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The AAA Guide to Nintendo Switch – Everything You Need to Know

Everything You Need to Know About the Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch is one of the most popular video game consoles today. If you searched “aaa nintendo switch,” you likely have several questions about this versatile gaming device. In this detailed guide, I’ll answer all the top intentions users may have when searching this term.

What is the Nintendo Switch?

The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid video game console released in March 2017. It can be used both as a home console connected to your TV as well as a handheld device. This uniqueTwo-in-one design allows you to play the same games at home or on the go. Whether commuting, traveling, or hanging out with friends, the Switch makes gaming fun and flexible.

What types of games are available?

The Nintendo Switch library includes a wide variety of critically-acclaimed games across many popular genres. From my experience, some of the most popular include:

  1. Action-adventure games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Pokémon Sword/Shield
  2. Fighting games such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
  3. Racing games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
  4. Role-playing games (RPGs) like Xenoblade Chronicles 2
  5. Indie games from talented smaller studios

Whether you enjoy casual, family-friendly experiences or deep, story-driven AAA titles, the Switch likely has something for you. Nintendo consistently supports its ecosystem with new releases.

How does the Switch compare to other consoles?

One thing that sets the Switch apart is its hybrid design. No other major console allows you to seamlessly transition between TV and portable gameplay. At the same time, in handheld mode the Switch provides a full home console experience. However, being a newer system, its graphical capabilities are less powerful than the PlayStation 4 or Xbox One.

That said, titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild prove visually stunning games can still be achieved on Switch. Developers optimize each title to maximize its potential. Overall, the Switch offers unique versatility that makes up for its weaker specs.

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What accessories do I need?

Out of the box, the Switch comes with all the essentials to get started: the console, Joy-Con controllers, a Joy-Con grip, AC adapter, and HDMI cable. However, here are some popular optional extras to expand your experience:

  1. Pro Controller for a more traditional controller feel during TV/tabletop play
  2. Joy-Con charging grip for charging multiple Joy-Cons at once
  3. SD card for expanding limited internal storage
  4. Carrying case for protective transportation
  5. Screen protector for safeguarding the display

Nintendo also offers specialty bundles that include a game and other bonuses. Due to high demand, stock for certain accessories may run out. Plan ahead if anything specific is a must-have!

Is online play worth it?

The Switch requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership for most online features. At $20/year or $35 for a family plan, it provides access to online multiplayer, SNES and NES games through the Nintendo Switch Online collection, and exclusive offers. From my experience, it’s definitely worth it for multiplayer fiends.

However, the service lacks robust social features and voice chat of competitors. You can’t message friends or join parties. Still, being able to play online classics like Super Mario Kart or Splatoon 2 with others is pretty rad. Cloud saves and special offers provide extra value too.

So in summary, although basic, Nintendo Switch Online opens many doors for online gamers. But it might not be crucial depending on your preferences.

Any good indie games?

The eShop is flooded with excellent indie games at budget-friendly prices, some of my faves being:

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  • Celeste – Tough-as-nails platformer with inspiring story
  • Hollow Knight – Gorgeous 2D Metroidvania adventure
  • Untitled Goose Game – Hilarious stealth game where you ruin a town as a mischievous goose
  • Stardew Valley – Relaxing farm simulator that can sink 100+ hours
  • Cuphead – Beautiful 1930s cartoon-style run & gun action packed with zany charm

The indie scene adds so much creativity and diversity to the Switch library. You’re sure to find several indie hits to love at low prices.

Any bundles or deals worth checking out?

Nintendo periodically offers special edition consoles bundled with top games. The Animal Crossing and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe editions look rad. Retailers also have deals, like bundles including the console, accessories, and multiple games.

If you sign up for email alerts, coupons occasionally arrive too. Refurbished units sold through Nintendo also provide savings while ensuring quality. So keep an eye out – deals can help maximize the fun without busting your budget!

Anything else I should know?

A few final notes – the Switch supports video capture/streaming, though lacks social features of competitors. Its kickstand is kinda meh. Battery life lasts 3-7 hours depending on the game. And Nintendo already confirmed an upgraded model is incoming soon with enhanced performance.

Overall, I hope this helps answer all your questions about the versatile Nintendo Switch! Feel free to ask if any other intentions come to mind. Now go forth and game – you’ve got a console waiting to be played.

Thanks for reading! Let me know if the article addressed all your curiosities or if you need any clarification. Happy gaming!

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Important Considerations for Choosing a Nintendo Switch

Feature Description
Console Types Nintendo Switch is available as a home console (Switch), a handheld-only version (Switch Lite), or a portable/home console hybrid (Switch OLED model)
Screen Size Switch – 6.2 inches; Switch Lite – 5.5 inches; Switch OLED model – 7.0 inches
Resolution Switch & Switch Lite – 1280×720; Switch OLED model – 1280×720 handheld, 1920×1080 docked
Battery Life Switch – 2.5-6.5 hours; Switch Lite – 3-7 hours; Switch OLED model – 4.5-9 hours
Storage Switch – 32GB internal (microSD expandable up to 2TB); Switch Lite/OLED – 64GB internal (microSD expandable up to 2TB)
Game Library Over 4000 games including 1st and 3rd party titles across a variety of genres

FAQ

  1. What kinds of games can you play on the Nintendo Switch?

    Basically, you can play all sorts of games on the Nintendo Switch. It plays lots of traditional console games like Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. At the same time, it plays indie games, retro games, JRPGs, fighting games, and more. You’ll find basically every type of game imaginable on the Nintendo Switch.

  2. Is the Nintendo Switch portable or a home console?

    The Nintendo Switch is both a portable system and a home console, kind of. You can easily take it on the go and play it anywhere thanks to its handy built-in screen. At the same time, you can dock it to your TV at home for big screen gaming. So it gives you the choice to play however you want, either portable or docked. It’s really cool to be able to switch back and forth (pun intended!) between portable and home console modes.

  3. How much does a Nintendo Switch cost?

    A basic Nintendo Switch with grey joy-cons retails for between $299-$329. That includes the console, controllers, dock, and cables you need to get started. There are also bundles you can get that include games. Perhaps you can find used or refurbished systems for even less money. While it’s not the cheapest console out there, you’re getting great versatility and amazing games in one package. For what you get with the Switch, the cost appears worth it in the long run.

  4. What kinds of games came bundled with early Switch systems?

    If you bought a Nintendo Switch early on, chances are it came with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild bundled in. That game was packed in during the first year or so after launch. It was a really amazing deal to get such a stunning game included for free. Folks who bought a Switch later unfortunately missed out on that bundle, but there have still been some great first-party game bundles over the years. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Mario Odyssey have both been included occasionally as well. Who knows, maybe Nintendo will surprise us with another killer bundle again down the road!

  5. Is the Nintendo Switch easy to use?

    Overall, the Nintendo Switch is a quite simple and straightforward system to use. The buttons and joysticks on the detachable Joy-Con controllers feel really natural. Booting it up and getting into a game only takes a moment. Even younger kids seem to pick it up easily. While long-time gamers might miss features like voice chat, others may see the Switch’s simplicity as a benefit. It just works right out of the box without a big learning curve. For casual gamers or families, the ease of use is part of its charm.

  6. Should I get a Switch Lite or original Switch?

    That really depends on how you plan to play! The Switch Lite is smaller, lighter, and $100 cheaper… but you can’t dock it or remove the joycons. So if you want TV mode and versatility, grab the original Switch. However, if you’ll mainly play portable, the Switch Lite is stunning and affordable. Maybe go try them both at the store and see which feels best? Only you can decide! Ultimately, either one lets you enjoy the amazing games – you just choose if portable-only or TV/tabletop gameplay matters more to you.

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In conclusion…

To summarize, the Nintendo Switch is an amazing and unique video game console that combines the best of portable and home console gaming. While it may not be a powerhouse, the fun library of games available make the Switch worth owning for any type of player in my opinion. But is it truly worth buying one right now? I don’t have a crystal ball, but if you’ve got the bucks, you’ll likely have an amazing time with your new Switch! Let me know if you have any other questions.

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