Switch 2’s Backward Compatibility Shines, Yet One Concern Remains

Nintendo fans had their ears perked up even before the official debut of the Nintendo Switch 2, thanks to Nintendo’s early confirmation that the console would support backward compatibility with games from the original Switch. This feature is always a hit among fans, but there’s still a lot left in the shadows regarding the new console, leaving some enthusiasts a bit wary about what they’ve seen so far.

The excitement around the long-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has reached a fever pitch. After months of speculation and teaser snippets, Nintendo finally gave fans a glimpse of the Switch 2 in an official video. This clip highlighted a few of the anticipated features, and while some details, like the wider kickstand, were already known due to leaks and rumors, the reveal left many in the community buzzing with mixed feelings. As it stands, opinions are divided, with many suggesting that its success will heavily depend on the hardware’s performance.

Even from a brief look, Nintendo has clearly upped its game with the Switch 2, addressing some of the original console’s limitations. For instance, the screen has been noticeably enlarged, satisfying those who prefer gaming in handheld mode. Whereas the first Switch came with a 6.2-inch screen, which was slightly increased in the OLED model, the Switch 2 boasts a lavish 8-inch display. Plus, those who favor big-screen gaming will appreciate the remodeled dock, which now flaunts more rounded edges and an added USB-C port for seamless charging. Observant fans also noticed something that might be a microphone on the console. However, opinions are split over the new magnetic joy-cons, a divisive feature among potential buyers.

Moving on to the joy-cons, initially, the idea of connecting via magnets seems like a smart move—an innovation even considered for the original Switch but eventually shelved. Yet, there’s a catch. This new design includes an additional connector that sticks out awkwardly, raising concerns about its durability. With past experiences haunting the community—like the initially scrapped magnetic design due to weak magnets—many are cautious about this new approach.

But the elephant in the room is joy-con drift, a persistent problem since the Switch’s launch. Joy-cons tend to gather dust and grit, and their thumbstick connections, unfortunately, wear down over time, causing the dreaded drift. Nintendo has been offering a free repair service for these drifting controllers, requiring affected users to send them in. Despite this, many fans feel more decisive design action is needed. Although there’s no official word on how the Switch 2’s joy-cons will tackle drift, rumors hint at improved magnetic links and an updated thumbstick attachment that might just hold the solution.

The joy-cons might be the make-or-break feature for the Switch 2, given they’re the primary way players engage with games on the console. Nintendo seems dedicated to refining the previous design, even introducing intriguing new functionalities akin to a mouse. What other surprises the Switch 2 holds remains to be seen. However, all eyes and ears will be on Nintendo come April 2, during a special livestream event where more beans are expected to be spilled.