Hands-On with the Nintendo Switch 2: First Impressions

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A Fresh Approach

The launch of a new console is an incredibly magical experience for gamers, prompting decisions like which game to start with. Over the years, consoles have become increasingly sophisticated, with each iteration bringing advancements that can be easy to overlook. Gone are the days of simply inserting a cartridge for better graphics. Now, companies are launching new hardware alongside specific software to introduce users to the console in an engaging and fun way, skipping the need for tedious manuals. Back in 2020, Sony did something similar by including Astro’s Playroom pre-installed for free with the PS5. Now, Nintendo has followed suit with the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, albeit with a price tag, sparking considerable controversy.

Currently, video game pricing is a hot topic, especially with Nintendo being one of the first to set a $80 price for a title, a trend that seems likely to continue. The situation intensified with the announcement that Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour wouldn’t be a complimentary inclusion with the purchase of a new console, leading people to feel they were paying for an “interactive manual.” Convincing users otherwise may be challenging, but delving into everything the software offers provides clearer insight into its appeal. While we may not fully agree with this approach, it’s an experience that die-hard Nintendo fans will thoroughly enjoy.

The Learning Begins

It’s always exciting when a developer tries something new, even if it doesn’t pan out perfectly every time. In an industry often guided by market research and financial pursuits, taking risks is refreshing. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour embodies this spirit, offering a unique way to showcase the features of Nintendo’s new hardware. While initially it might seem like just a more powerful version of the original Switch, a deeper dive reveals that Nintendo has pushed the envelope further this time.

So, what exactly is the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour*? At its core, it is a sort of interactive guide composed of demos, mini-games, and plenty of text designed to acquaint users with the new console and its differences from its predecessor. Clearly, it’s not a product for everyone. Instead, it’s tailored for those keen on gaining an academic understanding of the Switch 2.

The overall structure of the Welcome Tour is akin to that of a museum exhibit. After selecting an avatar, you explore the first exhibition room, focused on the left Joy-Con. What’s fascinating is the literal exploration of a giant hardware model, revealing its details and materials. Collecting stamps corresponding to each part allows you to progress to new areas, such as the screen, right Joy-Con, straps, and other accessories like the camera and the new Pro Controller.

Regarding the stamps, they serve as the primary collectible needed for progression. This might involve standing on the right stick to collect one or exploring a controller’s interior to view its battery and vibration motors. As you navigate through these aspects, you encounter three types of interactive activities. Mini-games, as the name suggests, offer interactive experiences that highlight the new Joy-Cons’ capabilities, like dodging spiked balls by moving the pointer or shooting balloons as in an FPS, and recognizing shapes through vibration. These activities creatively showcase the potential of the new hardware.

Interactive demos highlight features like HDR capabilities or 4K signal output through inventive concepts, such as playing Super Mario Bros. level 1-1 at its original resolution, which increases as you progress. Another notable mini-game involves identifying the frame rate of a moving object, providing a challenge for those passionate about technical aspects. Lastly, quizzes assess your understanding after reading information about console components like the new dock or HD Rumble 2. These sessions bring a classroom feel to the experience.

It’s crucial to note that some mini-games and demos require additional hardware, like the new Pro Controller. If you only have the Switch 2 itself, don’t worry; you can still enjoy most of what Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour offers. However, demos requiring specific displays, like a 120 Hz TV, can only be played in portable mode if you lack compatible equipment.

A pressing question arises: why is Nintendo charging for something that seems like it should be free? The assertion that it “should be free” may stem from an incomplete understanding of its development cost and product nature. It’s likely perceived that even if it were free, many wouldn’t see its value and might have ignored it anyway, similar to Astro’s Playroom on PS5. It seems the decision to price it at $10 or 250 pesos in Mexico was made to account for interested users and development expenses.

The volume of information and content in Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour exceeds expectations, providing an educational experience throughout. Understandably, the concept of “learning” may not appeal to everyone, especially when gaming, but for those it does attract, it’s an unprecedented experience. After intense gaming sessions in Mario Kart World, relaxing with this software offers an in-depth exploration of the new hardware.

Welcome to Switch 2

It’s challenging to broadly recommend Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour for two main reasons: its niche target audience and the additional $10 cost on top of other expenses tied to a new console generation. Nevertheless, for those intrigued by technical aspects of modern consoles or enthusiastic about Nintendo, this software should be a priority.

The dawn of a new era in the gaming industry is upon us. Nintendo stands strong with the success of the original Switch, although this doesn’t guarantee the same for their new platform. Releases like Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour and other launch titles create excitement for the years ahead and the innovations we can expect from those venturing into the world of Switch 2. As we bid farewell to the console that brought eight years of joy, it’s thrilling to anticipate the future and all that it holds.