For as long as I can remember, Nintendo's gamepads have been a core part of my life. The NES's original rectangular controller was awfully unergonomic, but I still loved it, and it set me down the path of being a lifelong gaming and gadget geek.

The Nintendo Switch 2 offers a comfortable and enjoyable gaming experience that is let down and held up by the unique quirks of Nintendo. It's a straight upgrade and tailored experience in many ways,

Image: Ollie Reynolds / Nintendo Life. In the lead-up to the Switch 2 launch, one of the biggest talking points from Nintendo was the new GameChat feature and accompanying camera.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is a good and relatively affordable official webcam for anyone who likes being seen when playing online. Its small size makes it easy to situate almost anywhere, and it delivers a sharp enough image. Though not everyone will want or need this peripheral, it’s a neat-looking device that works as advertised.

You can't simply go to the My Nintendo Store and buy the Switch 2. To order the Switch 2, you need to log in with an active, paid Nintendo Switch Online account. Once you do that, you can choose either a Switch 2 standalone console or the Mario Kart World bundle and then hit the confirm button to "register your interest" in ordering a Switch 2.

Mario Kart World was tested on Nintendo Switch 2. Pokémon Legends: Z-A will arrive on October 16, 2025, but pre-orders begin on June 5. The Pokémon Company also announced new Mega Evolution merchandise (available now on the Pokémon Center) and confirmed the Pokémon Presents presentation coming July 22.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller offers a more comfortable and precise way to play Switch 2 games. This is thanks to its ergonomic design and responsive buttons and joysticks. Though expensive, it’s essential for Switch 2 users who primarily play in docked mode or who just want a better controller.

Some handhelds are overestimating while others are underestimating the amount of time left to play before the battery dies. The good news is that there's a quick fix.