On April 2, Nintendo announced the trailer for the long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 gaming console. Nintendo’s supporters were thrilled to see the Switch 2, believing it would break the gaming world. Almost every mark was hit in the trailer to make this console worth the wait. Fans are even more hyped with the official release date being confirmed as June 5. However, days after the trailer was released, the price for the console, as well as games, was published— and it is safe to say Nintendo received much backlash due to the hefty price. So the real question is: Is the Switch 2 worth the wait? Let’s look at this console’s pros and cons to determine the answer!
The Switch 2 possesses a 7.9-inch display with 1080p screen (double the original Switch’s pixel resolution), support for 120 FPS and 4K, and a more flexible stand, allowing for smoother gameplay and a more enjoyable experience. The SL and SR buttons, and the control sticks on each Joy-Con, have increased in size, allowing for more comfort in handheld mode. The Joy-Cons can also now function as a mouse, allowing for more diverse ways to play games. The enhanced audio comes with 3D audio, allowing one to hear as if they were there themselves, and noise cancellation, allowing for concise and clear communication. Lastly, the Switch 2 can support up to 256 GB of game storage—eight times that of the original console!
However, the Switch 2 received much backlash due to the price, starting at $450, but with the inclusion of Mario Kart World, $500. This is the most expensive console promoted by Nintendo and is angering many people because of that factor.
But even more than the price of the console itself, people have been angered by the significant increase in cost of the Switch 2 games, which have increased by more than 30%, with physical and digital copies going from $20-$60 to $80-$90. In addition, on April 2, President Donald Trump declared counter-tariffs on many foreign countries, including Vietnam. Nintendo is a Japanese franchise, but it produces its consoles in Vietnam, so the price of the Switch 2 may exceed $500 for Americans. Most people buy Switches because it is an enjoyable and affordable experience, but the price of the new gen console contradicts that.
While the Switch 2 boasts many upgrades that make the gaming experience enjoyable, its price tag prevents many people from purchasing it. Nintendo will most likely announce many changes as we approach the console release date. Ultimately, the value of the Switch 2 will depend on personal preferences and willingness to invest in the latest gaming technology.