Initial Stuff Verdict

Builds on the original Switch in all the right places, adds features you’d only get from Nintendo, and has a convincing launch line-up. The Switch 2 is shaping up to be a star hybrid handheld.

Pros

Larger and much improved display compared to Switch 1

Seamless mouse controls

Strong line-up of first-party and third-party games for launch window

Cons

Expensive games (including having to pay for a welcome demo)

Still no analogue triggers

Not the most ergonomic design for a mouse

Introduction

It’s there in the name. Or rather, the number. Meet Nintendo’s first proper console sequel. The Switch 2 both looks and feels like one: the iterative design and familiar feature set are very much like an upgrade of what came before, rather than an entirely new generation. But taken as a whole, it finally feels like the dream Nintendo console I always wanted.

My four hours of trying out the new console in its various configurations at London’s ExCel Centre showed that while Nintendo might now be spouting similar buzzwords to Sony and Microsoft like 4K, HDR and variable refresh rate, the firm hasn’t lost an ounce of charm or its sense of fun in the process.