Nintendo Switch Review (2024): Aging Hardware, Timeless Fun

Nintendo Switch Review (2024): Aging Hardware, Timeless Fun

Introduction

The Nintendo Switch launched back in 2017—but in 2024, it’s still selling strong. With over 130 million units sold, its hybrid design (dock it to your TV or play handheld) and legendary game library have made it a go-to console for families, casual gamers, and Nintendo fans.

But with rumors of a Switch 2 on the horizon and more powerful consoles already out, is the original Switch still worth buying in 2024?

Let’s break it down.

⸻

Section 1: What Is the Nintendo Switch?

•Hybrid console: Can be played handheld or docked to a TV

•Includes: Detachable Joy-Con controllers, charging dock, handheld screen

•Resolution: 720p (handheld), 1080p (docked)

•Storage: 32GB internal (microSD expandable)

•Battery Life: ~4.5 to 9 hours depending on game

•Models Available:

•Nintendo Switch (Standard)

•Switch OLED (upgraded screen + audio)

•Switch Lite (handheld-only)

This review focuses on the standard model, but comparisons to OLED and Lite are included where it matters.

⸻

Section 2: Build and Design

•7” LCD screen (OLED model has a brighter, crisper display)

•Joy-Con controllers slide off the sides for solo or two-player gaming

•Portable, durable, and backpack-friendly

The hardware looks dated by modern standards—but it’s still charming and incredibly functional. The OLED model is a nice visual upgrade if you play handheld often.

⸻

Section 3: Game Library

This is where the Switch shines—maybe more than any console on the market.

Flagship Titles:

•The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

•Super Mario Odyssey

•Metroid Dread

•Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

•Animal Crossing: New Horizons

•Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

•Pokémon Scarlet/Violet

•Luigi’s Mansion 3

It also supports:

•Tons of indie titles

•Most major third-party games (with downgraded graphics)

•Classic Nintendo games via Switch Online (NES, SNES, N64, Game Boy)

Library Rating: 10/10

⸻

Section 4: Performance and Graphics

•CPU/GPU: Custom Nvidia Tegra X1

•Frame Rate: Usually 30 fps, occasionally 60 fps

•Graphics: Clean and colorful, but not on par with PS5 or Xbox Series X

The Switch isn’t a powerhouse—it was underpowered even at launch. But Nintendo’s games are designed to shine on it, with creative art direction and smart optimization.

Performance Rating: 7/10

⸻

Section 5: Portability and Versatility

•Play on the go, at home, or on a tabletop with kickstand

•Instant resume, sleep mode, and simple save syncing

•Split-screen and couch co-op built in (Joy-Cons double as two controllers)

No other console offers this kind of hybrid flexibility. It’s one of the Switch’s biggest selling points—even in 2024.

⸻

Section 6: Online and Ecosystem

Nintendo Switch Online ($20/year):

•Required for online multiplayer

•Includes cloud saves and retro game library

•Expansion Pack adds N64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis games

Downsides:

•Still no native voice chat (relies on phone app)

•Friend system is clunky (friend codes)

•Online services feel basic compared to PlayStation/Xbox

⸻

Section 7: Joy-Con Issues and Accessories

•Joy-Con drift (joystick wear) is still a thing, though later models are better

•Plenty of third-party controllers available

•Pro Controller is excellent for docked play

Battery life for Joy-Cons is solid (20+ hours), and charging is easy via the dock or grip.

⸻

Section 8: Pros and Cons

Pros:

•Unmatched portability and flexibility

•Massive, iconic game library

•Easy local multiplayer

•Fun, family-friendly, and creative games

•Huge third-party and indie support

Cons:

•Aging hardware (low power, 720p/1080p max)

•Online features still feel behind the times

•Storage fills up fast (need microSD)

•Joy-Con drift can still be an issue

⸻

Section 9: Should You Still Buy One in 2024?

Buy if:

•You haven’t owned a Switch before

•You love Nintendo franchises

•You want a family-friendly or portable gaming system

•You prefer fun and accessibility over raw power

Skip or wait if:

•You already have a Switch (hold off for Switch 2)

•You need high-end graphics and fast load times

•You’re primarily a hardcore gamer (PlayStation/Xbox may suit better)

⸻

Conclusion: Final Verdict

The Nintendo Switch may be showing its age, but it’s still one of the most versatile and fun consoles you can buy. The hybrid design is unmatched, the game library is legendary, and it’s easy to pick up and play whether you’re 6 or 60.

With the Switch 2 likely coming soon, it’s not the future of gaming—but it’s still a fantastic present.

Final Score: 8.6/10