Best New Features On The Nintendo Switch 2, Ranked

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Summary

  • Backwards compatibility offers a wide game library, including GameCube games.
  • Faster eShop on Switch 2 improves browsing experience for players.
  • The Switch 2 is more powerful, with improved sound quality and a sleek design.

The new Nintendo Switch 2, while maintaining a likeness to its predecessor, offers a unique blend of familiarity and novelty. This strategy mirrors Microsoft’s successful transition from Xbox One to Xbox Series X and S. It ensures an easy, hassle-free upgrade experience for users, preventing them from getting disoriented in the new interface.

Though they share resemblances, the Nintendo Switch 2 seems to represent a substantial improvement, boasting sufficient updates to solidify its position as a next-gen Nintendo console. Let’s explore some of the top new features and advancements in the Nintendo Switch 2.

1. Backwards Compatibility

Play Switch And GameCube Games

Ensuring backward compatibility is crucial for fans transitioning from the initial Nintendo Switch generation to the newer hardware. This feature guarantees that new Switch 2 owners can access a vast collection of games, including titles like The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario Galaxy, and the Xenoblade series, among others.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but notice that numerous games not yet upgraded for the Switch 2 seem to boast improved visuals and smoother gameplay thanks to the larger screen and enhanced refresh rate. However, there are a handful of original Switch titles experiencing compatibility issues, but Nintendo is diligently working on resolving these and providing fixes. Moreover, one unique perk exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 is access to classic GameCube games for those who subscribe to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack.

2. The Faster eShop

You Can Finally Browse The Nintendo eShop With Ease

Among the common criticisms directed towards Nintendo’s eShop is that it has been notoriously slow to navigate since the launch of the 3DS, leading to a cumbersome and frustrating user experience. However, recent improvements have made browsing the shop, watching trailers, and viewing screenshots much smoother and more convenient.

Unintentionally exiting a store on the initial Nintendo Switch was painfully slow since players had to reload the eShop entirely. Fortunately, that issue has been addressed in the Switch 2, making it simpler and smoother to find your next game purchase.

3. Use The Joy-Cons As A Mouse

Provides A Great Option For First-Person Shooters Or Point-And-Click Adventures

If you’re a Switch 2 player who appreciates linking your console to a monitor and utilizing mouse-like control for browsing the eShop or gaming, you’ll be glad to know that the Switch 2 offers this functionality. To use it, simply detach one of the magnetic Joy-Cons and angle it so your index finger rests on the L or R button. This will display a cursor on the screen, enabling you to navigate effortlessly to your home screen and the eShop with mouse-like controls.

Playing point-and-click games on the system would indeed be ideal at the moment, but it’s worth noting that some potential Switch 2 titles are designed with mouse controls. For instance, games like Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Metroid Prime 4, Civilization 7, and others incorporate this feature.

4. GameChat

Chat With Your Friends On The Switch 2

On the Switch 2 console, players can chat with their friends simply by pressing the small C button. Until March 2026, Nintendo’s GameChat service is available for free to all users. However, after this date, a subscription to the Nintendo Switch Online Membership will be necessary to continue using it.

GameChat supports simultaneous conversations among as many as twelve individuals, while up to four users can concurrently display their game screens. By hitting the ‘C’ key following a send or receive invitation, players can engage in chats even without actively playing games.

5. Better Sound Quality

Improved Audio On Handheld Mode And The TV

The first Nintendo Switch had acceptable sound in handheld play, but it wasn’t as good as portable computers such as the Steam Deck. However, the upcoming Switch 2 promises exceptional audio quality in handheld mode, significantly improving the arcade-style feel of games like Mario Kart World, and heightening the atmospheres of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, while also showcasing the impressive orchestral scores of Xenoblade Chronicles.

In its handheld setting, the Switch 2 delivers a Virtual Surround Experience, while also offering Virtual Surround Sound for games that are designed with 5.1-channel surround sound in mind when used with headphones. Furthermore, it offers 5.1-channel Linear PCM, enabling it to play high-quality, uncompressed surround sound audio in sync with compatible systems.

6. More Powerful

Significantly Outperforms The Switch

After the Wii outperformed both the PS3 and Xbox 360 in sales, Nintendo shifted its focus away from competing for power parity with other companies. Instead, they devoted their efforts towards creating social and family-friendly games like “Wii Sports,” which appealed to a more casual audience. Concurrently, they continued to satisfy their dedicated fanbase with releases such as “The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword,” “Mario Kart Wii,” and “New Super Mario Bros. Wii.” This strategy hasn’t deviated much even in the era of the Switch 2, which is less powerful than its contemporaries, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. However, according to Nvidia, the Switch 2 features a custom processor that is ten times more potent compared to the original Switch.

Regarding its power, the Switch 2 is similar to the Steam Deck and can run games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Final Fantasy 7 Remake with some slight adjustments. While the Steam Deck is a portable PC providing more customization and control than a console, the Switch 2 has unique advantages. When connected to a TV, it can display games in 4K resolution and supports High Dynamic Range (HDR). In handheld mode, it delivers 1080p at an impressive 120Hz. Although the Switch 2 uses Nvidia’s DLSS AI upscaling for its 4K performance, this level of output is remarkable for a handheld gaming console primarily designed for portable use.

7. Design Quality And Size

Bigger And Sleeker Design

It might seem that the Switch 2 is just an enlarged version of the initial Switch, but upon closer inspection, it boasts a more comfortable grip and a sleeker, contemporary design reminiscent of today’s tablets. The redesigned Joy-Con 2 controllers harmoniously integrate with the screen and overall aesthetics, enhancing its visual appeal significantly. Factors such as improved ergonomics, modern design, and seamless controller integration contribute to the enhanced feel and look of the Switch 2.

  • The screen is 7.9 inches.
  • Larger magnetic Joy-Cons that double up as a mouse.
  • A wider backstand, making it sturdier and adjustable when used as a tabletop screen for single-player and multiplayer games.
  • Rich sound and improved volume.

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2025-06-07 17:14