The Gaming Switch-Up

By Ryan Hack and Sayo Jolayemi

     The Nintendo Switch is a new hybrid console that came out on March 3, 2017. It is a combination of a traditional home console, and a handheld device that can be easily brought around. The Nintendo Switch retails for $299.99 and is currently out of stock worldwide. The Switch’s ability to switch from home gaming to portable gaming separates it from other consoles such as the Playstation 4, and Xbox One. As the successor to the Wii U, the Switch has a lot of expectations to live up to, and hopefully surpass, given the underwhelming amount of content Nintendo has provided for the Switch’s older brother. Currently, only a few games are out for this innovative product, the flagship being “The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild”, however, a multitude of other games will roll out throughout the remainder of the year. According to Junior John Doherty, “its portability is awesome.” The easily transportable device adds a new level of necessary protection to insure the Switch stays functionable. Luckily, there are a series of new cases for users to secure  their handheld device.

     The Nintendo Switch is made up of three separate components that work together to make this console function properly. First, the base, serves as a charger for the Nintendo Switch, along with an HDMI passthrough for televisions, it upgrades the quality of gameplay from the standard 720p on the handheld to 1080p. Secondly, the screen is where the display and majority of the other hardware is found, it charges via USB C and has a kickstand that allows you to prop it up on a table for better viewing angles. It also has space for a microsd card, you can use these with the Switch to increase your storage space, something you will want to consider if you are interested in downloading your games. Finally, the most attractive addition to the Switch, the new Joy-Con controllers, these versatile contraptions can be used together or separately for single player or local multiplayer games alike. They have rumble features and wrist locking straps to connect you the game even more. Will Blackert, a Sophomore at Glenelg High School, commented on this updated technology saying, “[The Nintendo 3DS] based on the technology difference is inferior to the Switch,” which is to be expected given the six year creation gap.

     The Switch is a fairly innovative creation and seems to be perfectly suited for the mobile gamer. Even though the Switch is sold out, you can still purchase it for a hefty fee of upwards of $500 dollars guaranteed at many retailers online, and it will be shipped to your home. Will this Nintendo’s new console be able to switch the way you think about gaming? Only time will tell.