With the Nintendo Switch 2 now landing on doormats and hitting store shelves, it’s a good time to take a few moments. Do you really need a new console? Do you need this console in particular?
If you’re a retro gamer with one eye on ensuring you have access to the widest library of games possible, the Nintendo Switch 2 is a good shout. It might not offer the vast depth of options that a Steam Deck (or similar) does, but it is the next best thing.
In my home, most retro gaming takes place via the Nintendo Switch. It is incredibly convenient to use, the retro cartridge collections I’ve bought get a lot of play, and I clearly the Switch 2 lends itself to the same level of accessibility.
While I have big concerns over the pricing on new games (and likely won’t pay launch day prices on anything for years to come), I’m leaning towards a Switch 2.
But you don’t have to follow me. So, before you part with the best part of £500 or $500, consider the ways a Nintendo Switch 2 might improve your retro gaming experience in years to come.
1. Play the classic Nintendo games library
One of the big draws of the Nintendo Switch for retro gamers is access to its classic games library. NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, and even Nintendo 64 titles have been released through the Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscriptions.
This means that it is relatively trivial to boot up your Switch and play Super Mario Bros. or GoldenEye 007. In fact, things get even more interesting as Nintendo has confirmed some new features in the Nintendo 64 app.
- CRT filter, something most retro collections on the Switch already have
- Button remapping (presumably per-game, as this feature is already available)
- Rewind, again something most retro collections already offer
Nintendo has been banking on its back catalogue for some time now, and this is clear to see with the Nintendo Switch 2. Not only does it support these older reissues, it adds a previously untouched platform…
2. Nintendo Switch 2 has support for GameCube games
This is potentially one of the most significant features of the Nintendo Switch 2. While I’m a big fan of the Wii U, it’s clear that the GameCube was Nintendo’s most underrated console to date.
The Nintendo GameCube app is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 and features The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SoulCaliber II at launch. Meanwhile, Super Mario Sunshine, Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance, Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, Mario Smash Football, Chibi-Robo!, Luigi’s Mansion and
Pokémon Colosseum are all slated for release soon.
And given how similar the internals of the Nintendo Wii were to the Nintendo GameCube, it is entirely possible that games from Nintendo’s other greatest console could arrive on the Nintendo Switch 2 during its lifetime…
3. Backward compatibility with Nintendo Switch cartridges
I was blown away when I tried my first collection of retro games on the Nintendo Switch. This was before I’d played any of the Nintendo Switch Online offerings. My first choice was Turrican Flashback, and as an aficionado of the 16-bit classic, naturally I bought the physical version.
We’re told that the Nintendo Switch 2 is backward compatible with all Switch cartridges, which means if you have collections like this, or something from Limited Run Games, you’ll still be able to fully appreciate your retro games.
Although, don’t be surprised if any of them get re-releases for the Nintendo Switch 2…
4. Joy-Con 2 mouse and enhanced mouse support
One of the most intriguing features on the Nintendo Switch 2’s initial announcement was the fact you can use the Joy-Con 2 as a mouse. Just think of the possibilities there. Not only does it improve DOOM and Civilization games, it opens up the Nintendo Switch 2 to a wealth of classic FPS and strategy titles.
The fact that you don’t need a third party mouse — although you can use one — gives the Switch 2 an added advantage of the competition. Not only is it even more portable, it also has controllers that double as a mouse.
I love this feature, and cannot wait to try it out. Not sure if I’ll be relying on a mouse controller adapter for it, though…
5. Nintendo Switch 2 gets Arcade Archives 2
First and foremost, the Nintendo Switch 2 gets weekly games from the Arcade Archives 2, the upgraded version of the record-breaking Arcade Archives series. This means original arcade ROMs, running on the Switch under a form of emulation, and enhanced with variable difficulty levels, global leaderboards, and display tweaks for an authentic CRT-style gaming experience. With the Arcade Archives 2, an improved user interface and a time attack feature is also included, as well as save states.
Have you got a Nintendo Switch 2 yet? Are you planning to buy one? Let me know in the comments.
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.