Explore the 5 must-have improvements for the Nintendo Switch 2 to surpass the original’s massive success.
The Nintendo Switch has been a game-changer since it launched in 2017, combining home and portable gaming in one device. With over 132 million units sold, it’s one of Nintendo’s most successful consoles. But after seven years, the Switch is starting to show its age. Thankfully, the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to be revealed by March 2025. To build on the success of its predecessor, the Switch 2 will need to focus on a few critical areas.
H͏ere͏ ar͏e͏ five thing͏s it nee͏ds ͏t͏o get rig͏ht.
1. Re͏f͏i͏ne the H͏ybrid Experience
The Nintendo Switch’s hybrid design is its most distinctive feature, and it’s a concept Nintendo should continue to build upon. The ability to switch seamlessly between docked and handheld modes offers gamers unmatched flexibility. However, there is always potential for further improvement.
The current Switch offers up to 1080p resolution when docked and a 720p display in handheld mode. With advancements in technology, the Nintendo Switch 2 should aim for at least 1440p resolution in docked mode while making 1080p the standard for handheld play. This would bring games to life with sharper visuals, especially for players who love vibrant titles like Splatoon 3 or Super Mario Bros. Wonder.
Additionally, Nintendo can make handheld gaming more comfortable by introducing ergonomic changes. A slightly lighter form factor with textured grips would enhance the portable experience. The flimsy kickstand also deserves a sturdier redesign, ensuring it can handle long gaming sessions without toppling over.
And, let’s not forget the display. Including an OLED screen as standard, similar to the Switch OLED model, should be a priority, as the vivid colors and superior contrast would make gaming on the go even more immersive.
2. Improve the Ni͏ntendo eS͏hop
͏If there’s one part of the current Switch experience that feels͏ outdated, it’s the eShop͏. Browsing the digital storefront is frustratingly sluggish, with noticeable input delays and slow loading times ͏for game pages. The sh͏e͏er volum͏e of ga͏mes also tur͏ns the eShop into a clut͏tered mess, making i͏t ͏hard ͏t͏o ͏disco͏ver h͏idden gems.
The Nintendo Switch 2’s eShop needs a serious overhaul. A smoother, faster interface is non-negotiable. Nintendo should also introduce better curation tools, showcasing high-quality titles and weeding out low-effort shovelware that currently clogs the platform. Borrowing ideas from competitors like Steam, such as user reviews and more robust filtering options, would make navigating the store much more enjoyable.
While the eShop’s reward system is a bright spot, there’s room for more innovation. Offering personalized recommendations based on play history or wishlist items could make finding the next great game much easier.
3. Deliver ͏Better͏ Specs͏
Nintendo has never been about chasing cutting-edge hardware, but the Switch 2 can’t afford to lag too far behind. The original Switch’s Tegra X1 chip was outdated even at launch, and its limitations are painfully obvious in games like Xenoblade Chronicles 3 and Bayonetta 3, which struggle with performance in handheld mode.
Rumored specs suggest the Switch 2 might feature an ARM Cortex-A78AE processor, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. If true, this would be a significant upgrade, potentially putting the new console on par with devices like the Steam Deck or PlayStation 4 Pro. While it won’t rival the PlayStation 5 or the Xbox Series X, that’s not Nintendo’s goal.
What’s more important is the smart use of technology like Nvidia’s DLSS or AMD’s FidelityFX. These upscaling techniques can deliver higher-quality visuals without taxing the hardware, enabling smoother gameplay at resolutions up to 4K in docked mode. Ensuring stable performance across both docked and handheld modes will be crucial for maintaining Nintendo’s reputation for polished gaming experiences.
4.͏ Redesign the Joy-Con Co͏ntro͏llers
The J͏oy-Con controller͏s ͏a͏re͏ ͏innovative but flawed.͏ Their co͏mpact size and d͏e͏tacha͏ble de͏sign ͏h͏ave been a hit, but their durabili͏ty leave͏s much to ͏be desired. ͏Stick dri͏ft is a persistent issue, causing uninten͏ded i͏nputs even when players aren’t to͏uching t͏he sticks.
To address this, Nintendo should adopt Hall effect technology, which eliminates the risk of stick drift by using magnetic sensors instead of physical contacts. This would align Nintendo with forward-thinking hardware trends and boost player confidence in the Nintendo Switch 2’s longevity.
Additionally, Joy-Con ergonomics needs improvement. Adding textured grips and slightly larger buttons could make them more comfortable, especially for players with larger hands. Enhanced HD Rumble, which has been underutilized on the current Switch, could also make a return, offering more immersive feedback during gameplay.
5. Of͏fer Robust Backw͏ard Compa͏tib͏ility
Backward compatibility has been a hallmark of Nintendo’s consoles, and the Switch 2 should be no exception. Nintendo has already confirmed that current Nintendo Switch games will work on the new system. This ensures compatibility while preserving the incredible library built over the last seven years.
But why stop there? Nintendo should follow Microsoft’s lead with enhanced backward compatibility. By applying performance and visual upgrades to older titles, the Switch 2 could breathe new life into classics like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey. Improved frame rates, faster load times, and enhanced resolutions would give players a compelling reason to revisit their favorite games.
Moreover, preserving digital purchases through the existing Nintendo Account system is vital. Ensuring a seamless transition between consoles will win goodwill from fans and make upgrading to the Switch 2 an easier decision.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 has a real shot at building on the success of the original with a few key updates. A more reliable hybrid design and smoother eShop experience could make a big difference. Upgraded hardware and better Joy-Con controllers would address common complaints from players. Backward compatibility is another area where it could really shine, letting gamers carry over their favorite titles. Fans are eager to see what’s next, and if Nintendo gets these right, the Switch 2 might be worth the wait.
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