Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch 2 Release date: June 5, 2025
The conversation around interactive-visit-come-video-game Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, rather unfortunately, has not been about the game itself. Rather, many players have (rightly so) lamented the fact that this is a paid download rather than a pack-in experience - similar to the likes of Wii Sports or even Astro’s Playroom on PlayStation 5.
That being said, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour remains one of the top downloads on the Switch 2 eShop - at least here in the UK - so folks are certainly buying it. The question is, then, is it worth the $9.99 / £7.99 you’ll end up paying for it? Well, yes and no.
There are positives to take away from the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour experience. If you’re a hardware head like me, Welcome Tour presents information about the Switch 2 system in bite-sized chunks of trivia. There are even info booths and quizzes to undertake that highlight specific features, such as HD Rumble and mouse controls. I’m also a fan of the tech demos and minigame challenges that let you try out said features in a practical fashion.
Realistically, though, it’s an experience that only lasts a handful of hours, and rather annoyingly, it could be a more expensive game than its modest price tag lets on. That’s because some of the demos and minigames outright require things like a 4K TV or the Switch 2 Camera.
If you’re shooting for 100% completion, then Welcome Tour assumes you’ve gone all-in on the Switch 2 ecosystem as a whole. This is why I strongly feel the game should have come pre-installed onto your Switch 2 console; having to pay for a game that you might not even get to experience everything in - depending on the hardware you own - is extremely disappointing.
Ins and outs
(Image credit: Nintendo)
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is presented as a giant exhibition for the new console. You’ll start by picking your avatar’s appearance simply by plucking them from a queue to the venue; you’re either an extremely tiny human, or the exhibition and its various sections are monolithic in size. I’ll let you decide which is more likely there.
If your objective in Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour is simply to plough through all the areas, then that’s easy enough. You’ll begin on the left Joy-Con 2 controller, and you’re tasked with finding and checking all the components there. That includes things like the analog stick, directional buttons, and magnetic connector.
Once you’ve seen it all, you can unlock the gate to the next area, where you’ll repeat that process. It’s fun at first, but even though it’s a short experience overall, there will be instances where you’ll find yourself pixel hunting while uncovering all the gizmos needed to unlock the next area. That means a lot of running around this isometric exhibition, which can be quite a chore.
Up for a challenge
(Image credit: Nintendo)
To sidestep some of the tedium said exploration can bring, I do encourage you to take things at a measured pace in Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour. Thankfully, there are some distractions to be had in the form of quizzes, minigames, and tech demos.
Quizzes are the most straightforward of the bunch. There are various booths dotted about the exhibits, and talking to the person there will load in some information displays you can read to learn more about various aspects of the Switch 2 ecosystem.
Minigames are a bit more bespoke. Each area will have at least one or two, and most are fun little diversions. You’ll be tasked with a great many things with these, again having something to do with the Switch 2’s capabilities. Examples include using the Joy-Con 2’s mouse to pilot a UFO avoiding spiked balls, and a task where you have to guess the framerate of a ball bouncing across a screen.
Best bit
(Image credit: Nintendo)
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour’s presentation is really quite charming. Running around on a giant Switch 2 screen or Joy-Con 2 controllers is a novel idea, and I had fun exploring each area to learn more about the console and its accessories.
Finally, there’s the tech demos. These don’t offer much of a challenge and instead showcase various aspects of the Switch 2’s tech. An early example has you shaking the Joy-Con 2 like maracas to demonstrate HD Rumble, while another showcases the handheld’s HDR capabilities, where you can let off fireworks and compare the differences between HDR and SDR color gamuts.
Completing quizzes, minigames, and tech demos will award you with medals, and collecting enough of these will unlock more content, including harder versions of minigame challenges. Some of these were surprisingly tough, too, so you may have your hands full if you’re a completionist.
Though the completionist route is kind of where Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour can potentially fall apart. The game flat out assumes the player has access to a 4K display and accessories like the Switch 2 Camera, as, believe it or not, there are challenges and tech demos related to such items.
Again, this would be slightly less foul were Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour a free inclusion with the console. But as it stands, I would avoid purchasing it even at its modest price if you don’t have a contemporary gaming setup, as you simply won’t be able to enjoy all the content on offer.
Should you play Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour?
Play it if...
You want to learn more about your new console Exploring all the different areas to learn about each and every aspect of the Switch 2 and its tech was a fulfilling experience. I definitely know more now than I did before going into the game.
Don't play it if...
You don’t have a more up-to-date gaming setup Put simply, if you don’t have a 4K TV or you’re missing accessories like the Switch 2 Camera, you should avoid Nintendo Switch Welcome Tour as some of its content will be completely locked out.
Accessibility
Frustratingly, there is absolutely nothing in the way of options for Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, let alone for accessibility. At the information kiosk in the game’s first area, you can talk to a non-player-character (NPC) there to invert camera controls, and that’s literally it. Nothing for audio, visuals, or alternative control schemes.
How I reviewed Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
I played Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour for five hours on the Switch 2 system. As the game has strict requirements for which control schemes to use at any given time, I was limited to using the Joy-Con 2 controllers for things like HD Rumble, mouse controls, and more. As for display, I swapped between my LG CX OLED TV and played on the Switch 2 handheld when the game required it.
There are no reasons to consider picking up a copy of Tamagotchi Plaza, especially if you just got your hands on a Nintendo Switch 2.
Review info
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch Release date: June 27, 2025
It’s a basic collection of boring, uninspired minigames that all ultimately just boil down to hitting the same few buttons for minutes at a time. This is paired with a laughably tiny hub world, that’s conspicuously devoid of activities and an absolute nightmare to customize or upgrade.
It all feels like something that you would find in a free mobile phone game, not a $49.99 / £44.99 release for a brand new console.
Sure, the serviceable graphics and abundance of Tamagotchi characters might prove enough to entertain a very small child for an hour or two, but with games like Mario Kart World and recent Donkey Kong Bananzaon the scene there’s no real reason not to spend your time and money more wisely and go for one of them instead.
Again and again
(Image credit: Bandai Namco)
A spiritual successor to the Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop series on Nintendo DS, Tamagotchi Plaza is ostensibly about helping out in the various shops of a cute Tamagotchi town. This is accomplished through the completion of short minigames, of which there are 12 - one for each shop.
The first thing that you’ll notice is that none of them feature tutorials. You’re just expected to work out what you’re meant to do from the get-go, though this omission isn’t much of an impediment given just how simple the minigames are.
The first I tried involves cooking galettes (the flat, French pastry) by looking at an image of a customer’s desired order and mindlessly hitting buttons to bake the crust and fill it with the desired ingredients.
Accompanied by annoying sound effects which I later found can, mercifully, be turned off in the settings menu and protracted, overly slow animations, it becomes stale almost instantly.
The others are all a similar story: helping out in the personal gym, for example, involves spamming the shoulder buttons at a set pace, while the afternoon tea shop is simply dragging and dropping a few items on a table.
(Image credit: Bandai Namco)
The only one that I find remotely entertaining was the dentist minigame, which has you drilling Tamagotchi teeth to weed out creepy little critters causing decay and even this just involved selecting options from a menu and hitting a button.
On the other end of the spectrum is the manga shop minigame, which is just nonsensical. You’re meant to design manga panels by dragging and dropping a few pre-made assets into position, but the scoring, measured on a scale of zero to three stars, doesn’t seem to correlate to anything other than how many characters you manage to cram on the screen.
If you keep grinding a particular minigame enough, you’re eventually offered the chance to upgrade it. This introduces some new options, which does break up the monotony somewhat, but takes quite a long time to appear and isn’t substantial enough to justify the effort.
Switch it up
(Image credit: Bandai Namco)
There are three additional minigames exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 version of the game too. They’re unlocked after you’ve spent some time in the initial 12 and utilize the Joy-Con 2 mouse control features. These are the strongest of the bunch, with the likes of the shuriken shop which has you using the Joy-Con 2 to aim ninja stars providing a few minutes of fun.
Unfortunately, it’s not enough to redeem the overall package and is nowhere near as interesting as some of the neat hardware tricks found in software like Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour.
Best bit
(Image credit: Bandai Namco)
There are more than 100 Tamagotchi characters here, with unique models and even the odd bit of dialogue.
Outside of minigames, there’s a small hub area to explore. Aside from the occasional conversation with another Tamagotchi, it’s empty and bland. You can upgrade it using currency earned from minigames, but progress is painfully slow and adding a few trees or the odd square here and there just isn’t worth the effort.
There’s also some light story content, centred around the protagonist being recruited to help improve the town so that it’s selected as the site of the Tamagotchi festival, but it’s basic and spread incredibly thin.
At the very least, I can say that Tamagotchi Plaza has no shortage of characters. There are more than a hundred Tamagotchis to discover, all with unique models that look quite nice. I just wish that this same amount of effort was put into literally every other facet of the game too.
Should I play Tamagotchi Plaza?
Play it if…
You find it super cheap Tamagotchi Plaza might be worth buying if you find it at a heavy discount. The time spent trying each of the minigames a few times could justify a few bucks if you’re shopping for a child.
Don’t play it if…
You’re more than four years old There’s no way that anything in Tamagotchi Plaza could entertain anyone over the age of about four. If you’re able to read this, I would recommend giving it a miss.
Accessibility
There are no accessibility features in Tamagotchi Plaza. In fact, there’s barely a settings menu at all. You can adjust the game’s volume (with separate settings for music, sound, and voices) and change the direction of the camera controls, but that’s it.
How I reviewed Tamagotchi Plaza
I subjected myself to more than four hours of Tamagotchi Plaza on Nintendo Switch 2, which is roughly four hours more than any reasonable person would play it for.
I tried every minigame in the package, and spent some time exploring the tiny world. I carefully evaluated the amount of fun that I was having at every juncture and compared my experience to my testing of other Nintendo Switch 2 games like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World.
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller: one-minute review
After around 15 hours with the Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller, I can safely recommend it if you’re looking for an authentic retro experience on the console. This is a pin-sharp, accurate recreation of the original pad, and thus is ideal if you’re planning to dive into those classic GameCube games as part of your Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription.
It’s a faithful revision, but that doesn’t mean the purple wonder hasn’t been modernized in some ways. You’re getting wireless connectivity here - a key selling point of the original GameCube’s Wavebird controller back in the day. Battery life also seems to be incredibly impressive; after around 15 hours of play, its battery indicator on the Switch 2’s ‘Controllers’ menu appears about half full. As such, I estimate you’ll get around 25-30 hours of life before needing to charge it up again.
Still, ‘authentic’ doesn’t necessarily mean ‘perfect’, and there are definitely some more improvements I’d like to have seen, even if purists would cry foul. The controller’s d-pad is still far and away its weakest element, being incredibly small and fairly mushy to the touch. And while I do enjoy those pressure-sensitive triggers, they certainly do feel clunky in comparison to the best Nintendo Switch controllers of today.
The only other real downside to talk about is availability. That’s because the Switch 2 GameCube controller is only available brand new via Nintendo’s online store, which requires a Nintendo account to log in and buy products.
On top of that, you’ll need to have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to be eligible for purchase. This will be a hurdle to some, but if you’re planning on buying the controller for its intended purpose, then you’re likely to already be subscribed to Nintendo’s online service.
(Image credit: Future)
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller review: price and availability
$64.99 / £58.99 / AU$89.95
Available exclusively via Nintendo’s online store
A Nintendo Switch Online-subbed account is required for purchase
The Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube controller released the same day as the Nintendo Switch 2 console (June 5, 2025), and is available to buy now for $64.99 / £58.99 / AU$89.95.
While this is a good deal cheaper than the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller ($84.99 / £74.99 / AU$119.95), keep in mind that the use case for the GameCube pad is more limited, as it’s primarily designed for the Switch 2’s GameCube Nintendo Classics library.
As mentioned above, there are some hoops to jump through in order to buy the GameCube controller for yourself. It’s only available through Nintendo’s online store, which you’ll need a Nintendo Account in order to make purchases from. On top of that, Nintendo is limiting purchases to those who have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
While that’s an annoying limitation, it does make some sense. The Switch 2’s library of GameCube titles can only be accessed through Nintendo Switch Online’s Expansion Pack tier. Thus, if you’re buying the controller for that reason, you’ll probably already have a subscription to the online service.
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller review: Specs
Price
$64.99 / £58.99 / AU$89.95
Weight
7.4oz / 210g
Dimensions
5.5 x 3.9 x 2.6in / 140 x 100 x 65mm
Compatibility
Nintendo Switch 2
Connection type
Wireless
Battery life
Around 25-30 hours
(Image credit: Future)
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller review: design and features
After the Sega Dreamcast, the Nintendo GameCube was my childhood system from that sixth generation of consoles (yes, I’m old, shut up). I spent those days playing hundreds of hours of amazing titles like The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Phantasy Star Online Episode 1 & 2, F-Zero GX, and Sonic Adventure 2 Battle. As a result, I’m deeply familiar with the original GameCube controller, and it’s one of my all-time favorite gamepads.
In my eyes, then, the Switch 2 version of the GameCube controller had a lot to live up to. And I’m happy to report that this is very much the same controller, albeit with some modernities to make it more usable as a contemporary pad. Aside from the obvious wireless connectivity, that includes the introduction of Home, Screenshot, and GameChat buttons, as well as a small ‘ZL’ button that sort of acts as a left trigger for regular Switch and Switch 2 games (in addition to accessing the quick menu for the GameCube Classics library).
Otherwise, this is practically identical to the original controller, sans the wired port being replaced with a USB-C port. The analog stick, C-stick, d-pad, and that iconic-yet-unorthodox face button layout are all exactly where they should be, and all feel very similar to that 2001 pad.
Nintendo has even gotten the smaller details right. Like how the face buttons feel ever so slightly loose in the places, not so much as to feel flimsy, but enough where they can rock around under your thumb. It’s a weirdly tactile feel that I’ve always enjoyed. Elsewhere, the left analog stick has all the right contours, bearing the same grippy feel as the OG version. Fear not if you were after authenticity, then this is a GameCube controller through and through.
(Image credit: Future)
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller review: Performance
With all that in mind, design-wise, it should come as no surprise that the Switch 2 GameCube controller feels as good now as it did back then, even with my larger adult hands. Its curved design is a blessing even among contemporary controllers, and during play, my hands still rest comfortably around its grips with index fingers wrapping snugly over the triggers.
I primarily tested the Switch 2 GameCube controller with its relevant Switch Online game collection. At the time of writing, that meant plenty of gameplay in F-Zero GX, Soul Calibur 2, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and Super Mario Strikers. Aside from some slightly noticeable input lag in Wind Waker (which is a problem with the emulation, as I’ve experienced the same with the Switch 2 Pro Controller), the GameCube pad performed excellently through wireless play.
There are two layers to my reasoning here. The first and rather obvious one is that the GameCube’s button layout is drastically at odds with the standard Switch format. On the GameCube controller, you have the A button in the middle, with B, X, and Y all orbiting it. If you’re dead set on using the GameCube controller for Switch 2 games, you’ll need to rely on in-game controller settings to form a more comfortable layout.
Additionally, the pad’s triggers register bumper inputs (L and R on Switch 2 Pro Controller, and Joy-Con 2), while the Z and ZL buttons are the triggers by default. That essentially means the placement has swapped around, which is more than a little awkward.
(Image credit: Future)
That’s where my second point comes in. The Switch 2 does not currently support GameCube controller button mapping from the Home dashboard, as it does for other official pads. This is a bit of a weird omission, and one I hope gets patched in somewhere down the line. Ultimately, though, I am happy that Nintendo at least offers GameCube controller compatibility as an option.
There are other control-related issues, but these are legacy problems at the very least. The triggers will definitely feel a little too clunky for some, and the d-pad is still far too small, rugged, and mushy-feeling. Would I have liked to have seen some improvements in these areas? Sure, but given my attachment to the original GameCube controller, I’m similarly hesitant to introduce any sweeping changes from a purist perspective.
Lastly, the controller at least seriously impresses in the realm of battery life. I tested the GameCube controller for around 15 hours, and while I didn’t fully drain the tank, I ended up using about half, according to the Switch 2’s controller menu. With that in mind, I’d estimate the pad houses anywhere between 25-30 hours of battery life, a similarly impressive number to that of the Switch 2 Pro Controller.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller?
Buy it if...
You want that authentic GameCube experience Switch Online’s GameCube library is set to grow each month. The controller is the best way to play these games in a faithful manner, and means you won’t have to fiddle around with the button layout on the Switch 2 Pro Controller or Joy-Con 2.
You want the full suite of official Switch 2 accessories There’s already a decent handful of official Switch 2 accessories available to buy, including the Switch 2 Pro Controller and the Switch 2 Camera. The GameCube controller is another quality Switch 2-compatible product from Nintendo, and shouldn’t be missed if you’re after the lot.
Don't buy it if...
You’re not a GameCube enjoyer Quite simply, if you’ve no interest in the Switch 2’s GameCube library, there’s little reason to own the controller. While its native Switch and Switch 2 game support is nice, it isn’t designed around them, thus its relatively awkward button layout could cause issues there.
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller review: Also consider
The Switch 2 GameCube controller is a pretty specific piece of kit, made for a very specific set of games. Here are some alternatives in case you’re having second thoughts.
Switch 2 GameCube Controller
Switch 2 Pro Controller
8BitDo Ultimate 2
Price
$64.99 / £58.99 / AU$89.95
$84.99 / £74.99 / AU$119.95
$69.99 / £59.99 / AU$90
Weight
7.4oz / 210g
8.3oz / 235g
8.7oz / 246g
Dimensions
5.5 x 3.9 x 2.6in / 140 x 100 x 65mm
5.8 x 4.1 x 2.4in / 148 x 105 x 60mm
5.7 x 4.1 x 2.4in / 147 x 103 x 61mm
Compatibility
Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC
Connection type
Wireless
Bluetooth, USB Type-C
2.4GHz, Bluetooth, USB Type-C
Battery life
Around 25-30 hours
Around 40 hours
10-15 hours
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Simply the best Nintendo Switch 2 controller available right now. Sublime build quality and best-in-class battery life make it a must-own for every Switch 2 owner.
8BitDo Ultimate 2 A superb upgrade over the original model, the Ultimate 2 brings drift-resistant TMR sticks, remappable extra buttons, trigger locks, and some lovely RGB ring lights around the thumbsticks. A solid, cheaper option overall if the Switch 2 Pro Controller is pricing you out.
How I tested the Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller
Tested for approximately 15 hours
Played a range of GameCube classics and Switch 2 games
Compared to the Switch 2 Pro Controller in terms of feel, performance, and battery life
I tested the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller for around 15 hours total, primarily using it for its intended purpose of playing with Nintendo Switch Online’s GameCube library. I also mixed in testing with some Switch 2 games, including Mario Kart World, Street Fighter 6, and Tears of the Kingdom - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. Results were admittedly mixed here, as the GameCube controller’s button layout isn’t best suited for more modern titles.
I primarily played on my LG CX OLED TV, and compared its performance with GameCube games to that of the Switch 2 Pro Controller. Both are well-suited, though I did find myself having to tweak button settings for the latter to better suit the control schemes of titles like F-Zero GX and Soul Calibur 2. With the GameCube controller, I didn’t have to worry about this as the controls are all mapped as intended.
Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition marks the fighting game’s availability on Nintendo Switch 2 - as a launch title for the console no less. Back in 2023, I scored Street Fighter 6five stars in my review, praising everything from its world class visuals to its intense one-on-one battles - backed up by the incredible Drive gauge system that allows for a high skill ceiling.
Review information
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC Release date: June 6, 2025 (originally released on June 2, 2023)
On Nintendo Switch 2, that high-quality experience has been replicated for the most part. Seemingly gone are the days of heavily compromised fighting game ports (looking at you, Mortal Kombat 1), as Capcom’s highly scalable RE Engine shows that even the best looking fighting games can still run and play great on a handheld machine.
Now, okay, you’re not quite getting the crystalline image quality of Street Fighter 6 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S or indeed PC. The Switch 2 version does look slightly worse, with noticeable graining and overall lower resolution - exacerbated when blown up on a 4K display. But honestly, it’s not a million miles away from those other versions, and the game is still perfectly readable and maintains a solid 60fps performance where it matters: in those intense online matches as well as most offline modes.
Perhaps obviously, it’s the single-player World Tour mode that suffers the most. Granted, it’s far from perfect on other systems, but you’ll really feel the compromises on Switch 2, with noticeable animation frame limiting on distant non-player characters (NPCs) and a hard 30fps lock during battles - far from ideal.
Still, everything else in the package is comparable. And with full crossplay support and a complete character roster at the time of writing, you can hop into one of the best fighting games on Nintendo Switch 2 and start ranking up just as well as you can on other consoles. Well, so long as you’re using a Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller for Classic motion inputs, of course. But more on that later.
The gang's all here
(Image credit: Capcom)
So first off, what’s included in Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition on Switch 2? As mentioned, you’re getting the entire roster of fighters. That’s 18 from the launch version, in addition to the four DLC characters from Year 1 (Rashid, A.K.I., Ed, and Akuma) and four from Year 2 (M. Bison, Terry Bogard, Mai Shiranui, and Elena). You’re also getting four DLC stages and a decent amount of Drive Tickets to spend in the game’s shop. Sadly, additional character outfits aren’t included in this package - you’ll have to buy those separately.
Otherwise, this is a feature-complete version of Street Fighter 6. All three main content hubs are here, including the single-player World Tour mode. You’ll also find the Battle Hub for hanging out with player-created avatars and engaging in casual online matches, as well as Fighting Ground where you have access to the bulk of the game’s modes. That includes ranked and unranked online matches, Arcade mode, training, and combo trials for every character.
There are also a couple of modes exclusive to the Switch 2 version of Street Fighter 6, but these are unfortunately novelties that wore off after a couple of tries. Gyro Battle uses the Joy-Con 2’s motion controls for special move inputs, while Calorie Contest also applies those motion inputs to a gimmicky fitness-based mode. Both are inoffensive inclusions, but you likely won’t look at them twice unless you want to get your grandma into Street Fighter, or something.
The Joy (Con) of fighting
(Image credit: Capcom)
How I feel about Street Fighter 6 now hasn’t changed much over the last couple of years. It’s still one of the best fighting games available today, with plenty of content for both casual and hardcore players to sink their teeth into.
That being said, there may be some growing pains for those jumping over to the Switch 2 version, or playing the game for the first time on the new hardware. While the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is a fine fit for Street Fighter 6’s Classic control scheme (which grants full access to characters’ moves and full motion inputs), the Joy-Con 2 certainly isn’t.
That’s because it’s almost impossible to reliably input directional special moves - especially the likes of the Dragon Punch motion and Zangief’s full-circle Spinning Pile Driver - on the Joy-Con 2’s button-styled d-pad.
However, if you prefer the Modern control scheme, which simplifies special moves to a single direction, you’ll have a much easier time if all you can play with is the Joy-Con 2. And it still helps that Modern is an incredibly well-designed control scheme that’s even preferred by no shortage of professional Street Fighter 6 players, so you absolutely can hop online and learn the game efficiently in this way.
Small world
(Image credit: Capcom)
As for World Tour, Street Fighter 6’s marquee single-player mode, it’s certainly something I’ve still got a soft spot for - but it’s definitely not at its best on Switch 2. In case you’re unaware, World Tour has your player-created avatar exploring 3D environments, getting into fights, and meeting legendary Street Fighter characters in order to level up and learn new moves - all in aid of winning tournaments and becoming the strongest fighter in the world. It’s not without its faults, with plenty of incredibly tanky enemies who love employing cheap tactics like lobbing wrenches from across the screen, but it is a fun diversion from the chaos of the online suites.
While it was never a top performer even on PS5, Xbox, and PC, World Tour on Switch 2 does suffer from some compromises. Draw distance is quite poor, and there’s plenty of choppy animation on distant NPCs. Overworld exploration targets 60fps and does get there frequently, but actual battles are strictly locked to 30fps, which simply feels horrible in a fighting game - even in a more casual-friendly environment.
I’d still say World Tour is worth a playthrough if you haven’t tried it before, as the experience here is far from unplayable. Just be prepared for a massive disconnect in performance between it and the rest of the package, which manages to be incredibly stable on Switch 2.
Should I play Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition on Switch 2?
Play it if...
You want a version of the game for portable play Despite a downgrade in overall image quality, playing Street Fighter 6 in handheld mode is a surprisingly stable experience and one that’s plenty fun whether you’re tucked in bed or out and about.
You want the entire roster at an affordable price Featuring most of the content released across the game’s first two years - sans old battle passes and character costumes - Years 1-2 Edition is a genuinely great deal.
Don't play it if...
You have access to Street Fighter 6 on other systems As impressive as Street Fighter 6 on Switch 2 is, if you’re able to play the game on PS5, Xbox, or PC, I would still recommend those versions for their better image quality and performance in World Tour mode.
You don’t have the time to learn a fighting game Street Fighter 6 may be the most popular fighting game out there, but it’s certainly one of the more complex ones with its intricate Drive system, varied character movesets, and no shortage of fighting game-specific terminology.
Accessibility
Street Fighter 6’s accessibility suite is just as impressive on Switch 2 as it is on other consoles and PC. For one, the Modern control scheme is an excellent onboarding tool for players intimidated by the complicated Classic layout. Modern doesn’t give access to a character’s full move list, but it does greatly simplify special move inputs and provides easy combo routes, allowing you to hop online and see success almost right away.
In terms of other accessibility options, there are plenty. Audio options are particularly impressive, with the ability to enable a ‘distance to opponent’ sound to aid players with vision impairments. You can also enable unique sound effects for high, mid, and low attacks, as well as ones for remaining health and Super Art gauge levels.
Sadly, there are no colorblind settings to speak of, and on Switch 2, there are fewer graphical and visual options in general than on other systems.
How I reviewed Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition
I played Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition on Nintendo Switch 2 for around 28 hours for this review. That included significant progress in World Tour mode, as well as several rounds of Arcade mode, combo trials, and online matches, both ranked and casual.
In docked mode, playing on an LG CX OLED TV, my controller of choice was the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller. I also tested the game in handheld mode using the Joy-Con 2 controllers.
As a huge fighting game fan, I also reviewed the original Street Fighter 6 release on PS5. I’ve also provided reviews for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Risingand Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, so I feel confident in delivering a review of the Switch 2 port of Street Fighter 6 that’s fair and coming from a standpoint of whether or not it’s worth your time and money.
Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition marks the fighting game’s availability on Nintendo Switch 2 - as a launch title for the console no less. Back in 2023, I scored Street Fighter 6five stars in my review, praising everything from its world class visuals to its intense one-on-one battles - backed up by the incredible Drive gauge system that allows for a high skill ceiling.
Review information
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC Release date: June 6, 2025 (originally released on June 2, 2023)
On Nintendo Switch 2, that high-quality experience has been replicated for the most part. Seemingly gone are the days of heavily compromised fighting game ports (looking at you, Mortal Kombat 1), as Capcom’s highly scalable RE Engine shows that even the best looking fighting games can still run and play great on a handheld machine.
Now, okay, you’re not quite getting the crystalline image quality of Street Fighter 6 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S or indeed PC. The Switch 2 version does look slightly worse, with noticeable graining and overall lower resolution - exacerbated when blown up on a 4K display. But honestly, it’s not a million miles away from those other versions, and the game is still perfectly readable and maintains a solid 60fps performance where it matters: in those intense online matches as well as most offline modes.
Perhaps obviously, it’s the single-player World Tour mode that suffers the most. Granted, it’s far from perfect on other systems, but you’ll really feel the compromises on Switch 2, with noticeable animation frame limiting on distant non-player characters (NPCs) and a hard 30fps lock during battles - far from ideal.
Still, everything else in the package is comparable. And with full crossplay support and a complete character roster at the time of writing, you can hop into one of the best fighting games on Nintendo Switch 2 and start ranking up just as well as you can on other consoles. Well, so long as you’re using a Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller for Classic motion inputs, of course. But more on that later.
The gang's all here
(Image credit: Capcom)
So first off, what’s included in Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition on Switch 2? As mentioned, you’re getting the entire roster of fighters. That’s 18 from the launch version, in addition to the four DLC characters from Year 1 (Rashid, A.K.I., Ed, and Akuma) and four from Year 2 (M. Bison, Terry Bogard, Mai Shiranui, and Elena). You’re also getting four DLC stages and a decent amount of Drive Tickets to spend in the game’s shop. Sadly, additional character outfits aren’t included in this package - you’ll have to buy those separately.
Otherwise, this is a feature-complete version of Street Fighter 6. All three main content hubs are here, including the single-player World Tour mode. You’ll also find the Battle Hub for hanging out with player-created avatars and engaging in casual online matches, as well as Fighting Ground where you have access to the bulk of the game’s modes. That includes ranked and unranked online matches, Arcade mode, training, and combo trials for every character.
There are also a couple of modes exclusive to the Switch 2 version of Street Fighter 6, but these are unfortunately novelties that wore off after a couple of tries. Gyro Battle uses the Joy-Con 2’s motion controls for special move inputs, while Calorie Contest also applies those motion inputs to a gimmicky fitness-based mode. Both are inoffensive inclusions, but you likely won’t look at them twice unless you want to get your grandma into Street Fighter, or something.
The Joy (Con) of fighting
(Image credit: Capcom)
How I feel about Street Fighter 6 now hasn’t changed much over the last couple of years. It’s still one of the best fighting games available today, with plenty of content for both casual and hardcore players to sink their teeth into.
That being said, there may be some growing pains for those jumping over to the Switch 2 version, or playing the game for the first time on the new hardware. While the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller is a fine fit for Street Fighter 6’s Classic control scheme (which grants full access to characters’ moves and full motion inputs), the Joy-Con 2 certainly isn’t.
That’s because it’s almost impossible to reliably input directional special moves - especially the likes of the Dragon Punch motion and Zangief’s full-circle Spinning Pile Driver - on the Joy-Con 2’s button-styled d-pad.
However, if you prefer the Modern control scheme, which simplifies special moves to a single direction, you’ll have a much easier time if all you can play with is the Joy-Con 2. And it still helps that Modern is an incredibly well-designed control scheme that’s even preferred by no shortage of professional Street Fighter 6 players, so you absolutely can hop online and learn the game efficiently in this way.
Small world
(Image credit: Capcom)
As for World Tour, Street Fighter 6’s marquee single-player mode, it’s certainly something I’ve still got a soft spot for - but it’s definitely not at its best on Switch 2. In case you’re unaware, World Tour has your player-created avatar exploring 3D environments, getting into fights, and meeting legendary Street Fighter characters in order to level up and learn new moves - all in aid of winning tournaments and becoming the strongest fighter in the world. It’s not without its faults, with plenty of incredibly tanky enemies who love employing cheap tactics like lobbing wrenches from across the screen, but it is a fun diversion from the chaos of the online suites.
While it was never a top performer even on PS5, Xbox, and PC, World Tour on Switch 2 does suffer from some compromises. Draw distance is quite poor, and there’s plenty of choppy animation on distant NPCs. Overworld exploration targets 60fps and does get there frequently, but actual battles are strictly locked to 30fps, which simply feels horrible in a fighting game - even in a more casual-friendly environment.
I’d still say World Tour is worth a playthrough if you haven’t tried it before, as the experience here is far from unplayable. Just be prepared for a massive disconnect in performance between it and the rest of the package, which manages to be incredibly stable on Switch 2.
Should I play Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition on Switch 2?
Play it if...
You want a version of the game for portable play Despite a downgrade in overall image quality, playing Street Fighter 6 in handheld mode is a surprisingly stable experience and one that’s plenty fun whether you’re tucked in bed or out and about.
You want the entire roster at an affordable price Featuring most of the content released across the game’s first two years - sans old battle passes and character costumes - Years 1-2 Edition is a genuinely great deal.
Don't play it if...
You have access to Street Fighter 6 on other systems As impressive as Street Fighter 6 on Switch 2 is, if you’re able to play the game on PS5, Xbox, or PC, I would still recommend those versions for their better image quality and performance in World Tour mode.
You don’t have the time to learn a fighting game Street Fighter 6 may be the most popular fighting game out there, but it’s certainly one of the more complex ones with its intricate Drive system, varied character movesets, and no shortage of fighting game-specific terminology.
Accessibility
Street Fighter 6’s accessibility suite is just as impressive on Switch 2 as it is on other consoles and PC. For one, the Modern control scheme is an excellent onboarding tool for players intimidated by the complicated Classic layout. Modern doesn’t give access to a character’s full move list, but it does greatly simplify special move inputs and provides easy combo routes, allowing you to hop online and see success almost right away.
In terms of other accessibility options, there are plenty. Audio options are particularly impressive, with the ability to enable a ‘distance to opponent’ sound to aid players with vision impairments. You can also enable unique sound effects for high, mid, and low attacks, as well as ones for remaining health and Super Art gauge levels.
Sadly, there are no colorblind settings to speak of, and on Switch 2, there are fewer graphical and visual options in general than on other systems.
How I reviewed Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition
I played Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Edition on Nintendo Switch 2 for around 28 hours for this review. That included significant progress in World Tour mode, as well as several rounds of Arcade mode, combo trials, and online matches, both ranked and casual.
In docked mode, playing on an LG CX OLED TV, my controller of choice was the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller. I also tested the game in handheld mode using the Joy-Con 2 controllers.
As a huge fighting game fan, I also reviewed the original Street Fighter 6 release on PS5. I’ve also provided reviews for Granblue Fantasy Versus: Risingand Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, so I feel confident in delivering a review of the Switch 2 port of Street Fighter 6 that’s fair and coming from a standpoint of whether or not it’s worth your time and money.
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch 2 Release date: June 5, 2025
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is one of my favorite games of all time, so I fully expected the sequel, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, to capture my heart too.
Unfortunately, I never clicked with Tears of the Kingdom when it launched in 2023, despite loving the concepts at play that gave players an endless sandbox to experiment with and an incredible physics engine.
Why, you might ask? Well, unlike when its predecessor, launched in 2017 on magical new hybrid hardware, Tears of the Kingdom not only chugged along at 30 frames per second (fps) with a lower resolution than the games I had become accustomed to playing on other consoles, but I also felt it lacked the feeling of new that made Breath of the Wild so magical.
Fast forward to 2025 and the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition has completely revitalized my love for open-world games, and thanks to a huge performance boost, it’s now poised to sit on my Mount Rushmore of this decade’s video game releases. Read on to find out why it's one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 games, but let it be known: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is one of the best video games ever made.
A breath of fresh air
(Image credit: Nintendo)
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom launched to rave reviews, cementing it as one of the best sequels of all time when it launched two years ago. There’s nothing else I can say about the game’s mechanics and story that haven’t already been said, so I want to specifically focus on the upgrades the Nintendo Switch 2 brings to Hyrule.
Back when I first played Tears of the Kingdom on the original Switch, I couldn’t help but feel like I’d played the game before. And despite running impressively on an underpowered handheld console, the experience was jarring, and it just never clicked for me.
As a massive fan of the series, I was incredibly disappointed; it almost felt like I had outgrown my childhood, and the magic had disappeared. Thankfully, I can confidently say today that’s not the case; I just needed a boost from 2025 hardware to make Tears of the Kingdom look and feel like it should’ve back in 2023.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is a paid upgrade to the original, available for free for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass subscribers, a paid upgrade if you already own the game, or by buying the full Nintendo Switch 2 version.
The game itself has no new content, per se; instead, it brings buttery smooth 60fps, a beautifully sharp resolution, and HDR, which makes the colors absolutely pop. I can’t emphasize enough just how much this version of the game feels like a total facelift compared to the outdated original version.
(Image credit: Future)
My biggest gripes with the game when it originally came out were all related to the magic of Hyrule’s expansive world feeling limited due to performance bottlenecks, and now on Switch 2, it plays like the definitive version of this absolutely incredible game.
Think of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition like wearing glasses for the first time, it’s as if the blurriness is gone and you can finally experience what you’d dreamt of as a kid exploring Hyrule for the first time, whether that was playing Ocarina of Time or Twilight Princess.
Throughout my 70-hour playthrough, I haven’t encountered one performance hiccup, and on many occasions, I’ve had to pause to just stare in awe at the beautiful contrasting colors of the sky - I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a beautiful sunset in any game, ever.
The definitive way to experience Hyrule
(Image credit: Nintendo)
If, like me, you couldn’t click with the original game, not to any fault of it own, but rather a fault of the hardware limitations it was confined to, then not only should you run out and buy this game, but it’s enough to justify a Nintendo Switch 2 console in itself.
While I haven’t played Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition, reading the review of that game on Switch 2 hardware tells a similar story to my experience with its successor. These Zelda games are just so good that an improvement to the experience by bringing them up to date for 2025’s standards makes them must-play, even if you experienced the land of Hyrule on Switch before.
Not only have I loved exploring Hyrule on my OLED TV in 1440p upscaled to 4K, but the performance upgrades here make the game a delight on Switch 2’s handheld mode. Running at 1080p with HDR enabled, it’s just the perfect experience to take your adventure on the go and not feel like you’re compromising.
Best bit
(Image credit: Nintendo)
Gliding through the world of Hyrule on Switch 2 feels like you're experiencing freedom for the first time. Now with a crisp resolution and steady framerate, exploration has never felt so good.
Eight years ago, when I first experienced that feeling of continuing my adventure on my commute to work, in the park, or on vacation, it was the best gaming experience I had ever had in my life. Now, thanks to the Switch 2’s hardware, that experience is amplified to a whole new level, and all I want to do is finish writing this article so I can delve back into the land of Hyrule.
While some fans of the series will be disappointed at the lack of new content in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition, I think the game can already feel a little overwhelming with just how much it offers.
At no point in my playthrough did I wish for new experiences; I was just happy to relive one of the best games of all time, but better. And, truth be told, while there’s not really any new content, despite an option for a second save file (Thank you, Nintendo!) on the Switch 2 itself, do not underestimate just how good the Zelda Notes companion app is.
The cherry on top
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(Image credit: Nintendo)
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(Image credit: Nintendo)
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(Image credit: Nintendo)
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(Image credit: Nintendo)
Zelda Notes, an exclusive feature to the Switch 2 Edition of this game, can be found in the iOS or Android Nintendo Switch app. It’s almost an app within an app, bringing a whole new extra element to your adventure.
Not only can you navigate the map in real-time on your smartphone or tablet, but the app also unlocks dozens upon dozens of Voice Memories, which makes Hyrule feel even more alive. While I would’ve preferred Voice Memories, audio clips you can stumble upon in different locations in the world, to be included in the game, rather than in the app, the added lore has made me want to explore every nook and cranny to try and uncover the hidden details of the adventure.
The Zelda Notes app also gives you access to your full playthrough data, which is a lovely addition considering Nintendo still doesn’t give you detailed playing stats on the Switch 2 console, as well as the ability to share items and building concepts for Autobuild via QR codes.
One of my favorite additions to the game via Zelda Notes, however, is the Daily Bonus, which lets you spin a wheel every 24 hours to unlock a nutritious meal or other stat boost that might help you explore the deepest depths or highest skies of Hyrule. I found myself playing the game more regularly just to experience my Daily Bonus, and it was just the incentive I needed to keep venturing on with my journey.
Should you buy The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?
Buy it if...
You’ve never played Tears of the Kingdom before, or are looking to replay it This version of the game is the definitive way to play one of the best video games of all time. If you've never played Tears of the Kingdom, couldn't vibe with the less-than-stellar performance when it launched, or love the game and want to delve back in, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is worth picking up.
You’re looking for a reason to buy the Nintendo Switch 2 Yes, Mario Kart World is awesome, but after a while, it becomes your go-to party game rather than a reason to pick up your Nintendo Switch 2 after work. If you're looking for a reason to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2, this upgraded version of one of the best games of all time might be the perfect opportunity to do so. I don't say this lightly: Tears of the Kingdom in full 60fps is a system seller.
Don't buy it if...
You didn't enjoy the game the first time around While I've just written over a thousand words on why this version of Tears of the Kingdom makes me love the game despite not enjoying it the first time around, my reasons for not clicking with the game were never related to the gameplay itself. If you don't enjoy open-world adventure and didn't click with Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom in the past, this new version of the game won't change your mind.
Accessibility
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition doesn’t have much going on with it, accessibility wise. While you still have access to gyro aiming and the ability to rebind your controls from the Switch 2 menu (which won’t translate to the correct button prompts in-game), there’s nothing much to write home about.
You can't increase the text size, turn off motion blur, or make any other adjustments to help with playing the game. There's also no difficulty setting, so if you find the nature of an open world with breakable weapons too difficult, tough luck.
How I reviewed The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
I played over 70 hours of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Nintendo Switch 2, venturing throughout the main story as well as completing a variety of side quests dotted around Hyrule.
I had previously played the game on Nintendo Switch 1, but was never able to complete it. Combined, I must have over 150 hours of gameplay in Tears of the Kingdom, and I've also played and completed every other mainline Zelda game.
I played The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition in a mixture of handheld mode on the Nintendo Switch 2 itself and on one of the best OLED TVs, the Samsung Q90D, using the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch 2 Release date: June 5, 2025
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is one of my favorite games of all time, so I fully expected the sequel, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, to capture my heart too.
Unfortunately, I never clicked with Tears of the Kingdom when it launched in 2023, despite loving the concepts at play that gave players an endless sandbox to experiment with and an incredible physics engine.
Why, you might ask? Well, unlike when its predecessor, launched in 2017 on magical new hybrid hardware, Tears of the Kingdom not only chugged along at 30 frames per second (fps) with a lower resolution than the games I had become accustomed to playing on other consoles, but I also felt it lacked the feeling of new that made Breath of the Wild so magical.
Fast forward to 2025 and the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition has completely revitalized my love for open-world games, and thanks to a huge performance boost, it’s now poised to sit on my Mount Rushmore of this decade’s video game releases. Read on to find out why it's one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 games, but let it be known: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is one of the best video games ever made.
A breath of fresh air
(Image credit: Nintendo)
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom launched to rave reviews, cementing it as one of the best sequels of all time when it launched two years ago. There’s nothing else I can say about the game’s mechanics and story that haven’t already been said, so I want to specifically focus on the upgrades the Nintendo Switch 2 brings to Hyrule.
Back when I first played Tears of the Kingdom on the original Switch, I couldn’t help but feel like I’d played the game before. And despite running impressively on an underpowered handheld console, the experience was jarring, and it just never clicked for me.
As a massive fan of the series, I was incredibly disappointed; it almost felt like I had outgrown my childhood, and the magic had disappeared. Thankfully, I can confidently say today that’s not the case; I just needed a boost from 2025 hardware to make Tears of the Kingdom look and feel like it should’ve back in 2023.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is a paid upgrade to the original, available for free for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass subscribers, a paid upgrade if you already own the game, or by buying the full Nintendo Switch 2 version.
The game itself has no new content, per se; instead, it brings buttery smooth 60fps, a beautifully sharp resolution, and HDR, which makes the colors absolutely pop. I can’t emphasize enough just how much this version of the game feels like a total facelift compared to the outdated original version.
(Image credit: Future)
My biggest gripes with the game when it originally came out were all related to the magic of Hyrule’s expansive world feeling limited due to performance bottlenecks, and now on Switch 2, it plays like the definitive version of this absolutely incredible game.
Think of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition like wearing glasses for the first time, it’s as if the blurriness is gone and you can finally experience what you’d dreamt of as a kid exploring Hyrule for the first time, whether that was playing Ocarina of Time or Twilight Princess.
Throughout my 70-hour playthrough, I haven’t encountered one performance hiccup, and on many occasions, I’ve had to pause to just stare in awe at the beautiful contrasting colors of the sky - I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a beautiful sunset in any game, ever.
The definitive way to experience Hyrule
(Image credit: Nintendo)
If, like me, you couldn’t click with the original game, not to any fault of it own, but rather a fault of the hardware limitations it was confined to, then not only should you run out and buy this game, but it’s enough to justify a Nintendo Switch 2 console in itself.
While I haven’t played Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition, reading the review of that game on Switch 2 hardware tells a similar story to my experience with its successor. These Zelda games are just so good that an improvement to the experience by bringing them up to date for 2025’s standards makes them must-play, even if you experienced the land of Hyrule on Switch before.
Not only have I loved exploring Hyrule on my OLED TV in 1440p upscaled to 4K, but the performance upgrades here make the game a delight on Switch 2’s handheld mode. Running at 1080p with HDR enabled, it’s just the perfect experience to take your adventure on the go and not feel like you’re compromising.
Best bit
(Image credit: Nintendo)
Gliding through the world of Hyrule on Switch 2 feels like you're experiencing freedom for the first time. Now with a crisp resolution and steady framerate, exploration has never felt so good.
Eight years ago, when I first experienced that feeling of continuing my adventure on my commute to work, in the park, or on vacation, it was the best gaming experience I had ever had in my life. Now, thanks to the Switch 2’s hardware, that experience is amplified to a whole new level, and all I want to do is finish writing this article so I can delve back into the land of Hyrule.
While some fans of the series will be disappointed at the lack of new content in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition, I think the game can already feel a little overwhelming with just how much it offers.
At no point in my playthrough did I wish for new experiences; I was just happy to relive one of the best games of all time, but better. And, truth be told, while there’s not really any new content, despite an option for a second save file (Thank you, Nintendo!) on the Switch 2 itself, do not underestimate just how good the Zelda Notes companion app is.
The cherry on top
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(Image credit: Nintendo)
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(Image credit: Nintendo)
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(Image credit: Nintendo)
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(Image credit: Nintendo)
Zelda Notes, an exclusive feature to the Switch 2 Edition of this game, can be found in the iOS or Android Nintendo Switch app. It’s almost an app within an app, bringing a whole new extra element to your adventure.
Not only can you navigate the map in real-time on your smartphone or tablet, but the app also unlocks dozens upon dozens of Voice Memories, which makes Hyrule feel even more alive. While I would’ve preferred Voice Memories, audio clips you can stumble upon in different locations in the world, to be included in the game, rather than in the app, the added lore has made me want to explore every nook and cranny to try and uncover the hidden details of the adventure.
The Zelda Notes app also gives you access to your full playthrough data, which is a lovely addition considering Nintendo still doesn’t give you detailed playing stats on the Switch 2 console, as well as the ability to share items and building concepts for Autobuild via QR codes.
One of my favorite additions to the game via Zelda Notes, however, is the Daily Bonus, which lets you spin a wheel every 24 hours to unlock a nutritious meal or other stat boost that might help you explore the deepest depths or highest skies of Hyrule. I found myself playing the game more regularly just to experience my Daily Bonus, and it was just the incentive I needed to keep venturing on with my journey.
Should you buy The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?
Buy it if...
You’ve never played Tears of the Kingdom before, or are looking to replay it This version of the game is the definitive way to play one of the best video games of all time. If you've never played Tears of the Kingdom, couldn't vibe with the less-than-stellar performance when it launched, or love the game and want to delve back in, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is worth picking up.
You’re looking for a reason to buy the Nintendo Switch 2 Yes, Mario Kart World is awesome, but after a while, it becomes your go-to party game rather than a reason to pick up your Nintendo Switch 2 after work. If you're looking for a reason to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2, this upgraded version of one of the best games of all time might be the perfect opportunity to do so. I don't say this lightly: Tears of the Kingdom in full 60fps is a system seller.
Don't buy it if...
You didn't enjoy the game the first time around While I've just written over a thousand words on why this version of Tears of the Kingdom makes me love the game despite not enjoying it the first time around, my reasons for not clicking with the game were never related to the gameplay itself. If you don't enjoy open-world adventure and didn't click with Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom in the past, this new version of the game won't change your mind.
Accessibility
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition doesn’t have much going on with it, accessibility wise. While you still have access to gyro aiming and the ability to rebind your controls from the Switch 2 menu (which won’t translate to the correct button prompts in-game), there’s nothing much to write home about.
You can't increase the text size, turn off motion blur, or make any other adjustments to help with playing the game. There's also no difficulty setting, so if you find the nature of an open world with breakable weapons too difficult, tough luck.
How I reviewed The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
I played over 70 hours of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Nintendo Switch 2, venturing throughout the main story as well as completing a variety of side quests dotted around Hyrule.
I had previously played the game on Nintendo Switch 1, but was never able to complete it. Combined, I must have over 150 hours of gameplay in Tears of the Kingdom, and I've also played and completed every other mainline Zelda game.
I played The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition in a mixture of handheld mode on the Nintendo Switch 2 itself and on one of the best OLED TVs, the Samsung Q90D, using the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.
I’m a huge Atlus fan, and when Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army was revealed back in March, I was absolutely over the moon. See, I never got a chance to play the original JRPG – which first released on the PS2 – but had always hoped to get in on some demon-filled investigative action.
Review info
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X and Series S, PC Release date: June 19, 2025
And Atlus has truly served up a full-blown remaster of Raidou’s first adventure, bringing the Devil Summoner’s story to just about every modern platform with full voice acting, fleshed-out 3D environments, enhanced visuals and audio, as well as evolved combat.
Atlus has produced banger after banger for decades, including some of the best RPGs like Metaphor: ReFantazioand Persona 5 Royal. So, can the Switch 2 game Raidou Remastered rise to those same heights
Well, perhaps not quite. But it’s still a fantastic remaster. Here’s what I made of the game after spending more than 30 hours playing it on Nintendo Switch 2.
Where lies man, so lies dark
(Image credit: Atlus)
In 1930s Japan, a young lady approaches the Narumi Detective Agency with a shocking request. She wants you to kill her. But before you can hear exactly why, she’s kidnapped by mysterious individuals in red capes.
So, in steps Raidou Kuzunoha XIV, an apprentice detective at the Narumi Detective Agency who aims to serve the capital – not only by helping citizens with their day-to-day needs, but also by keeping things in check within the Dark Realm – a curious juncture between the real world and the netherworld, where demons lurk.
And now it’s down to Raidou and his allied demons to solve the mystery of the kidnapped girl... which, in turn, leads you to unveil a far greater conspiracy than you could ever imagine.
Of course, I don’t want to give away too many details plot-wise. But I can assure you that there are plenty of twists and turns as the mystery unravels – and that mystery remains gripping throughout. In addition, you don’t have to sit through hours of warm up before the story really gets going.
Best bit
(Image credit: Atlus)
The best part of any Megami Tensei title is witnessing the often wacky and wild nature of the various demons you encounter. At one point, I ran into a deeply troubled demon named Ippon-Datara who felt compelled, desperate even, to construct a wall blocking my path. It was only after I called him stupid, and got an earful about eating brains with a spoon that he eventually cleared the way. Classic SMT.
Yep, you’re flung straight into the middle of a dark case, in a city flooded with characters in need of your support – sometimes in the main story, and other times through brief, yet enjoyable side quests called Case Files. And you’ll meet a real range of individuals throughout the game’s runtime. No really, I ran into everyone from a yakuza captain through to a zany demon-fusing scientist – and that’s just in the real world!
These characters help to expose many of the game's key themes, which are tightly interwoven with the 1930s setting. There are frequent questions around the morality of war and the role of economic injustice on people’s everyday lives, for instance.
And I felt that I could connect to the cast thanks to newly added voice acting – one of the best inclusions in this remaster. Whether it's the somewhat lazy, yet playful Detective Narumi or rival Devil Summoner, Rasputin, expressive voice acting injects so much more personality into each character. Even the demons have some incredibly entertaining – sometimes bizarre dialogue that add so much whimsy to the experience. The commanding voice of Hayataro or the iconic hee-ho’s of Jack Frost even made me reluctant to fuse them into something else.
Your feline companion, Gouto, is also at hand to guide you through the case's key plot points and provide pointers if you get a bit stuck. Those tips are often handy, and generally, Gouto is far less invasive than a certain other cat that Atlus fans will be well acquainted with. I won’t name names of course... but it starts with ‘M’ and ends in ‘organa’.
Raidou’s revamped
(Image credit: Atlus)
So, there’s an engaging plot and intriguing cast to match, but what about gameplay itself. Well, this is where the picture starts to get a little more mixed.
I’ll start with combat. You’re not getting the turn-based press turn battle system from Shin Megami Tensei titles, with this game instead taking a real-time action approach. However, the combat system has been significantly overhauled in Raidou Remastered, when compared to the original game.
There are no more pesky random encounters, Raidou can now use two demons in battle (as opposed to one in the original), you’ve got the ability to lock on to enemies, and much, much more. These alterations are all most welcome and have made combat feel way more fluid than before.
When doing battle, you’ll want to focus on draining MAG, which is expended when demons use magic attacks, such as the fire spell Agi or volt attack Zio. In order to get your MAG back, Raidou can dish out light attacks, which fill up the bar swiftly, enabling you to regularly exploit enemy weaknesses, and as a result, stagger them for an easier route to victory.
(Image credit: Atlus)
Other than those light attacks I mentioned, Raidou can use heavy attacks, fire his gun, cast magic abilities of his own (Summoner Skills) and unleash highly punishing moves like Devil’s Bane and Spirit Slash. You'll gain new Summoner Skills as the game progresses, and you'll also be able to allocate stat boosts to Raidou when he levels up across strength, magic, vitality and luck.
I went for a mixed strength / magic build, and my main strategy in battle was to whack out as many light attacks as possible, fueling one demon’s use of healing magic and another’s devastating elemental damage. You can also use items in battle, but I basically never needed to do this.
Most of the time, my strategy proved to be a sure-fire way to win battles, meaning that combat could get a little repetitive. Also, despite enhanced battle mechanics – which includes more fluid maneuvering – I found that Raidou could feel a little clunky to control, especially in the air. This was rarely a huge issue, but if you’re expecting incredibly seamless, ultra-smooth movement from this title, you might be a little disappointed.
Boss fights are still good fun, though, and can often pose a decent challenge. Here, I found that blocking and dodging was a bit more important. Just spamming my light attacks and expecting my demons to do the rest was rarely good enough. I’m sure this would ring even more true if you’re playing on hard mode, but I played on Private Eye difficulty – which is essentially the standard level of challenge.
Before we continue talking gameplay, though, I just wanted to flag that this game has a great soundtrack – there are some seriously catchy tunes here. I still can’t get the theme from Narumi’s Detective Agency out of my head.
Battling our demons
(Image credit: Atlus)
Anyway, let’s continue chatting gameplay – and the real highlight here, for me, is filling out the demon compendium and fusing the most powerful creations imaginable.
You can recruit demons pretty much hassle free – not always the case in other Atlus entries (I’m looking at you, SMT 4). And you can also request the help of the peculiar Dr. Victor in the Goumaden, who enables you to fuse multiple demons together and forge new, stronger companions to take into battle. You can also fuse swords, spears or axes for Raidou, which come which come with fresh abilities as well as differing stat boosts.
During demon fusion specifically, you can pass on abilities and passive skills which will help you target the weaknesses of opponents in the Dark Realm – just make sure you keep an eye on their Investigation Skills, which will come in use outside of battle.
And that brings me onto what is, without doubt, the weakest part of Raidou Remastered – solo investigations. These occur when Raidou is unable to progress through an area himself, and he instead enlists the help of his demons (which most humans are unable to see in the real world). You can send a demon out to gather clues or investigate blocked off locations, which sounds interesting, but ends up being just boring.
Most demons move pretty slowly, and the sprint button doesn’t work when they’re out investigating. On top of that, retrieving clues usually just consists of pressing a single button to search an area, read a mind, or squeeze into a tight area. I just wish that these parts of the experience were more interactive, especially given that being a detective is central to the game’s plot.
(Image credit: Atlus)
Finally, a quick note on the experience playing on Nintendo Switch 2. Typically, I played with my Joy-Con 2 controllers, and the game controlled nicely. Switching between targets while locked on took a bit of getting used to – it could, at times, feel a little rigid. But everything else, from using attacks, summoning demons, sprinting and dodging felt totally fine.
Similarly, performance was very strong – though I would expect this given it's hardly the most demanding title out there. It runs at a maximum of 60fps at 1080p, which looks solid, though the lack of 4K may disappoint some.
Overall, though, I love how the game remains faithful, visually, to its PS2 roots, while still ensuring characters and backgrounds look polished. Oh, I also rarely experienced frame rate issues – that is unless I performed Raidou’s ultimate attack, Spirit Slash. This would sometimes cause a little bit of slowdown, but never to a degree that it cost me a battle or anything.
In the end, I had a blast with Raidou Remastered. I was keen to complete almost every Case File, the main story had me hooked, and of course, I loved summoning some of my favorite demons from the SMT series. Combat, though fairly layered, could sometimes get a little samey and I really wish solo investigations didn’t feel like a chore. But overall, Atlus did an excellent job with this remaster and I’m grateful that it’s enabled me – and so many other fans – to solve this mystery for the very first time.
Should you play Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army?
(Image credit: Atlus)
Play it if...
You love the worlds of SMT and Persona If, like me, you adore titles like Persona 4 Golden and Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance, I’d say that Raidou Remastered is well worth your time. It’s not as long as these games and doesn’t offer turn-based combat either (still my preference). But you’ve got mostly the same demons, and another host of awesome characters to interact with – crucial aspects that drew me to previous Atlus entries.
You’re a sucker for narrative-driven RPGs There’s no vast open world to explore in Raidou Remastered. Sure, you can roam around the capital and get busy working on Case Files, or even take a trip to the Dark Realm. But the main event isn’t really exploration. It’s the games narrative, which at times, takes turns that you may not have foreseen. If you love story-driven RPGs, you’re likely to enjoy this mysterious adventure.
Don't play it if...
You’re not such a fan of real-time action gameplay So, I mentioned it earlier, but if you’re only really into turn-based combat, it may be worth giving Raidou Remastered a miss. This game makes use of real-time action combat, meaning you’ll engage in much more intense, time-sensitive battles.
You want fully-fledged, shiny current-gen graphics The bones of Raidou Remastered’s PS2 origins are very prevalent in this game, visually speaking. Personally, I was charmed by that, but I’m certain that it won’t be to everyone’s tastes. Oh, and this game runs at 1080p on Switch 2, rather than 4K, so if you’re expecting to be wowed by the flashiest graphics in the world, you’ll be disappointed.
Accessibility features
The game includes subtitles, button remapping in the controls section, a control stick sensitivity slider, and the ability to toggle vibrations on and off. There are some other subtle changes you can make, such as the option to simply hold the A button, rather than press it repeatedly to confine a demon. There are four difficult modes, including one which makes combat extremely basic for those who want to essentially focus on story alone. There isn’t a colorblind mode for anyone seeking that out, though.
How I reviewed Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army:
(Image credit: Atlus)
I spent more than 30 hours with Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army, playing through the main story and the vast majority of Case Files. I had the game set on Private Eye difficulty – essentially normal. I’ve played a ton of Atlus titles before, from Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne through to Persona 3 Reload, so I was already plenty familiar with systems like demon fusion.
I played the Nintendo Switch 2 version of the game, which I downloaded digitally via a code supplied by Sega. Usually, I played in docked mode in 1080p at 60fps, but I did try playing for a while in handheld mode too. When docked, I had my Nintendo Switch 2 connected to the Sky Glass Gen 2, with audio playing from the Marshall Heston 120 soundbar.
If there’s anything a game can do to make a good first impression, it’s having its dual protagonists riding huge dragons in what feels like a cataclysmic event.
Having no skin in the game as far as Rune Factory as a series is concerned, it felt as though I’d skipped a whole host of chapters and was getting ready for the final battle between good and evil, and then… my character woke up.
Review info
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC Release date: June 5, 2025
Rather than charging into battle atop a mythical creature, I found myself cleaning up weeds and harvesting wood. The surprising part, however, is that in doing so, I came to fall in love with the depths of Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma’s systems.
There’s combat here, sure, but in the 25 hours I spent in its charming world on Nintendo Switch 2, the biggest draws were getting to just the next upgrade for my burgeoning town, offering just the right gift on a character’s birthday, and enjoying quality time with its cast.
Rhythm is a dancer
(Image credit: Marvelous Inc.)
Still, I’m getting ahead of myself. As I mentioned, I’ve never played a Rune Factory game before, but with multiple Switch 2 games dropping into the laps of gamers, I wanted to kick the tires somewhat even before this review in hopes of filling a knowledge gap.
Waking from a dream, my amnesiac hero finds himself in the quaint Spring Village. Here, the sacred tree has stopped blooming, and I was tasked with cleaning the place up in hopes that better times would return.
As it would happen, the protagonist is an Earth Dancer, able to tap into natural forces (isn’t that always the way?), allowing them to wield divine instruments that help plants grow and push back against a sort of blight that’s strangling this once-vibrant world.
That narrative setup leads into the main mechanic of Guardians of Azuma: Village management. If the game itself were a sacred tree, its village customisation and management tools would be the central trunk–absolutely everything feeds into it, and that’s what helped me sink so many hours in so quickly.
Making friends…
(Image credit: Marvelous Inc.)
In the game’s opening hours, you’ll be led by the hand through all sorts of smaller pieces of village stewardship. You’ll meet its inhabitants to grow social bonds (more on that shortly), and spend time building up a designated area for fields and small buildings.
It doesn’t take long to build a couple of relatively humble abodes to help bring in new villagers, or harvest crops that can be sent elsewhere to raise capital for your village. In fact, before long, there’s the same kind of satisfaction you find in any other management game, as things tick along nicely.
The more villagers you can, the more they’ll be able to help with chores and tasks, and each has individual perks that help them fall more naturally into roles like Loggers, Farmers, or Miners.
Seeing my small patch of farmland from the game’s first hour gain a whole host of villagers to work on the harvest, or adding my first blacksmith, felt perfectly paced. The carrot on the proverbial stick of “I just need to get to the next upgrade” kept me up past 2 AM more than once, and there’s a really cosy quality to Guardians of Azuma that makes it a natural fit as a Switch 2 launch game.
…and influencing people
(Image credit: Marvelous Inc.)
In between your daily routine of tidying things up, bossing people about, and trying to make a bit of gold, you’ll also have the chance to grow friendships with your companions and even branch out into romance with them.
This is achieved by making an effort to converse with them regularly, fulfilling any requests they may have, and eventually working with their likes and dislikes to select suitable gifts or suggest suitable activities.
It’s not as strictly structured as something like Persona, and while there is a day/night schedule (complete with debuffs for staying up late), it’s easy to fit multiple social engagements into one day.
Best bit
(Image credit: Marvelous Inc.)
They say 'it takes a village', and I loved watching my relatively small patch of farmland grow into a bustling production line of crops being picked, weapons being crafted, and making coin via trading.
That’s a good thing, because many of the characters are just so fun to talk to. Ulalaka, the divine spirit of the game’s first village, is relaxed and cordial but holds some deeper fears about the state of the world and her diminishing powers. And, while some characters are certainly more one-note (Murasame is the relatively generic swordsman, while Takumi is the affable, boisterous carpenter), they’re all brought to life with exuberant voice acting and great regionalisation.
(Image credit: Marvelous Inc.)
A special shout-out, too, to Woolby. The game’s comic relief could have felt more irritating given how much he’s on screen in certain scenes, and I had feared he’d be akin to Persona’s Teddy or Morgana, but I ended up genuinely enjoying his appearances, and he didn’t grate much at all.
Laying down the law of the land
(Image credit: Marvelous Inc.)
You’ll want to spend time chatting up your cohorts, too. There are around two dozen romance options, but once any of their bond levels hit 1 (which is very, very easy to do), they’ll be able to accompany you on expeditions out of the village.
That’s important because while your town is busy working on items and weapons you can take out into the world with you, there are monsters to slay.
While the bright art style may suggest similarities, it’s not quite as deep as in something like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Many enemies can be felled with a few swings of your sword, but there are plenty of weapons to unlock, each with their own skill trees.
That applies to your party, too, so leveling your social bonds can be the difference between rolling into a boss fight with a relatively slapdash squad or with a team of hardened veterans.
There’s a breeziness to the action-based sword-swinging and bow-firing, and the option to slow time when you nail a ‘Perfect Dodge’ and follow up with a whirlwind flurry of attacks feels just as good here as it has in recent Zelda titles.
Some enemies will even turn into villagers, making seeking them out (and various other bonuses in the areas outside your village) a worthy endeavour.
Rinse, repeat
While there’s always something to do, be it a notjiceboard request or working towards the next village upgrade, the game’s structure won’t be to everyone’s liking.
Each chapter essentially adds a new village, and if you’ve not had a great deal of fun managing the minutiae of harvesting and selling crops in the first one, you’ll probably struggle to find the fun in the following villages.
Each comes with its own unique challenges, characters, and mechanics, but the overarching mechanics remain the same. That’s something I had a blast with, just constantly min/maxing my time, but it won’t be to everyone’s tastes.
I also found that there are some frame rate drops while playing on a TV at 4K, but those weren’t an issue in handheld. Given the option to sit back and do some village management while watching TV, though, I can see the latter being the way most people enjoy Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma.
Should you play Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma?
Play it if...
You’re looking for something to scratch that Animal Crossing itch Rune Factory isn’t quite as cutesy, but it does offer plenty of management systems for your villages. And yes, you can just walk around pulling up weeds as if Tom Nook is watching over you.
You want something to sink hours into Between finding materials, recruiting villagers, restoring your home, and much, much more, it’s easy to get lost in Guardians of Azuma’s series of interwoven mechanics.
You’re looking for a great starting point for the series I’ve never played a Rune Factory game, but it’s a series I’ll be keeping an eye on in the future. It’s easy to follow right from the jump.
Don't play it if...
You’re looking for a deep story Guardians of Azuma’s story is relatively by-the-numbers, but a strong cast of characters and great voice work help it feel more than the sum of its parts.
Accessibility
As far as I could see in the settings, there are no additional subtitle sizes on offer, but you can auto-pause dialogue when a sentence is finished. You can also adjust the speed at which subtitles appear.
Button mapping is very flexible, too, meaning players can customize their button inputs as much as they’d like, and the game does a great job of keeping button tooltips on screen, too.
(Image credit: Marvelous Inc.)
How I reviewed Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma
I played Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma for 25 hours, completing the main story and mopping up a whole host of side quests.
Launching alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, Fortnite Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is quite simply the same game, but better. Bless developer and publisher Epic Games for trying, but Fortnite on the original Nintendo Switch is hardly the most elegant way to play and feels like you’re at a significant disadvantage thanks to the decreased graphical fidelity, framerate, and draw distance. It’s forgivable on handheld, but with TV mode, it looks rough and feels rougher. But I’m glad to say the Nintendo Switch 2 edition is a great way to play, no matter where you are.
Review info
Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2 Available on: Nintendo Switch 2; Non-Switch 2 version available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PS4, PS5, PC, Android, iOS (in some regions) Release date: June 5, 2025
I mean, what can you even say about Fortnite at this point? Epic Games’ 100-person Battle Royale game has taken over the world over the last eight years, and it’s only grown larger in the time since. In the vein of something like Roblox, Fortnite is both a battle royale and a user-generated game platform where you can find an endless amount of custom maps to play with your friends on.
But let's get into why the Fortnite Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is such a great way to play.
Chug jug with you
(Image credit: Epic Games)
To really hammer that “you can play Fortnite without even touching its main mode” point home, I don’t like Battle Royale – the marquee mode – thanks to the game's building mechanics. However, when it comes to the Zero Build mode, it’s undoubtedly the best Battle Royale game on the market right now. Over the years, Epic has augmented the core mechanics of the game with a host of new movement options like wall kicking and roll landing that keep things fluid in what used to be the jankiest of movement systems.
Of course, the problem with any ‘evolving game’ is that it’s tough to give a review of the main mode because of how it changes. Fortnite Chapter 5 Season 1 was peak, while Chapter 4 and Chapter 5’s third seasons were two of the absolute worst seasons of a live service game I’ve played. This means there could be three-month stretches where you just simply don’t like the game. And considering Epic Games has been experimenting with seasons based around media franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, and a rumored upcoming Simpsons season, if you don’t like those, that’s all you get for months.
Thanks to the use of the Nintendo Switch 2’s feature set and specs, it's one of the best ways to play the game on console and by far the best handheld version.
Outside of that, there are the Epic Games-created modes. There’s Fortnite OG, which brings back the original Chapter 1 map (which can also be played in Zero Build, thankfully); Reload, which is a faster-paced 40-player battle; and Ballistic, a first-person mode that is a take on Counter-Strike. While none of these stand up to the core mode, they offer different ways to take on the mechanics of Fortnite and are solid games in their own right.
Then there are non-shooting modes like the Minecraft-inspired Lego Fortnite, Rocket Racing, and the best side mode, Fortnite Festival, which is a rhythm game mode and the closest thing we’ll get to a new Rock Band game, considering it was developed by Guitar Hero and Rock Band creator Harmonix. This mode gets constantly updated with songs and artists, with a new singer taking center stage with a skin and big song drop every few months or so (with the likes of Sabrina Carpenter, Metallica, and Hatsune Miku showing up).
And despite having so many options, the player base for each main mode is really healthy, meaning you’ll never wait too long to find a game of anything, with some custom games even having dedicated player bases. A few of these Epic-made modes have their own seasons and battle passes, too, which does add up if you don’t subscribe to the Fortnite Crew. However, Epic recently changed it so XP earned in any mode goes towards every single pass, which is a massive step up.
Mouse trap
(Image credit: Epic Games)
Fortnite Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is the same game as it is everywhere else; there are no exclusive modes or anything of the sort. However, thanks to the use of the Nintendo Switch 2’s feature set and specs, it's one of the best ways to play the game on console and by far the best handheld version of Fortnite.
Compared to the Nintendo Switch version, which ran at 880p docked and 660p in handheld mode, FortniteNintendo Switch 2 Edition runs at 1224p docked and 900p in handheld, so it still isn’t 4K / 1080p, but it is a significant boost. However, the resolution isn’t where the upgrade matters; the improved textures as well as a far greater draw distance, which was one of the original console’s biggest hindrances – especially with how big the Fortnite map is. Most importantly, Fortnite Nintendo Switch 2 Edition runs at a solid 60fps as opposed to the 30fps of the Nintendo Switch – which in an online shooter that has cross-play with more powerful platforms – makes a world of difference.
Gyro aiming returns from the Nintendo Switch edition of Fortnite, but new to the Switch 2 version is support for mouse controls via the Joy-Con 2 controllers. Effectively, this allows you to use a mouse setup for aiming with the movement capabilities of an analogue stick, and is a wonderful combination.
Best bit
(Image credit: Epic Games)
As I was writing this review, Epic released a Hank Hill skin alongside an emote recreating the King of the Hill intro: my best bit can only be that and even how it looked on the Switch 2, which was excellent.
However, the mouse implementation is a touch awkward. Due to the lack of buttons available, you’ll still need to access the face buttons on your Joy-Con to jump and reload, which creates some uncomfortable moments as you crane your hand. Plus, the mouse controls need to be activated from the in-game menu, as opposed to just sticking the Joy-Con in mouse position like in other games. This isn’t the biggest pain in the world, but it doesn’t revert back once you use a controller that doesn’t support mouse controls (such as attaching your Joy-Con 2 to the Switch 2 itself), which means you’ll need to get the controller off and go through the menu with the mouse to deactivate it.
Fortnite is a phenomenon for a reason; if you let yourself get by the “popular game bad” noise that you often see with this and the likes of Call of Duty, you’ll find what is probably the best Battle Royale game in the genre. And even outside of that, it’s a massive game platform that has an endless supply of whatever you like, from racing, rhythm games, and even custom Fall Guys games.
However, the risks of an ongoing game persist because you’ll occasionally be hit with a season that makes the game bad for months, and there’s not much you can do to help it.
Having said that, Fortnite Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is easily the best way to play on the go or on a handheld device, and while it’s outclassed in power by the PS5 and Xbox versions when it comes to TV mode, it’s still solid to look at, and the mouse controls give it an edge that those consoles don’t have.
Should you play Fortnite Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?
Play it if...
You want to play Fortnite on a handheld Fortnite Nintendo Switch 2 Edition outclasses the version on the original Switch in every way, taking what is a means to an end and making it a fantastic way to play in its own right. Plus, the mouse controls make tabletop mode a great way to play, too.
You want something free to play on Switch 2 Fortnite has a seemingly endless amount of modes and content, and is being updated constantly. And unless you want to pick up a skin of John Cena or Raiden from Metal Gear Solid, you don’t have to pay a single penny to play all of the game’s modes.
Don't play it if...
You need the best graphics and performance from Fortnite While the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Fortnite has a perfectly fine resolution and – in my experience – sticks at a solid 60fps, that’s where you cap out. The current-gen console versions and PC ultimately look better and support higher framerates.
Accessibility
Fortnite has a ton of accessibility options, including multiple color blindness filters, the ability to remap controls however you like, alongside multiple control options like gyro aiming and mouse controls.
A standout feature is the visual sound effects toggle, which displays a ring around your character to indicate the source of sound effects and their corresponding representations (footsteps, loot, gunfire, etc.). This is particularly beneficial for those with hearing difficulties or when playing the game with the sound muted.
How I reviewed Fortnite Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
I played around eight hours of Fortnite Nintendo Switch 2 Edition on top of a good 300-400 hours played across PlayStation, PC, and Nintendo Switch. During my time with the Nintendo Switch 2 edition, I tested Zero Build mode, Fortnite Festival and a number of custom games.
I played this in a mixture of handheld mode on the Nintendo Switch 2 itself and on a Samsung Q60D TV and a Samsung HW-T450 soundbar using the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller and the Joy-Con 2 controllers when using mouse mode.
