The Nintendo Switch 2 is gearing up for a grand entrance with some big-name games ready to roll out right from the start. However, despite this impressive lineup, there are still some areas where it could do better.
Nintendo is setting the stage for the Switch 2 launch with a diverse range of games, and there’s plenty to be excited about. The recent Switch 2 Direct revealed that a new game, Mario Kart World, will be part of the launch lineup. Additionally, there will be Switch 2 versions of existing games and ports of big AAA titles, like Cyberpunk, which were too demanding for the original Switch. Fans can also look forward to Donkey Kong Bananza, releasing just a month after the console, which adds significant appeal to the new platform.
Sega has also thrown its hat into the ring, confirming five games in the works for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, which adds to the excitement surrounding the launch.
Reflecting on Nintendo’s history, it’s clear they’re aiming to replicate the Switch’s success with the Switch 2. By spacing out releases throughout the year, much like they did with titles such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Mario Odyssey, they are setting up for sustained success. The Switch 2 Direct gave a significant nod to indie support with games like Deltarune and Silksong, a strategy that previously paid off well for the Switch.
Notably, Nintendo’s approach deviates from what they’ve done before by emphasizing more AAA releases such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Split Fiction, showcasing the improved performance with the new console. The flagship launch title, Mario Kart World, being an exclusive game, sets it apart from the original Switch’s Breath of the Wild, which was also available on the Wii U. The Switch aimed to attract consumers who hadn’t yet boarded the Wii U, a crucial audience for Nintendo’s comeback at that time. Now, the focus is different; Nintendo must woo those who are already part of the Switch ecosystem, hence a brand-new, exclusive game.
However, the Switch 2 isn’t free from making some previous missteps. The Switch 2’s Welcome Tour resembles a tech demo, and yet, Nintendo plans to charge for it, reminiscent of the original Switch launch title 1-2-Switch!, which was criticized for its price tag. Many players felt it should have been included for free, akin to Wii Sports with the Wii. Although Welcome Tour is expected to be cheaper, at $5-10, the price might still feel unwarranted, especially given the ongoing price concerns for the new console.
On the flipside, the Switch 2’s planned titles far outshine what the Wii U had at launch, though there are some concerning parallels. The Wii U launched with an impressive number of games, but the limited first-party support from Nintendo was a significant drawback. The Switch 2, boasting a more modest 21 games compared to the Wii U’s over 30, still finds itself better off, especially when considering the first-party options. Pricing, however, continues to be a hitch; the Wii U’s price jump didn’t justify its value to many, similar to what some fear with the Switch 2’s $150 price increase over its predecessor. The high price tag on Mario Kart World might not be enough to lure those who are still content with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
In technical terms, the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature a 256GB internal storage expandable via MicroSD, be able to display at 1080p in handheld mode and 4K when docked, and support Nintendo’s eShop for game purchases. It’s confirmed to support Wi-Fi, completing the package for what promises to be a fascinating addition to Nintendo’s console lineage.
