David Bridges
The Nintendo Switch is approaching its final chapter, signaling that the original model is entering its twilight years. It has now been eight years since Nintendo launched this innovative device. While many fans have been eagerly anticipating a replacement for the console, it’s a great time to reflect on the legacy of the Switch and its impact on gaming culture, despite the fact that it still has more life left in it.
Rather than sharing my own thoughts, I consulted with the talented team at Engadget to gather their insights about the Switch, as nearly everyone has engaged with this console. Below, we present a collection of personal and broad reflections — some offer a wide-angle view, while others delve into personal experiences, and some even present differing perspectives. This diversity of opinion highlights the Switch’s remarkable ability to resonate with many individuals in various ways throughout its nearly ten-year presence in the market.
How the Switch Captured Nintendo’s Innovative Philosophy with Unique Technology
When considering Nintendo consoles, they generally fall into two distinct categories. On one side, we have devices that, while innovative, primarily build upon past successes or emphasize technical enhancements — examples include the SNES, GameCube, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, 3DS, and likely the upcoming Switch 2. The N64 and original NES could also fit into this category. Conversely, some machines exemplify a more out there approach, which represent Nintendo’s long-standing philosophy of “lateral thinking with withered technology,” a concept championed by the legendary designer Shigeru Miyamoto.
These unique consoles prioritize creativity and novel applications of mature, cost-effective hardware rather than cutting-edge technology. While some have resulted in significant failures for Nintendo (like the Wii U), the best among them have transformed the gaming landscape, introducing gameplay experiences that were previously unimaginable (such as the Game Boy, DS, and Wii). Unsurprisingly, these are also the consoles that have achieved remarkable success in Nintendo’s history.
The Switch undoubtedly belongs to this latter category. It really didn’t matter that the hardware included a chip from an earlier generation; what truly mattered was how the console met players’ needs for convenience. Even with issues like subpar Joy-Cons, limited storage, and a display that struggled outdoors, it succeeded in offering unparalleled versatility. In an era that increasingly prioritizes comfort and accessibility, the Switch provided an innovative solution by allowing players to engage with games both at home and on the go, revolutionizing how gaming could fit into daily life. The concept was so compelling that its hardware only needed to be sufficient to support this vision — and that’s precisely what it achieved. It epitomized Nintendo’s philosophy of blending ordinary components into an extraordinary and playful experience. — Jeff Dunn, senior reporter
The Switch Paved the Way for Nintendo’s Embrace of Indie Game Developers
The Switch emerged as a paradise for fans of indie game studios. This marked a significant moment for Nintendo, as it was the first time the company genuinely supported small developers on such a large scale, resulting in a substantial payoff. The console became the primary platform for many standout titles from the previous generation, including gems like Celeste, Dead Cells, Hades, Golf Story, Undertale, Stardew Valley, and the beloved Hollow Knight.
The hybrid design of the Switch encouraged many gamers, myself included, to wait for indie titles to become available on this platform. At the time, there were limited options for playing such games on portable devices, prior to the advent of the Steam Deck and similar consoles. Nintendo’s newfound support for indie titles was a win-win; it delighted gamers with captivating experiences while allowing the company to fill gaps between its first-party releases. Given that the Switch was less powerful than its competitors, it struggled to run many AAA titles; however, it now showcases a plethora of indie games, even earning dedicated Direct livestreams for these developers. The landscape of gaming has certainly evolved! — Lawrence Bonk, contributing reporter
The Switch Served as a Sanctuary for the Resurgence of Metroidvanias
It’s fitting that Hollow Knight will serve as the final major title for the Switch. Since its launch, the Switch has been an exceptional platform for experiencing the golden age of Metroidvanias. Starting with Hollow Knight, the console has hosted an impressive array of titles, such as Blasphemous 2, Nine Sols, and even Nintendo’s own contributions to this beloved genre. Since 2017, nearly every noteworthy Metroidvania title has made its way to the Switch, demonstrating its dominance in this gaming space.
The Switch has been my preferred platform for many of these games. Thanks to their often simplistic graphics and engaging gameplay, Metroidvanias are ideally suited for this system. For instance, titles like Hollow Knight and Axiom Verge run smoothly at 60 frames per second and look stunning, especially on the OLED model, which enhances contrast and visual depth. The portability of the Switch adds another layer of appeal to these games; they are perfect for quick sessions or for immersing oneself in their expansive worlds for extended periods. — Igor Bonifacic, senior reporter
Celebrating the Switch Lite: The Handheld Console for Every Gamer
When I think about the Nintendo Switch, the first thing that comes to mind is my vibrant coral Switch Lite. This handheld device may lack the fancy OLED screen, detachable controllers, and TV connectivity, but it encapsulates the essence of portable gaming. With a maximum resolution of 720p, this adorable console stands out in the ninth generation of game consoles. The Switch Lite excels due to its simplicity: it comfortably fits in most hands, boasts a vast library of both indie and mainstream games, and its screen is perfectly sized for portability. Its appeal spans a wide audience, from children to adults and from commuters to remote workers, reflecting the core desires of gamers. It turns out that engaging game design and innovative mechanics often outweigh the need for photorealistic graphics and limitless frame rates.
Having owned both a full-sized Switch and a Lite, I appreciate the social aspect of playing Mario Kart 8 with friends on the larger console, yet nothing compares to the intimate experience of using my Lite. It’s no surprise that Nintendo, the creator of the iconic Game Boy, excels at designing fantastic handheld devices, but the satisfaction I get from using the Switch Lite is unparalleled. While I eagerly anticipate the Switch 2, my love for the original console — with its detachable gamepads — is equally strong. The anticipation for a potential Switch 2 Lite remains, as I cherish the memories created with my compact console. — Jessica Conditt, senior editor
The Switch: A Vital Lesson for Developers Across the Gaming Industry
Ever since I discovered how much memory a single Chrome tab consumes, I have developed a keen interest in the concept of elegance in design. This pursuit goes beyond aesthetics; it represents a commitment to efficiency as a form of art and a determination to exceed expectations through self-imposed constraints. Despite being a colorful gaming console, the Nintendo Switch stands as a true masterpiece of elegance.
While Nintendo has historically avoided the trap of equating bigger numbers with better performance, there has been skepticism about the Switch’s capabilities. After all, it utilized a modified and, notably, downclocked version of the NVIDIA Tegra X1 system-on-chip. Soon, jokes circulated about how smartphones could outperform the console in terms of power.
When compared to its competitors, the Xbox and PS4 resemble massive machines, while the Switch is akin to a lightweight bicycle. Yet, amidst this generation, it’s the console I’ve spent the most time engaging with. Despite its graphical limitations, it excels in delivering captivating gaming experiences.
This is a testament to Nintendo maximizing the potential of the Switch and their commitment to quality development. While you can find games like Call of Duty with hyper-realistic graphics on rival consoles, the Switch boasts an impressive library of demanding titles as well, including Doom Eternal and classics from previous generations like Bioshock and Portal.
Moreover, masterpieces like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Metroid Dread shine brightly, demonstrating remarkable performance given the hardware constraints. Yes, there may have been occasional frame drops, but considering the ambitious scope of these titles, such minor issues are easily forgivable. Ultimately, the Switch serves as a vital lesson for developers everywhere, emphasizing the importance of creativity and efficiency in creating remarkable experiences with limited resources. — Daniel Cooper, senior editor
The Switch Inspired Dreams of a High-Fidelity Hyrule
Apologies in advance if this sounds like another gamer pining for more powerful consoles. That’s not my intention. Nintendo has not pursued high-end graphics like PlayStation or Xbox for several generations, clearly prioritizing different aspects of gaming. The art style and meticulous detail in their first-party titles are nearly unparalleled, and I rarely find myself wishing for more pixels or hyper-realistic graphics in their games.
However, in late 2017, I found myself engrossed in two games: Horizon Zero Dawn on the PS4 and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the newly released Switch. Both titles launched in March, and while Horizon received acclaim, it was overshadowed by the excitement surrounding Breath of the Wild and its groundbreaking approach to the Zelda franchise. Despite their differences, the allure of exploring vast open worlds in both games sparked my imagination. I began to dream about a Nintendo title that could deliver the visual fidelity found in Horizon Zero Dawn.
It’s not that I crave hyper-realistic characters in a Zelda game, as the art direction in Breath of the Wild is already captivating. However, the stunning visuals of Horizon‘s diverse landscapes — forests, mountains, deserts, and rivers — represent some of the most beautiful game environments I’ve ever experienced. Envisioning a Hyrule that combines the limitless exploration of Breath of the Wild with the visual splendor of Horizon would be a dream come true, even if it’s not something I expect imminently. The anticipation for the Switch 2 suggests that future Zelda titles may offer enhanced graphics, and I hope to be pleasantly surprised by what Nintendo delivers. — Nathan Ingraham, deputy editor
The Switch Transformed Me from a Nintendo Skeptic to a Devoted Superfan
Before the release of the Switch, I was aware of passionate Nintendo fans, but I couldn’t comprehend their enthusiasm. This was largely due to my lack of personal experience with Nintendo hardware; my interactions with their games were mostly limited to consoles owned by friends, roommates, or partners. Consequently, my experiences revolved around casual party games like Mario Kart and Mario Party. As I began my career as a game writer, my perspective was shaped by a belief that Nintendo profited from scarcity, limited releases, and a questionable approach to game preservation.
However, I can’t recall what prompted me to purchase a Switch for myself. It was about a year post-launch, perhaps influenced by the positive buzz surrounding the console. Regardless of the reason, I’m grateful that I took the plunge and finally acquired my first Nintendo console that day.
Since that moment, I’ve dedicated countless hours to Super Mario Odyssey, joyfully uncovering hidden moons in every nook and cranny. I spent even more time in Breath of the Wild, exploring the vastness of Hyrule as an escape from the stresses of the real world during the COVID pandemic. Additionally, I’ve logged hundreds of hours navigating the complexities of Garreg Mach Monastery and guiding my students through battles in Fire Emblem: Three Houses. The list of my favorite titles has expanded significantly due to my experiences on the Switch.
If I had been introduced to Nintendo gaming through the SNES or N64, I might have similar fond memories of those generations. However, given my journey, the Switch is the console that opened the door to this vibrant and joyful gaming ecosystem. I now understand the passion of Nintendo fans, and I proudly count myself as one of them. — Anna Washenko, contributing reporter
The Switch Was the Console I Yearned For — Until It No Longer Met My Needs
Prior to the announcement of the Switch, I had been eagerly anticipating a console that offered the versatility it promised. At that time, my gaming experiences were primarily on the Nintendo 3DS and PS Vita, until I discovered the Vita TV and realized my preference for playing handheld games on larger screens. I vividly remember playing Fire Emblem Awakening on the 3DS and imagining how much better it would be to have a bigger view of the battlefield.
When Nintendo finally released the Switch, it exceeded all my expectations. The ability to play games on the go and then seamlessly transition to playing on a TV was exactly what I had always wanted. The Vita TV experience was clunky in comparison, requiring me to constantly swap memory cards to use the same game across platforms.
Fast forward to today, and my gaming preferences and vision have evolved significantly. I now prefer playing games exclusively on a TV, which means that for titles available on both Nintendo and PlayStation, I typically opt for the latter due to superior graphics and performance.
But what about the exclusive Nintendo titles? Nowadays, I find myself wishing for a version of the Switch that lacks a screen — a simple console like the Vita TV but with enhanced specifications for better graphics and performance. Alternatively, a more affordable version of the Switch would be ideal. Alas, it appears that a version of the Switch 2 without a display is unlikely. This wish may remain unfulfilled for some time, much like my longing for a revised Switch model. Until then, I’ll continue to enjoy my docked Switch. — Mariella Moon, contributing reporter
The Switch Revitalized the Joy of Handheld Gaming
I purchased my Nintendo Switch on its launch day back in March 2017, and it remains the only one I’ve ever owned. Despite experiencing issues like Joy-Con drift over the years and the outdated NVIDIA Tegra X1 chip, I deeply appreciate how well the console has performed over the course of nearly a decade. Thanks to Nintendo’s unique design, the console never felt hindered by its hardware limitations.
As we move toward the Switch’s successor, I want to commend the Switch for rekindling interest in handheld gaming. At its release, the Nintendo 3DS was nearing the end of its lifecycle, while Sony’s Vita had been largely abandoned. The Switch’s hybrid functionality, allowing it to serve as both a home console and a portable gaming device, has directly influenced the emergence of many modern handheld devices, such as the Steam Deck and others. It brings back the nostalgic joy of carrying games during long trips or using a Game Boy at the dentist’s office. This feeling of special engagement is irreplaceable, even in an age filled with laptops and tablets. I will always be grateful for the risk Nintendo took in embedding such flexibility into the core identity of the Switch. — Sam Rutherford, senior reporter
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/nintendo/reflections-on-the-nintendo-switch-the-hybrid-console-that-changed-gaming-192049755.html?src=rss
