I've already tried the Nintendo Switch 2: is it worth buying or is it better to wait?

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I've already tried the Nintendo Switch 2: is it worth buying or is it better to wait?

I've already tried the Nintendo Switch 2: is it worth buying or is it better to wait?

Nintendo is burning up the calendar waiting to release its new Switch 2 in stores, which will be available to users starting June 5th at a price of 470 euros. With this machine, the Japanese brand hopes to repeat the commercial success of its first hybrid, of which more than 152 million units have been sold to date. That's incredible; more than any other system of its kind has managed to achieve, at least since the days of the PlayStation 2.

At ABC, we've had the opportunity to spend a few hours testing the next flagship from the 'big N'. And we're clear: the Switch 2 is a good console that improves on its predecessor in every way. Absolutely everything. It's better built and noticeably more powerful, as it couldn't be otherwise. Now, leaving aside this improvement in everything from before, the gaming experience leaves the same taste in your mouth as the original Switch. At no point do you get the feeling you're messing around with a truly unique product or even a next-generation console.

A better, stronger body

In terms of ergonomics and solidity , the Switch 2 far surpasses the original hybrid. It's much more durable and compact, something aided by the inclusion of magnetic Joy-Cons that replace the rail system of the original hybrid. It's comfortable in the hands, despite weighing over half a kilogram, and it feels like a more premium and aesthetically pleasing product.

Image of 'Yakuza 0', one of the great exponents that will be released with the console ABC

The screen it comes with is larger, and it shows, measuring 7.9 inches. The image it offers is good, with vivid colors and sharpness; although it would probably be better if the panel were OLED instead of LCD. All in all, the gaming experience the machine offers is good, and we don't think this feature will bother most users who purchase it.

Screen aside, the Switch 2 is much better built than its predecessor. But that's it. The feeling you get with it in your hands is practically the same as with the classic device: everything works the same and everything looks the same. Even the Joy-Con buttons have the same layout, with some minor changes.

The system looks more like a 'Pro' version, very 'Pro', that is, than a next-generation console .

During our testing, we had the chance to play some of the big video games Nintendo will be supporting Switch 2 with in its first few days of life. The highlight on launch day will be Mario Kart World , which is incredibly fun and comes with a huge cast of characters. The tracks are long and varied, with many on-screen elements. If you like the series, don't hesitate; you'll love this new version of racing. Fun and competitions guaranteed.

'Mario Kart World' ABC

However, of all the games we tried, our favorite was undoubtedly Donkey Kong Bananza , which stands out for many reasons. First, it's how colorful it is; but above all, it's how carefully designed it is. The most famous gorilla in video games can do whatever he wants with the environment: climb, smash walls, make holes in the ground, or tear out chunks of rock to attack his enemies. The game is as original as it is fun, or in other words: it's pure Nintendo.

We also enjoyed ' Drag x Drive ,' a game in which users compete in wheelchair basketball matches that we found very original and fun. The game makes use of one of the main new features of the Switch 2's Joy-Con, which can be used like a computer mouse by sliding them across a surface like a table or even across your thighs. Hopefully, developers will create more games that take advantage of this feature and make it not just a mere anecdote.

In 'Drag x Drive' the user slides the Joy-Con on a surface to move the wheelchair ABC

We've also had the opportunity to test some of the most technically demanding video games that will be released with the Switch 2. This group includes Cyberpunk 2077 , which runs perfectly on the new hybrid. No complaints there. And the same goes for other titles we're really looking forward to playing at launch, such as the new version of Yakuza 0 , which now comes with Spanish subtitles.

The truth is, there are no complaints here; the games run smoothly on the machine and look good, both when played in handheld mode and when connected to a TV. If the original Switch lacked many major launch games due to power issues, it doesn't seem like that problem will affect its successor, at least not during its first few years. Everything indicates that third-party developers are very interested in creating titles that are compatible with Nintendo's new machine.

Is the Switch 2 worth buying right out of the box?

Without a doubt, its power and the ability to play titles like Elden Ring or Final Fantasy VII Remake are one of the console's greatest strengths. This is what most differentiates it from the original Switch and a strong point in favor of purchasing the launch machine. That is, as long as the user doesn't already have a PlayStation 4 or 5, or an Xbox One or Series X connected to their living room TV, machines that have long been compatible with many of the major video games that will be coming to the new hybrid during its first few months of life.

Original Switch owners should also be aware that their machine isn't dead. Not now, nor in the near future. It's hard to give up on continuing to create video games for a console fleet of 152 million. The machine, therefore, should continue to receive interesting new games over the coming years, whether from Nintendo or third-party publishers.

With this in mind, the Switch 2 could be a good entry-level option for those users who don't have a relatively recent PlayStation or Xbox at home and want to play some of the most demanding titles to hit the market in recent years. For the rest, it might be worth waiting a few more months for a discount before taking the plunge and replacing the old hybrid with the new one.

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