Speaks Modern
The first thing you’ll notice about the Nintendo Switch 2 is its refined, premium design. Though it retains the signature silhouette of the original Switch, subtle upgrades improve both form and function. The console feels sturdier, more ergonomic in handheld mode, and slightly sleeker.
- Larger OLED screen: The Switch 2 boasts a gorgeous 7.5-inch OLED display that’s brighter, more vibrant, and easier to view outdoors.
- Thinner bezels: With the display maximizing the front real estate, games feel much more immersive.
- Improved Joy-Con design: The Joy-Cons are reportedly more durable and feature improved analog sticks to minimize drift issues.
This evolution in the design proves that Nintendo is listening to its loyal fanbase while modernizing its hardware for 2024.
Next-Level Performance and Power
Under the hood, the Nintendo Switch 2 offers a performance boost fans have been craving. Equipped with a custom NVIDIA Tegra chipset, the hardware is not only more powerful but also supports technologies right out of current-gen consoles.
- DLSS Support: Thanks to DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling), the Switch 2 delivers sharp 4K visuals when docked—without compromising framerate.
- Faster load times: Optimized internal storage and upgraded RAM mean significantly reduced loading screens.
- Improved battery life: With enhanced battery optimization, expect around 8-10 hours of consistent play on a single charge.
The difference in performance is clearly noticeable within moments of booting up a game. Whether you’re climbing through the beautifully rendered worlds of an enhanced Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom or racing through Mario Kart 9 (yep, it’s real!), the fluidity and fidelity make everything feel new again.
Stunning Visuals and Audio Upgrades
The Nintendo Switch 2 delivers a significant jump in audiovisual quality, making gameplay far more engaging and dynamic. What stood out during our play session was how effortlessly the console balanced detail and performance.
- Ray tracing capabilities: The Switch 2 now supports ray tracing, allowing for more realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections.
- Enhanced audio: Built-in stereo speakers deliver clearer, richer sound—a noticeable improvement during intense gaming sequences.
- Vibration improvements: Haptic feedback has been fine-tuned for more immersive tactile experiences.
The difference is not just in visuals but in how connected you feel to the game world. Ambient noises? Crisper. Engine roars and magic blasts? More resonant. Subtle features like these push immersion to a whole new level.
Backward Compatibility and Expanded Library
Nintendo understands that fans have built up a robust library of digital titles over the years. The Switch 2 is fully backward compatible with all Switch titles, both digital and physical—so no need to start from scratch.
- Backward compatibility: Every game we tested from the original Switch ran flawlessly.
- Enhanced versions: Select legacy titles now run at higher resolutions and improved framerates on the new hardware.
- Cross-save functionality: Transfer and continue your progress without skipping a beat.
In addition, a slew of new titles will be launching alongside the Switch 2—some exclusives, some ports of blockbuster titles previously unavailable on the older hardware. There’s something for every type of gamer.
Improved Online and UI Experience
Nintendo has historically been underwhelming in this department, but the Switch 2 is making strides toward a more modern user experience.
- Redesigned user interface:
