Switch 2 Outshines Original: 10 Key Improvements

Rejoice, fellow Nintendo fans! The wait is finally over as Nintendo unveiled the much-anticipated Switch 2 on Wednesday. After years of speculation and rumors, the clouds have parted, and the divine hand of Shigeru Miyamoto has blessed us with a clear glimpse of this next-generation handheld marvel. While the rumors about a tiny Reggie Fils-Aimé being packed into every GPU were unfortunately false, we spent an enthralling hour during the Direct, meticulously analyzing every detail to bring you the solid facts about how the Switch 2 outshines its predecessor.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

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1. Switch 2 packs in a lot more raw graphical power than Switch

   It's no surprise that the Switch 2 boasts significantly enhanced graphical capabilities. While the original Switch, launched in 2017, was impressive, it struggled with more demanding games as time passed. The Switch 2, however, promises a vastly improved experience with handheld resolutions reaching up to 1080p and docked up to 4K, both with HDR, and frame rates extending up to 120 fps. This leap in power is set to attract a broader range of games, as evidenced by EA's and 2K's plans to bring their sports titles to the platform. Third-party developers showcased current-gen games like Elden Ring and Street Fighter 6, demonstrating the Switch 2's prowess, while Nintendo's own first-party titles were nothing short of breathtaking.

2. Switch plays GameCube games. Switch doesn’t

   The nostalgia factor is strong with this one. The Switch 2 introduces GameCube games to Nintendo Switch Online, but this feature is exclusive to the new console. This means that to enjoy classics like The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soul Calibur 2 (featuring Link!), you'll need to upgrade to the Switch 2. It's a strategic move by Nintendo to encourage fans to adopt the new hardware, and with such legendary titles, it's an enticing proposition.

   Seriously, Soul Calibur 2 is a gem, especially with a friend.

3. Switch 2 recognizes the existence of the Internet

   In a monumental shift, Nintendo has embraced online features with the Switch 2. The new GameChat system brings rich communication and visual sharing capabilities, including a noise-cancelling microphone and optional desktop camera integration. This allows for seamless voice chat and the ability to share your face in games like Mario Party or during remote play. It's a game-changer for Nintendo fans who've long awaited a more straightforward way to connect and play with friends. The potential for games like Monster Hunter, where teams can benefit from shared screens, is truly exciting.

   Finally, Nintendo makes it easy to talk and see your friends online.

4. Magnetic Joy-Cons

   A long-rumored feature, the Joy-Cons now magnetically attach to the Switch 2, enhancing the ease of use. The steel shoulder buttons on each controller magnetically snap to the sides of the screen, and a simple button press releases them. This is particularly useful for those of us who often play at home, as it simplifies the process of removing the Joy-Cons without having to take the entire console out of the dock.

5. A bigger screen

   The Switch 2 sports a larger 7.9-inch screen, which, combined with its 1080p resolution, should enhance the gaming experience. While larger screens can sometimes compromise portability, the benefits here seem to outweigh the cons, especially for the visually rich games that the Switch 2 will host.

6. Mouse controls

   Nintendo's innovation continues with the introduction of mouse controls using the Joy-Cons. By laying a Joy-Con on its side and moving it across a surface, players can enjoy precise pointing and rotation, supported by launch titles like Drag x Drive, Civ 7, and Metroid Prime 4. As a PC gamer, I'm particularly excited about the potential for more accurate control in FPS games.

   Metroid Prime 4 with a mouse? Count me in!

7. More storage

   The Switch 2 comes with 256GB of internal storage, a significant increase from its predecessor. However, with larger game files due to enhanced graphics, you might find yourself needing additional storage. Fortunately, the memory is faster, accommodating the demands of modern games.

8. Quality of life improvements are no small deal on Switch 2

   Nintendo has listened to a decade of feedback and made several enhancements. The Switch 2 now features two USB-C ports, a fan in the dock for better cooling, larger sticks, and improved sound capabilities. The Switch 2 Pro Controller also gets an upgrade with an audio jack and assignable buttons. The adjustable screen angle in kickstand mode is a game-changer for tabletop play, making it easier to find the perfect viewing angle in various settings.

   Adjustable screen angle? Yes, please!

9. Switch 2 gives you more choices

   The Switch 2 is backward compatible with Switch games, a smart move that ensures a robust library from day one. Additionally, certain Switch titles will receive enhanced Switch 2 Editions, offering features like a higher-res Quality Mode or a faster frame rate in Performance Mode. If you already own the original game, you can purchase a Switch 2 Edition upgrade to enjoy these enhancements. This approach could also improve notoriously janky games like Pokémon.

   Switch 2 Editions sound promising, especially for existing game owners.

10. You need Switch 2 to play the newest games by the best developers on earth

    The Switch 2 introduces exciting new titles that showcase its capabilities. Mario Kart World takes the classic racing game to new heights with a continuous world and a staggering 24-cart field size. Kirby's Air Riders, directed by Masahiro Sakurai, promises to revitalize the Air Ride series. And The Duskbloods, an original game from FromSoftware's Hidetaka Miyazaki, looks to be a thrilling exclusive. Finally, Donkey Kong Bananza aims to redeem the franchise's 3D adventures, building on the success of recent Switch platformers.

    Which Nintendo Switch 2 Game Are You Most Excited For? ------------------------------------------------------

    The DuskbloodsDonkey Kong: BananzaMario Kart WorldHollow Knight: Silksong

    AnswerSee Results