The Nintendo Switch 2 has officially arrived, and our team at Verge has been diving into its features and performance. With notable upgrades like a larger screen and an additional USB-C port, the new console offers a fresh gaming experience. Plus, there’s a solid lineup of games to explore, including a new Mario Kart and exciting updates to classic titles.
Our first impressions? The 7.9-inch, 1080p display at 120Hz truly transforms the handheld experience. While I wish it had an OLED screen—especially given the price—the high refresh rate and increased screen real estate make my original Switch feel like a relic. The visuals are crisper, navigation feels smoother, and the bezels are significantly reduced, offering a more immersive gaming experience. However, compared to the Steam Deck’s vibrant OLED HDR panel, the Switch 2’s screen isn’t quite in the same league.
The launch lineup is modest but meaningful, featuring updates to some of the original Switch’s most popular games. Many of these titles were pushing the hardware’s limits, and on the Switch 2, they perform remarkably better. It’s encouraging to see games finally able to reach their full potential without being held back by hardware constraints. Still, it also underscores how much these improvements are overdue.
As a collector of Joy-Cons—six pairs and counting—I was a bit disappointed that the Switch 2 only comes in black with subtle red and blue accents. It’s a practical choice, saving me from splurging on more controllers at launch, but I can’t help wonder if future designs will stick to this minimalist style or bring back more colorful options. And honestly, I hope I can finally curb my collection obsession this time around!
One of my favorite new features? The extra USB-C port on top of the console. As someone with a cluttered desk full of gadgets, having an additional port for charging or connecting accessories like a webcam (for testing Mario Kart, of course) is incredibly convenient. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in everyday use.
However, not all upgrades are perfect. The larger size of the Switch 2 initially seemed like it would improve comfort, but in practice, it’s a mixed bag. The bigger Joy-Con controllers provide more grip, but their hard edges can dig into your palms during extended gaming sessions. After just an hour of Mario Kart, I felt discomfort, and by the end of a two-hour session, it became unbearable. It’s a minor downgrade that I’ll need to work around.
The hype leading up to the Switch 2’s launch was immense, and while it lives up to many expectations, it doesn’t quite match the mystique of devices like the Steam Deck, which doubles as a Linux PC with limitless possibilities. The Switch 2 is undeniably a great upgrade—a better Switch overall—but it sticks closely to the familiar formula. After a weekend of testing, I realize that the sense of wonder has diminished a bit, and I’m still getting used to that.
Overall, the Nintendo Switch 2 offers a compelling, refined gaming experience with meaningful improvements. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Nintendo, it’s a device that’s worth exploring—but don’t expect a revolutionary leap. It’s a solid, enjoyable upgrade that keeps Nintendo’s signature charm alive.
