Editor's note: This hands-on focuses on our writer's experience with the new Nintendo Switch 2, covering the hardware, playing experience and changes from the original model.

We got to go hands-on with the Switch 2 hardware, the upgraded Zelda games, Welcome Tour, and more. By Steve Watts on April 3, 2025 at 6:00AM PDT. 30 Comments.

Hardcore Gamer had the chance to experience the Nintendo Switch 2 in-person during an extended hands-on look at the hardware and software coming later this year.

The arrival of Nintendo Co.’s Switch 2 marks the biggest consumer tech product release of 2025 so far, with legions of gamers now unboxing and trying the new $450 gaming console for the first time.

The biggest new piece of Grounded 2 that I actually got some decent hands-on time with was the Buggy system - essentially mounts. I was able to ride proudly astride a big ol' ant. It ...

And yet, after an extended hands-on session with the Switch 2, getting to preview the console and a whole host of the games coming to the system, it's clear to me that Nintendo has really taken on ...

The Switch 2 itself costs $450, and if you want “Mario Kart World” along with it, you can buy it bundled with the console for $500. Current Switch titles cost $60, and when the console ...

Nintendo Switch 2 hands-on: it’s all in the games. The console may seem familiar, but the initial lineup does a strong job of showing what’s new. by Andrew Webster. Apr 3, 2025, 1:00 PM UTC ...

The Switch 2 is a bit larger than its predecessor, measuring 4.5 inches tall by 10.7 inches wide when the Joy-Cons are connected. So, it’s about an inch longer and half an inch taller than the ...

My Switch 2 hands-on started with a one-on-one race playing in TV mode. The Joy-Cons 2 felt a lot more comfortable in Nintendo’s new Joy-Con grip as I was selecting my character.