In a world where virtual reality is all the hype Nintendo forges its own exciting path far apart from everyone else.
[dropcap size=small]W[/dropcap]ith the noticeable absence of former President Satoru Iwata, Nintendo’s opening presentation for the 2o17 Switch Presentation was rather dull. Lacking the infectious joy and enthusiasm that Iwata carried with him the presentation started off with a video that Nintendo released back in October of last year. While repetitive, the video certainly set the right mood for the presentation and Nintendo quickly moved onto facts about the Switch with close up shots of the console.
Despite Nintendo going over details about the Switch that we already knew, they quickly moved on to make some important announcements. For starters, the console will be released on March 3rd in Japan, the United States, Canada, and Europe with a retail price aimed at $299.99. Nintendo is also offering an online service for the Switch that is free but after an undisclosed amount of time you will have to pay for the internet service. While we are waiting for further information regarding just how long this free service will last it is nice that Nintendo is letting its customers get a feel for what online play is like before purchasing it.
The Nintendo Switch operates in three distinct modes: TV mode, Tabletop mode, and Handheld mode. The Switch’s battery life varies depending on what kind of game you are playing and ranges from 2 hours to 6 hours. On the bright side of things, you can use the Switch while it is charging and up to 8 consoles can be connected for local wireless gaming. The Switch’s screen also operates as a touchscreen.
The controllers from the Nintendo Switch that can be disconnected and are pictured above are called JoyCon. These controllers have a built-in NFC reader that works with Amiibo support. The JoyCon can come in a wide variety of colors and it also has gyroscope support. The JoyCon that is located on the right side of the Switch has a motion sensor that operates in a way that is similar to the Wii Remote. Luckily, both the left and right JoyCon have an ‘HD Rumble’ feature to allow for a more distinctive feel when playing and there is a capture button that is eerily similar to the PS4’s feature which allows you to instantly take a screenshot or begin recording your gameplay.
In total, there are currently over 80 games for the Nintendo Switch that are in development right now. Some of the most exciting Nintendo games for the Switch are Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Nonetheless, Nintendo also spent some time talking about third party games and apparently every one of EA’s sports-related games will be offered on the Switch as well, including FIFA. With a remastered version of Skyrim also available for the Nintendo Switch you can be sure that the demand is high for this new console.
The Nintendo Switch will be available on March 3rd and is available for preorder now.
