Nintendo Switch 2 Review: Sleek Upgrades That Redefine Handheld Gaming in 2025
by Jagansai
Image credits : Nintendo
After a full weekend immersed in the world of the Nintendo
Switch 2, I can confidently say — this is a console that doesn’t scream
"next-gen," but quietly delivers where it matters. If you're
wondering whether the Nintendo Switch 2 is worth the upgrade, here’s a
spoiler: it absolutely is.
It’s not a radical reinvention, but rather a smarter,
stronger, and more satisfying version of the beloved original. Let’s break down
everything from gaming performance to Switch 2 file sizes and the
magic of those new Joy-Con 2 controllers.
Smooth Setup and Seamless Upgrades
Nintendo has finally gotten serious about seamless
transitions. Setting up the Nintendo Switch 2 was refreshingly easy.
Just by logging into my Nintendo account, I had all my games, saves, and
profiles — including Fortnite — ready to go in under 15 minutes.
This is a big shift for Nintendo, a company that’s
historically been clunky about backwards compatibility. Now, with Switch 2
backward compatibility in place, your digital library moves with you. It’s
a small win that feels like a massive relief.
Boosted Performance for Modern Games
One of the most talked-about improvements with the Nintendo
Switch 2 is its ability to run graphically demanding titles. I tested games
like Cyberpunk 2077, Street Fighter 6, and Fortnite — and
they ran shockingly smooth.
Cyberpunk, a title once thought impossible on handheld,
plays solidly in both docked and portable modes. Sure, it's not PS5 or PC-level
crisp, but for a handheld device, the Switch 2 gaming performance is
undeniably impressive. Minor texture blurs aside, gameplay was fluid and
immersive.
The File Size Trade-Off
Image credits : Nintendo
That performance comes at a price — and I’m not talking
rupees, babe. I’m talking Switch 2 file sizes. Cyberpunk takes up nearly
60GB, Street Fighter 6 hits 49.2GB, and Fortnite is 37.8GB. While these are
lighter than PS5 game sizes, you’ll still need to manage your storage or invest
in a solid microSD card.
For gamers used to the modest sizes of earlier Switch
titles, this is a noticeable change — but one that comes with the territory of next-gen
handheld gaming.
Design Comfort: Bigger But Still Portable
Despite the slightly larger Switch 2 display and
increased weight, comfort isn’t compromised. I lounged outdoors playing Mario
Kart World for over an hour, and the console felt just fine in-hand. Aside
from a sore thumb (classic Mario Kart injury), everything was buttery smooth.
My 12-year-old even spent two hours on the new Pokémon
Violet, saying it felt more comfortable than the original Switch. If the Switch
2 ergonomics pass the kid test, you know they’ve nailed it.
Joy-Con 2: Snappy, Satisfying, and Slightly
Sneaky
Image credits : Nintendo
The updated Joy-Con 2 controllers are more than
meets the eye. The magnetic connector mechanism is delightfully
satisfying, making every attachment feel secure and polished. There’s a small
learning curve, though — I kept hitting the GameChat button instead of
Home. Classic finger fumble.
Despite that, the overall feel and button feedback make
the Joy-Con 2s a win. Whether you’re playing solo or snapping on for
multiplayer, it all feels premium and well-engineered.
Final Verdict: The Right Kind of Evolution
The Nintendo Switch 2 isn’t trying to be the
flashiest console of 2025 — and that’s exactly why it works. It’s a device
built for people who love Nintendo, who value portability, and who want modern
gaming without the complexity.
If you're on the fence about upgrading, ask yourself
this: do you want better performance, smoother game transitions, and a slicker
design? If yes, then the Switch 2