It’s finally here – the Nintendo Switch 2 has officially launched, and yes, I’ve been playing non-stop since mine landed on my doorstep!
As a lifelong Nintendo collector and someone who’s passionate about physical media, it was a no-brainer to go for the standalone Switch 2 model and pick up Mario Kart World separately. It pains me to have to fork out extra cash doing it this way, but then again, I have no regrets. I don’t think I’ll ever change from my old-school ways!
Day one essentials
The Switch 2 feels like a true evolution – sleeker, faster, and somehow both lighter and sturdier. I recall feeling surprised when Nintendo revealed the console as a straight successor to the original Switch – the numerical naming convention seems very ‘un-Nintendo’ – but I’m over that now.
The upgraded visuals look incredible, especially in handheld mode, and loading times are noticeably faster, partly thanks to the new microSD Express compatibility.
I was genuinely impressed by its size too when compared to the white Switch OLED model I was swapping it for. It’s still early days though, and I’m keen to see what Nintendo does with it. A good example is the mouse functionality – a new Mario Paint would be both an obvious and awesome early title to make use of this. Fingers crossed for that!
Also much has been said about Joy-Con drift on the original Switch, and I hope it’s a thing of the past this time around. Nintendo said that they redesigned these from the ground up, so that’s promising. But the underlying analog tech is still the same, despite maybe a bit more robust, so we’ll see.
If you’ve just got yours or are planning to grab one soon, you may be interested to see what I bought to make it launch-day ready:
🛡️ 1. Screen protectors
ivoler 4 pack tempered glass screen protector with alignment frame tool – ultra resistant hardness
If you’re anything like me and like to keep your stuff in top condition, you are going to want to apply a screen protector straight out of the box while it’s still pristine. It just makes sense to do it from day one.
Tempered glass is the way to go, and if you get a product such as this one, you’ll have spares, plus a really handy guide template that makes the process easy and stress-free. Easy to apply, bubble-free, and crystal clear – these are a must to preserve resale value and keep your display pristine.
🔄 2. Mumba dockable protective case
Mumba dockable case (Blade series) – quick-release Joy-Con design (Black)
Second only to the screen protector is a whole-body protective case. Durable, snug, and still fits in the dock? Yes please. It’s also got to offer shock protection without compromising the sleek look of the console. Plus, the one I went for is comfy to hold during longer Mario Kart sessions, and allows for easy access to the detachable Joy-Cons. It’s not the cheapest, but think of it as an investment.
👍 3. Thumb grips for extra grip
NEWZEROL thumb grips, 6 pieces (Black)
Don’t forget the Joy-Con sticks to. After all, they probably get the most abuse, and my experience with the Switch tells me they can take some cosmetic damage after hundreds of gaming hours. Better to add some protection now while you can.
I find adding thumb grips are also great for longer play sessions, especially in Mario Kart where precise control is key.
There’s no need to spend the earth with these. Just make sure they have a snug fit for the Switch 2. Some brands I tried claimed compatibility, but they were impossible to fit. Maybe the manufacturer assumed they were the same size as the original model.
⏩ 4. microSD Express Card – 1TB
Nintendo Samsung microSD Express card
With game file sizes creeping up, I wasn’t going to risk running out of space. This card is blazing fast and future-proof – highly recommended if you’re planning to go digital-heavy or capture gameplay footage.
I initially didn’t give this purchase much thought because I already had a card with spare capacity from my original Switch. But of course (annoyingly) it wasn’t compatible, so make sure you get an “Express” or “Ex” card, which will take full advantage of the Switch 2’s faster read/write speeds.
🎮 5. USB-C microSD Card Reader
UGREEN SD card reader, aluminum USB-C to microSD/SD card adapter, with 15cm cable
If you’re planning on migrating from Switch 1 to Switch 2 and already have a lot of data to transfer from microSD, you’re going to have to copy this across via another device such as a laptop. If it has a card reader, then great, but for me I had to pick up a card reader to get the job done.
Transferring my saves and screenshots from my old Switch was a breeze thanks to this. It works instantly on PC/Mac, and it’s also handy for loading media to the new console.
Just make sure you’re working with the same, compatible file format such as FAT32. You can also format the card directly from the console settings.
Switch 2’s migration process is smoother than before, but you’ll still want to:
- Log in with your original Nintendo Account
- Use the Transfer Data tool (accessible during setup)
- Backup cloud saves if you’re subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online
🧳 6. Switch 2 carry case
JSAUX large capacity hard shell carrying case with 20 game card slots (Black)
OK, I’m probably going overboard on the protection, but I needed a carry case that I could trust to keep my Switch safe when taken out of the house. Also something with space for game cards, and maybe a few small accessories, would be a bonus.
Just one problem though, my Switch 2 already has the Mumba protective shell, which makes it bigger than most cases are designed for.
Then I found this large capacity case, which does the job perfectly. Stylish and sturdy, it holds the console, a few cards, and accessories without being bulky. Ideal for travel or daily protection, and comes with a carry strap too.
🏁 7. Camera
Nintendo Switch 2 official camera
Recreate the arcade Mario Kart experience with this awesome 1080p resolution camera, and see the in-game reactions from your friends as you red-shell them! Also a great accessory for use with the new GameChat service.
Other cameras are available, including the cute-looking Piranha Plant model from HORI, just bear in mind that many of these have lower resolution, so it’s really style over function, with only a minimal difference in cost.
Verdict – so far!
The Switch 2 launch has already surpassed sales expectations around the world. Nintendo has once again nailed the balance between evolution and continuity – this is still very much a Switch, but one that finally feels ready for the next-gen.
With the upcoming launch of Donkey Kong Bananza and presumably a new 3D mainline Mario game not that far away, this is simply an essential purchase for every Nintendo fan!
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