Nintendo Switch 2 Black Friday: First-Time Buyer’s Guide
▼ Summary
– Black Friday sales offer the best current deals for purchasing a Nintendo Switch 2 console, games, and accessories.
– The Switch 2 is backward compatible with nearly all original Nintendo Switch games, and some titles provide free upgrades for the new hardware.
– Original Joy-Con controllers cannot physically connect to the Switch 2, but most other first-party controllers like the Pro Controller are compatible.
– The Switch 2 requires MicroSD Express cards for additional storage, as standard MicroSD cards will not work with the system.
– Data transfer from an original Switch to a Switch 2 is supported through a guided process, while new users can set up the console by following on-screen prompts.
The holiday shopping season is in full swing, and for many, the Nintendo Switch 2 sits at the top of wish lists. This is a fantastic opportunity for first-time buyers to secure the console, games, and essential accessories, as numerous retailers have launched significant Black Friday promotions. We have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you find the best offers and prepare your new system for gift-giving.
Choosing a Nintendo Switch 2 console is a fairly simple process, though a few considerations are worth noting. If you are upgrading from the original model, you will be pleased to learn that nearly all original Switch games are backward compatible with the new hardware. Some titles even provide free enhancements to leverage the improved system capabilities. Most controllers and accessories from the previous generation are also functional, with one important exception: the original Joy-Con controllers are not physically compatible due to the Switch 2’s redesigned rail and connector system. While the console hardware itself is not currently discounted, several retailer bundles include valuable extras that provide excellent overall value.
You may not think about storage immediately, but the Switch 2’s built-in 256GB capacity can be consumed rapidly, especially with some game file sizes approaching 90GB. Investing in additional storage is a smart move. It is crucial to understand that the Switch 2 requires a specific type of memory card. You must purchase a MicroSD Express card, as the standard MicroSD cards used with the original Switch will not function in the new system. These faster cards are widely available and several are already featured in Amazon’s sales.
Although the Switch 2 includes a pair of new Joy-Con 2 controllers, households with more than two players might want to consider additional controllers. The good news is that most first-party Nintendo controllers, including the popular Pro Controller, work seamlessly with the Switch 2. There are a couple of minor differences to note. The new system includes a dedicated “C” button for game sharing, a feature not found on the original Pro Controller. The updated Pro Controller model also adds two programmable rear buttons. These are not essential for gameplay but offer nice customization options. Beyond these features, your existing Pro Controller should perform perfectly.
The most substantial Black Friday savings are often found in the games library. A vast selection of Nintendo Switch 2 titles is currently discounted, with some popular games available for as low as $19.99. Furthermore, since the console supports nearly all original Nintendo Switch games, you have an enormous catalog of older titles to explore, many of which benefit from visual and performance upgrades on the new hardware.
Once you have your new console, the setup process is straightforward. For brand-new users, simply power on the device, connect to your Wi-Fi network, and follow any on-screen instructions for system updates. If you are moving your data from an original Nintendo Switch to the Switch 2, the process is more detailed. Nintendo provides a clear, step-by-step video guide that walks you through the entire data transfer procedure to ensure a smooth transition to your new system.
(Source: Nintendo Wire)
