Hands-On with Nintendo Switch 2: From Popular Series to Exciting New Features

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In April, Nintendo hosted a hands-on event in Tokyo for its highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 console. Both the hardware and software showcase a signature Nintendo touch, with remarkable attention to detail. I had the opportunity to try the Switch 2 ahead of its official release.

One notable upgrade in the Switch 2 is its enhanced voice chat functionality, which improves the experience for party games and multiplayer sessions. The detachable controllers, now equipped with optical sensors, can even be used like a mouse, making them ideal for group play.

Mario Party

To test the mouse functionality, I played Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV. The Mario Party series is known for its accessible controls and fun mini-games, and this edition was no exception.

In the game, we split into two teams of two and faced off in four mini-games. I teamed up with a reporter from The Sankei Shimbun's Osaka office to take on the TV Tokyo team.

One of the mini-games, inspired by air hockey, had us using mouse controls to move paddles and hit a turtle shell into the opponent's goal.

Other games included challenges to build the tallest tower of blocks or cover the most area with spray paint. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, and we exchanged business cards, congratulating each other on a great game.

Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart

Next, I visited the booth for Donkey Kong Bananza, the latest entry in the Donkey Kong series. In this 3D action game, you control Donkey Kong as he punches up and down to break walls and dig into the ground, delivering a satisfying sense of action. The vibrant world of Donkey Kong looks even more stunning on the improved display of the Switch 2.

*The author playing Donkey Kong Bananza. (©Sankei by Naoki Aikawa)*

The highly anticipated new edition of Mario Kart World was also on display. While the core controls felt similar to the previous version, the introduction of a new "Survival" mode added an exciting twist. In this mode, players are eliminated as the race progresses, making it a more thrilling experience.

Thanks to being trained by my nephew and niece during the New Year and summer vacations, I managed to survive until the final four in a race with 24 players, finishing in 3rd place.

*The author playing Mario Kart. (©Sankei by Naoki Aikawa)*

Wheelchair Basketball

One of the standout experiences was Drag x Drive, a wheelchair basketball game that exemplified Nintendo's unique approach. This game is gaining attention as an eSport and allows players of all abilities to play together, a thoughtful touch from Nintendo.

While many sports games focus on traditional sports like soccer and basketball, Nintendo's decision to spotlight para-sports and create a game that can be enjoyed by everyone is a testament to its innovation.

In Drag x Drive, players use the mouse functionality of the controller to control a wheelchair. You can steal the ball by colliding with opponents and use ramps on the court to perform spectacular dunk shots. The game's design includes playful, engaging elements that make it both fun and accessible for players of all backgrounds.

Pre-Orders Delayed

On April 4, Nintendo announced that it would delay the start of pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the United States from its original April 9 date.

The delay is due to the need to evaluate the impact of global tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump.

However, Nintendo confirmed that the planned release date of June 5 will remain unchanged. The retail price of the Nintendo Switch 2 in the US is set at $449.99. In Japan, the pre-order date is still scheduled for April 24 or later.

Author: Katsutoshi Takagi, The Sankei Shimbun

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