Shuhei Yoshida Calls Nintendo Switch 2 Direct ‘Underwhelming’ Despite FromSoftware Highlight

Summary

  • Former PlayStation exec says Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was underwhelming, except for FromSoftware game.
  • Yoshida praises new social features but criticizes lack of new game announcements for Switch 2.
  • Nintendo Switch 2 launch marred by leaks, but remains to be seen if it can succeed as a follow-up.

Previously with Sony, Shuhei Yoshida expressed his feelings about the Nintendo Switch 2 presentation, stating it seemed “not as exciting” or “less impressive.” He was part of the audience exceeding one million viewers who watched the complete unveiling of the Nintendo Switch 2 live.

On April 2nd, the first comprehensive unveiling of the Nintendo Switch 2 took place, revealing details about the console itself, the previously enigmatic C button on the Nintendo Switch 2, and several games destined for the new platform. Many leaks proved accurate, and as is often the case with Nintendo, there were numerous distinctive and intriguing advancements incorporated into the device that no other system can boast. Nevertheless, not everyone was thoroughly convinced by the detailed presentation.

As a dedicated gamer myself, I tuned in live to the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct alongside MinnMax’s YouTube channel, and let me tell you, it was a rollercoaster ride! The event seemed rather underwhelming until the unveiling of “The Duskbloods” from the brilliant minds at FromSoftware. Frankly, I was hoping for more fresh game announcements, but found myself disappointed as many of the games hyped up for the system were just remakes or ports.

Even the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2’s price point left me scratching my head a bit. $450 seems steep, though I guess everything comes with a premium these days. However, even that came with a catch; I was taken aback to learn that the Switch 2 will cost 50,000 yen in Japan, which translates to approximately $345 at the time of writing.

Intriguingly, it seems that people might want to consider purchasing the console directly from Japan, but the revelation of region locking on the Japan-version Nintendo Switch 2 could pose a problem.

Yoshida’s Thoughts on the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct Weren’t All Negative

Yoshida found certain aspects of the unveiling appealing, particularly the intriguing new social features on the Switch 2. He specifically appreciated the improved camera capabilities and the option to watch other players’ gameplay and video streams during gameplay. Overall, he rated the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation a 7 out of 10, but would have given it a 6 if not for the exciting reveal from FromSoftware.

It appears that the Nintendo Switch 2 might not have a large number of brand new exclusive games at launch, possibly because Nintendo is still providing support for the original Switch. If Nintendo hadn’t experienced so many leaks before the reveal, the presentation about the Nintendo Switch 2 would likely have been more thrilling. Unfortunately, almost everything about the console, such as its specifications, C button, and mouse functionality of the Joy-Con controllers, was revealed early due to these leaks. It remains to be seen if the Nintendo Switch 2 can establish itself effectively as the successor to one of the most successful video game consoles in history.

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2025-04-04 01:54