The Nintendo Switch 2 certainly leaves a strong impression at first glance, but as the initial excitement diminishes, it’s the games that will sway hesitant buyers. Mario Kart World shines as a multiplayer marvel, and while the original Pokemon Scarlet/Violet and Zelda titles have received impressive updates for the new console, there’s a noticeable lack of exclusive Nintendo launch titles for the Switch (aside from the £8 tech demo, Nintendo Switch 2 welcome tour).
Fortunately, other developers have stepped up and delivered a host of updated games that have been available on other platforms for a while now. Once you tire of Mario Kart World, what should you try next?
The World of Hitman’s Assassination: Signed Edition
Hitman is designed for replayability, boasting intricately crafted assassination missions in locations ranging from the stunning Amalfi Coast to eerie British countryside manors. Developer IO Interactive hosts live events that periodically enhance this morally ambiguous stealth experience. In handheld mode, the assassination world appears particularly breathtaking. The Switch 2’s HDR display adds vibrant colors to the iconic Berlin nightclub level, and Agent 47 retains the same intensity even in docked mode.
How good is Switch 2? 4/5
Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
CD Projekt Red takes on another challenging port with this third-party launch title from two years ago. While The Witcher 3 struggled with the Switch’s capabilities, Cyberpunk 2077 performs impressively. This sci-fi RPG, although notorious for initial issues on PS4 and Xbox One, is quite playable on Switch 2, featuring enhanced mouse controls and motion control options for indoor missions and cutscenes. However, when racing through Night City’s streets, the processor shows strain, especially during the Phantom Liberty expansion, resulting in visuals that can blur and soften around you. For those who yearn to immerse themselves in Cyberpunk 2077 and own only this console, it’s a commendable effort, but for everyone else, playing it on a PS5, Xbox, or a capable PC is the way to go.
How good is Switch 2? 3/5
Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD
Though a 3DS game wasn’t the first title I anticipated seeing on the new £400 console, it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Bravely Default HD revitalizes one of the standout RPGs of the past year. Free from the constraints of the smaller screen, its beautifully illustrated world bursts with life and detail. Although some character models reveal their 3DS origins in cutscenes, this charming game looks fantastic in 4K and even better on the Switch 2’s 1080p handheld display. For fans of classic RPGs reminiscent of Final Fantasy IX, this is a must-play.
How good is Switch 2? 4/5
Sonic x Shadow: Generation
With Mario racing ahead and Donkey Kong set to follow, Sonic’s new entry on the Switch 2 does not disappoint. This remake truly shines in handheld mode, delivering a brilliant fusion of color and speed that captivates on its vibrant screen. The 2011 remake of Sonic Generations includes an exciting new Y2K-themed shadow-centric expansion, along with the Super Mario 3D World Expansion Bowser’s Fury. However, the disappointment lies with Sega’s pricing; unlike last year’s Switch release, there’s no discounted upgrade pass for Switch 1 owners, leaving them with the feeling of being shortchanged.
How good is Switch 2? 3/5
Kunitsu-gami: Path of the Goddess
One of the most intriguing games of 2024, this title makes its mark on Switch 2 with impressive results. Compared to other launch ports, Kunitsu-gami is strikingly similar to its PS5 counterpart when docked, reviving this underappreciated game for a second chance on Nintendo’s latest console. Its village defense mechanics mesh smoothly with the Switch 2 gameplay style, making it particularly enjoyable on a TV, even though handheld mode sacrifices some visual fidelity.
How good is Switch 2? 4/5
Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut
Delving into Tokyo’s underground scene from the ’80s is a journey I’ve started numerous times but often abandoned. After trying the Sublime Switch 2 port, I finally opted to immerse myself in the story of Kiryu. It features stunning lighting and runs in 4K at 60FPS when docked, marking it as a graphical gem for Nintendo’s hybrid console, alongside Hitman. With a plot filled with drama, betrayal, wacky side quests, and lively karaoke, Yakuza 0 provides an unforgettable story-driven experience with a newly added 25-minute cutscene.
How good is Switch 2? 5/5
Street Fighter 6
As I stepped into the brawling world of RYU on Switch 2, memories of the 3DS launch game Super Street Fighter IV 3D flooded back. The combat is fluid and responsive, ensuring consistent frame rates vital for a fighting game. While Street Fighter 6’s art style dazzles on the PS5, the character designs seem slightly off-brand on Switch 2, with odd proportions that can be distracting. For newcomers, these visual quirks may go unnoticed, but for seasoned fighters accustomed to other platforms, it may feel somewhat lacking.
How good is Switch 2? 3/5
Puyon Puyotetris 2
Sega has once again failed to impress with Puyo Puyo Tetris 2. This ‘upgrade’ to the existing Switch game offers minimal enhancements, adding a few new multiplayer modes, but fails to leverage improved resolutions or frame rates. It’s frustrating to see such a lazy port launch at a premium price; sticking with the original Switch version is a better bet for puzzle enthusiasts.
How good is Switch 2? 1/5
High Speed Fusion
The Switch 2’s launch lineup offers few standout titles, but this download-only game shines. Fast Fusion is a four-player racer that combines elements of Wipeout and F-Zero for just £13.49. Much like Shin’en’s previous works, Fast Fusion is a visual showcase, utilizing the Switch 2’s capabilities impressively. Packed with customizable vehicles, online competitions, and a pulsating soundtrack, Fast Fusion is a thrilling racing experience to compete with Mario Kart.
How good is Switch 2? 4/5
Source: www.theguardian.com
