The Nintendo Switch 2: A Bittersweet Release
So, the most hotly anticipated (and long-awaited) console upgrade of recent times has now happened. Nintendo’s Switch 2 has had its Direct event, and we’ve now seen the design, found out about the upgrades and been given the release date and price. Are we happy? Sure. But if I’m honest, I have seen many Switch 2 concepts over the last few years – and there are a few that are cooler than what we’ve been given.
03. Ginormous Switch
Okay I realize this was never going to happen (and indeed we did get a bigger console), but it would have been a shame not to mention this incredible giant Switch concept that was actually created by Michael Pick. At 650% larger than the previous Switch OLED, this would be incredible to (try to) play – talk about an immersive experience! Michael used a combination of wood and 3D printing to make this massive console, which was 70 inches wide and 30 inches tall. It also weighed 29.5kg so not exactly portable. But it’s got that beautiful 4K screen, which would add special something to giant Mario Kart.
02. The iSwitch
For something super-sleek, how about this concept from a designer who normally focuses on Apple products? This Switch 2 concept feels like what would happen if Apple met Nintendo, and feels pretty grown-up. It’s got gorgeous rounded corners and a glossy, metallic, premium finish. Designer Ben Geskin also redesigned the UI in the style of a iOS and it feels very different.
01. Dual-screen delight
In 2023 there was a global contest that asked designers to create their idea of what the next Switch could look like. Freelancer.com received over 100 submissions, and the winner was this glorious concept from Aiden L., which combines the essence of the Nintendo DS with the core Switch 2 design. A dual screen would have been an excellent addition to the Switch – but we’ll have to make do with this patent, which apparently will allow for the use of a smartphone as a second screen. Still not quite the same though.
Conclusion
It’s clear that Nintendo has played it safe with the new design of the Switch 2. While it may not be the most exciting release, it still promises to be a great console. But it’s interesting to see what could have been, and we can’t help but feel a little disappointed that some of these concepts didn’t make it to market.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the release date and price of the Nintendo Switch 2?
- Why didn’t Nintendo include a dual-screen design in the Switch 2?
- What are some of the upgrades that the Switch 2 has gotten?
- What was the iSwitch concept and what was special about it?
- Can the new Switch 2 be used as a second screen with a smartphone?
