Nintendo Switch 2: Hands-On Impressions from Paris

We're here at the Switch 2 event in Paris and have already had the chance to try out Nintendo's new console. The Switch 2 is significantly larger than the original model — you notice it immediately once you hold it. It feels much more substantial and solid.

Bigger, Sharper, Faster

The screen is larger, and so are the Joy-Con controllers. A notable change: the Joy-Cons now attach magnetically to the console, which feels more secure and less wobbly than the original mechanism. The display now supports HDR and up to 120 frames per second. Some of the games we tested take full advantage of the new screen features and feel noticeably smoother — though not all titles utilize them yet.

High-End Feel

The Switch 2 hardware feels premium across the board — and looks the part. That level of quality suggests the price will be on the higher end as well.

Game Highlights

Among the games we tested, three stood out as major highlights:

• Mario Kart World: Features an open world and supports up to 24 characters racing at the same time. It feels like a natural evolution of the series after Mario Kart 8.
• Donkey Kong Bananza: The first new 3D Donkey Kong title in over 20 years. You can destroy almost everything in the environment — a clear showcase of the upgraded hardware's power.
• Tears of the Kingdom – Switch 2 Edition: Runs in higher resolution and noticeably smoother than on the original Switch. If you've never played it or were unhappy with the graphics or performance, this version is definitely worth a look.

New Joy-Con Features

The new Joy-Cons are not only larger but also come with enhanced functionality. They attach magnetically and feel impressively sturdy. A rear button allows for easy detachment, and that works surprisingly well too.

On the side of the Joy-Cons, there's now a mouse sensor — yes, a real mouse sensor. We played a wheelchair basketball game where movement was controlled using both Joy-Cons and the sensor. We also tried Metroid Prime 4 in the Switch 2 edition, which supports mouse-like aiming, reminiscent of PC shooters. This new feature shows promise and feels like more than just a gimmick — certainly more useful than the infrared camera from the original Switch's Joy-Cons ever was.

Early Verdict

Our first impression of the Switch 2 is overwhelmingly positive. It feels like a major leap from the original model. Whether the experience justifies the expected higher price point for both the console and its games remains to be seen in our full review — but for now, it's a strong start.