Eight years following the initial release of the Nintendo Switch, an early review of the Switch 2 has been limited due to Nintendo’s decision to withhold unrestricted access to its hardware. The company cited a “day-one update” for the system software and the inclusion of launch titles that may complicate pre-release assessments.
This situation means a comprehensive review of the Switch 2 will not be available until consumers have had a chance to use the device. While this is not ideal for potential buyers eager for information ahead of the launch, we aim to share our impressions shortly after the release date.
Despite the limitations on review access, we had the opportunity to experience an extended hands-on session with the final Switch 2 hardware during a recent daylong preview event hosted by Nintendo. This event offered our first glimpse at the console’s interface, menu settings, and features such as GameChat, although evaluation in a controlled setting posed its own challenges.
While our brief interaction with the Switch 2 hardware did not allow for a full review, we uncovered several noteworthy features worth highlighting.
GameChat Features Automatic Captioning
One of the standout accessibility features of the Switch 2 is its ability to generate real-time captions during GameChat sessions. These captions appear in a dedicated box alongside the gameplay, facilitating easier communication among players. During our tests, the system demonstrated impressive speed and accuracy, managing to keep up with multiple speakers simultaneously.
This feature is particularly beneficial for players with hearing impairments, but it also serves to reduce confusion in lively GameChat environments and allows players to quickly recall previous comments from friends.
Text Messages Can Be Converted to Speech
The GameChat feature also includes an intriguing option that allows players to type messages on-screen, which are then vocalized in a slightly robotic voice for other participants. This could prove valuable in situations where players need to maintain silence while still conveying important information.
Head-Tracking Technology in the Camera
During GameChat, the connected camera can focus solely on the player’s face, framing it in a circular view that adapts as they move. However, there is a slight lag in tracking responsiveness if head movements are too swift.
In local multiplayer settings, such as Mario Kart World, a similar face display is available, but it lacks tracking capabilities, which may lead to players falling out of frame if they shift positions.
Keen Angle Detection for the Kickstand
A delightful feature discovered during a Switch 2 Welcome Tour mini-game involves the console’s ability to recognize the angle of its kickstand. The game encourages players to position the kickstand at specific angles, an indication of built-in sensors within the hardware. Although the system takes a moment to register the angle, it cannot be adjusted rapidly during gameplay.
Mouse Mode Enhances Navigation
On our exploration, we found a hidden feature that activates a mouse pointer when a finger passes over a sensor on the Joy-Con. This allows users to navigate the system menu with ease, offering a more efficient alternative to joystick controls.
Mouse mode also enables zooming into specific areas of the screen with a double-click, catering to those with visual impairments or those positioned at a distance from the display.
Mouse Sensitivity Adjustments Available
The system settings allow users to modify the sensitivity of the mouse feature across three levels: low, medium, and high. While not as fine-tuned as computer mouse DPI settings, this adjustment provides a useful alternative for varied settings. Our brief tests indicated that high sensitivity worked well on small surfaces, whereas low sensitivity aided in precision tasks during gameplay.
Enhanced Controller Locator Feature
If a Joy-Con goes missing, players can activate a sound alert from the controller using a new menu option on the Switch 2. This feature utilizes the improved HD Rumble 2 motor to help locate the lost controller. We confirmed that this capability extends to the new Pro Controller 2, although we could not verify functionality with original Switch controllers synced to the Switch 2.
Security PIN for System Access
The Switch 2 introduces a security feature requiring a unique PIN to access the system after sleep mode. This is particularly advantageous for parents needing to restrict access to their children, thus enhancing the overall security of the device.
Battery Charging Limitations to Prolong Life
A new option allows the Switch 2 to halt charging upon reaching 90 percent battery capacity, a feature aimed at extending the longevity of the device’s internal battery. While common on many modern devices, this implementation marks a notable addition for Nintendo, though it currently offers no further customization beyond the 90 percent limit.
Menu Text Size Customization
Users can now select a “MAXIMUM” text size for easier visibility, along with options for bold and high-contrast text to improve legibility. There is also a setting to decrease text size below the default option, catering to various user preferences.
Customizable Button Functionality
A new system-level option allows players to swap the functionality of the A and B buttons. This adjustment enables the B button to serve as the “confirm” action and the A button to represent “cancel,” offering a familiar layout for those accustomed to Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam Deck controller configurations.
