It’s finally here, the Nintendo Switch 2 has officially launched in Canada, and we have our unit in hand. Eight long years after the release of Nintendo’s first hybrid handheld and console, the Nintendo Switch 2 has been eagerly anticipated.
Around the world, preorders are beginning to arrive. Additionally, excited players have been able to test their luck and attempt to stand in line for their chance to walk in and purchase a Nintendo Switch 2 from a retailer. However, for those unable to secure a unit today or those holding out for the future, let me be your guide and conduct an unboxing and first look at the Nintendo Switch 2.
Right off the top, Nintendo Switch 2 ships in a moderately sized red box. The packaging is nice and very much in line with Nintendo Switch 2’s branding overall. It highlights the console nicely on the rear side
The really meaningful stuff is on the inside. Opening up the box, I was immediately met with the brand-new Joy-Con 2 controllers. Each is paired with the new coloured accent rails. The left Joy-Con 2 is red, and in real life, looks more muted than you’d expect. It’s still very nice. The right has a stark blue accent. Of course, the new Joy-Con 2 controllers include the magnetic connections. Additionally, Nintendo includes mouse control support, compatible with games like Metroid Prime 4, Super Mario Party Jamboree and Drag x Drive. Joy-Con 2 controllers also include the new ‘C’ button, enabling GameChat functions. This allows you to chat with friends in the Discord-like party function.
Overall, the Joy-Con 2 controllers feel very much like their predecessor. The thumbsticks are slightly tweaked, feeling great on your thumbs. The face buttons are also slightly refreshed, feeling very tactile. Though it’s the satisfying “snap” sound when connecting the Joy-Cons to the main Switch 2 unit that’s really the selling feature. Once connected, the Joy-Cons 2 are sturdy and secure to the unit. Nintendo also ships the Switch 2 with the redesigned Joy-Con 2 grip for a more traditional controller experience.
Next up is the Switch 2 display unit. Most excitedly, the new hardware sports a demonstrably larger 7.9-inch LCD display, supporting up to 1080p at 120fps. It’s very apparent when holding it that the Nintendo Switch 2 is larger than its predecessor. This was even true when I went hands-on with the device earlier this year. The hardware measures in at 4.5 x 10.7 x .55-inches when the Joy-Con 2 controllers are attached. It feels nice in my hands and isn’t too heavy at first blush. Of course, the real test will be how long I can play with it in handheld mode before my wrists or hands get tired.
It’s very important to note that the Nintendo Switch 2 ships with a protective film layer on its screen. Nintendo urges players not to remove the protective film. If you drop your Switch 2, the film stops the glass from scattering.
There are other notable improvements and design changes. For instance, the Nintendo Switch 2 offers two USB-C ports. One on the bottom and one on top. This means that you can easily access a port for charging, no matter how you’re playing. Additionally, Nintendo Switch 2 features a refreshed kickstand. Running along the bulk of its width, the new kickstand can support a viewing angle of up to 150 degrees. Of course, there is also a microSD Express card slot to expand storage from the base 256GB. Additionally, there’s the game card slot, supporting original Nintendo Switch cartridges as well.
The Nintendo Switch 2 ships with the new dock as well. Using the dock, the hardware supports up to 4K at 60fps. The dock is slightly redesigned, measuring in at 4.53 x 7.91 x 2.02 inches. It features two USB 2.0 ports on the side. There’s also the system connector for use when docking the Nintendo Switch 2. Additionally, you’ll find the AC adapter port and HDMI port, both of which are included in the box. There’s also a LAN connection if you wish to use it.
When turning on Nintendo Switch 2 for the first time, I was urged to set my location, time, etc. I could also then complete the system transfer to bring over my profile, save data, and screenshots from my original Switch. Depending on how much you’re carrying over, expect this to last 10 to 15 minutes. Afterwards, all your games will install over an internet connection.
There you have it, my Nintendo is all set up and ready to go. It’s always an exciting time when a new console launches. Nintendo Switch 2 is releasing with Mario Kart World as its premiere launch title. However, a ton of original Switch games received free Switch 2 updates, optimizing performance. There are also $10 Upgrade Packs for numerous games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom available. So, if you need me, this is where you’ll find me.
If you’re lucky enough to find units available, the Nintendo Switch 2 launched at $629.99 in Canada. The bundle with Mario Kart World is available for $699.99.
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