MAKING OUR DREAMS COME 2?

They kept us waiting long enough. Now some extended hands-on time with Nintendo's first proper console sequel reveals whether it can replicate the original handheld hybrid's magic...

- Words Alan Wen

Stepping into the London leg of Nintendo's Switch 2 travelling circus was like entering a bubble to bask in what seems to be the Nintendo console I've always wanted. My four hours trying out the new device in its various configurations showed that, while Nintendo might be spouting the same 4K, HDR and VRR buzzwords as Sony and Microsoft, the firm hasn't lost any of its charm or sense of fun.

Despite launching against a sea of PC gaming handhelds, and only partly closing the power gap to current-gen rivals, the Switch 2 is shaping up to be everything I expected from the house of Mario - with an arguably stronger launch lineup than the original.

GOD GAVE DOCKIN' ROLE TO YOU

The Switch 2 doesn't stray too far from the first model. It's still a tablet console that can be played in handheld mode by attaching a Joy-Con controller on either side, played in tabletop mode using a built-in kickstand, or played on a TV by placing it in a dock. Nothing new, but it's a combo that the likes of the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally can't replicate out of the box.