Hands-On with the Nintendo Switch 2

This past weekend, I had the chance to attend the Nintendo Switch 2 hands-on event in Amsterdam—and wow, what a ride! From the hardware to the games and even the swag bag, it was a full-on Nintendo experience. Here’s everything you need to know from someone who actually held the future of Nintendo Switch gaming in their hands.

The Hardware:

The Console Itself

First impressions? This thing is big. It feels solid, balanced, and beautifully built. The HDR screen is jaw-dropping—even compared to the already stunning Switch OLED—and playing at 120fps is a real treat. The new stand is like a refined version of the OLED one: slimmer, sturdy, and flexible.

Bonus? There’s now a second USB-C port. It’s a small addition, but a smart one which allows for accessory connection and flexible charging options. Overall, the console feels great! Me and my big hands are happy.

Joy-Con Reimagined

Finally—Joy-Cons that fit bigger hands! The new Joy-Con 2 feature more substantial buttons and analog sticks that feel just right. They’re super comfortable, and “mouse mode” is a really fun feature. They attach very securely even though they attach with magnets (of course, if you pull too hard they will disconnect but it is not easy to do. also, if you’re determined enough, you can slot them in upside-down. (Wouldn’t recommend playing like that though unless you are playing Mario Kart against me)

Grip & Straps

The new charge grip (sold separately, normal grip included with console) is well-built and comes with two back buttons, which are a welcome addition. The included grip still gets the job done, but the upgraded one is worth a look if you like a little extra control.

As for the Joy-Con straps, they now feature locking pins (so you don`t get a new hole in your TV) and even have mouse feet underneath for smooth table-top gliding in mouse mode. Motion gamers will appreciate the good ol’ wrist lanyards still being there.

Pro Controller

Confession time: I didn’t think I needed another Pro Controller. I already have two from the original Switch. But the Switch 2 Pro Controller blew me away.

The analog sticks are easily the best I’ve ever used—yes, better than the DualSense, Elite Series 2, and even any Hall Effect ones I’ve tried (like the CRKD Neo-S). The controller feels premium, sturdy, and has great weight distribution. It also has back buttons now. I’m hoping that it’ll avoid the drift/snapback issues of the past, but only time can tell…

Nintendo actually mentioned in their “Ask the Developers” series that their goal is to make the ultimate controller. Honestly? They’re on the right path.

GameCube Controller

Yep, it’s back—and better than ever. The new wireless GameCube controller has all the buttons you need to use it as a full Switch 2 controller, including ZL, Home, and Game Chat. The only thing missing? R and L (clickable sticks), which makes it incompatible with a few games. Still, for most titles, it’s great to use—nostalgia and all. As a reminder the GameCube controller (and games) is available exclusively for Nintendo Switch Online members.

Camera

Surprisingly good! I tested it with Mario Party Jamboree: Switch 2 Edition and it honestly felt like Kinect levels of tracking—in a good way. It could track four different people at once, remove backgrounds, and didn’t need much space thanks to its wide field of view. Oh, and the camera cable is detachable for better portability.

The Games:

Mario Kart World

It’s gorgeous. We started with a 1v1 race and then moved to an epic 24-player battle royale format, and both modes ran smooth as butter. The Switch 2 handled splitscreen like a champ.

There are a lot of characters and an almost overwhelming number of karts. Too many, honestly—it took forever to pick! But better too many than too few, right? Must-have game.

Donkey Kong Bananza

This one’s adorable. The environment is nearly fully destructible, there are tons of secrets to discover, and it runs silky smooth. It’s a joy to look at and play. A little too easy in the early levels (compared to Mario Odyssey), but I only got a taste—difficulty may ramp up later.

Zelda – Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2 Editions)

These versions are mostly the same as on the original Switch—just prettier, smoother and support a mobile companion app (which i didn`t get a chance to try). Definitely a visual upgrade, especially in handheld mode. I personally wouldn’t pay for the upgrade alone, but since it’s included in the Switch Online Expansion Pack, I’ll definitely be checking it out!

GameCube Online

GameCube Online currently features four games: SoulCalibur II, F-Zero GX, Zelda: Wind Waker, and Mario Strikers. I played the EU versions and all of them ran perfectly. F-Zero GX even supports widescreen! Save states are included too, which is a lifesaver.

Cyberpunk 2077

I got to play Cyberpunk 2077 on the Switch 2—and talk to two devs from CD Projekt Red (one from engine tech, one from PR). They confirmed the build I played was about seven weeks old (, and the full game will be on the cartridge. There might be a non-mandatory day-one patch to boost performance.

Performance mode targets 40fps with VRR, and quality mode aims for 30fps. I played in Dogtown with lots of enemies—some dips, but overall it was surprisingly solid for a handheld port. This does raise concerns about future performance as games get more complex, but with time and better optimization, there’s hope.

While trying out Cyberpunk 2077 i had the honor of speaking to 2 CDPR employees. One from the engine tech department and one from PR. They were both very excited about the game coming to a new console with a new audience.  It was clarified that the build I`m playing is about 7 weeks old (Meaning created 7 weeks ago and not took 7 weeks to develop). They also mentioned that the full game will be on cart but there might be a day 1 patch which is not mandatory but will include performance enhancements. They also hinted at some physical goodies just like the ps4/5 version. The game looks great on the switch 2 both in handheld and docked. With performance mode targeting 40 fps VRR and quality mode 30 fps VRR. I played in Dogtown in an area with a lot of enemies and there were some frame rate drops but overall it was a good experience. About as much as you can expect for a handheld port of the game… This does have me worried as we are on year 0 of the console and games will only get more complex but since the console is so new the game development techniques will also improve. Overall i am happy that games like it are coming to the Switch 2 but I`m worried that it will be under powered in a few years. the next game has helped alleviate some of those fears.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Biggest surprise of the event for me. This game is GORGEOUS and runs at a rock-solid 120fps. As a PC gamer used to high frame rates, I felt right at home.

Mouse mode combined with gyro aiming is a match made in heaven. It’s classic Metroid Prime action, just smoother and more responsive than ever. Proof that the Switch 2 has power under the hood—and Nintendo knows how to use it.

DragXDrive

This game feels like Nintendo’s second attempt at an ARMS-style title. It’s a bit clunky, but still fun—especially with friends. The mouse-style controls are interesting, but solo play is kind of meh. I predict it’ll be a short-lived gimmick, just like ARMS.

Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV

The new camera mode is a blast. It tracked all four players easily and added a fun interactive layer to the game. Expect silly poses, goofy sounds, and a ton of laughter. It’s going to be a hit at family gatherings.

The Event Itself:

Nintendo knows how to throw an event. Everything was smooth, organized, and full of energy. The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable. I even met some incredible people from Nintendo!

Lines were short, demos were plentiful, and at the end of the day, we got a lovely gift bag with a water bottle, poster, sticky notes, and pen. Honestly, it was a magical day, and I’m so thankful I got to attend.

Final Thoughts:

The Switch 2 is shaping up to be a fantastic step forward for Nintendo. From refined hardware to great games and smooth performance, it’s clear they’ve listened to the community and leveled up.

Can’t wait to see what the future holds. But for now? I’m counting down the days until release.