Nintendo took the wraps off the Switch, its next console, during a special event held last night. The Nintendo Switch will be released on March 3, 2017 and will retail for $299. A number of interesting details were released about the Switch including its forthcoming premium paid service.
Other nuggets of information:
- region locking will be removed
- touch screen with motion controls and rumble
- 2.5 to 6 hour battery life
- play while charging with either USB or AC
- up to eight players can connect via wifi
- NFC reader compatible with Amiibo
- capture button for screens and video that can be shared via social media
- two controllers included
- color variants with wrist straps
- some games similar to Wii Sports - pistol dueling, sword fights, tennis
- split screen play
- 80 titles in developments - Dragon Quest X / XI, Dragon Quest Heroes 1 / 2, Project Octopath Traveler (RPG), SkyrimFIFA, Sonic, Lego, Stret Fighter, I Am Setsuna, Street Fighter, Minecraft, F Zero, Mario Kart, NBA 2k 18
- Zelda releasing March 3rd
- available parental controls
Accessory devices include:
- Switch Pro Controller - $69.99
- Joy-Con Controller Sets - $79.99
- Left / Right Joy-Con Controller (individually sold) - $49.99
- Joy-Con Charging Grip - $29.99
- Switch Dock Set - $89.99
- Joy-Con Wheel (contains 2) - $19.99
Nintendo Switch is a breakthrough home video game system. It not only connects to a TV at home, but it also instantly transforms into an on-the-go handheld using its 6.2-inch screen. For the first time, players can enjoy a full home-console experience anytime, anywhere. The screen includes capacitive multi-touch capabilities for compatible games. Battery life can last for more than six hours, but will vary depending on the software and usage conditions. For example, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild can be played for roughly three hours on a single charge. While away from home, Nintendo Switch can be charged by plugging the AC adapter into the console’s USB Type-C connector.
The versatile Joy-Con offer multiple surprising new ways for players to have fun. Two Joy-Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as one game controller when attached to the Joy-Con grip. They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy two-player action in supported games. Each Joy-Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro-sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible.
You can watch the full presentation trailer below and then check out your local retailer to preorder or visit the Nintendo Switch site for more information.
