Nintendo Switch 2 Review: Is It Worth Getting?

Nintendo just launched its next-gen hybrid console a few months ago. Featuring components that surpass its predecessor, this portable console is what gamers have been hyping recently. But the main question on everyone’s mind is, “Is it worth getting?” In this review, I’ll dive into what makes this console great and what its pros and cons are, which will give a deeper insight into what the Switch 2 can do.

The Nintendo Switch 2 delivers many features that will surely surprise you. First, the design aspects of the console have really improved. The screen is larger than its predecessor. This is a good thing as it feels sturdier and more substantial. The kickstand on the back of the screen is more durable and flexible, as it lets you adjust the console to any angle that you feel comfortable playing. Aside from that, the screen is now a 7.9-inch 1080p display, which is better than the OLED, Lite, and the 6.2-inch Switch had before.

Now, the Joy-Cons of the Switch 2, known as Joy-Con 2 Controllers, are the biggest change for the console. They are easy to detach with a quick button press, and attaching them back is easy, as they have magnetic snaps located on the sides. Back then, the Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons had an issue where players had a hard time putting their controllers back, but now, it’s easy and doesn’t take too much time. There have been issues where players have had drifting problems, especially when playing Mario Kart, but now the issue seems to have improved and doesn’t affect the Switch 2 much. The reasons for it are mostly the improved durability of the console’s materials, which makes it an ideal choice for gamers who are into serious racing games.

The performance of the Switch 2 delivers a better gaming experience than its predecessor. Though it’s not as grand as the PS5, the processing power of the Nintendo Switch 2 is ideal for gamers today. Thanks to Nvidia’s new processor, players like me can finally enjoy 4K-quality games like Xenoblade Chronicles 3, Mario Kart World, and other games that deserve 4K-quality gaming, either on the TV or when playing handheld. The system supports gameplay up to 120fps and makes the gameplay of high-processing games run smoother than ever. The example is in Mario Kart World. When playing a massive multiplayer race, there are no lags or problems when engaging a chaotic 24-player race across massive maps and obstacles.

When observing closely at the Nintendo Switch 2, I found out that it has not only improved performance but also improved hardware. There is a feature within the Switch 2 called Video Chat, and damn, I had a great time chatting with my close friends while playing Mario Kart World. Through the many hours of gaming, I told myself this is a Discord version of Switch 2, and it feels great chatting with my friends online. To further improve the Video chat, Nintendo fans can use the Nintendo Switch 2 camera or any webcam that they have.

When I switch to handheld mode, I have noticed that the Switch 2 has gotten better in terms of Sound Quality. Compared to its predecessor, the volume is much sharper and clearer. You can test it directly on the handheld speakers, but the effect is even more precise using headphones.

Aside from the great features and improved hardware, there are many cons I want to list here about the Nintendo Switch 2. Some of which have not changed from their predecessor. First of all, though the Switch 2 is big and very extravagant, its biggest flaw would be the battery life. I noticed when playing some of my favorite games that the battery life of it drains faster than the old Switch. Reasons unknown, but I could guess that not only does the processor take the battery, but also the Joy Cons as well, to keep them alive, whether it’s attached or not. It is highly recommended that gamers who have the Switch 2 bring their chargers at all times.

The storage space of Switch 2 is good however, it is required that we need more. A Switch 2 has a total of 256 GB of storage. This is a huge change from the storage space that both the Switch and Switch OLED had; however, games nowadays are more complex and heavy in storage space. It is recommended to buy a MicroSD Express to improve one’s storage space. Getting is no problem; however, the one thing I feel bad is that the Switch 2 can’t use any older MicroSDs, and we can’t manually transfer our saved files just like that. For me, it is a total hassle, and I hope that Nintendo finds a way to improve it.

The games of the Nintendo Switch 2 are good, and the lineup of what to expect is intriguing. Games like Pokémon Legends: Z-A, 007 First Light, and more are expected to become major players for the Switch 2. However, I am disappointed at the fact that the prices for these games are so high. I am also disappointed that games like Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, Mario Party, and more have a paid upgrade that can be purchased online. Nintendo could have just followed the route that SONY did before and let players who have online memberships get free upgrades, but sadly, they didn’t.

Buying the Switch 2 is good, especially if you manage to get it from retail stores such as GameOne, Datablitz, and even GameXtreme. Currently, they are doing a promo where the console unit is now cheaper. But if I were to recommend getting what version of the Switch 2 should one get, I would recommend the bundle set. Let’s face it, a free game with Switch 2 is worth getting, especially if you’re playing Mario Kart World. Accessories for this unit are easy and cheap to get, as Nintendo offers them at an affordable price.

Bottom line, the Nintendo Switch 2 is without question one of the best consoles I’ve ever gotten my hands on, as it delivers the same experience I had when playing the PSP. If you are a Nintendo gamer, I would applaud your choice in getting this unit. But for those who are still deciding, it is ok to wait for the Switch 2 to come out cheaper, as the developers of the company have promised to offer fans better deals and bundles that gamers new and old would enjoy shortly.