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Our first impressions after 48 hours with the Switch 2

6 June 2025 at 18:10

As consumers around the world have gotten their hands on the Switch 2 in the last day or so, we're still working hard to fully test the system here at the Ars Orbiting HQ. As we do, we thought we'd share some initial impressions after having Nintendo's new console in hand for 48 hours or so. Consider these first thoughts an extended version of our notes from a review in progress and a starting point for discussion of the first completely new Nintendo platform in over eight years.

The Switch 2 Joy-Cons feel great

There's something incredibly satisfying about the magnetic "snap" when you plug the new Joy-Cons into the Switch 2 horizontally, and the handy release lever makes it much easier to disconnect the controllers from the tablet with one hand. Even without a physical rail holding the Joy-Cons to the system (as on the Switch), the magnetic connection feels remarkably sturdy in portable mode.

The Switch 2 Joy-Con (left) and a right-side original Switch Joy-Con.

Though the Switch 2's expanded Joy-Cons generally feel more comfortable for adult hands, I have noticed that the analog stick encroaches a little more on the space for the face buttons on the right Joy-Con. I've found myself accidentally nudging that analog stick with the bottom of my thumb when pressing the lower "B" button on the Joy-Con, a problem I never recall encountering on the original Switch.

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Β© Kyle Orland

It’s here: Unboxing and setting up our Switch 2 review unit

4 June 2025 at 19:14

As we've mentioned previously, Nintendo did not see fit to provide press with early review hardware for the Switch 2. Today, though, with the June 5 launch of the Switch 2 having already arrived in regions like Japan and Australia, the ever-efficient UPS driver delivered final retail hardware straight from Nintendo of America to the Ars Orbiting HQ.

The hardware and software Nintendo sent us. Credit: Kyle Orland
A quick setup guide, as seen on the inside flap of the hardware box. Credit: Kyle Orland
A side view of the box, highlighting tabletop mode. Credit: Kyle Orland
The first thing you see upon opening the Switch 2 box. Credit: Kyle Orland
Everything included in the box. Credit: Kyle Orland

The 14-hour lead time between our receipt of the hardware and the midnight launch of the Switch 2 on the US East Coast isn't close to enough time to put together a comprehensive review. For now, though, we thought we'd take you through a pictorial journey of our unboxing and initial setup process, ahead of much more coverage to come.

And while you peruse the images, we recommend listening to the absolute bop that is the Switch 2 setup music, which we've embedded below:

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Β© Kyle Orland

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