There’s little doubt that the Switch 2’s hype has further propelled the success of Nintendo’s hybrid handheld series to greater heights, and if you—or someone in your life—is yearning for the latest Nintendo console in their hands, then we’ve prepared this handy little gift guide which sums up the need-to-know when it comes to the Switch 2.
So without further ado, here are some of the best Switch 2 gifts that you can give to that special someone (or to yourself) this upcoming holiday season. We’ve also included some gifts which will also make nice presents for folks who own the first-generation Switch. Let’s get started!
Nintendo Switch Consoles, Explained
Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without the console itself. if you’re still not sure what a Switch 2 is, it’s a handheld videogame system which can also be connected to a TV, making it easy for people to play their games on a much larger screen should they desire to do so. While we’d recommend the Switch 2 as it’s the best model in terms of overall features, there are a few variations of the console, as listed below.
Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 is the latest and more advanced version of Nintendo’s hybrid console, and comes with a more powerful processor, a redesigned Joy-Con mechanism, a larger display, and the ability to play newer titles that might not be available on older Switch models, as well as much older Switch games.
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Nintendo Switch OLED
The Switch OLED is essentially the first-generation Switch, and as a result features hardware that’s not as fast or powerful as the Switch 2. It also comes with a smaller screen, although it does feature an OLED display for more vibrant colours; it won’t be able to run Switch 2 games however.
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Nintendo Switch
Another variant of the first-generation Switch series, the regular Switch comes with a more basic-looking screen when compared to the OLED model. It also features a slightly-older looking design with a simpler kickstand, and is only able to play first-gen Switch games.
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Nintendo Switch Lite
The most basic of the bunch, the Switch Lite is the most portable of all the first-generation Switch versions. While it came with a smaller screen and lacked the ability to connect to a TV, it was still compatible with nearly all first-gen Switch games, and more importantly could easily fit into most pockets.
Protecting your Switch 2
If you’ve decided to go for the Switch 2, then just a heads-up—the device is a bit on the heavy side, and as it’s mostly made of plastic with detachable parts, we’d strongly recommend adding a bit of protection to keep your system safe especially if you intend on travelling with it. There’s no shortage of protective accessories on the market for the Switch, and we’ve included some of the best brands that you can get for your console.
HORI Screen Protector for Switch 2
HORI makes some of the best accessories available for the Switch 2 (they’ve been making accessories since the DS era), and this remains true with this screen protector that’s specially cut to perfectly fit the device’s display.
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Spigen Nano Pop Case
If you’re after something a bit slimmer and curvy that adheres to the Switch 2’s general shape, then we’d recommend the Spigen Nano Pop case, which can easily fit into most carrying cases as well.
Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case
Nintendo’s official carrying case for the Switch 2 is another must-have accessory for the console—it fits nicely, comes with a no-nonsense design, and has extra room for six game cards.
Taking Control
As it is a hybrid console, the Switch 2 supports different control methods via its detachable Joy-Cons as well as separate dedicated controllers. That being said, there’s a wide selection of controllers to choose from, although only a few come with quality that you can rely on, especially if you’re after a controller with more versatile features and premium build quality.
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller
Much like its first-generation Switch Pro controller, Nintendo’s official Switch 2 Pro controller comes with some refinements to design, as well as features like HD Rumble 2, a dedicated Gamechat button, and mappable GL/GR buttons.
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HORIPAD Turbo
If you’d rather use a wired controller, then the HORIPAD Turbo will be an ideal choice, especially for users who want zero latency and battery recharging.
Nintendo Switch Games
Of course, no gaming gift guide would be complete without the actual games themselves. There are a ton of spectacular games for the Switch 2, and it would take a much longer list to cover each and every one of them on here. With that in mind though, we’ve listed some of the most popular go-to titles on the system both from Nintendo and third-party studios, a lot of which would make terrific gifts to go along with a brand new Switch or Switch 2. Take note though that certain titles will only run on the Switch 2, so make sure to check the game’s label and packaging.
Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2
It’s often agreed upon that the Super Mario Galaxy series ranks among some of the best Mario games of all time, and this bundle combines two games into a single package.
Mario Kart World
Building up on the incredible success of Mario Kart 8, Mario Kart World introduces new tracks, racers, unlockable items and bonuses, and even an open-world exploration mode.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
While it was originally released on the first-generation Switch, Tears of the Kingdom for Switch 2 comes with enhanced graphics and performance, and expands on the lore and gameplay found in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
Square Enix’s decision to release the much-hyped Final Fantasy VII Remake series to more consoles was a no-brainer, and the Switch 2’s hardware makes it possible to play this graphics-heavy remake on the go.
Pokemon Legends Z-A
Hardcore Pokemon fans looking to get some action will undoubtedly enjoy Legends Z-A, which combines gameplay mechanics first introduced in Pokemon Legends Arceus, in addition to the vibrant aesthetics of Lumiose city from the 3DS era.
Metroid Prime 4 Beyond
The fourth Metroid Prime game, Beyond packs more refined visuals, new gameplay mechanics, and even more of Samus in all her bounty-hunting glory.
Donkey Kong Bananza
Donkey Kong Bananza has proven to be one of the most popular games for the Switch 2, showing that there’s still a lot of strength within Nintendo’s more family friendly IPs.
Metroid Dread
While it’s a bit different than the Metroid Prime series, Metroid Dread manages to take what made the original Metroid titles so great, and at the same time add great-looking graphics and heart-pounding suspense into the mix.
Nintendo Switch Online Individual Membership
Players who are big into retro gaming and want to revisit the good old days on their Switch 2 might want to go for Nintendo’s Switch Online service, which comes with access to 70+ classic Super NES and NES games.
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
Nintendo is also offering an Expansion Pack which includes access to newer games such as titles from the Gameboy and Gameboy Advance, as well as DLC for select Switch games.
It’s only fair to say that the Switch 2 is only one of many modern handheld consoles out on the market right now, and while it’s sometimes out-performed by more powerful rivals there’s a unique charm that Nintendo manages to imbue on its consoles, and this remains true with the Switch 2.
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