Nintendo is betting big on the Switch after the failure of the Wii U, its current flagship console. The device, known as the NX throughout its development, resembles a tablet computer with game controllers attached to its sides. The controllers are detachable and can be used independently of the main device.
When used with a TV, the Switch is docked into a hub. In this mode, it is controlled using a standard wireless gamepad that looks similar to an Xbox controller. It’s possible to detach the main body from the hub. This creates a kind of giant-sized PlayStation Vita. You can pick up where you left off in your game, interacting with the “Joy-Con” controllers on the sides of the screen.
These controllers can also be slid off entirely, leaving you with what’s essentially a tablet. In this third mode, the device can be propped up with a small kickstand on the back. The position is ideal for watching videos but can also be used for gaming, again with the wireless controllers. Content is loaded with a cartridge-based system.
According to Nintendo, the Switch is all about giving players the freedom to play games in a way that suits them. Traditional consoles can only be used in one environment. The Switch lets you take your games with you when you go out. It blends the portability of a tablet with the gaming power of a full console.
“Nintendo Switch allows gamers the freedom to play however they like,” said Reggie Fils-Aime, President and COO of Nintendo of America. “It gives game developers new abilities to bring their creative visions to life by opening up the concept of gaming without boundaries.”
As part of its announcement, Nintendo released an early list of game publishers, developers and partners who will be releasing titles compatible with the Switch. Several big names including Activision, Bethesda, Codemasters, EA, Square Enix and Ubisoft have already confirmed they’ll be launching Switch-compatible games.
Little is currently known of the hardware inside the Switch. Chip manufacturer NVIDIA has confirmed the console is powered by a custom variant of its Tegra processor though. NVIDIA has optimised its hardware and software for gaming and mobile use, including “fully custom” software and new APIs “to bring lightweight, fast gaming to the masses.”
Whether Nintendo will be able to convince customers to return to its brand is currently uncertain. After enjoying being one of the biggest companies in gaming with the DS and Wii, Nintendo has found itself at risk of losing its place in the market altogether during recent years. Just 13 million Wii U units have been shipped worldwide. The original Wii saw over 100 million sales.
Some analysts are optimistic that the Switch will succeed. Its ability to transform into a mobile device is likely to appeal to gamers who like to play while on the move. “Two of the most successful consoles ever are Nintendo’s portable devices — both the Gameboy and DS sold more than 100 million each,” said Paul Jackson of the Ovum consultancy in an interview with the BBC.
There’s still a lot for Nintendo to fall down on though. The hardware details are yet to be confirmed and Nintendo hasn’t said exactly how many games will be available at launch. These are both factors that have a considerable impact on the initial reception of a new console. The company has announced a launch date though, stating the Switch will be available in March 2017.
