Introduction to Nintendo Switch 2

While the Nintendo Switch 2 made its debut recently, revealing details about its hardware and launch games, there are still many unanswered questions about the console. Specifically, Nintendo has not provided detailed information about the CPU and GPU that power the Switch 2, except to mention the performance enhancements they offer compared to the original Switch. NVIDIA has confirmed that the Switch 2 utilizes its Deep Learning Super Sampling technology.

New Details Emerging

In interviews with the press since the blockbuster Direct, Nintendo has shared some new details about the Switch 2. Nate Bihldorff, Senior Vice President of Product Development & Publishing at Nintendo of America, informed Nintendo Life that the Joy-Con 2 controllers do not incorporate Hall effect technology. Bihldorff stated, "The Joy-Con 2’s controllers have been designed from the ground up. They’re not Hall effect sticks, but they feel really good." Additionally, Switch 2 producer Kouichi Kawamoto mentioned that the Joy-Con 2 joysticks are quieter and smoother, referring to them as "smooth-gliding sticks."

Inquiry into Hall Effect Technology

Engadget has reached out to Nintendo to inquire about the decision not to use Hall effect technology in the Joy-Con 2 and whether the Switch 2 Pro Controller also foregoes this technology. Hall effect sensors are becoming increasingly common in third-party gamepads, as they help reduce the likelihood of stick drift, a problem that was prevalent in the original Switch’s Joy-Cons. Nintendo offered free, unlimited repairs for stick drift issues in Joy-Con controllers in Europe, making it puzzling why they wouldn’t adopt Hall effect sensors in the Joy-Con 2.

History of Hall Effect Controllers

Interestingly, Sega utilized Hall effect technology in controllers for the Sega Saturn 3D and Dreamcast decades ago. Although it’s not new technology, its popularity and adoption have been growing, despite major console manufacturers like Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony not implementing it in their controllers.

Pricing for Switch 2 Experiences

Nintendo has confirmed the US pricing for some Switch 2 experiences. Upgrades for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will cost $10 each for players who already own the games. However, subscribers to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will receive these upgrades at no additional cost. The upgrades include enhanced visual fidelity, improved framerate, HDR support, and faster loading times. Players will also be able to use the Switch mobile app as a tool to find hidden items with voiced directions.

Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour

The Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, a tech demo that showcases the console’s features, will be available for $10. This decision has raised questions, as similar tech demos from other companies, like Valve’s Aperture Desk Job for the Steam Deck and Sony’s Astro’s Playroom for the PS5, were offered for free. According to Bill Trinen, Nintendo of America’s Vice President of Product and Player Experience, the Welcome Tour is aimed at those deeply interested in the tech and specs of the system, and the price reflects the value of the detailed information it provides.

Future Outlook

For more insights into Nintendo’s plans and challenges, including the impact of recently introduced tariffs on the Switch 2, a wide-ranging interview with Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser was published by CNBC. This interview offers a deeper look into the company’s strategy and expectations for the coming months.