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mkbhd - fallback - gpt4.1

Jun 3, 2025

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Overview

This hands-on preview covers the major design, hardware, and software updates coming to the Nintendo Switch 2. It details key improvements, new features, anticipated accessories, pricing information, as well as some unknowns and concerns about the upcoming console.

Hardware and Design Changes

  • The Switch 2 features a larger form factor; similar thickness as the original but feels thinner due to the increased size.
  • New 7.9-inch LCD screen (up from 6.2 inches), now 1080p with variable refresh rate up to 120Hz and HDR support.
  • The screen is not OLED, so lacks inky blacks and fuller battery advantages found in OLED panels.
  • Possibility of future Switch 2 OLED and Switch 2 Lite models mentioned.
  • Improved full-width kickstand, allowing for various propping angles.
  • Additional port added to the top, making charging easier while in tabletop mode and supporting extra accessories.

Joy-Con Improvements

  • New Joy-Cons are larger for better ergonomics, with bigger left and right sticks.
  • Introduction of a new C button for Game Chat.
  • Attachment to console uses magnets for easier and more satisfying connection/disconnection with steel SR and SL buttons.
  • Release mechanism uses a lever, designed for ease and durability but potential concerns about pin durability remain untested.
  • Enhanced HD Rumble 2 haptics offer stronger, more precise vibration feedback.
  • Joy-Cons feature a new optical sensor allowing use as a mouse for certain games; demonstrated with wheelchair basketball and golf games.

Storage and Dock Updates

  • Internal storage increased from 32GB to 256GB, with faster storage speeds.
  • MicroSD Express card required for expandable storage; dedicated slot under the hinge remains.
  • Lexar will release a 1TB card specifically for the Switch 2.
  • New dock supports 4K output and contains a fan for cooling during docked high-resolution gameplay.

Social and Software Features

  • New Game Chat menu accessed via the C button allows for in-game voice communication and live screen sharing with friends.
  • Optional Switch 2 Camera accessory ($50) enables video chat overlay on gameplay and avatar integration, enhancing social play.
  • Introduction of GameShare allows one host Switch to temporarily share a game with up to three other local Switch consoles, even if they do not own the game.

Game Compatibility and Types

  • Three kinds of games:
    • Native Switch 2 games (optimized for features and graphics)
    • Compatible Switch 1 games (that run on Switch 2 with possible limitations)
    • Remastered Switch 1 games updated for Switch 2 with a smaller fee than a full new game

Pricing

  • Switch 2 base price set at $449 in the United States.
  • Switch 2 Camera accessory priced at $50.
  • New Pro Controller with headphone jack and C button around $80.
  • Estimated prices for Switch 2 games: $80 (digital), $90 (physical), causing concern compared to other console and PC game pricing.
  • The "Welcome Tour" demo game, designed to introduce new hardware features, is not included for free—expected to retail for $10–$20.

Accessories

  • Dbrand’s Killswitch protective case (with card holder and ergonomic grips) announced for Switch 2, adapting features from their popular Steam Deck case line.
  • Includes a dock adapter so consoles can be docked while cased.

Unresolved Questions and Concerns

  • Specific hardware specs like processor and RAM remain undisclosed.
  • Details on the extent of DLSS usage for 4K upscaling are unclear.
  • Battery life remains unknown, especially with the impact of a larger, higher refresh rate screen.
  • Fast charging capabilities are not announced.
  • Durability and the resolution of previous “Joy-Con drift” issues are still to be determined.
  • Effectiveness and widespread adoption of new Joy-Con mouse functionality is unproven.
  • Concerns about paid demo game potentially limiting exposure for new users.

Decisions

  • Include variable refresh rate up to 120Hz in the new display
  • Add Game Chat and screen sharing/social features
  • Increase storage to 256GB and maintain microSD expansion with Express card support
  • Price Switch 2 at $449, with accessories and games priced separately
  • Sell “Welcome Tour” demo game as a paid title

Questions / Follow-Ups

  • What are the Switch 2’s exact processor and RAM specifications?
  • How effective is DLSS, and does it deliver quality 4K upscaling?
  • What is the actual battery life under different usage scenarios?
  • Will Joy-Con drift be resolved in the new version?
  • Will durability concerns with new Joy-Con connectors be validated or alleviated through consumer use?
  • How many games will take advantage of the new mouse functionality?
  • Will more Switch 1 games receive affordable remastered versions?

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