Hands-On with the Nintendo Switch 2: Enhanced Size, Speed, and New Mouse Controls

The Nintendo Switch 2 brought a sense of familiarity but was also refreshingly different at an experience event in New York. I was thrilled to be among the first to try out this successor to Nintendo’s most successful console. The excitement largely stemmed from the games on offer, though, rather than the device itself.

Make no mistake, the Switch 2 is impressive. However, at $450, its appeal will significantly depend on the games from Nintendo and other developers that choose the platform for their titles.

The Switch 2 is certainly a sequel, but it’s more of an evolution of Nintendo’s gaming philosophy. The brief time I spent playing early titles only heightened my anticipation to dive deeper into this device. Better start that savings fund!

### Nintendo Switch 2 Hardware

The first thing you notice about the Switch 2 is its slick black matte finish on both the Joy-Con 2 controllers and the system itself. Weighing in at 1.18 pounds with the Joy-Con 2 attached, it is slightly heftier than the original Switch but boasts a larger 7.9-inch display that makes the added weight worthwhile. For perspective, it’s lighter than heavyweights like the Steam Deck OLED, which comes in at 1.41 pounds.

The predominantly black design feels a bit unexpected, especially since Nintendo usually embraces vibrant colors. Even the GameCube had options like indigo and orange along with black. But hey, back then, I opted for the black one myself, so I’m sure I’ll warm up to this! Plus, it’s possible we’ll see color variants down the line.

The Joy-Cons detach with the press of a button on each side. I didn’t play around much with reinstalling them (most systems were set up out of sight for demos), but my initial impression was that once clicked in, it felt secure. I wouldn’t intentionally test the limits by wiggling them out, but there’s no concern about them coming off unintentionally.

These longer controllers are actually more comfortable than their predecessors, fitting better in my hands. Though they’re still on the slim side, the added length makes a noticeable improvement.

The control sticks are still the potentiometer style found in the original models. During a press conference, developers explained that the Joy-Con 2 sticks underwent a total redesign for more fluid and extensive movements. However, there’s no mention of hall effect sensors. My hands-on time was too brief to fully appreciate the changes, but first impressions were nothing groundbreaking.

Another upgrade is the kickstand, which has significantly improved over the tiny, lackluster version on the original Switch. The Switch 2’s stand is wide, steady, and adjusts to any angle—a handy feature for those flights when you want to game on the go.

The real game-changer, though, hits home once you start playing—the screen. While it’s not OLED, the new LCD panel elevates to a 1920 x 1080 resolution with a 120 Hz variable refresh rate and HDR10 support, making games like Mario Kart World absolutely shine. In the short time I had with it, I didn’t miss OLED, though I’m eager to test more games directly on the system since most demos were on TV screens.

As for the dock, I only glimpsed it once, featuring a Nintendo Switch 2 camera. It’s more substantial, accommodating cooling fans, but functions similarly to its predecessor.

### Nintendo Switch 2 Specs

Here’s a quick spec check: at the heart is a custom Nvidia processor supporting DLSS and hardware ray tracing, a 7.9-inch touch screen rocking 1920 x 1080p resolution, and a 120 Hz variable refresh rate, with HDR10. Storage comes in at 256GB, expandable via microSD Express up to 2TB. Connectivity covers Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, and an Ethernet port on the dock. You’ll find dual USB-C ports and a 3.5 mm jack on the console and USB 2.0 on the dock. Battery life is pegged between 2 and 6.5 hours, depending on use, priced at $449.99, or $499.99 if bundled with Mario Kart World, and set to release on June 5, 2025.

### Mouse Controls

Nintendo’s ventures into PC gaming influences are evident with the addition of mouse-like controls using the Joy-Con 2s. Equipped with sensors, accelerometers, and gyroscopes, these controllers effectively double up as mice, something I was keen to test at the showcase.

Impressions were mixed. In Metroid Prime 4 Beyond, I found precision shooting with Samus’s cannon much easier compared to traditional controls. However, extended use led to discomfort, leading me to revert back to the standard controls.

Civilization VII, on the other hand, was seamless. Its pace is well-suited to mouse control, feeling much like its PC ancestor. It even operated with a single Joy-Con, though I wished for more mappable actions.

The standout was Drag x Drive—a scenario where both Joy-Cons are used like wheels in this hybrid of Rocket League and wheelchair basketball. It’s inventive, with strategic depth including jumping and speed boosts. Yet, I couldn’t help pondering if traditional controls would be more practical.

Nintendo’s Pro controller offered better ergonomics, and I’m curious how CD Projekt Red will implement mouse controls in Cyberpunk 2077.

Playing on a couch, as most do with consoles, presents its own challenges for such controls. I tested makeshift surfaces like my pants, but it’s not sustainable for prolonged gaming. Proper space and surface, as provided at Nintendo’s event, would be needed for this feature to take off.

### Resolution Options and Quality Modes

Switch 2 breaks into enthusiast territory with a range of resolution options. It can output 4K at 60 fps docked or reach 120 Hz at 1080p or 1440p. The handheld display itself supports up to 1080p at 120 fps, dramatically enhancing the experience whether docked or in handheld mode.

In terms of game settings, choices like performance modes add a layer of customization. Metroid Prime 4 Beyond showcased this, affirming Switch 2’s performance capabilities with docked 1080p at 120 fps—a staggering accomplishment for a console.

Conversely, Civilization VII’s developers aim for 1080p at 60 fps, perfectly suitable given the game’s nature.

### Pro Controller and Nintendo Camera

Nintendo’s latest hardware offerings include a $79.99 Pro Controller and an intriguing $49.99 camera.

Much like previous iterations, the Pro Controller’s buttons are satisfyingly clickern It’s customizable, with mappable rear buttons, and includes a ‘C’ button for Game Chat. The camera, doubling as a video chat device, can also be subbed in when game inclusivity requires, albeit with rough green screen effects.

As for games, the usual suspects—Mario Kart World and its Knockout Tour—led the charge. Mario Kart never disappoints, this time pushing the stakes with a 25-player showdown. The expansive maps and varied environments kept the adrenaline pumping. Despite no disclosure, I’d estimate we hit around 90 fps.

Cyberpunk 2077 was a slight disappointment technically but hopeful signs exist given its early development stage. Meanwhile, Donkey Kong Bananza arrived to wow players with environmental interactions, seemingly aimed at completionists.

Metroid Prime 4 Beyond delivered expected thrills, fleixible controls, and ultimate satisfaction. Equally captivating was Drag x Drive, hinting at creative novelties inspired for the PC platform.

The GameCube’s re-mastering was nostalgically delightful, with beloved classics like Soul Calibur II and F-Zero GX needing Nintendo Switch Online for access.

Among the titles on display, Civilization VII, Hades 2, Hogwarts Legacy, and Kirby additions stood tall. Nintendo continues expanding horizons while preserving nostalgia—a balance they’ve always excelled at maintaining.