Introduction
The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here, and it's already shaking up the gaming industry. As the highly anticipated successor to the original Nintendo Switch, the Switch 2 delivers major upgrades in performance, visuals, and user experience. In this in-depth Nintendo Switch 2 review, we explore the hardware enhancements, gameplay improvements, and the best Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive games available right now.
Whether you're a long-time Nintendo fan or a newcomer looking for the best handheld gaming console, this guide will help you decide if the Switch 2 is worth the hype.
Nintendo Switch 2: Key Features & Specs
The Nintendo Switch 2 offers significant improvements over its predecessor. Here are the standout features:
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OLED+ Display (8.2") – A vibrant, high-contrast screen with improved brightness and resolution (1080p handheld, 4K docked).
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Custom Nvidia Tegra X2 Chipset – Faster load times and smoother gameplay with next-gen processing power.
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Improved Battery Life – Up to 10 hours on a full charge.
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Backward Compatibility – Supports most Nintendo Switch games and accessories.
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New Joy-Con 2.0 – More ergonomic and less prone to drift.
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Expanded Internal Storage – 256GB built-in with microSD expansion.
With upgraded hardware, Switch 2 bridges the gap between handheld and home console gaming like never before.
Performance & Gameplay
The Nintendo Switch 2’s performance is its biggest leap forward. Load times are drastically reduced thanks to its SSD-like storage system. Frame rates are consistently smooth across most titles, even when played in handheld mode. The system also supports ray tracing in select games, giving a new level of visual polish.
When docked, games run at 4K with improved textures and effects, making the Switch 2 feel closer to a PS5 or Xbox Series X experience while maintaining the hybrid portability Nintendo is known for.
Best Nintendo Switch 2 Games (So Far)
Mario Kart World
Mario Kart World takes full advantage of the Nintendo Switch 2’s upgraded power to deliver the most dynamic, competitive, and visually dazzling entry in the series. With 4K resolution docked and a flawless 60fps even in handheld mode, this racer feels silky smooth and more intense than ever. The addition of real-time weather effects, track deformation, and live global tournaments creates a constantly evolving challenge. New characters, expanded kart customisation, and motion-enhanced controls make every race feel fresh. Whether you're a long-time Mario Kart fan or jumping in for the first time, Mario Kart World is a masterclass in next-gen arcade racing, and it’s only possible on Switch 2.
Donkey Kong Bonanza
Donkey Kong Bonanza is a triumphant return for the king of jungle platformers, rebuilt from the ground up to showcase the raw power of the Nintendo Switch 2. With jaw-dropping 4K visuals, fluid animations, and sprawling multi-path levels, it’s the most cinematic and ambitious Donkey Kong adventure to date. The new co-op mechanics allow players to tag-team puzzles and battles with seamless transitions, while motion-enhanced controls bring a new layer of interactivity to vine-swinging and barrel-hopping. Every environment feels alive thanks to dynamic lighting and reactive AI enemies, making Bonanza a must-play for platforming fans and a shining example of what Switch 2 can do.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tear of the Kingdom Remastered
Both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Remastered are transformed on Nintendo Switch 2, taking full advantage of the console’s upgraded GPU and 4K output. The worlds of Hyrule now burst with ultra-sharp textures, dynamic lighting, and fluid 60fps performance, making exploration feel breathtakingly smooth. Load times are nearly instant, while enhanced physics and weather systems bring a new level of realism. These aren’t just ports, they’re polished, immersive masterpieces that finally run the way they were always meant to.
Cyberpunk 2077
CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077 was once thought to be too ambitious for portable consoles, but the Nintendo Switch 2 proves otherwise. Running at a stable 60fps in handheld mode with dynamic 4K resolution when docked, the Switch 2 version offers a surprisingly smooth, immersive experience that rivals mid-tier gaming PCs. Thanks to the upgraded Tegra X2 chipset, load times are short, textures are crisp, and Night City finally feels alive on the go. With full support for the Phantom Liberty expansion and motion-enhanced Joy-Con controls, this is easily the best portable version of Cyberpunk 2077 to date, and a stunning demonstration of just how far handheld gaming has come.
Super Mario Party Jamboree
Super Mario Party Jamboree explodes onto the Nintendo Switch 2 with a party experience that’s louder, faster, and more unpredictable than anything the series has offered before. Featuring over 120 mini-games, 7 sprawling boards, and online multiplayer that finally feels seamless, Jamboree leverages the Switch 2’s power to deliver quick load times, crisp 4K visuals, and buttery-smooth performance. Joy-Con 2.0 motion enhancements make every dance-off, duel, and dice roll feel more tactile and satisfying. Whether you’re teaming up or trash-talking friends and family, this party never stops, and it's never looked or played better than it does on Switch 2.
Why You Should Buy the Nintendo Switch 2
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It's the best handheld gaming console currently available.
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Massive library of Nintendo exclusives and backward compatibility.
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Improved graphics and processing make it a serious contender in the next-gen race.
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Perfect for casual gamers, families, and hardcore fans alike.
Nintendo Switch 2 vs Steam Deck vs PS5
If you’re deciding between the Switch 2, Steam Deck, or PlayStation 5, here’s the quick verdict:
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Switch 2 wins on portability, exclusive games, and battery life.
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Steam Deck is best for PC gamers who want mobile access to their library.
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PS5 dominates in power and cinematic gaming
Final Verdict: Is the Nintendo Switch 2 Worth It?
Absolutely. With major improvements in hardware and a strong line-up of exclusive titles, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers an exceptional hybrid gaming experience. Whether you're upgrading from the original Switch or diving into Nintendo for the first time, this console is well worth your investment.
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