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As an avid gamer and tech enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of consoles over the years. However, despite having a Nintendo Wii back in the early 2000s, the Nintendo Switch is the first console I have bought from Nintendo ever. So if you are like me and still holding out on buying a Nintendo Switch in 2024, I wanted to share my thoughts with you as a newcomer to the Nintendo Game Library. I’m here to share my insights and help you decide: Should you buy the new Nintendo Switch or wait?
The Nintendo Switch: Why I bought it in 2024
I should preface this review by stating that I have never actually bought a Nintendo console before but that doesn’t mean I have never played a Nintendo game. I grew up playing a Gameboy Advanced and my parents surprised our family when I was in high school with a Nintendo Wii.
But that being said, I have always seen Nintendo games as primarily family-friendly games with a focus on bringing people together, not delivering a masterful artistic piece like Elden Ring.
Don’t start throwing pitchforks just yet. I like this device, but I also want to warn some people like me that this might not be the best purchase for you.
The Elephant in the Room: Call of Duty
A common question I encounter is, “Is Call of Duty on Nintendo Switch?” Unfortunately, the answer remains no. Despite its advancements, the Switch still doesn’t support this popular franchise. While this might be a deal-breaker for some, the Switch’s extensive game library still has plenty to offer.
It’s been a few years and there have been a lot of additions to the Nintendo Switch. Namely, some impressive titles like Dark Souls Remastered, Fortnite, and even a masterfully done port of Doom Eternal.
But if you are looking for a nice console under $300 to play the new Call of Duty… you are better off served with a PS5, Xbox, or building your own PC.
Compared with the OLED Switch
The OLED Switch was a game-changer with its vibrant display, but is it really a better purchase than the regular Nintendo Switch? I would argue no.
The Oled Switch is a solid offering with a higher screen size, but it’s not necessarily a massive leap up. Screen resolution is still locked at 720p in handheld mode and 1080p when docked.
The display, while retaining the OLED technology, offers improved brightness and color accuracy, making it a feast for the eyes.
Nintendo Switch Lite: Portability vs. Versatility
The Switch Lite, known for its portability, cannot dock to a TV. The Regular Switch, however, bridges this gap effortlessly and is still only about $50 more. It maintains its portable nature while offering the flexibility of docking, giving gamers the best of both worlds. This versatility is a significant selling point for anyone who enjoys gaming on a larger screen.
Battery Life and Charging: Endurance Meets Convenience
One of the most impressive upgrades is the battery life. The 2024 Switch offers extended playtime, which is a boon for gamers on the go. Charging is more efficient too, with the console reaching full charge in significantly less time compared to its predecessors. This improvement addresses one of the most common gripes with earlier models.
How long does it take a Nintendo Switch to Charge?
To go from absolutely 0 Battery up to 100 will take you about 2-3 hours. However, if you are using it at home, you can play while docked in a TV while charging for the full 1080p experience.
Answering Important Questions About The Nintendo Switch
If you are looking to buy a Nintendo Switch in 2024 like I am, there are a few things you should keep in mind when looking around.
How much is a used Nintendo Switch?
A used Nintendo Switch goes anywhere from $150 to the full $300. However, if you buy used, you can often get games included in your purchase from people who buy physical media. This can drastically bring the price down on your Nintendo Switch investment since the games on the Nintendo Switch Store are rarely on sale and often range between $40 for games like Dark Souls Remastered and a whopping $70 for Tears of the Kingdom.
How much is a Nintendo Switch at Walmart?
Frequently, wholesalers like Amazon and Walmart offer big discounts or at least bundles on their products. At the time of writing, Walmart offers a bundled Nintendo Switch for about $250 but you can get Mario Cart Bundeld which saves you about $100.
Taking Your Nintendo Switch on a Plane
Can you take a Nintendo Switch on a plane? Absolutely! The Nintendo Switch’s portability is one of its biggest selling points. It’s perfect for long flights, entertaining right at your fingertips. Just remember to adhere to airline regulations regarding the use of electronic devices during takeoff and landing.
The Mystery of the Camera
Do Nintendo Switches have a camera? Unlike many handheld devices today, the Nintendo Switch does not have a traditional camera for taking photos or videos. However, it does feature infrared (IR) motion cameras in the Joy-Con controllers, used primarily for motion detection in certain games.
Travel-Friendly Gaming
Can you bring a Nintendo Switch on a plane? Yes, you can bring a Nintendo Switch on a plane without any issues. It’s a great travel companion, especially for long flights. Ensure it’s easily accessible for security checks, as TSA regulations require all electronics larger than a cell phone to be screened separately.
Charging Options
Can you charge a Nintendo Switch with a phone charger? This depends on the phone charger. The Nintendo Switch requires a USB-C type charger with a specific power output for optimal charging. Some modern phone chargers that use USB-C can charge the Switch, but it’s crucial to check the power specifications to ensure compatibility and avoid damaging your console.
Game Refunds on the eShop
Can you refund Nintendo Switch games on the eShop? Nintendo’s eShop has a strict no-refund policy for digital game purchases once the download process has started. This policy emphasizes the importance of being certain about your purchase. However, if you haven’t downloaded the game yet, it’s worth contacting Nintendo’s customer service to discuss your options.
The Necessity of WiFi
Do you need WiFi to play Nintendo Switch games? Not necessarily. Many Nintendo Switch games can be played offline without any WiFi connection. However, a WiFi connection is required for downloading games, playing online multiplayer, and accessing various online features. It’s always good to check the game’s requirements for online functionality.
The Verdict: Buy or Wait?
Overall, I would argue that despite some of the concerns I brought up in my review, the Nintendo Switch is still a good purchase in 2024 as a family game console. It’s not a great console for Call of Duty or even a AAA game title, but for Nintendo Exclusives and the occasional Fortnite game, it’s plenty for most avid gamers.
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Disclaimer: None of the information presented on this site constitutes legal, business, tax, or medical advice. In each scenario, it’s recommended to first chat with a medical, legal, business, or tax professional before making any decisions.
