Is the Nintendo Switch 2 Worth It in 2026? Price, Games, and Future

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Just over a year ago, Nintendo released the Nintendo Switch 2, marking its entry into the latest generation of gaming consoles and building on the success of the hugely popular original Nintendo Switch. While some reviewers had mixed reactions, the new hybrid console has still sold over 17 million units in under a year.

With the Nintendo Switch 2’s release date approaching, many people are wondering: is it worth buying? Buying a new gaming console is a big decision, especially considering the cost, so it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages. However, the Switch 2 is absolutely worth considering right now, and this article will address all the major concerns potential buyers might have.

Is The Switch 2 Worth The Money?

Yes, Especially When Compared To The Competition

When Nintendo first announced the Switch 2, many people complained about the $450 price tag. It was $150 more expensive than the original Switch at launch and $50 cheaper than a PlayStation 5, even though it wasn’t as powerful. But Nintendo ultimately had the better deal, as both the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S later became more expensive. Now, the Switch 2 is actually the most affordable of the three consoles.

The Switch 2 boasts a fantastic library of exclusive games, and it’s ideal for those who didn’t get a Switch 1 – it can play games from the older model. Given that the last Nintendo console lasted over eight years (and still does!), the Switch 2 is likely to have a long life too, making it a smart purchase.

What Are The Must-Play Switch 2 Games?

Donkey Kong Bananza, Mario Kart World, Pokemon Pokopia, And Many More

Nintendo understands that compelling games you can’t play anywhere else are the key to selling consoles, and the Switch 2 will be no different. A prime example is its launch title, Mario Kart World, the latest installment in the beloved racing series. This new version offers an exciting and expansive open-world mode.

The Switch 2 has seen a surge of fantastic exclusive games recently. Pokemon Pokopia offers a relaxing and charming life simulation experience, blending the popular elements of Pokemon and Animal Crossing. For action fans, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment delivers fast-paced combat and a captivating story within the Legend of Zelda world. And Donkey Kong Bananza is a truly innovative and addictive 3D platformer, so good it was even a Game of the Year contender in 2025. With such a diverse and high-quality lineup, the Switch 2 offers something for every gamer and is well worth the investment.

Are There Any Good Exclusives Coming Soon?

Yes: The Duskbloods, Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave, And Pokemon Winds And Waves Are Some Of The Biggest Ones

Okay, so the Switch 2 has been out for almost a year now, and honestly, while it’s done really well, a lot of people think it’s been lacking in must-have exclusive games. I’m not sure I totally agree, but you can’t argue that things are about to get much better. The next few months look incredible for the console’s game library!

In 2026, players can look forward to several exciting new games, including the next main installment in the Fire Emblem series, Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave, and The Duskbloods, a multiplayer action RPG from FromSoftware exclusive to the Switch 2. A new Splatoon game, Splatoon Raiders, will also be released. Plus, the next generation of Pokémon will arrive in 2027 with Pokémon Winds and Waves. There are also unconfirmed reports suggesting Nintendo might be developing a Switch 2 remake of Ocarina of Time and a completely new Star Fox game, meaning there could be even more surprises in store.

Does It Have Third-Party Support?

Yes, Even More So Than Previous Nintendo Systems

Older Nintendo consoles, like the Wii and Wii U, often struggled to attract games from developers other than Nintendo themselves. This was usually because the consoles weren’t as powerful as competitors and had unique controllers that were hard to adapt to. The Switch improved on this, getting more games from other companies, but even those versions weren’t always ideal. Some were streamed over the internet instead of running directly on the console, or required large downloads even though they were sold on game cartridges.

From the start, Nintendo emphasized the strong support the Switch 2 would receive from other game companies. Popular titles like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Hogwarts Legacy, and Street Fighter 6 launched on the console with very little reduction in graphics quality. Over the past few months, even more companies have released their games on the Switch 2, and they’ve been running surprisingly well – notable examples include Resident Evil Requiem and Final Fantasy 7 Remake. With upcoming releases like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, 007 First Light, and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth also planned, the Switch 2 is clearly gaining even more support from third-party developers.

Aren’t Most Of Its Games Available On Switch 1?

Not Really, That Only Applies To Cross-Generational Titles That Were Announced Before The Switch 2’s Release

Many people think the Switch 2 won’t be worth buying if you already have the original, believing most of its games will also be available on the older console. While some games will be available on both, this is mostly true for titles announced before the Switch 2 was even revealed, like Pokemon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. It simply makes sense to release those games on both consoles, with the Switch 2 versions offering slightly improved graphics and performance.

Several games originally released on the first Switch have been updated for the new Switch 2, with noticeably improved graphics and often, completely new content. These additions would have looked significantly less impressive on the older console – for example, Super Mario Bros. Wonder + Meetup in Bellabel Park and Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World. Not only does the Switch 2 play all your old Switch games, but it also makes them look and play even better.

What Can The Switch 2 Do That The Other Consoles Can’t?

It’s A Hybrid Console, Plus It Has A Few Unique Gimmicks That Help It Stand Out

The Nintendo Switch 2 is easily the most unique of the current home consoles from the major players. Like the original Switch, it’s a hybrid, meaning you can play it on your TV or take it on the go as a portable device – and you don’t need any extra accessories or software to switch between the two.

Nintendo is known for adding creative and new features to its consoles, and the Switch 2 continues that tradition. The new Joy-Cons are faster and more responsive than before, and they even include a mouse mode, which is great for navigating the eShop and playing games that need extra precision. Plus, Nintendo Switch Online now offers a “Nintendo Classics” subscription. This service gives players access to a huge library of retro games from consoles like the NES, SNES, Game Boy Advance, Sega Genesis, N64, and GameCube – with GameCube games available exclusively on this system.

Why Shouldn’t I Wait For A More Powerful Re-Edition? (Like The PS5 Pro)

Nintendo Doesn’t Usually Release Enhanced Versions Mid-Generation

It’s common for gamers to wait before buying a new console, hoping to jump in with a more powerful, updated version a few years later. Sony often does this too – the PS5, for example, received an upgraded model called the PS5 Pro in 2025, which people had been anticipating since the original console launched in November 2020.

Don’t hold out for a more powerful “Switch 2 Pro” – Nintendo rarely releases upgraded versions of consoles mid-cycle. While the original Switch had two different models, the OLED version improved the screen, and the Lite was a simpler, handheld-only option. If you’re thinking about getting a Switch 2, it’s best to buy one now. A more powerful version is unlikely, and the current model is already quite capable for a hybrid console like this.

Will It Be More Expensive Later?

Most Likely, Especially Since The PS5 And The Xbox Series X/S Already Had Price Increases

Gaming is becoming increasingly expensive. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X have both seen price increases since they first came out, and currently cost around $650. Experts are worried that the next versions of these consoles – the PlayStation 6 and the next Xbox – could cost as much as $1000 if the price of making computer hardware doesn’t decrease by the 2030s.

Nintendo rarely raises the price of its consoles mid-generation. They typically either keep prices steady or release more affordable, simpler versions, like the Switch Lite. While a price increase for the Switch 2 isn’t expected soon, the future is uncertain. If you’re planning to buy one and can afford it, it’s best to do so quickly, as the price could potentially go up within the next year or so.

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2026-04-19 01:41