The original Switch was huge when it launched in 2017. Handheld or docked, solo or multiplayer, it struck a balance that felt like a hybrid between Nintendo’s best handhelds and consoles. After seven years of sequels, ports and graphical miracles squeezed from aging hardware, the arrival of theNintendo Switch 2finally signals a leap forward for Nintendo’s hybrid vision. We now have a clearer picture of what the new system brings (after beingteased earlier this year), thanks to the recentNintendo Directand the press releases that followed. From hardware upgrades to long-requested quality-of-life features, this is more than just a refresh; it’s a full-on evolution designed to keep pace with modern expectations.
8 Games for the Nintendo Switch 2 We’re Most Excited For
New console, new hype. These games already have us counting the days until the Switch 2 finally launches.
While Nintendo still plays some things close to the chest, the confirmed features already paint a promising future. Better tech under the hood, modern online improvements and smart design choices are all in the mix. The Switch 2 might not chase the raw power of Sony and Microsoft, but it’s making serious strides where it counts. Fans have waited years for updates to the Joy-Con quality, voice chat and even the dock, and now they’re almost here. Some additions feel overdue, others feel inventive, but they all point to the same thing: a Nintendo system that finally feels like it was built for more modern times.
8Stronger Graphical Capabilities
It’s Finally Got the Horsepower of Epona
The Switch 2 is a massive leap forward in visual performance. Powered by a custom NVIDIA chip and DLSS technology, early footage shows smoother frame rates (120FPS!), sharper textures and lighting effects that wouldn’t have been possible on the original system. Games like the upcoming Elden Ring port and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond look dramatically more detailed, bringing the hybrid console experience closer to what players expect on more powerful systems.
NVIDIA Confirms DLSS and Ray Tracing for Nintendo Switch 2
NVIDIA is providing a custom GPU chip for the Switch 2 promising 10x the graphical prowess of the original Switch.
This isn’t just about catching up, though. Nintendo is focusing on delivering a consistent experience across handheld and docked play, and the Switch 2’s upgraded internals make that possible without sacrifices. Developers now have the breathing room to build richer, more ambitious worlds without worrying about melting the console. The original Switch pulled off magic with limited power and creative design. This one finally has the real muscle to back it up, includinga spectacular-looking Mario Kart World.
7Improved Joy-Con
Drift Away into Something Higher Quality
Joy-Con drift was one of the biggest and most annoying flaws of the original Switch. Even with software fixes and repair programs, players were often stuck wrestling with unresponsive or wandering analog sticks. The Switch 2 finally puts that frustration in the past. With redesigned internals, magnetic rails and hall effect sticks that eliminate physical contact wear, the new Joy-Con seems to be built to last. They appear more durable and engineered to avoid the issue entirely.
Nintendo didn’t stop at fixing drift. The updated Joy-Con is more ergonomic, with a smoother grip and stronger build that feels less toy-like. Bluetooth support while detached also gives them more freedom in multiplayer setups. After years of drift complaints and hardware tweaks, it’s a relief to see Nintendo deliver a sturdier Joy-Con.
6Mouse Controls on the Joy-Con
Your Joy-Con Just Learned a PC Trick
One of the more unexpected additions to the Switch 2 is built-in mouse support via Joy-Con. Using a small touch sensor and motion control fusion, players can now point, click and scroll with surprising precision. It’s a feature that feels tailor-made for strategy games, creative apps and navigating menus with more control than a joystick can offer. Nintendo has even shown off RTS titles and system settings using this function, hinting at broader use down the line.
Mouse functionality also opens the door for ports that were previously awkward on the console. Games like first-person shooters or point-and-click adventures can now feel more natural without needing a touchscreen. It won’t replace a mouse and keyboard setup entirely, but for a handheld system, it’s a clever step forward. It’s another example of Nintendo doing something weird that might just work.
5Built-in Chat Function and Built-in Microphone
It Only Took Over a Decade
Voice chat on the original Switch was famously clunky, requiring a smartphone app and a mess of cables just to talk with friends. Switch 2 finally solves that with a built-in microphone and system-level voice chat. No more juggling your phone or weird workarounds. Now players can chat directly through the console, bringing it in line with what other platforms have offered for years.
The new microphone isn’t just for multiplayer either. Nintendo has confirmed that it’ll be used for in-game voice commands, accessibility features and possibly even voice-to-text messaging. Combined with the upgraded online infrastructure, it makes the system feel far more current than previous consoles (withNintendo weighing in on the privacy risk of the camera accessory). After years of asking for basic communication tools, players are finally getting a native solution. It’slongoverdue, but still a welcome step in the right direction.
4Single Game Multiplayer
A DS Feature Revived
The Switch 2 introduces a feature fans have been wanting for years: local and online multiplayer using a single copy of a game (which recently had theirgame card sizes revealed). Instead of needing multiple cartridges or digital purchases, one player can host a session that others join with their own systems. It’s especially useful for households with more than one console or for friends who want to play together without everyone buying the same title.
This setup isn’t limited to just light party games either. Nintendo has shown the feature working with full co-op experiences, hinting at support across a wide range of genres. It lowers the barrier to multiplayer in a way that feels smart and accessible. For a company that’s often been cautious about sharing and ownership flexibility, this feels like a big shift. The Switch 2 makes it easier to play together and that’s a win for everyone. This was awesome on the Nintendo DS.
3Bigger Screen
Size DOES Matter
The Switch 2’s screen upgrade is more than just a small size increase. The new 8-inch OLED display offers more screen real estate with thinner bezels and richer colors that make everything pop. Games look sharper, brighter and more vibrant, especially in handheld mode where the display really gets to shine. It’s a predictable change, but one that dramatically improves how games feel in your hands.
The larger screen also gives UI designers more space to work with, making menus easier to navigate and split-screen multiplayer more comfortable. For portable players, it brings the experience closer to a high-end tablet or dedicated gaming handheld. It’s not a revolution, but it makes every session feel more premium. After using the larger display, the original model feels cramped by comparison. Maybe some games won’t require a magnifying glass to read the text anymore. We cannot wait toplay Elden Ring on this large, crisp display.
2GameCube Online
Retire Those Tiny Discs
Nintendo has finally embraced the GameCube era with the Switch 2’s online service, adding support for classic titles from the early 2000s. Huge titles like The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and SoulCalibur 2 are confirmed for the service, running with enhanced resolution, save states and optional online play. It’s a big win for fans who missed out the first time or just want to revisit a golden age without pulling out old hardware.
9 GameCube Games That Should Come to Nintendo Switch 2
A mix of first-party and third-party GameCube games should be available on Nintendo Switch 2’s app.
Multiplayer support is where this feature shines. SoulCalibur 2 now lets you challenge friends online and Nintendo has hinted at additional enhancements for select titles down the line. Wind Waker alone brings a massive adventure into modern hands and this service gives it a permanent home. GameCube has sometrueclassics and it’s about giving great games the spotlight they’ve always deserved. Some more online features haverecently been revealed by Nintendo.
1Switch 2 Dock
A Slightly More Rounded Dock (Literally)
The new Switch 2 dock has been reengineered to support 4K output, faster data transfer and even comes with an internal fan to keep things cool during heavy play sessions. For players used to the bare-bones plastic shell of the original, this upgrade is a major leap in function and design. It’s sleek, practical and finally gives the dock a meaningful role beyond being a stand.
One of the best additions is the built-in ethernet port, removing the need for adapters just to get a stable online connection. With Nintendo investing more into its online services, a faster and more stable docking experience makes perfect sense. The Switch 2 dock isn’t a visual spectacle of excellence, but it’s a smart, welcome update to a piece of the puzzle that used to be easy to overlook.
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Pokémon Legends: Z-A Announced for Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo Switch’s last big exclusives are exclusives no more. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A are coming to Nintendo Switch 2.
