Switch 2 Outshines Original: 10 Key Improvements

Rejoice, fellow Nintendo enthusiasts! On Wednesday, the gaming heavens opened up, and the visionary hand of Shigeru Miyamoto bestowed upon us the latest marvel in handheld gaming: the Nintendo Switch 2. After years of eager anticipation and swirling rumors, we now have a tangible glimpse into this highly anticipated console hybrid.

While the Switch 2 is sleek, compact, and impressively powerful, it's time to dispel some myths: no, it does not come with a mini Reggie Fils-Aimé embedded in every GPU. However, after meticulously analyzing the details presented during the Nintendo Direct, we can move beyond speculation and share some concrete details that showcase how the Switch 2 outshines its predecessor.

Nintendo Switch 2 System and Accessories Gallery

91 Images

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

   While it's no surprise that Nintendo's latest console boasts improved graphics, the Switch 2 truly delivers. When the original Switch launched in 2017, it lagged behind its Sony and Xbox counterparts, and by 2025, it was struggling with demanding titles. The Switch 2 addresses this with handheld resolutions up to 1080p and docked resolutions up to 4K, both with HDR, and frame rates reaching up to 120 fps. This upgrade is set to broaden the range of games available, as evidenced by EA's commitment to bring soccer and football titles to the platform, alongside 2K's plans for wrestling and basketball games.

   Third-party developers showcased current-gen titles like Elden Ring and Street Fighter 6, demonstrating the Switch 2's capability to handle high-end games. Nintendo's own first-party titles looked stunning, promising an even richer gaming experience.

2. Switch plays GameCube games. Switch doesn’t

   The Switch 2 introduces GameCube games to Nintendo Switch Online, marking a clear distinction from the original Switch. 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 the new hardware. While the selection is small initially, these titles are nothing short of legendary.

   Soul Calibur 2 is a gem that promises hours of fun, especially when played with friends.

3. Switch 2 recognizes the existence of the Internet

   The Switch 2 marks a significant shift in Nintendo's approach to online gaming. Gone are the days of cumbersome Friend Codes; now, we have GameChat, a comprehensive suite of communication and visual sharing features. With a noise-cancelling microphone and an optional desktop camera, you can now share your voice and image with friends, enhancing games like Mario Party. Screen sharing across consoles is also now a reality, fulfilling a long-standing fan request for easier multiplayer interaction.

   This leap forward in online functionality opens up exciting possibilities, such as coordinating strategies in Monster Hunter with shared screens.

4. Magnetic Joy-Cons

   A feature we had guessed but still delights: the Joy-Cons now magnetically attach to the Switch 2, rather than slotting in. This innovative design uses steel shoulder buttons and magnetic facing along the sides of the screen, making it easier to snap them on and off. It's a welcome change, especially for those of us who've struggled with the original design in tight spaces.

5. A bigger screen

   The Switch 2 sports a slightly larger 7.9-inch screen, perfect for the enhanced 1080p resolution. This increase in size should benefit gamers by offering more screen real estate to enjoy the intricate details of Switch games, striking a balance between portability and visibility.

6. Mouse controls

   Nintendo showcased an intriguing new feature: using a Joy-Con as a mouse. By laying a Joy-Con on its side and moving it across a surface, you can control games like Drag x Drive, Civ 7, and Metroid Prime 4 with precision. While it might be a niche feature, it's a game-changer for FPS fans and could add a fresh twist to gameplay.

   Especially for Metroid Prime 4, this could make a significant difference in the gaming experience.

7. More storage

   The Switch 2 comes equipped with 256GB of internal storage, a significant leap from its predecessor. However, with the increased graphical capabilities, game file sizes will also grow, meaning you might need to invest in faster memory cards for additional storage.

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

   Nintendo listened to a decade of feedback and made thoughtful enhancements. The Switch 2 now features two USB-C ports, including one on top for charging while in kickstand mode. A new fan in the dock helps with cooling, while larger sticks and improved sound capabilities enhance the overall experience. The Switch 2 Pro Controller adds an audio jack and assignable buttons, promising a better gaming experience.

   An adjustable screen angle in kickstand mode is a subtle yet significant upgrade, perfect for playing on the go.

9. Switch 2 gives you more choices

   The Switch 2 is backward compatible, making it easy to play your existing Switch games. Additionally, certain titles like Metroid Prime 4 will have special Switch 2 Editions with options for either higher resolution in Quality Mode or a smoother frame rate in Performance Mode. If you already own the original version, you can upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition for new features.

   These enhancements could also improve notoriously janky titles like Pokémon games.

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

    Mario Kart World takes the beloved racing series to new heights, allowing continuous world traversal and supporting up to 24 carts in a race. It promises chaos and fun in equal measure. Kirby's Air Riders, helmed by Masahiro Sakurai, offers a thrilling new take on the franchise. And The Duskbloods, an exclusive from FROM Software, promises a challenging yet rewarding experience reminiscent of Bloodborne and Castlevania.

    Which Nintendo Switch 2 Game Are You Most Excited For?

    The DuskbloodsDonkey Kong: BananzaMario Kart WorldHollow Knight: Silksong
    AnswerSee Results

    Donkey Kong Bananza marks a triumphant return for the iconic ape, promising a landmark 3D adventure that builds on the success of recent Switch titles like Super Mario Odyssey and Kirby and the Forgotten Land. With more powerful hardware, the developers have had the freedom to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of what's possible in 3D platforming.