Nintendo has opted not to offer early review units of the Switch 2 to the press. However, with the console’s launch already underway in regions such as Japan and Australia as of June 5, a timely delivery from Nintendo of America brought the final retail hardware directly to our headquarters.
Contained within this shipment are the hardware and software provided by Nintendo.
Included is a setup guide visible on the inside flap of the hardware packaging.
The packaging of the device emphasizes its ability to be used in tabletop mode, displayed in a side view.
As soon as we opened the Switch 2 box, we were greeted with a striking first impression.
This image showcases all the contents packaged within the box.
The limited timeframe of 14 hours from receiving the hardware to the midnight launch on the US East Coast poses challenges for conducting an in-depth review. Nonetheless, we present a visual documentation of the unboxing and initial setup to provide insight ahead of more detailed coverage set to follow.
As viewers enjoy the accompanying images, we encourage you to listen to the upbeat Switch 2 setup music, which we’ve included below:
Observing the rear side of the dock reveals that it has a thicker and more rounded design compared to its predecessor.
The back panel of the dock is designed to be fully removable, though caution is advised to not misplace it.
This image demonstrates how the Switch 2 protrudes slightly from the top of the standard dock.
The dock’s underside includes ventilation openings that give a glimpse of the inner circuitry.
This close-up view offers a look at the section where plugs connect to the dock.
The side view of the dock illustrates its output ports in detail.
Getting Started…
Upon powering on the Switch 2, the first thing displayed, after the Nintendo logo, is a brief animation explaining how to attach the new Joy-Cons, which come packaged separately. Following this, users are prompted to select their language, region, and time zone before connecting to the internet via Wi-Fi to download updates. The absence of an option to bypass this update raises questions about functionality without an internet connection.
The initial screen displayed clarifies how to connect the Joy-Cons.
Instructions detailing how to disconnect the Joy-Cons are provided in the setup guide.
The system transfer process begins here.
Some games will require that save files are deleted from the original console before they can be transferred.
The original Switch must be present during the direct transfer process.
The system transfer took approximately 30 minutes.
Following a brief update, the console provided further instructions on how to connect and detach the Joy-Cons. Next, accessing my Nintendo account was necessary to initiate the transfer of data from the original Switch. This procedure transfers account-related information and save data but requires non-physical games to be downloaded separately after the transfer.
Once I placed the original Switch in close proximity, I was informed that save files from certain games, like Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Pokémon: Let’s Go Pikachu, would be removed during the transfer. This measure is presumably an anti-cheating protocol, adding some level of anxiety to the procedure. Fortunately, my save files were ultimately preserved.
The Nintendo Switch 2 cartridges share a design that resembles the cartridges of the original Switch, fitting into the older model, but cannot be played on it, returning an error message instead.
While there are surface-level similarities in appearance, the differences between the new and original cartridges are primarily in color.
Continuing with the unveiling, the Switch 2 has carried forward the trend of having game boxes that allow for ample empty space inside.
The reversible cover of Mario Kart World showcases a stylish design.
Accessories are sold separately, maintaining the philosophy from prior Switch models.
Attaching the Joy-Con to the Switch 2 wheel is seamless, allowing for quick detachment without requiring the use of the release button.
The larger shoulder buttons on the Switch 2 wheel are a notable improvement.
Interestingly, the wireless transfer process does not move saved screenshots and gameplay videos from the original Switch. Users must manually transfer these files via microSD card; a surprising limitation since the Switch 2 is said to support MicroSD Express cards primarily.
A Shift in Size
A comparison illustrates the Switch 2 (top) alongside a Game Boy Advance SP (left) and the original Game Boy (right), highlighting the evolution of handheld gaming devices.
When it comes to sizes, Switch 2 boxes maintain a trend of being largely empty inside.
Contrasting the new system with the devices of yesteryear emphasizes the progress made in portable gaming technology.
The retail Switch 2 unit has a significant feel in hand, while remaining lighter and thinner than variations such as the Steam Deck, suggesting potential for comfortable long-term usage.
