Nintendo Switch: What You Should Know Before Buying

Nintendo Switch: What You Should Know Before Buying

The original Nintendo Switch was released in 2017 and quickly became one of the best-selling gaming consoles of all time. Its unique hybrid design, massive game library, and family-friendly appeal made it a hit with casual players and hardcore gamers alike. Now, with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025, fans finally have the next-gen upgrade they’ve been waiting for.

So, if you’re thinking about buying your first Switch and want to learn more before jumping in, here’s what you need to know.

What is the Nintendo Switch?

The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid gaming console that can be used in three modes: handheld, tabletop, and TV.

Handheld mode lets you attach the Joy-Con controllers to the sides of the screen and play on the go.

Tabletop mode uses the built-in kickstand so you can prop it up and play with wireless controllers anywhere.

TV mode turns the Switch into a traditional console – just dock it to play on the big screen with full sound and visuals.

This flexibility makes the Switch stand out from other consoles. You can start playing at home, put the console in your bag or backpack, and continue your game on the move – no need to pause the fun.

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What is the difference between the Nintendo Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch OLED?

There are three versions of the Nintendo Switch: Switch, Switch Lite, and Switch OLED.

The Nintendo Switch can be used in TV, handheld, and tabletop modes. It comes with detachable Joy-Cons and a dock.

The Nintendo Switch Lite is a handheld-only version. It’s smaller, lighter, and doesn’t connect to a TV. The Joy-Cons are built-in, so some multiplayer games require extra controllers.

The Nintendo Switch OLED is similar to the standard Switch but with a larger, high-quality OLED screen, better speakers, and an improved kickstand.

If you want to play in all three modes, the standard Switch gives you the full experience. If you prefer something more compact and cheaper, get the Lite. If you want the best display, the OLED model is the way to go.

What games can you play on the Nintendo Switch?

Nintendo is known for its legendary franchises, and the Switch has some of the best exclusives out there. A few must-play titles include:

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – A masterpiece that redefined open-world gaming.

Super Mario Odyssey – A joyful adventure full of creative platforming.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons – The cozy life simulator that keeps players hooked for hours.

Pokémon Scarlet & Violet – A fresh take on the beloved monster-catching series.

Metroid Dread – A thrilling return to classic Metroidvania action.

Plus, with popular third-party games, frequent indie game releases, and classic retro titles through Nintendo Switch Online, there’s never a shortage of great games to play.

The Switch is built for social gaming, whether online or in person. Games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Splatoon 3 offer competitive action, while co-op adventures like Luigi’s Mansion 3 and Overcooked! All You Can Eat make for great family game nights.

Can you play Roblox on the Nintendo Switch?

Roblox is not officially available on the Nintendo Switch – at least not yet. Although you can’t find the Roblox app in the Nintendo eShop, some users have found workarounds to run Roblox on the Switch, but these methods are not supported by Nintendo.

For now, you’ll have to stick to PC, iOS, Android, Xbox, or PlayStation if you want to play Roblox. But, if you’re looking for something similar to Roblox on the Switch, you can try out games like Minecraft, LEGO Worlds, Terraria, and Garry’s Mod.

Can you play Fortnite or Call of Duty on the Nintendo Switch?

You can play Fortnite on the Nintendo Switch. It’s free to download from the Nintendo eShop and supports cross-platform play, so you can team up with friends on Xbox, PlayStation, PC, and mobile devices. It works in handheld, docked, or tabletop mode, making it great for gaming on the go.

Call of Duty is not currently available on the Nintendo Switch. While there have been announcements about bringing Call of Duty to future Nintendo systems, no official titles or release dates have been confirmed so far.

How long does the Nintendo Switch battery last?

The battery life of the Nintendo Switch mainly depends on the model and the type of game you’re playing. The standard Switch and the OLED model both last between 4.5 to 9 hours on a full charge, while the Switch Lite typically runs for 3 to 7 hours.

Keep in mind that graphically intense games drain the battery faster, while simpler games last longer. It’s smart to bring a power bank or car charger for long trips. The Switch takes about 3 hours to fully charge when the console is powered off or in sleep mode.

How much is the Nintendo Switch?

The standard Nintendo Switch is priced at $299.99, the upgraded OLED model costs $349.99, and the more compact Switch Lite is $199.99.

You can buy the Switch directly from Nintendo’s official website or major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or Target. It’s also worth checking for special bundles that include popular games, as they often offer better value for the price.