Nintendo finally debuted the Switch 2 in a brief teaser that showed its larger screen, upgraded Joy-Cons that seemingly attach magnetically to the console, an improved U-shaped kickstand, and what appears to be a new Mario Kart game running on the upcoming system. The video also added some much-needed clarity to the Switch 2’s backward compatibility by confirming that the new console supports Switch cartridges, though “certain Switch games” won’t be supported, or will have limited compatibility.
There’s still a lot that we don’t know about the Switch 2, such as when it’s coming out, how much it will cost, in-depth details on its specs, and which games are confirmed for its launch. But one thing we know for sure: It’s a lot tougher to justify buying an original Switch now.
In early 2024, when I first published this article, many people wondered whether it was still a wise choice to buy a Switch or if they should just wait for the Switch 2. The Switch 2’s new features and presumed power increases will make it the obvious choice for most gamers, even if it comes in at a higher cost. However, the original model might still be the right fit for some users, especially if the console’s prices fall. (Console bundles were $75 off during Black Friday 2024, marking the biggest discounts to date. The MSRP for the Switch is the same as it was at launch: $299.)
If you still can’t decide, we’ve answered some questions below that should help you make a choice with confidence. We plan to update this post as we learn more about the Switch 2.
Have you played the Switch’s stellar game library?
If not, may I ask why? You’ve had a very long time to catch up, but no judgment (I’m secretly judging you). Catching up on the Switch’s incredible games during the wait for the Switch 2 was — and has always been — the main reason to pick up Nintendo’s hybrid console.
It warms my heart to know that most Switch digital and physical games will be backward compatible (and perhaps graphically enhanced, though that’s unconfirmed). As such, I don’t suggest that most people should buy a Switch at its full price just to catch up now. If you find one on a deal, that’s another story.
For those who want to play the hits, plus any new Switch 2-exclusive games that get announced, you might as well wait for the Switch 2 at this point.
Are you looking for great performance in a handheld?
If so, you’ll want to wait for the Switch 2. However, there’s a lot about the Switch 2 that we don’t know about yet, and that includes how much faster it might be versus the Switch (not to mention how it compares to handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck), as well as what type of screen it will have, and whether it will have a faster refresh rate. While a Nintendo patent suggests it’ll be a more powerful console due in part to its use of AI features to boost the resolution of games, its specs will likely make sense when set against its price, which we also don’t know yet.
On the other hand, are you buying for someone who doesn’t care about tech specs?
Looking at the current Switch, its graphical chops felt outdated when it launched in 2017. Even so, many of its best games have stellar art that makes up for the lack of power, such as Splatoon 3, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and many more. There’s currently no better way to play Switch games than with the $349.99 Switch OLED. It has most of the same components as the other models but with a larger OLED screen. Everything looks better, from contrast to brightness and picture quality.
As I mentioned earlier, the Switch and Switch OLED sold for $75 off during Black Friday, and it’s likely that those price drops will occur again at some point. That could be the perfect time to buy.
While Nintendo has confirmed in the Switch 2 teaser that there will be games that are exclusive to the new console, it’s likely that it will release one or more upcoming tentpole games on the original Switch as well, giving you more time to put off buying the new console.
Source：https://www.polygon.com/24072924/buy-switch-or-switch-2
