Nintendo Switch 2 review: The next-gen upgrade you’ve been waiting for

The Nintendo Change 2 is a real evolution of 2017’s authentic Nintendo Change console, with an enormous step ahead in graphics, controls and construct high quality.  

It’s additionally a lot pricier than the unique console was at launch, particularly when you think about how a lot flagship video games comparable to Mario Kart World value. I can’t blame you for those who’re on the fence. 

However I’m completely happy to report that after almost a fortnight with the console, I imagine it’s one thing price investing in.  

When you’d wish to learn my unfiltered ideas from unboxing the console and taking part in it with a contemporary pair of eyes, then there’s a diary of my first three days with Change 2, which I up to date in actual time.  

Design & Construct 

• Greater than the unique Change
• One colourway on launch
• Magnetic Pleasure-Cons
• New C button

The Change 2 nonetheless retains the identical core themes of this console line – specifically, the hybrid handheld and docked nature, together with removable Pleasure-Cons that can be utilized wirelessly when absolutely charged.  

The Change 2 is considerably bigger than the unique Change. It’s 12.7mm taller and 30.48mm wider and weighs 534g with the Pleasure-Cons hooked up. Whereas that’s round 136g greater than the unique Change, holding the 2 aspect by aspect doesn’t really feel like an enormous distinction.  

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

The good thing about a bigger design is an enormous, brilliant and exquisite glass show in handheld mode, although it’s not fairly as travel-friendly. I take advantage of a third-party case from Nacon, which takes up numerous house in my bag, but it surely looks like a worthy trade-off for the upgrades. 

At launch, there’s simply the one color – gray with orange and blue accents. There aren’t any extra Pleasure-Con shades to combine and match but, however the nice information is which you could nonetheless join Pleasure-Cons from the Change 1 with minimal problem, albeit with some limitations.  

Whereas the shortage of color alternative could also be a disappointment to some, I’ll say that this console seems to be sleeker and extra premium than its predecessor. And apart from, Nintendo might be saving some particular editions for later down the road… in all probability. Don’t maintain me to that.  

One massive change is {that a} second USB-C port now sits on the highest of the console, becoming a member of the one on the underside. This implies which you could cost the console in handheld mode whereas utilizing the kickstand – a key oversight from the primary version. It’s additionally for connecting the digicam accent, however I’ll get to that later.  

Talking of which, the kickstand has had a critical revamp, now in a a lot sturdier U-shape that may be adjusted wherever as much as 150 levels.  

On high, you’ll discover the ability button, quantity rocker and the improved sport cartridge slot. On the underside, there’s a microSD card specific slot – word that this received’t help common microSD playing cards. There’s additionally a brand new C button on each the console and controllers, which allows the funky GameChat perform.  

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

The dock itself is a cleaner, rounder form, and now options two extra USB 2.0 ports, that are helpful when first connecting equipment such because the Professional Controllers. The console physique feels barely wobbly when docked, an identical concern to the primary Change. However you already know what’s an enormous enchancment? These Pleasure-Cons, due to a useful little contraption known as magnets, that are inside the primary console itself.  

By urgent a set off on the again of the Pleasure-Cons, you merely pull them away. Then, everytime you put them shut sufficient to the console, they’ll simply snap proper again into place. Gone are the times of finicky rails. They’re ever so barely wobbly when hooked up, however I by no means discovered this to intrude with gameplay.  

When you’re apprehensive in regards to the Pleasure-Cons being placed on the improper manner (both by a toddler or after a couple of bevvies), then don’t fear. Nintendo states in its Welcome Tour sport that they are often placed on the improper sides and backwards – they simply received’t cost correctly for those who do that.  

Whereas Nintendo has made the buttons extra pleasant for smaller palms, I’ve nonetheless discovered utilizing a singular controller for video games that require numerous steering and urgent, comparable to Mario Kart World, barely uncomfortable for lengthy intervals.

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

Show, Graphics & Audio system 

• 7.9-inch LCD show
• 4K help when docked
• As much as 120fps
• Punchy audio system

The Nintendo Change 2 boasts a 7.9-inch display, 1.7 inches bigger than that of the OG Change. Whereas it’s LCD somewhat than OLED as hoped for, don’t let that put you off.  

This show is a pleasure to make use of each in handheld and tabletop modes. Particulars are sharper due to the 1080p help (4K is reserved for when the console is docked and efficiency is easy) and double the pixels of the primary gen. In the meantime, colors are vivid and pop superbly on the display. 

Hannah Cowton-Barnes/Foundry

My suspicion can be that Nintendo will finally launch an OLED model, identical to with the unique Change, together with a Lite model for many who need a cheaper entry-level console.  

The console helps as much as 120Hz refresh price, and also you’ll significantly discover these speedier responses in older video games such because the Change 2 Editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. Word that this 120Hz refresh price isn’t supported for those who go for 4K mode on the TV – it should then be capped at 60Hz.

So, you’ll have to choose your poison to some extent. The very best decision you’ll be able to go at 120Hz (in case your TV helps that refresh price) is 1440p.

HDR can also be an elective mode inside the show settings, and you’ll allow this each in handheld mode and docked, however you’ll primarily see the distinction in your TV.

Whereas testing on my Sky Glass 2, it’s night time and day. Tones are a lot extra full of life, with extremely detailed textures. Having it turned off leaves your gameplay wanting washed out by comparability. In handheld mode, it’s tougher to identify the variations, so if you wish to flip this off to avoid wasting on battery, you received’t miss out on an excessive amount of.

All these graphics enhancements are most evident in older Change titles. Take Pokémon Scarlet and Violet for instance. Lastly seeing this in 60Hz, with considerably much less popping on the map, is a real pleasure, and actually, how the sport ought to have run from the beginning. 

In the meantime, Change 2 editions of The Legend of Zelda titles function extra dynamic shadows, true-to-life colors and finer particulars than the originals. The extra highly effective processor additionally sees sure areas that struggled on the unique Change given a lease of recent life. See this video of Korok Forest beneath for proof: 

Whereas the graphics can’t match the prowess seen on the PS5, Xbox Collection X or a PC, they lastly carry Nintendo into the trendy age. 

The built-in audio system additionally impressed, with extra balanced audio, 3D spatial sound help and built-in microphones with noise cancellation. Sound is evident, crisp and punchy, and extra immersive than ever. That noise cancellation works properly in GameChat – no headphones wanted. 

When you go for non-public listening, then there may be your traditional 3.5mm headphone jack and Bluetooth headphone help (which additionally replicates the 3D audio, in case your accompanying buds do too). When you resolve to purchase the Professional Controller, price £74.99/$84.99, this now features a headphone jack.  

Specs, Options & Gameplay 

• Customized Nvidia chip
• 12GB RAM
• 256GB storage
• Sturdy portfolio of recent and upcoming video games

Nintendo has by no means formally launched the title of the processor that the Change 2 runs on, past it being a customized Nvidia chip. Many websites, comparable to Eurogamer and Polygon, have reported this as a Tegra T239 processor, with the latter saying that efficiency energy can be about on par with the PS4 and Xbox One. 

What does that imply in actual phrases? Merely put, it’s zippy to navigate, with load occasions being fairly quick. Every part feels rather more nippy than the unique Change, even the eShop.

As talked about above, there are huge enhancements in sure video games with lag and popping. Plus, mixed with 12GB RAM (4 occasions that got here with the Change) and 256GB of onboard storage, you shouldn’t run into a lot hassle working out of house instantly. 

The dock has a built-in fan for cooling, however I’ve seen the console will get scorching each in handheld mode and docked.

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

It may well even deal with extra demanding titles comparable to Cyberpunk 2077, although admittedly, this received’t be to the identical customary as its current-gen Xbox and PlayStation rivals. 

However whereas the Change 2 might not have the identical uncooked energy because the Xbox Collection X, PS5 or different handheld consoles such because the Steam Deck, it makes up for it with typical Nintendo quirkiness that you just received’t discover wherever else available on the market.

GameChat  

Let’s begin with GameChat. Is that this new function definitely worth the hype? I need to admit, when Nintendo first introduced it, I used to be sceptical, however I’ve discovered myself reaching for it greater than I anticipated.  

The Japanese gaming large has actually thought of the collaborative nature of its titles, comparable to Mario Kart World, which is completely suited to bantering whenever you’re sending a crimson shell to your good friend (or enemy, no judging). I examined it out with some fellow journalists, and it added a complete new dimension to the sport. 

Technically talking, the microphones on the console are spectacular. It picks up my voice even from throughout the room, and I can’t hear gameplay from different individuals. That mentioned, when taking part in upstairs in handheld mode whereas my husband was downstairs, he did discover some occasional suggestions on my finish.  

What I’ll say is that the digicam provides extra enjoyable to GameChat. For instance, your video feed seems above your character throughout gameplay and will probably be blown up on the scoreboard for those who handle to land a podium spot. Is the standard good? Under no circumstances, but it surely doesn’t detract from being an actual snigger.  

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

Sadly, this prices an additional £50.99/$54.99 (although you’ll be able to as an alternative go for this ridiculous Piranha Plant version for £33.99 with a decrease decision and no privateness shutter).

New Pleasure-Cons  

Then, there’s the brand new Pleasure-Con options. In addition to the basic keypad and movement controls, there’s now a mouse sensor inside each. Merely flip the controller on its aspect and use it like a PC mouse. 

Whereas this kind of gameplay is barely obtainable on sure titles, everybody can apply it to the primary menu and Nintendo eShop (which, as talked about, is far quicker and simpler to make use of). Now, you’ll be able to navigate keyboard typing a lot quicker, saving you tons of time when inputting obtain codes and Wi-Fi passwords.  

As for the video games themselves, I discovered precision to be sharp. Throughout a minigame within the Nintendo Change Welcome Tour, I used to be capable of weave out and in of bombs somewhat swiftly. I used to be pleasantly shocked by the responsiveness and stored overshooting throughout my first go. 

Regardless of Nintendo saying that you should use these mouse controls in your legs for those who don’t have a flat floor at hand, you’ll undoubtedly get a greater expertise for those who use a espresso desk, desk or tray desk than you’ll in your lap. Why? Garments, significantly cotton, linen or any materials that isn’t slick, will hinder these glides. 

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

I briefly skilled different titles comparable to Drag X Drive and Metroid Prime 4: Past throughout my first hands-on in Paris. Whereas the latter was extra akin to a standard shooter the place you level and click on, the previous gave a brand new spin on these controls, the place you’d drag the controllers downwards repeatedly to steer, with every Pleasure-Con controlling a wheel. 

Nintendo has lots extra titles within the pipeline that basically benefit from these mouse controls, and it’s a nifty improve that I can see having numerous timesaving potential, particularly with titles which have construct modes, comparable to Animal Crossing.

Launch titles  

Let’s be frank: whether or not you purchase this console or not will seemingly come right down to the video games on provide. On the time of writing, Mario Kart World is by far the most well-liked title, as anticipated. Whereas this sport will nearly actually want some new options in future updates, it’s among the finest for GameChat. 

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

If you need one thing a bit grittier and highly effective, there’s Cyberpunk 2077: Final Version, Yakuza 0 Director’s Minimize and Hitman World of Assassination: Director’s Minimize. There are the Change 2 Editions for each Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, which, whereas they don’t add a lot by way of gameplay content material, there’s a step up within the graphics. 

There’s additionally the whole Change 1 again catalogue, with enormous titles comparable to Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Tremendous Smash Bros. Final, so that basically bolsters out your choices – particularly for those who’re utterly new to the Change console line.  

As for future titles, we’ve Donkey Kong Bananza hitting cabinets on 17 July, the Change 2 Version of Tremendous Mario Celebration Jamboree on 24 July (with new digicam and mouse controls) plus Elden Ring: Tarnished Version, Metroid Prime 4: Past and Splatoon Raiders. 

Two of the largest video games lacking from that checklist are a brand new standalone 3D Mario sport, which is overdue (the final one was Tremendous Mario Odyssey, launched in 2017) and a brand new version of Animal Crossing (New Horizons hit cabinets in 2020). Each of those potential releases will little doubt be the set off for some customers to purchase the Change 2 if it’s not tempting sufficient proper now.  

Battery Life 

• Common 3-4 hours of battery throughout testing
• Slower charging

In my stay diary, I seen that the battery life was a weak level of the Change 2, and that opinion hasn’t modified.  

Throughout my checks, the console lasted 3 hours, 12 minutes and 17 seconds to be exact. To interrupt that down, that was taking part in Fall Guys (on-line) for 1 hour and 6 minutes, Mario Kart World for 1 hour and 17 minutes with GameChat, after which The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild for the remaining 44 minutes.

All this was with automated brightness, so the atmosphere you’re taking part in in or the extent you select will have an impact.  

As I anticipated, Mario Kart World actually killed that battery life probably the most. That’s attributable to me utilizing the microphones, the video name function, the audio system and pushing these graphics to their limits.  

Fall Guys was the kindest on the battery life, and I believe numerous this was attributable to having the quantity on silent, as my husband was taking part in on the TV. This additionally doesn’t have devoted HDR enhancements just like the Nintendo-exclusive titles. 

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

Nintendo quotes wherever between two and 6 and a half hours for the battery life. In my private expertise thus far, three to 4 hours appears to be the common when utilizing the console whereas travelling.  

That’s about as a lot because the previous-generation console would give me, which was round 5 years previous. So, not probably the most spectacular. 

It’s extra disappointing when accounting for charging time. Plugged into the official Change 2 charger USB-C port, it juiced solely 26% in half-hour from flat.  

I turned the console off (I believe it went into sleep mode when it began charging the primary time) and tried charging within the dock for one more half-hour, and that gave marginally extra – 31% in half-hour.  

Nintendo states that it could actually take as much as three hours to cost, and whereas my residence checks appear to indicate it is going to be faster than that, it’s not lightning quick. So, for those who’re planning on taking this console out and about travelling for longer than 3-4 hours, I counsel bringing a cable with you (many trains/planes have ports you should use), or investing in an influence financial institution.  

There are issues that you are able to do to increase the Change 2’s battery life.

Some reviewers have recommended disabling HDR mode, and I’ve discovered preserving the audio off or low appears to assist, too. There’s additionally the choice to cap charging at 90% within the Settings, which ought to assist the battery last more inside the lifetime of the console. 

Value & Availability 

The Nintendo Change 2 prices £395.99/$449.99 for simply the console and £429.99/$499.99 for the Mario Kart World bundle.  

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

Inventory has fluctuated at many main retailers, however proper now you should buy it from Nintendo, Smyths Toys and Currys within the UK and Nintendo, GameStop and Walmart within the US.  

For reference, that’s £116/$200 greater than the unique Change when it first launched, so an enormous step up in worth.

Nonetheless, it has been eight years and it nonetheless undercuts many different handheld rivals such because the Steam Deck (£459/$529) and Asus ROG Ally (£599/$699), although these have been discounted since launch. It’s additionally cheaper than the Xbox Collection X (£499/$599) and PS5 digital version within the UK (£429/$449). 

And naturally, none of those provide the breadth of options that the Change 2 has. Plus, the video games on provide are usually extra family-friendly, so this console appeals to a wider demographic somewhat than simply hardcore avid gamers.

When you use the Change 2 for eight years and get the Mario Kart World bundle, that’s simply over £50/$50 a yr – loads lower than most streaming providers.

In fact, that’s with out shopping for any extra video games – however you’ll be able to all the time put these in your birthday and Christmas lists.

Change 2 flagship video games are extra dear, which is a disgrace however considerably inevitable. Mario Kart World is £74.99/$79.99, for instance, and equipment aren’t pocket-money degree both. The digicam and Professional Controller will set you again much more, whereas extra Pleasure-Cons value £74.99/$94.99. 

Nonetheless, I’ll give credit score to Nintendo for providing backwards compatibility with each Change 1 video games and controllers. So, for those who’re upgrading and have spare Pleasure-Cons hanging round the home, you could as properly preserve maintain of them for any group gaming classes you wish to host.  

Do you have to purchase the Nintendo Change 2? 

The Nintendo Change 2 builds on the shortfalls of the unique 2017 version, with intuitive Pleasure-Con tweaks, graphics match for 2025, super-powered efficiency and interactive options good for multiplayer titles comparable to Mario Kart World. 

Is it good? Not fairly. The battery life isn’t nice, and if you’d like all of the accompanying equipment and a number of video games, it should put a dent in your pockets. There’s additionally no denying that another consoles do provide extra if you’d like uncooked energy and the very best visuals. 

Whereas this isn’t the groundbreaking launch that the Change 1 was (understandably), it’s probably the most distinctive and versatile console available on the market proper now, with no actual comparable rival, and a few compelling titles each out now and on the best way.  

Contemplate this your official stamp of approval to put money into a Nintendo Change 2.  

Specs

• Nvidia customized Tegra processor
• 256GB storage
• Micro-SD specific card slot
• 7.9-inch 1080p LCD touchscreen
• 2 x USB-C port
• HDMI 4K output
• Wi-Fi
• 2-6.5 hour battery life
• 534g (with Pleasure-Cons)