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ANintendo Switch 2user reportedly got his brand-new console banned by Nintendo after buying used Switch 1 games and patching them on his console. According toReddituser dmanthey, they purchased four used titles off the Facebook marketplace, inserted them into the Switch 2, and had them all updated. When they turned on their handhelds the following day, they received a message saying that they were restricted from Nintendo’s online services and that they couldn’t even download the games they had already bought.
Fortunately for dmanthey, Nintendo had a quick resolution for them. Once they discovered the issue, they went to the Nintendo Support website and were immediately able to talk to a human. It was there that the company confirmed that their console was indeed banned because of the use of pirated games. Nevertheless, they were able to prove their innocence by pulling up the Facebook Marketplace listing for their games and sending the photos of their purchased cartridges. According to the Redditor, the process was painless and fast, and it was “so much easier than getting support fromMicrosoftorSony.” By showing these things, you can prove to Nintendo that you purchased the games in good faith and that you were duped. Other users warned, though, that this isn’t always a guaranteed resolution.
Nintendo is known for being protective of its intellectual property and delivers harsh penalties to anyone caught violating it. We’ve already had several reports of users gettingbanned for using Mig Flash, even on their own ROMs. And while it’s not true that getting banned turns your Switch 2 into a brick, it will still prevent you from accessing the company’s online services, which severely restricts its features and usability.
This issue highlights the problem of buying second-hand games, as an unscrupulous seller can copy the game they’re selling to anothermicroSD Express Card you can easily buyin many places, and then sell the original cartridge as a used game. Since doing this copies all game information, including the original’s unique identification number, Nintendo can detect if two copies of that specific game are loaded simultaneously anywhere in the world, telling them that it was pirated. They will then proceed and ban the specific console where the pirated game was loaded, disallowing the console from connecting to Nintendo’s online services and serving as a deterrent to other gamers who are even thinking of getting a pirated Nintendo title.
Thankfully, it seems that Nintendo is making it easier for those who have been victimized by getting banned permanently, quickly reversing the decision if they show proof that they have been duped. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether they can still play with the used game cartridges they purchased, or if these are considered pirated copies that could result in another console ban if used.
Why isn’t Nintendo letting us use variable refresh rate?
While docking theNintendo Switch 2does unlock better picture quality, including 4K resolution and up to 120fps refresh rates, there is one feature still locked off. Even if your TV supports variable refresh rate (VRR), it seems Nintendo won’t let you take advantage of it with the new console.
Weirdly, it turns out that this isn’t an issue with the Switch 2 dock itself. They tested this over atThe Verge,plugging various other handheld gaming systems in using the Switch 2’s dock.
Evidently theSteam Deck,Lenovo Legion Go SandAsus ROG Ally Xall supported VRR through the Nintendo dock. And that was tested with actual VRR testing tools, rather than just taking the handheld’s promise that it was at face value. Plus, this confirmed VRR worked at up to 120fps.
The Verge did note that connecting a handheld to the Switch 2 dock did require an extra USB-C cable, naturally. Unfortunately the Switch 2 dock is spring-loaded, and kept pushing the cable out — which means it’s a less than ideal way to connect your handheld to the TV.
The Switch 2 supports VRR in handheld mode, so if you’re playing on the built-in screen you should see dynamic refresh rates as you play.
But since the console and the Dock both support VRR, why the heck can’t you get VRR working on a compatible TV or monitor? Well, we just don’t know.
We do know Nintendo originally advertised that the Switch 2 did support VRR in TV mode, but thenremoved those references from its website and support pages. Nintendo didapologize for the errorand confirmed the feature was only available in handheld mode. But the company hasn’t actually explained why things are the way they are.
Digital Foundrydid find that VRR suffered “clear problems” on the Switch 2 in handheld mode — including “juddering” in various games likeCyberpunk 2077.
Though it was noted thatWelcome Tour, the $10 Switch 2 demo, did have proper VRR support. So it’s not like Nintendo is secretly saving us from crappy performance because VRR doesn’t actually work properly.
Sadly Digital Foundry’s Richard Leadbetter told The Verge he has no idea why VRR support hasn’t been included in TV mode. Only that he doubts Nintendo removed the feature last minute, and that the company’s previous promises were likely a mistake.
So this is down for Nintendo to explain, and so far the company has been staying quiet. It’s a pretty weird situation all round, though.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is a must-have gamepad for the new console. Much like the original, it provides an astronomically more comfortable gaming experience than the pack-in Joy-Con 2 controllers, and rivals some of the best in the business when it comes to overall feel, build quality, performance, and – of course – battery life, which continues to be best-in-class for any console.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: one-minute review
The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller launched alongside the console itself, and I’ve been using it as my go-toSwitch 2gamepad since launch day. While I was already impressed with it at a Switch 2 hands-on preview event a few months back, actually having it at home has solidified it as perhaps my favorite controller of the year.
The mission statement is a simple one: provide an updated version of the excellent Nintendo Switch Pro Controller – easily one of thebest Nintendo Switch controllersfor that original console – while keeping the things players loved about that original model intact. I feel this has mostly been achieved with the Switch 2 Pro Controller.
It’s incredibly comfortable in the hands, sporting simply lovely build quality from chassis to buttons. The thumbsticks are ultra-smooth and responsive, and additions like two remappable buttons on the rear, as well as a headphone jack, are extremely welcome.
Furthermore, theoriginal Pro Controlleris remembered fondly for its frankly absurd battery life, lasting around 40 hours on a single charge. I’m happy to report that’s also the case with the Switch 2 Pro Controller; after three weeks of testing for a few hours most days, I’ve only just seen the low battery warning flash up on my screen.
So what’s holding it back from truly being the greatest of all time? Well, unlike the original Pro Controller, this new model isn’t currently compatible with PC. It’s likely we’ll need to wait for a Steam compatibility update, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this happens in the near future. I also would’ve loved a trigger lock feature, allowing players to switch between digital and analog sensitivities to suit a wider range of genres (analog triggers naturally work better for racing games, for example).
Lastly, Nintendo seemingly remains committed to not having Hall effect thumbsticks, which is a massive shame. What this means is that, eventually, I expect the Switch 2 Pro Controller to develop stick drift. Perhaps not as quickly as the Joy-Con 2 – of which there are already reports of users experiencing drift – but for a controller that costs as much as it does, the lack of sturdier Hall effect thumbsticks hurts. Doubly so, considering the sticks themselves feel fantastic during play.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller review: price and availability
$84.99 / £74.99 / AU$119.95
Cheaper on average than a set of Joy-Con 2 ($94.99 / £74.99 / AU$139.95)
A price increase in the US bumped it up from the originally planned $79.99
If there’s one potential criticism I can levy at the Switch 2 Pro Controller, it’s that it certainly isn’t cheap.
It’s available to purchase now from Nintendo’s own website as well as stocking retailers for $84.99 / £74.99 / AU$119.95. US folks have it slightly worse here due to a price increase that’s seen the controller’s RRP pushed up from the original $79.99.
Overall, though, the Switch 2 Pro Controller is cheaper in the US than a pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers ($94.99), while being priced the same as those in the UK (£74.99).
That said, cheaper alternatives do exist in controllers like the8BitDo Ultimate 2($69.99 / £59.99 – around AU$90). This is an exceptional controller that’s well worth looking into, especially as it’s recently received a firmware update to allow for Switch 2 connectivity.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller review: design and features
Pleasing light gray-on-black aesthetic design
Adds GameChat and GL/GR buttons, as well as a headphone jack
Otherwise, very similar to the original Pro Controller
Put the Switch 2 Pro Controller side by side with the original model, and you’ll notice a lot of similarities. Its large face buttons are about the same size here, the d-pad is very similar, and the controller still uses digital triggers. I think an option for quicker triggers would’ve been nice here, via trigger locks, for genres like racing games. But there are some other upgrades here that I’m very happy about.
The Switch 2 Pro Controller adds some very welcome features. There’s a dedicated GameChat button like we see on the Joy-Con 2 for accessing the console’s bespoke voice chat system. Additionally, you’re getting a 3.5mm headphone jack, which – alarmingly – wasn’t present on the original Pro Controller. Lastly, a pair of GL/GR buttons on the rear of the pad can be remapped on a per-game basis, though I’ll touch more on those in the following performance section.
In terms of looks, the Switch 2 Pro Controller is simple, but pretty eye-catching. The semi-translucent look of the original has been replaced with a matte black shell. Meanwhile, the top that houses the bumpers and triggers – as well as the thumbstick shafts – have taken on a light gray coating that I think looks nice juxtaposed against the otherwise all-black gamepad. I wouldn’t say it’s winning any awards in the aesthetics department, but it’s a simple and elegant design that doesn’t look out of place.
Otherwise, there isn’t much to report on the design front beyond the fact that this is an incredibly comfortable asymmetrical controller that sits firmly in the hands. I find that the Switch 2 Pro Controller’s grips are of a perfect size, and the pad fits snugly in my hands with my index fingers set firmly on the triggers. I felt this way about the original Pro Controller, too, but its successor does feel ever so slightly more refined in this regard.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller review: Performance
Thumbsticks feel excellent during gameplay
A frankly absurd amount of battery life
GL/GR buttons are actually a godsend
Right away, let’s talk about the thing that most people fondly remember the original Pro Controller for – its seemingly endless battery life. While there have been no noticeable improvements here with the Switch 2 Pro Controller, I can’t exactly say that’s a bad thing.
Yep, you can expect this new model to go the distance with around 40-45 hours of battery life. Since launch, on average, I’ve played my Switch 2 with the Pro Controller for around 1-3 hours daily.
Three weeks later, I have only just seen the low battery warning flash up on my screen. This is absolutely best-in-class battery life that leaves even the best Nintendo Switch controllers in the dust. It is worth noting that such a hefty battery does take some time to charge up again – around 3-4 hours to be exact – but do this overnight via USB-C and you’ll never need to worry about running out of juice.
Otherwise, the Switch 2 Pro Controller is just a joy to play games with. The thumbsticks are the real heroes here, feeling almost impossibly smooth and incredibly responsive during play.
This makes precise platformers likeSuperMario3D World + Bowser’s Furyor white knuckle racers likeF-Zero GXfeel fantastic to play (even if the latter still benefits more from the wireless GameCube controller’s button layout).
My one gripe here would be that the thumbsticks are not Hall effect, with Nintendo seemingly opting once again for more traditional potentiometers. It’s a frustrating commitment that we also see fromSonyandMicrosoftin their first-party pads, and as a result, it’s currently hard to gauge just how long the Switch 2 Pro Controller’s sticks will last before developing drift. That said, the thumbsticks here do feel decidedly sturdier than those on the Joy-Con 2, so I do expect them to last a good deal longer.
However, I think my favorite addition to the Switch 2 Pro Controller has to be the rear GL/GR buttons. We’ve seen remappable buttons like these on countless third-party controllers, but I really like how Nintendo has implemented them. By holding down the Home button while in-game, you’ll bring up a quick menu that lets you assign GL and GR as secondary inputs.
This works on a per-game basis, too, meaning you don’t need to constantly reassign them while you’re hopping from game to game. They can be an absolute lifesaver, too. InThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom,for example, I bound the sprint and jump actions to these buttons, letting me still have access to camera controls.
Similarly, inHyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition,binding the left and right d-pad inputs to GL/GR let me cycle through my inventory of items without having to stop moving or adopt an awkward claw grip instead.
Otherwise, you can expect a controller that performs just as well as the original where it counts. Gyro aiming is still incredibly solid and accurate for games likeSplatoon 3,and you still have near-field communication (NFC) support for scanning amiibo figures in your favorite games.
Should I buy the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller?
Buy it if…
You want a cheaper (and better) Joy-Con 2 alternative Sure, you’re not getting the Joy-Con 2’s fancy directional rumble or their aptitude for co-op play. But given the lower US price point, higher comfort factor, and sublime thumbsticks and GL/GR buttons, the Pro Controller wins out for me.
You prefer wireless play You’re absolutely laughing here, as the Switch 2 Pro Controller seriously goes the distance in terms of battery life, putting in an impressive 40+ hours on an average full charge.
Don’t buy it if…
You’re on a budget While I wholeheartedly recommend the Switch 2 Pro Controller at its price point, I can’t say it’s exactly cheap. There are more affordable options around $10-$20 cheaper that do a similar job, such as the excellent 8BitDo Ultimate 2, or indeed the original Pro Controller.
You’ve had bad luck with stick drift Without drift-resistant Hall effect sticks, I can’t say for sure just how long the Switch 2 Pro Controller’s thumbsticks will last before developing drift. If you’ve fallen foul of stick drift in the past, you may want to consider some alternatives.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller review: Also consider
If the Switch 2 Pro Controller isn’t exactly what you’re after, there are a couple of great alternatives for you to consider.
The Nintendo Switch 2 has arrived, alongside a launch line-up containing Mario Kart Worldand Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour. In addition to the console and games, a number of accessories for the new console are also now available, including the Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller. Released alongside the new console, the GameCube controller is basically a new version of the classic controller, with the same look and feel as it had 20 years ago. It exists so thatyou can use it with the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack GameCube gameslaunched alongside the new system.
The controller itself feels the way you want it to, including the classic crunchy triggers. It has an added ZL button, which allows you to play some regular Nintendo Switch 2 with the controller, although there are some limitations to that. The Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller feels excellent to use in both GameCube online games and new games alike, but a lack of clickable thumbsticks and button remapping being limited to GameCube NSO games makes this one a little tougher to recommend than the quality of the controller would suggest.
Make waves with this classic-style controller! The Nintendo GameCube™ controller has the familiar look and feel of the original, along with modern features like the C-Button, which can open GameChat*, and the Capture Button. The Nintendo GameCube controller is only compatible with the Nintendo Switch™ 2 system.
Pros & Cons
Feels true to the original GameCube controller
Added ZL and capture buttons make the controller useful outside of GameCube games
Triggers feel exactly how they should
Lighter than I would like
Button mapping is limited to GameCube NSO games
No alternative to clicking in thumb sticks limits the games you can us it with
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller price and availability
The Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller is available exclusively throughNintendo’s websitefor $65. There are no other retailers that sell it, and you are required to have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription in order to purchase it. You don’t need to have the Expansion Pack subscription, just the base one, although you will need a premium subscription to play GameCube NSO games. You are also limited to one controller per Nintendo Switch Online account, with no timeframe for when you might be able to get a second one.
It feels exactly the way I remember GameCube controllers feeling
To start with the positives, the Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller feels just like an original GameCube controller feels. While that is partially from my memory of the controller, I have used an actual GameCube controller to play on a real GameCube within the past few months. Because of that, I can say pretty confidently that the vast majority of people would not be able to tell the difference between the two controllers just by holding one. It does have an added ZL button, which I wish was the same size as the Z button on the right, but it allows you to play most Nintendo Switch 2 games with it. The shoulder buttons have pressure-sensitive clicking, so you can accurately play Nintendo GameCube games. It even works in Super Mario Sunshinein the now delisted Super Mario 3D All-Stars.
I can say pretty confidently that the vast majority of people would not be able to tell the difference between the two controllers just by holding one.
Both the sticks feel a bit sturdier than the original sticks, although that could be a result of this being a brand-new controller, and the GameCube controller I recently used is not. All the extra buttons, the C button, capture, home, and the sync button, have been relegated to the top of the controller, a good spot for all of them except the capture button, which I wish was a bit more convenient.
Bizarre and unnecessary limitations
Button mapping, but only in NSO GameCube games
Outside of playing the Nintendo Switch Online GameCube games, my mileage with the GameCube controller varied far more than I expected. I played a significant amount ofMario Kart Worldusing the controller, and I didn’t have any issues playing the game until I ventured into Free Roam. In Free Roam, I attempted a challenge and failed, resulting in the game prompting me to click the right stick to reset. Neither stick on the GameCube controller clicks, but I figured I could remap it, sinceMario Kart Worlddoesn’t use all the buttons, anyway. That’s when I discovered that button mapping is not available for the GameCube controller on the system level.
This limits the controller’s use pretty heavily, and in a way that doesn’t make much sense to me.
This was a bit of a shock for two reasons. First, there doesn’t seem to be any explanation for why any controller wouldn’t be able to use the system-level button mapping. Second, and even more frustrating, is that I had remapped the buttons while playingSoulCalibur 2. Within NSO GameCube games, you can fully remap the buttons on the GameCube controller without any real limitation. This makes the lack of button mapping elsewhere even more frustrating, since the functionality is obviously there. Furthermore, this means that any game where you need to click the sticks you can’t play with a GameCube controller, which could be fixed in most situations by simple button remapping. This limits the controller’s use pretty heavily, and in a way that doesn’t make much sense to me.
A great controller held back by weird Nintendo decisions
As someone who grew up with a GameCube, my nostalgia for the controller and games is incredibly powerful. I understand that, and that’s partially what makes me love using the controller so much, but there are simple design choices that speak to me. I love that the face buttons seem more concerned with comfortable placement than a clean look, the triggers still feel incredible to click on, and I love how the main thumbstick feels.
Despite my love of that original controller and its recreation of the Switch 2, the Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller has some dumb and inexcusable limitations. Not being able to remap buttons for most games, despite the functionality being present for the NSO GameCube games, feels like a choice meant to force you to only use the controller for those games. There are still plenty of games I can play with the controller, not having button remapping limits the number, and does so for seemingly no reason. That said, it’s a great feeling controller, and if that sounds appealing to you, it’s worth the price, even with these limitations.
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller
7/ 10
Number of Colors1
Wireless?Yes
Compatible SystemsNintendo Switch 2
Color OptionsBlueThe Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller feels like an excellent recreation of the classic controller. The triggers are pressure sensitive, the sticks feel great, and the added ZL button makes it work with some Switch 2 games. A lack of button remapping outside the NSO GameCube controllers unfortunately limits its usefulness.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is an apt name for the company’s latest console, as it is essentially a more powerful version of its predecessor. What’s impressive, though, is just how much of an improvement over the original Switch it is. With support for 4K and 1440p resolutions as well as 120Hz in both docked and handheld play, Nintendo has successfully played catch-up with other contemporary consoles. Its 1080p vivid LCD screen is also immaculate, displaying titles with a clarity that you rarely see from other gaming handhelds. Battery life is a downgrade, however, and paired with some Bluetooth audio issues and a handful of issues with other features, there are definitely some teething issues at launch.
Pros
+Premium build
+Gorgeous, vivid 1080p LCD display
+Blissfully smooth UI/UX
+A notable step up in game performance from its predecessor
+Excellent backward compatibility breathes new life into old games
After what felt like an eternity of waiting after all the leaks and eventual official announcement back in January 2025, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here. To say the console’s had a rough start is an understatement, though, with retail stock difficulty to come by at this early stage. This, plus the console’s relatively lofty price tag (as well as those of its games), means there are some folks seeking handheld gaming console alternatives.
At the time of writing, I’ve had my Nintendo Switch 2 a couple of weeks, and I’ve been spending each and every day playing its games and testing the hardware to rate its performance and assess any improvements over the original 2017 console. Despite the lack of ambition and innovation (at least compared to prior consoles like the Wii and Nintendo DS), I think Nintendo has produced an exceptional system here that finally realizes the full potential of theSwitchconcept.
The obvious upgrades, such as support for4Kand 1440p resolutions in docked mode and 120Hz capabilities (both in portable mode and docked on compatible displays) are extremely welcome, and grant the Switch 2 a step closer to parity with its more powerful peers in thePS5andXbox Series Xand S. Of course, the Switch 2 doesn’t quite have the raw graphical prowess of those Sony and Microsoft-built machines, but it’s not a million miles away, as we see with certain Nintendo Switch 2 ports likeStreet Fighter 6orCyberpunk 2077.
Other display-oriented modernities are present here, too, such as HDR10 and VRR support (though, confusingly, variable refresh rate is currently only available in handheld play). The former provides juicier contrast and richer colors on compatible displays, while the latter smooths out framerates for more stable performance.
Unfortunately, it’s fair to say that the Switch 2’s launch game line-up is on the slighter side.Mario Kart Worldis great and an ideal title to have from day one, but a good chunk of launch day games have been ports of original Switch games or ones carried over from other platforms. While it is great to see big hitters likeThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdomrock an extremely solid 4K/60fps on Switch 2, it hasn’t been the most fulsome launch if you’re coming at it from a strictly first-party point of view.
Thankfully, the Switch 2 breathes life into original Switch titles via impressive backwards compatibility. I’ll delve more into this in its own section, but I’ve seen monumental results playing some of my own Switch favorites on the new console – some of which Nintendo itself hasn’t even officially mentioned.
There are some downsides worth talking about, of course. For one, battery life is sorely lacking in handheld mode and feels like an abject downgrade compared to the original Switch models. I also clocked some very noticeable audio delay with multiple gaming headsets and earbuds via Bluetooth connection. Furthermore, the skeleton of the original Switch is still present in many ways, with an almost identical Home dashboard, a lack of customization, and the ongoing threat of drift prevailing in the new Joy-Con 2 controllers.
Still, the Switch 2 is an accomplished bit of kit, and one that provides a night and day upgrade over its eight-year-old predecessor. I’m definitely looking forward to its game library expanding, as well as the system itself receiving various quality-of-life upgrades via future firmware updates.
The Nintendo Switch 2 went on sale on June 5, 2025. The console by itself costs $449.99 / £395.99 / AU$699.95. There is also an official bundle that packs in a digital copy ofMarioKart Worldalongside the console for $499.99 / £429.99 / AU$769.95. Some US and UK retailers have also stocked their own bundles, often throwing in an extra pair of Joy-Con 2 controllers orNintendo Switch Onlinesubscription time, but you can expect to pay a premium for these.
Price-wise, though, the Nintendo Switch 2 (while certainly more expensive than its predecessor) falls about in line with similar contemporary handheld gaming devices, including the original Steam Deck ($399 / £349 / AU$649) and theAsus ROG Ally($549.99 / £449 / AU$999). Premium devices like theSteam Deck OLEDandROG Ally Xare even more expensive, positioning the Switch 2 at a relatively mid-range price point among gaming handhelds, but certainly on the more affordable side within the space.
In terms of home consoles, the Switch 2 does come in cheaper than the PS5 ($499.99 / £479.99 / AU$799.95) and lands in the same ballpark as the PS5 Digital Edition ($399.99 / £389.99 / AU$649.95). It’s also comparable in price to theXbox Series X Digital Edition($449.99 / £429.99 / AU$699).
It’s also worth noting that Nintendo Switch 2 stock has been an ongoing issue since the pre-order phase. At launch, it’s been incredibly difficult to purchase a Switch 2 at retail, and flashes of stock in all major regions come and go in an instant. However, this was also the case with the original Switch and competing systems like the PS5. In both cases, stock became much more plentiful in the months after launch, so I’m hoping the same is true for Nintendo’s latest.
2 x USB, 1 x HDMI, 1 x LAN, 2 x USB-C, 1 x 3.5mm headphone jack
Nintendo Switch 2: design and build quality
What’s most striking about the Nintendo Switch 2 out of the box is its look and build quality improvements over its predecessor. The console looks distinctly less toy-like, largely helped by an overall sleeker design and the ditching of the original Joy-Con’s neon red/blue aesthetic.
Some may lament the loss of whimsy, and that’s fair enough. But it nonetheless stands out amongst the busy gaming handheld crowd. The Switch 2, despite its increased size, remains impressively slim. In fact, it’s just as thin as the original Switch, and importantly, lacks the bulk of the likes of the Steam DeckOLEDand ROG Ally X. This means that even though it is bigger thanks to the larger display size, it remains an eminently portable console.
Though I would recommend investing in a carry case if you’re planning on taking your Switch 2 out and about. While it’s undoubtedly sturdier than the Switch, it’s still prone to the same environmental wear and tear of any handheld system.
The Switch 2 dock has also seen a size increase, but for good reason. This time, the dock houses an internal fan to help keep the unit cool during lengthy play sessions. Thankfully, the dock is still small enough to fit into even the most compact gaming spaces. Whether that be on a TV stand or your computer desk, or elsewhere, you should have little issue incorporating your Switch 2 into a docked setup. The dock also houses two USB ports, one ethernet port, and a HDMI slot for use on TVs or gaming monitors.
As for the handheld itself, there’s a lot to go over in terms of design. The unit now houses two USB-C ports – one on the top and the other at the bottom. Next to each port are sets of speakers. At the top, you’ll also find the power and volume buttons, as well as the game card slot, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a built-in microphone.
The Switch 2’s kickstand is a huge improvement. The 2017 model had a simple stub kickstand on one side, which felt extremely rigid. TheSwitch OLEDdid widen this design idea, but it wasn’t much better overall. On Switch 2, the kickstand has been entirely redesigned. It spans almost the entire length of the handheld and can be rotated to a much greater degree. This allows for greater freedom with how you place your Switch 2 on a surface for tabletop play.
Another massive improvement comes in how the Joy-Con 2 controllers attach to the handheld. Instead of the original Switch’s rigid rail system, the Switch 2 opts for a magnetic connection. As such, the Joy-Con 2 click into place seamlessly and instantaneously. You can also easily pop them back out by pushing in a button housed just underneath the ZL/ZR trigger buttons.
One last thing to note is that the Switch 2 is impressively lightweight. At just 1.18lbs (535g), it’s only marginally heavier than the original Switch, which was 0.88lbs (399g), and the Switch OLED’s 0.93lbs (422g). Admittedly, I was expecting something much heavier before my hands-on preview some months ago, but I remain pleasantly surprised by the Switch 2’s slimness. And when compared to the bulkier Steam Deck OLED’s 1.41lbs (640g), playing with Switch 2 in bed or on the go is less strenuous overall.
Nintendo Switch 2: display
I have no complaints when it comes to the Switch 2’s display. It is a monumental upgrade over the original’s 720p LCD screen.
Unlike the namesake screen of the Switch OLED, Nintendo has opted for an LCD display for the Switch 2. This may come across as a downgrade on paper, but in reality, the move back to LCD has its own advantages. For one, LCD is less prone to screen burn-in than OLED, allowing for a panel that should last longer.
Furthermore, Nintendo has still managed to ensure that your games still look crisp and vividly colorful during portable play. Nintendo describes its display as ‘Vivid LCD,’ and it’s an accurate description to say the least. The display supports HDR10, meaning games that support this screen tech (likeSuper Mario Odysseyand the upcomingMetroid Prime 4: Beyond) can be just as eye-poppingly colorful on the handheld as they would be on a larger OLED panel.
This 1080p screen also supports VRR (variable refresh rate), helping demanding games maintain a smooth framerate and helping 120Hz-compatible titles meet that target. At launch, there aren’t many games that benefit from the Switch 2 screen’s 120Hz capability, thoughMetroid Prime 4: Beyondis confirmed to have a 1080p performance mode that targets this high refresh rate. It’s bound to look stunning on the handheld that already has a native 1080p resolution.
Of course, there will be times when you won’t want to make use of HDR10, perhaps in order to save battery or to have a play experience that’s less demanding on the eyes. Nintendo has thankfully thought of this, and there are options in the settings menu to disableHDRentirely or to only enable it for true HDR-compatible games.
In my testing, I have no complaints when it comes to the Switch 2’s display. It is a monumental upgrade over the original’s 720p LCD screen. The jump to 1080p helps both Switch 2 and OG Switch games look incredibly sharp. Even titles that utilize a dynamic resolution in handheld mode – likeBayonetta 3andAstral Chain– are better able to meet this target thanks to the increased power of the Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch 2: user interface and settings
The Switch 2’s Home dashboard is a disappointment at first glance. In fact, you might not be able to tell it apart from the original console’s menu if it weren’t for the rounded edges applied to game icons on the Switch 2. It’s still aggressively bland, then, and you’ve still only got the choice between two basic white and black themes, but there have been some key improvements worth talking about.
The big thing to make note of is performance. Issues with the glacial input delay are practically nonexistent now, and nowhere is this more apparent than the revamped Nintendo eShop. There’s a completely new user interface here, and items are organized much more cleanly and smartly than before. And while, yes, you still won’t be escaping the mountains of genAI shovelware when looking through the deals section, I’d still argue that the eShop now is a good deal more responsive than even the PlayStation andMicrosoftStores.
Over to System Settings, then, and you’ll find much of what was available on the original Switch. On Switch 2, there are plenty more options to take advantage of the hardware’s new features. These include setting TV output to 1440p or 4K, fine-tuning HDR, as well as preventing your system from topping up its battery all the way to full in order to help the battery last longer in the years to come. A similar option is common with best iPhones and best Android smartphones, so it’s nice to see it here on a portable gaming device.
Nintendo Switch 2: audio
One important addition to the Nintendo Switch 2 is the implementation of a bespoke surround sound system, supported by the speakers on both the top and bottom of the handheld.
What impressed me the most here was the surprising level of audio quality when not using a pair of headphones in handheld mode. The speakers are significantly less tinny than the original Switch (though that did also see an improvement with the OLED model), and they provide surprisingly clear audio for such a compact device.
The speakers work great for a wide range of games, whether that’s the vast immersive soundscape ofTheLegend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdomor the infectiously catchy tunes ofSplatoon 3.Even older NES and SNES games that are playable via Nintendo Switch Online benefit, with their simpler melodies coming through with great clarity.
Bluetooth support is where the Switch 2 falters in the audio department. Don’t get me wrong, you’re still getting strong surround sound support here. But with the gaming headsets and earbuds I tested – including theRIG 900 Max HSand theNothing Ear (a)earbuds – there was a very noticeable audio delay of around half a second. This was the case in both docked and handheld modes, though it was certainly more pronounced with the latter.
On that note, I’d recommend hooking up a pair of wired headphones via the 3.5mm jack. In this case, I tested myRazer BlackShark V2headphones, and audio came through crystal clear without a hint of delay.
Nintendo Switch 2: Performance
Now, overall gaming performance is where the Nintendo Switch 2 really impresses. At least at this early stage in the console’s life, the notion of poor framerates and heavily compromised Nintendo Switch ports seems to be a thing of the past.
Nintendo’s own output has thus far been stellar on this front.Mario Kart Worldruns at a clean 1440p while docked (1080p on the handheld) at a solid 60 frames per second (fps) at all times. That’s especially impressive given the series’ shift to a vibrant open world.
However, I was even more surprised by some of the console’s ports.Street Fighter 6,for example (while slightly worse off in terms of image quality with some noticeable graining), runs superbly at 60fps both online and offline. The marquee single-player World Tour mode does take some hits with battles being locked to 30fps, but that’s the only real blemish on this otherwise exceptional port.
The one major downside to all this is the Switch 2’s shockingly poor battery life. In handheld mode, Nintendo itself estimates that you can get anywhere between two to six and a half hours. However, in all my testing, I simply didn’t find this to be the case. Of course, more demanding titles will drain the battery a good deal more, but even with original Switch games, I struggled to get more than three hours at full charge. And yes, that’s even after bypassing the bug where the console thinks it’s got around 10% less battery life than what it actually has.
Even when playing less demanding titles, such as side-scrollers or Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) retro games, battery life struggles. You can, of course, mitigate things by turning down the console’s brightness and disabling HDR for certain games, but this does come at the cost of overall image clarity.
I’d say, at a push, you can get around five hours tops with less visually demanding games, after testing titles likeHollow Knight, Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S,and numerous Switch Online classic titles. Heck, even idling on the Home dashboard seems to drain the battery at an alarming clip, so do make sure to keep your console in standby when you’re out and about and it’s not in use.
Nintendo Switch 2: Backwards compatibility
Nintendo Switch 2’s backwards compatibility is – in a word – excellent. Particularly when it comes to running and playing original Switch games. Firstly, most Switch games at a baseline level benefit from Switch 2’s faster internal storage. That means you can expect games to boot and load scenes much faster on average.
For example, bootingXenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Editiontook me from the Home dashboard to the in-game menu in around 4 seconds. Then, from the menu to in-game was roughly 10 seconds. It’s a similar story withSuper Smash Bros. Ultimate,which loads into a match in literally less than 3 seconds. Another standout example isHyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition,which I’ve already written about as being one of my favorite Switch 2 experiences so far, despite being an original Switch title. In the main story mode, the game transitioned from level selection to loading to gameplay in, again, around 3 or 4 seconds.
Many Switch games also benefit from an increase in image quality and overall performance, not just games that have received paid Nintendo Switch 2 Editions. The standout example here isPokémon Scarlet and Violet.Most would agree that the original Switch release was a mess, with horrific image quality and choppy animations. On Switch 2, the game has been transformed, rocking a solid 60fps and targeting 4K while docked and 1080p on the handheld. Now, the game’s overall art style still does feel a bit flat, but with its key performance issues solved on Switch 2, it’s now well worth playing, as it’s still a fine Pokémon adventure.
Another game that benefits is, again,Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition.That game originally had an uncapped framerate, meaning the Switch 2 is able to brute force a 60fps performance at all times. Image quality in handheld mode is also sublime, with the game sporting a 1080p output and no longer needing to downsample to 720p to fit the original Switch display. If you know of any other OG Switch titles with uncapped framerates, definitely give them a try on Switch 2, as the results may surprise you.
Nintendo Switch 2: Joy-Con 2
Now onto the Switch 2’s pack-in controllers – the Joy-Con 2. And again, we find a pretty sizable improvement over the previous model in some ways. Their overall design is much sleeker, and they’re slightly rounder than the original Joy-Con controllers. Their larger size also makes them much more comfortable to play with for longer sessions – even when sharing an individual Joy-Con 2 with a pal for co-op play.
The big addition here is mouse controls, which are supported by certain titles, includingCivilization 7andCyberpunk 2077.Mouse controls can also be used to navigate the Switch 2’s Home dashboard and Nintendo eShop (though the lack of a scroll wheel does hurt things a little here). It’s a very smart implementation, and performance is extremely smooth with no unnecessary acceleration. You can even adjust mouse sensitivity in the System Settings menu and in supported games.
It is worth mentioning that there have already been reports of Joy-Con 2 controllers suffering from stick drift, and the sticks themselves appear to have the same design as the originals.
This is a huge shame and a big disappointment, as one of my biggest concerns before launch was the lack of improvements in this regard. Nintendo does offer a free repair and replacement service for Joy-Con 2 controllers suffering from stick drift, but I’d obviously prefer a Hall effect solution in order to avoid this issue entirely.
Nintendo Switch 2: GameChat
Finally, Nintendo has a true party voice chat solution built into one of its consoles. While numerous titles on the original Switch supported voice chat via the official Nintendo Switch Online app, chatting with friends this way was nothing short of awful – often thanks to forced disconnections between matches and low-quality audio.
So, is GameChat a decent alternative to the likes of Discord? Well, yes and no. GameChat obviously takes great inspiration from the world’s leading group chat software. Audio quality via the Switch 2’s built-in mic is surprisingly clear, and headset microphones are also supported. It is objectively a big improvement over Nintendo’s prior efforts.
The problems come with its implementation. Namely, shrinking the game screen down in order to display your friends’ Switch 2 profile icons. This seems needless, especially when not using the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera accessory, not to mention the fact that GameChat adds massive black borders around your game screen. Discord already solved this with its simple and effective overlay that maintains image resolution while displaying profile icons off to the side in a semi-transparent manner.
GameChat isn’t lacking ambition, though, and there are some neat ideas here. For example, being able to see your friends’ game screens is a novel idea, and a neat way of translating split-screen play in an online space. The problem, again, is the execution of it. Your friends’ displays are rendered at an uncomfortably low framerate, to the point where it can actually be quite distracting.
I hope Nintendo continues to improve the GameChat service going forward and flesh it out with more customizable options, because it is a handy thing to have for party chat with friends online, and it does have some neat ideas of its own. But for now, I would still recommend setting up a chat with friends via Discord.
Should I buy the Nintendo Switch 2?
Buy it if…
You want a night and day upgrade over the original Switch Simply put, the Nintendo Switch 2 is the Switch’s vision fully realized. An astronomical performance improvement, paired with superb load times and a crisp 1080p display, arguably makes it the definitive gaming handheld.
You already have a decent-sized Switch game collection Your original Switch games play better than ever on Switch 2. While not all benefit from image quality and performance improvements, those that do have never been better. Plus, most games do benefit from the console’s snappier load times.
You want a handheld gaming device that’s genuinely portable While larger than the original Switch, it remains just as thin. If you’re put off by the bulk of the Steam Deck in particular, then the Switch 2 is an excellent portable alternative if you like to game while out and about.
Don’t buy it if…
You’re waiting on more first-party games Nintendo’s own launch roster for the Switch 2 is very slim. IfMario Kart Worldisn’t your bag, and you’re not too keen on playing some of these Switch 2 Edition games again, I’d say it’s best to hold off until the game library improves.
You want a gaming handheld that’ll go the distance, battery-wise The Switch 2’s battery life is incredibly poor. And while battery packs do exist to extend portable playtime, these do have the unfortunate side effect of bulking up the console. If you’re a frequent flyer or regularly find yourself on long commutes, the Switch 2’s battery life might let you down.
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a new console; feverishly whipping off the packaging, setting up your user account, and loading up your games to settle in for an hours-long induction to your new system.
Thrilling though the process may be, there’s a fundamental step all too often skipped: adjusting your settings. From Display and Audio settings to User, Lock, and software settings, there’s plenty to tweak in your Switch 2.
I’ve spent a week with the console, and there are some must-change settings you should adjust before getting started; here are my recommendations.
Nintendo’s latest console supportsHDR, and you can easily toggle this on and off within the settings. Simply head toSettings > Display > HDROutputand make sure this setting is on by default.
Don’t stop there, though, because there’s a second setting which allows you to choose which games it’s enabled for.Scroll downin the Display menu, and you’ll see (confusingly) anotherHDR Outputoption. Select this, and you can choose between ‘Always Enabled’, ‘Compatible Software Only’, and ‘Disabled’.
I’d recommend switching it on for compatible games instead of the default always-on setting to make sure non-compatible games look as good as ever.
If you’ve suffered from battery degradation on your first-generation Nintendo Switch, you’ll be delighted to know that the Switch 2 offers a setting that caps your battery life at around 90 percent while it’s on charge, which should help your battery long-term. Simply head to Settings > System > Stop Charging Around 90%.
You can easily toggle this on and off any time, so if you want a full charge every now and then for a long day of gaming in handheld mode, it’s just a matter of a quick trip to the settings. Alternatively, you can simply outsource the load and try aportable battery for your Nintendo Switch 2.
3. TV resolution
Gamers, rejoice – the Nintendo Switch 2 can support screen resolutions up to4K, albeit at a 60Hz refresh rate and 60fps for most titles, but you might have different ideas for your new console. Again, head toSettings > Display > TV Resolution.
Within the settings, you can toggle automatic resolution detection or manually set the resolution for your TV, especially handy if you would prefer the higher refresh rates available in 1440p or 1080p resolutions.
4. Change your lock settings
Depending on who else will be using your Switch, you may want to change your Lock Screen settings with the system lock menu.
Head toSettings > User, where you can select toSkip Selection Screenif you’re the only one using the console regularly. Alertanitlvey, head toSettings > System > Console Lock. Here, you can set a PIN to keep prying eyes and grubby hands off your new console, but you can also opt toadd parental controls using the dedicated Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app.
5. Activate Dark Mode
Sure, this one is a preference-based tip, but personally, I don’t see why you’d prefer to use the standard white theme over dark. Especially if you play mostly in handheld, it’s a great way to conserve power and give your eyes some rest.
Once again, navigate toSettings > Themesand select between Basic White and Basic Black.
I’ve been looking forward to this all year long. Longer, really.
Folks, we’re finally here. TheNintendo Switch 2isfinallyshowing up on people’s doorsteps, while others braved the lengthy lines atmidnight launch eventsthat spanned the globe.
Because I have a cool job, I actually got the console a day early. And after spending about 24 hours with my new Switch 2, I’ve got plenty of early thoughts to share. I know some gamers are on the fence about spending $450 on a new Nintendo console (and$80 for the newMario Kart World), especially in tough economic times. My full Switch 2 review will come later, but for now, let’s dive into my first day of gaming.
And because you’ve waited long enough, here’s my early verdict: It’s awesome, though not without its setup quirks.
Remember: This is definitely not a full review of the console, as again, I’ve only had it for a little over 24 hours at the time of writing. My impressions and reviews of games likeMario Kart WorldandRune Factorywill also have to wait. These are my unfiltered thoughts on the hardware and user experience so far. You can also check out myfirst impressions of the new Game Chat features.
Setup is easy enough but not perfect
Your Switch 2 main menu will look a lot like this right after the first boot.
Let’s start with good news: Getting the console up and running on the initial startup is quite simple. You turn it on, log into your Nintendo account if you have one (you should probably have one), connect to the internet, and then you’re more or less good to go. I mean, you won’t be able to play any games right away unless you have physical copies because downloading games takes time, but all things considered, I found this process pretty painless.
The only caveat I’d add to all of that? There’s a (by all accounts) lengthy and involved data transfer process if you want to transfer over everything from yourSwitch 1 to your Switch 2. This is obviously useful if you have a bunch of old Switch games you’re currently in the middle of playing, or if you want to grab your save data the old-fashioned way. Nintendo Switch Online members have access to cloud saves, and foralmostevery game, downloading them takes just a few seconds on the home screen the first time you boot the game up.
Attaching and detaching the magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers feels so good the first time you do it. Just trust me.
I should note that I didn’t try the data transfer because I didn’t have my Switch on me at the time and I needed to start playing games ASAP, but everything I’m hearing from other gamers makes it sound like kind of a mess. Former Mashable superstar Adam Rosenberg went through his experience ina thread on Bluesky, in which he said the process tooktwo hours.His Switch 2 tried to transfereverythinginstead of giving him an easy way to decide what to bring over and what to leave behind.
He’s not the only person I know who expressed frustration with the Switch 2 transfer process. Iwouldnormally recommend skipping the data transfer process, but there are two factors that might make that a bad idea for some of you. First,Pokemon Scarlet and VioletandAnimal Crossing: New Horizonslack support for cloud saves, so if you want to keep playing those games on Switch 2, you should do the transfer.
Second, it sounds like you only get one shot at the transfer, weirdly enough. Hat tip toKotakufor bringing that to my attention; if you have any interest whatsoever in transferring data, don’t skip it at setup just assuming you can do it later.
The hardware itself is an immediate and profound step up
Strange setup quirks aside, the Switch 2 is so,somuch better than the first console once it’s actually in your hands.
The new 7.9-inch, 1080p display has a 120Hz refresh rate and is acolossalimprovement over the 6.2-inch, 720p, 60Hz original. There’s one more caveat here, though; it’s an LCD display, meaning it is, in one specific way, inferior to theSwitch OLED. I was never a Switch OLED owner, so I can’t say authoritatively that the lack of OLED is a huge problem on the Switch 2. The new display looks pretty darn good to me, though I suppose it could be a bit more vibrant in certain spots. That said, your mileage may vary if you’re used to looking at an OLED display.
Beyond that, the new Joy-Con 2 controllers are substantially bigger than before, making them much better suited to adult-sized hands. The new analog sticks have a bit more travel to them and feel a little more responsive overall, though it remains to be seen if stick drift will be a big problem on Switch 2, given the lack of Hall Effect sensors.
I’d also like to shout out the new magnetic attachment mechanism for the Joy-Con controllers. On the first Switch console, the Joy-Cons slid on and off via a vertical rail. This was fine for 2017, but over time, it became clear that a better solution was needed. Switch 1 Joy-Con controllers have a bit of wiggle to them, even when attached. That’s been entirely eliminated on Switch 2, based on my experiences so far. Attaching a Joy-Con 2 to the unit is as easy as slapping it into the open slot and letting magnets take over from there. Thankfully, there’s a release lever you have to pull to detach them, making it functionally impossible to detach them accidentally. (At least, that’s been my experience so far.)
Attaching and detaching the magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers feelsso goodthe first time you do it. Just trust me.
The new dock, which looks and works similarly, is also worthy of some praise. The new dock can output at up to 4K resolution and has a new built-in fan for heat dissipation. Crucially, it also has a built-in ethernet port now. Please, please wire up your dock if you can. Your experience will be so much better.
The Switch 2 introduces “virtual game cards,” a new feature Nintendo has added to both Switch consoles. This essentially turns any games you’ve purchased digitally into a commodity that can only live on one console at a time. At any time, you can scroll to the new virtual game card section in the main system menu and load any games you own digitally onto the console. In fact, youhaveto do this to bring over any Switch 1 games you plan on playing. Once that’s done, you can’t play it on any other Switch console unless you boot that machine up and do the same thing over there.
For a single and childless person like me, this is only mildly inconvenient. I’m not going to complain too much about having to press an extra button to tell the Switch 2 to download a Switch 1 game I own. However, I can imagine this being nightmarish for multi-Switch households. Users have the ability to “loan” virtual game cards to other users for up to two weeks, but as I understand it, that means the loaner loses the ability to play that game while it’s in the hands of the loanee.
While some games now support “GameShare” (a new feature that allows users to play multiplayer games with only one copy of a game), that’s not universally supported. There are definitely good use cases for loaning digital games to other people, to be sure, but this is also a lot of extra management that’s foisted upon every Switch 2 owner. I can imagine it’s going to create entirely new ways for siblings to fight with each other, too.
Storage is going to be an issue in the long term
Obviously, I’ll do a deeper dive into the console once I’ve had more time with it, but the final first impression I’ll share is that the Switch 2’s internal storage capacity of 256GB might not be enough for serious gamers.
When it was first announced, I thought it was fine. I mistakenly made the assumption that game file sizes wouldn’t balloon too much from the OG Switch, but I was wrong. In fairness, first-party Nintendo stuff has been fine so far; Mario Kart World is a manageable 22GB, and the only other thing I saw that crossed the 20GB threshold from Nintendo itself is the Switch 2 version of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
Third-party games are a different story, however.Hitman: World of Assassinationis 58GB, or roughly 22 percent of the internal storage capacity. That at least makes sense, as that’s three entire games in one package, and frankly, it’s alotbigger on other platforms.Street Fighter 6is 48GB, which is pretty big, but again, that’s a big game on other platforms, too.
The most confusing one I’ve seen isYakuza 0: Director’s Cut. On a PlayStation 4,Yakuza 0is 24GB. On a Switch 2, it’s a staggering 45GB. Granted, there’s some new content, like additional cutscenes, a multiplayer mode, and new English voice acting, but nearly doubling the file size is a bit much.
To make life more difficult, the Switch 2 only has one option for external storage expansion — microSD Express cards. This is a new type of memory card with substantially faster data read speeds than a regular microSD card. Nintendo going to this new standard is a good thing overall because games load way faster than before, but it also means everyone has to buy a new memory card, and they’re pretty expensive and hard to find right now. That won’t be a problem forever, so hopefully people can hold out until there are some good Black Friday sales or something like that.
I feel like I’ve spent most of this piece complaining about some relatively minor quirks with Switch 2, so I want to make something very clear: I think it’s awesome. Most of the games I’ve played have been impressive in one way or another, and the hardware is a clear improvement over the first Switch. It’s not perfect, but nothing is.
Look out for a full review in the near future. In the meantime, I’ll be perfecting my grinding skills inMario Kart World.
Where to buy the Switch 2
As of this writing, the Switch 2 is still sold out at all major retailers, though price gougers arehaving a good day over at eBay.
Switch 2 just arrived? Here’s how to transfer everything from your old console
If you’ve upgraded to theNintendo Switch 2, you’ll probably want to bring over your game saves, user profiles, and digital purchases from your original Switch.
Thankfully, Nintendo has made it really straightforward to transfer data between consoles, but there are a few steps you’ll need to follow carefully during initialset up, to avoid losing your progress.
Nintendo provides a built-in transfer tool that takes the hassle out of starting over. With just a few steps, you can move your entire digital library — from save files to purchased games — directly to your new Switch 2.
Your profiles come along too, so you can jump back into your favorite titles without missing a beat. Here’s everything you need to know to successfully move your data from Switch to Switch 2.
Next,move the Switch 2 and Switch 1 close together to transfer data.
You’ll have toconnect each system’s respective AC adaptersto start downloading data.Using a different USB-C power delivery method won’t work. You have to use the AC adapters that came with both Nintendo consoles.
4. Start system transfer
On your old Switch,click on the gear icon on the main menu. After that,scroll down to System. On the following menu,scroll down to “System Transfer to Nintendo Switch 2” and click on it. This will start the transferring process.
This process will vary depending on the amount of data you’re transferring, so keep that in mind.
5. Transfer complete
If you’ve followed all the steps above correctly, you should be all set!Click on OK to finish.
After this, you’ll see various pages explaining all of the Switch 2’s different play modes.You can select your preferred play mode, such as handheld or docked mode.
Note that it may take some time for all your games to download and install, so make sure your Switch 2 remains connected to the internet.
Now that theNintendo Switch2 is rolling out to gamers, we’re putting together more guides to help you make the most of Nintendo’s latest console. Stay tuned for more tips coming soon!
With a new console on the horizon and summer break, parents might need this update.
(Image credit: Nintendo)
What you need to know
Nintendo updated its Parental Control app on the Play Store with a redesigned interface and Switch 2 support ahead of its June 5 debut.
The app brings over parental controls for GameChat, letting parents decide who their kids can talk to and when they can use video chat.
The update also lets parents easily extend their child’s play time on a Switch or Switch 2 by five, fifteen, or thirty minutes with the ability to disable the limit.
Nintendo just rolled out an update for its Switch parental control app, giving parents more control and a fancy new look.
The update arrived this weekon the Play Store, spotted by Android Central’s Nicholas Sutrich. One thing users will notice is the Parental Control app now has a cleaner, reworked UI. More importantly, Nintendo announces that the Android app now supports the Switch 2, which is perfect timing as the console is set to launch in a couple of days.
Nintendo states the app lets parents control a Switch 2’s “access to GameChat.” Parents can manage which friends their kids can speak to and “when they can use video chat.” Additionally, the update gives parents the ability to connect and manage multiple Switch devices, as well as the ability to extend playtime limits with ease.
When tapping a connected Switch, parents will see a day-by-day breakdown of its activity. If your child has been playing, you will see how long they’ve played and whether or not you’ve granted additional time. Parents can then hop into a monthly breakdown to see days played and playtime averages.
For the playtime limit, parents will find the option to extend it by five, fifteen, or thirty minutes. However, there is an option, marked by Nintendo’s Starman icon, to disable the daily limit. This will let your kid run wild in whatever games they’re playing without worry (it is summer break, after all).
From the play-time limit area, parents can also manage any “restricted features” on their child’s Switch or Switch 2. Nintendo states these are age-based restrictions concerning the games your child might play. The update was spotted early this week and should be readily available for all Android users to download/install via the Play Store.
Since Nintendo broke the news earlier this year, we’ve known that the Switch 2 was on pace for a June 5 launch. That means we’re only two days away from having it in hand, and this parental control app update is likely in preparation for that occurrence. Aside from the device’s redesign, theSwitch 2 sports a new feature: GameChat. The added “C” button lets users initiate a chat with friends that lets them share their screen to make it feel like you’re right next to each other.
Moreover, there’s a camera that users can grab to make things feel a little closer.
While we eagerly await the Switch 2 this week, it seems that Nintendo istrying to avoid Switch 2 emulationon Android devices. It looks like Nintendo’s “Game Key Card”
The Nintendo Switch Online App has been renamed to the Nintendo Switch App, and now supports the Nintendo Switch 2.
Switch 2 players can now accept GameChat invitations on the Switch 2 app.
You can now upload Switch 2 screenshots to the Nintendo Switch App and the Zelda Notes service has been added.
The release of theNintendo Switch 2is now officially a week away, and in anticipation of itshighly awaited launch, Nintendo has updated the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app with a new name and features for the Switch 2, ensuring it’s ready for the console on day one.
Starting with the name, the Nintendo Switch Online app is now simply called the Nintendo Switch App, dropping the “Online” designation that has long been associated withNintendo Switch Online, the company’s subscription-based online membership service. Nintendo Switch Online provides players with online multiplayer access, cloud save data, and access to classic NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.
Although the app’s name has changed, it retains the same functionality as before. It hasn’t lost any core features, such as the ability for Switch 1 players to chat with friends through the app. The most significant change in the app’slatest 3.0.1 updateis its support for the Nintendo Switch 2, enhancing the in-app experience for the new console’s features.
You can now upload Switch 2 screenshots to the app
Nintendo / Pocket-lint
One of the Switch 2’s new features is GameChat, a built-in service that allows players to talk with friends while playing games on the Switch 2. Think of it as Nintendo’s version of Discord or an Xbox Live Party. With the latest Nintendo Switch app update, Switch 2 players can now receive and accept GameChat invitations on the app, making it easier to hop into a call with friends without interrupting what they’re doing on their Switch 2.
Additionally, the app has been enhanced with other features for connecting with friends, including the ability to add Switch Online friends through the app and to enable notifications when a friend goes online. It’s clear that with this app update and GameChat, Nintendo is placing a much larger emphasis on connecting with friends for the Switch 2.
The feature I’m most excited about that has been added with the update is the ability to upload screenshots you’ve taken on your Switch 2 to the Nintendo Switch mobile app. This will make it much easier to quickly share screenshots with friends and family or to post on social media.
To upload a screenshot, players can go to the Switch 2’s gallery and select the “Upload to Smart Device” option (as seen in the image above). You’ll be able to upload 100 files to the app at a time, but they’ll only be stored for 30 days before they are deleted, so make sure to download them. It’s also worth noting that a Nintendo Switch Online subscription isn’t required for this.
Finally, the Nintendo Switch app has added the newZelda Notes service, providing players with handy tools for playing the Switch 2 Editions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Zelda Notes includes some exciting add-ons, such as a voiced navigation feature that helps you locate Koroks and challenging shrines, voice memories from characters in the game, a photo studio to customize your Zelda screenshots, and much more. However, Zelda Notes won’t be available until the Switch 2 launches.
The Nintendo Switch app’s 3.0.1 update for the Switch 2 is now available for download on iOS and Android devices. In just a week’s time, the Nintendo Switch 2 will finally launch on June 5, 2025.
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The Switch 2’s Home dashboard is a disappointment at first glance. In fact, you might not be able to tell it apart from the original console’s menu if it weren’t for the rounded edges applied to game icons on the Switch 2. It’s still aggressively bland, then, and you’ve still only got the choice between two basic white and black themes, but there have been some key improvements worth talking about.
