Whispers, leaks, and even official documents like patents have been feeding the rumor mill about the Switch 2. Nintendo's recent patent filings have sparked a wildfire of theories about their next console. Ideas range from screens that adjust to where you're sitting to a two-screen setup reminiscent of the DS. Yet, Nintendo's keeping their cards close to their chest, avoiding any firm commitments.
Switch 2's Backwards Compatibility: A Smart Move to Avoid a Key Pitfall of its Forerunner
Nintendo's confirmation of backwards compatibility for the Switch 2 addresses a major shortcoming of the original console.Nintendo's Latest Announcement Hints at the 'Switch' Brand Sticking Around
Like a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day, we've finally got some solid info on the Switch 2. During a company meeting on November 6th, Nintendo's big boss Shuntaro Furukawa shared two key points: the next Nintendo console will play older games, and the Nintendo Switch Online service isn't going anywhere.
Being able to play old games on the new system is great news, especially for those hesitant about upgrading. But it's the NSO news that really spills the beans about the Switch 2's future. While Nintendo Switch Online has its critics, Furukawa's promise to keep this exact service going speaks volumes. The 'Switch' in NSO suggests Nintendo's next console will carry on the Switch name, one way or another. This also hints that the new console will keep the Switch's core feature – its ability to transform from a home console to a handheld. While many had guessed this already (hence the "Switch 2" nickname), this extra clue gives us more to chew on.
The Switch 2 Looks Set to Build on the Switch's Winning Formula
The Switch's shape-shifting ability has been a huge hit, letting players use it how they want. Plus, its portable mode quickly became the top choice for on-the-go gaming, backed by a killer lineup of Nintendo exclusives, indie gems, and old favorites. Some worry that Nintendo might be getting sidetracked with smaller projects like Alarmo and Nintendo Music instead of focusing on the Switch 2. But if they stick to what made the Switch great, they're likely onto another winner.While rumors swirl about the Switch 2's fancy features, there are a few key issues it needs to tackle. Power has been a sore spot for Switch users, with its hardware barely outpacing the Xbox 360. Nintendo's never been the graphics powerhouse, but a boost in strength would really help the Switch 2 keep up with the pack.
Another big headache is the Joy-Con drift problem. It might not bug everyone, but it's been a constant thorn in the Switch's side. If the Switch 2 keeps the hybrid setup of its older sibling, as hinted by the continuation of NSO, it's crucial to kick Joy-Con drift to the curb—an issue that's landed Nintendo in hot water legally. A new patent filed by Nintendo suggests they're working on fresh joystick tech, likely aiming to nip Joy-Con drift in the bud for the Switch 2. If Nintendo can beef up the power and say goodbye to Joy-Con drift, fans will have plenty to cheer about.
Nintendo Switch
Brand- Nintendo
- .88 lbs
- 32 GB
- 6.2-inch LCD Screen / 1280 x 720
- About 4.5 - 9 hours.