Almost a month after the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, these are the sensations

It’s been just over three weeks since the Nintendo Switch 2 officially hit the market. Despite multiple leaks leading up to its launch—which got things right about the design, the inclusion of the Nvidia chip, and the evolution of the Joy-Cons—nothing compared to actually having the console in our hands. Now that millions of players have tried it, the community’s reactions give us a clearer picture… and not everything is rosy.

1. Hacked… but not completely

Nintendo claimed that the Switch 2 came with such advanced security measures that it was virtually “unhackable.” However, hackers were quick to challenge that challenge. Evidence of alternative systems running on the console is already circulating on social media. However, no one has yet managed to run modified or pirated games. For now, it appears the security core remains intact, but the battle is just beginning.

2. Sales record: Nintendo’s best-selling console at launch

The Nintendo Switch 2 wasn’t just an expected hit; it was an unprecedented one. According to official Nintendo data, the game managed to sell more than 3.5 million units worldwide in its first four days, comfortably surpassing the PlayStation 5, which sold 3.5 million units in its first month. With the legacy of the original Switch — which reached more than 150 million units sold — this success seems like just the beginning of a new era for Nintendo.

3. Battery problems: a repeating story

Not everything has been positive. Multiple users on social media have reported that the Switch 2’s battery life doesn’t exceed two hours in handheld mode, which has raised concerns within the community. Something similar happened with the first Switch model, which later received an improved version (V2). Will history repeat itself? Nintendo is likely to release a battery-optimized version or even an OLED edition in the medium term.

4. Mario Kart World: A safe bet that accelerates well

One of the most notable launch titles has been Mario Kart World , which, while not as ambitious as a new Zelda, has been well-received by critics and the community. With faster and smoother gameplay, the game has earned scores of 8/10 on IGN, 86% on Metacritic, and 8.5/10 on IMDb. Nintendo has played it safe with Mario Kart, consolidating the series as the ideal calling card for its new console.

5. High initial price… but prices are already coming down

The Switch 2 is the most expensive console in Nintendo history, and it shows. While scalpers have far surpassed the official MSRP, prices on platforms like eBay are starting to normalize. Some sellers are even making razor-thin margins, with sales approaching $650 USD. According to specialized reports, Nintendo isn’t making a huge profit on hardware, but it is on game sales, which reveals its true strategy.

6. Initial catalogue: solid, but still limited

While the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 was accompanied by eye-catching titles like Mario Kart World and enhanced versions of popular classics, many gamers have noted that the initial catalog is still somewhat limited. Primary offerings, such as a new Zelda, Metroid Prime, or Super Smash Bros., are missing, leaving many users eagerly awaiting future announcements. While Nintendo is expected to bolster its library in the first year, the offering may initially feel scarce for those seeking a more varied experience from the start.

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The Nintendo Switch 2 has had an impressive start, combining innovation with some familiar stumbles. While its power, design, and sales success mark a new milestone for Nintendo, there are still areas where improvements are needed, such as battery life and expanding the game catalog. As the year progresses, we’ll see if it manages to establish itself as the new benchmark for hybrid gaming.