Nintendo released an introductory video today featuring its new home gaming system formerly known as the Nintendo NX. Set for release in March, the brand new, innovative Nintendo Switch system features a dock that connects the system to a TV for play at home, or it can be lifted from the dock and taken on the go.
A vast upgrade from both the Wii U and the portable 3DS consoles, the Switch features a bright, high-definition display. The portability of the new console is exactly what fans have been waiting for, and extends the gaming experience to wherever players are, with just one console. While the portability element was something fans were hoping for, Nintendo revealed a few incredibly innovative and unpredictable new features of the Switch.
The new system features removable Joy-Con controllers that snap on to either side of the Switch screen. Gamers can splat, smash, and race with the Joy-Con controllers in place, or remove them, prop the Switch up on a flat surface with the kickstand, and play with one controller in each hand. Or, flip the Joy-Con controllers horizontally and hand one off to a friend for two-player gaming. OR, slip them into a Joy-Con Grip accessory, and create a more traditional controller experience. OR, abandon the Joy-Con controllers and grab a new Nintendo Switch Pro Controller to use instead.
Bad at math? I can help. The Switch platform features at least five controller options based on the three-minute clip we’ve seen so far.
And tons of developers are already on board and working on games that are compatible with the Nintendo Switch, including Activision, Bandai Namco, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, and more.
From the video, the Switch appears to support cartridge-style games. It also offers single, local and online multiplayer gameplay options. The console is slim and sleek, taking up way less room than any console on the market—including the Wii U.
Full game demonstrations, launch titles, an exact launch date, price, product configuration, and related specifics are still on the horizon—and we can’t wait!