If you've missed the chance for the Nintendo Switch 2, reconsider the value of the original Nintendo Switch, which remains a compelling option.
A new Nintendo powerhouse has graced the gaming world, and it's called Nintendo Switch 2. The excitement surrounding this console is off the charts, reminiscent of the craze during the Wii era, when the Wii U disappointed expectations. But the Switch changed that narrative, showcasing Nintendo at its finest, providing an immersive gaming experience regardless of whether you're at home or on the go.
So, what's the big deal about Switch 2? Well, it's not going to revolutionize the formula, but it will fine-tune its predecessor and give a power boost. But, before you toss your original Switch, let's take a closer look at what it still offers in 2025.
The Allure of its Library
Unlike its competitors, Sony and Microsoft, you can count on one thing - exclusivity. You won't find Mario Kart World or the next mainline Zelda on any other platform. With an outstanding library of games, you've got a chance to experience narrative-defining titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Pokémon, and many more.
Nintendo also dug into its Wii U catalog and ensured gems like Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, Donkey Kong: Tropical Freeze, and the much-loved Mario Kart 8 Deluxe didn't get left behind. So, yes, some games might look a bit prettier on Switch 2, but Nintendo hasn't promised a massive wave of games making the leap.
Moving forward, there are two vital things to keep in mind. Metroid Prime 4 and Pokémon Legends Z-A are two of Nintendo's biggest releases in 2025, and both are aiming for the Switch and Switch 2. Additionally, thanks to Switch 2's backwards compatibility, your collection is safe if you decide to upgrade later.
Peripherals Galore
Peripherals for the Switch 2 will carry over, but with a few caveats. For instance, Joy-Con will only work wirelessly, and the first Switch Pro Controller won't have a 'C' button for chat. There are some known compatibility issues with Joy-Con 2, but they're mostly limited to specific scenarios like using Labo or the football mode in Nintendo Switch Sports.
So, getting a Switch now is an investment in the games you'll play on your Switch 2 in the future.
Choices, Choices
There's a variety of choices when buying the original Switch. If you're not ready to dip your toes into the waters of Switch 2 just yet, there's the standard Switch and the OLED version to pick from. Both models are equally powerful, but the OLED offers a brighter screen with better contrast, making it an ideal choice for handheld play. Stick it in the dock, and it's the same as the base version, which can be found at a lower price point.
The OLED's blackest blacks and fantastic contrast make it a tempting offer when it drops as low as $300 / £250, and if it drops closer to $250 / £200 when Switch 2 launches, it's a hard sell to resist.
Then there's the Lite, a portable wonder that ditches the hybrid aspect of the other models and offers pure handheld gaming. It's smaller, perfect for travel, and can play any game that doesn't require motion controls or Joy-Con gimmicks. If it takes a significant price drop with the launch of Switch 2, it could be the ideal console for your daily commute.
It's surprising how durable the Switch Lite is, making it perfect for daily public transport journeys or for passing to a younger gamer just starting out. Plus, it's available in some cool color options that aren't on any other models.
Keeping it Affordable
Price is always a factor, and while Nintendo's first-party games might still be pricey on Switch, they'll be cheaper than the new MSRP for games like Mario Kart World. That means, for the price of the new console and a single game, you could own the last console and a library of titles to keep you entertained.
Availability will also be a concern, as pre-orders for Switch 2 are likely to make it tricky to get your hands on the console in the next month or two. If you can't wait for Zelda, Mario, Pikmin, or Pokémon, you'll be able to play them on the original Switch any time.
As we previously mentioned, we anticipate a price drop for the Switch models when Switch 2 launches, and a wave of secondhand consoles to hit the market as eager gamers upgrade.
While the Switch OLED is a great console at $349, it's only $100 cheaper than Switch 2. If that delta reaches $200, making the OLED close to half the price of a Switch 2, it's an easy console to recommend.
With the base Switch retailing at another $50 below, there's a strong chance we could see it for $200 when the new console launches, a great price considering it offers both handheld and docked functionality.
Finally, we like to think we might be living in a world soon where the Switch Lite will be just $150, making it an ideal purchase for a lapsed gamer or newcomer to the medium.
In short, the original model isn't going anywhere, but we wouldn't want to pay more than $300 for any of them right now. If we see the price drops we anticipate, then it's definitely worth considering a purchase.
Bonus Tips
- Upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 exclusives - release schedule for confirmed Switch 2-only games
- Five things we learned from The Witcher 4's technical demo
- Survival Kids developers on the 'pressure' of making a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive launch title ``` ### Enrichment Data Revised for Clarity and Sparse Integration:
```
- The Nintendo Switch 2 isn't just a gaming console, it's also a platform for cinematic experiences, as itsLibrary boasts a collection of narrative-defining titles such as 'The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild', 'Animal Crossing: New Horizons', 'Pokémon', and many more.
- Despite the new peripherals of the Nintendo Switch 2, gaming enthusiasts can still find value in the original console, as it's possible to enjoy exclusive games like 'Metroid Prime 4' and 'Pokémon Legends Z-A' before upgrading, thanks to the Switch 2's backwards compatibility feature.
