What To Do First With Your Nintendo Switch 2

Summary

• Apply a screen protector to keep the Switch 2’s display safe and scratch-free.
• Set up the dock for the Switch 2 to play games on TV in 4K resolution.
• Transfer system data, buy accessories, set parental controls, and get Nintendo Switch Online for a complete gaming experience.

Getting a new piece of hardware is always an exciting time. The Nintendo Switch 2’s release after the eight-year reign of its predecessor brings with it a huge jump in technical horsepower, offering bigger, more visually impressive gameplay experiences to players.

Before players can drift around Mario Bros. Circuit in Mario Kart World or delve into the latest chapters of DeltaRune, they’ll need to get the initial setup process done. However, in addition to this, there are also some steps players will need to take to make sure their Switch 2 is set up for the long haul. Here are a couple of simple things players need to do first with their Nintendo Switch 2.

1

Apply a Screen Protector

Keep the Switch 2’s Screen in Pristine Condition

While not the most exciting thing to do, applying a screen protector can be a system saver if players accidentally drop their Switch 2, or leave it rattling around in a bag with keys or other objects that could come into contact with and damage the screen. Even if players don’t intend to take it out with them regularly, drops and scuffs around the house can still happen. Over time, the regular Switch’s display could get little scratches and scuffs along the bottom from taking the system in and out of the dock.

While the quality of the Switch 2’s display is much better, it also means it’s more expensive to replace. Putting a screen protector on just gives players peace of mind should an accident happen, and they’re relatively inexpensive, too.

2

Set Up the Dock

Make Sure the Switch 2 Is Ready for the Big Screen

Much like its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch 2’s dock is multipurpose. Not only does it act as a convenient charging stand for the console, but it’s also the way to play games on a TV or monitor. Those players who want to see what the Switch 2 hardware can really do will also want to play their games while the system is docked.

When docked, the Switch 2 can display games at a 4K resolution and run them at 60 frames per second (FPS) with HDR 10 support. When playing in handheld mode, games will run at a max resolution of 1920×1080. Setting the Switch 2 dock up should be one of the first things players do. That way, if the system starts to run out of battery, players can always dock it and continue playing on their TV.

3

Complete the System Transfer to the Nintendo Switch 2

Home (Screen) Away from Home (Screen)

Thanks to the Nintendo Switch 2’s backwards compatibility, players can enjoy all their favorite games from the original Switch on the shiny new hardware. To make sure fans can pick up where they left off, they’ll need to transfer their Nintendo Switch data over to their Switch 2. Fortunately, there’s a System Transfer option on the original Switch to simplify the process.

To do this, go to ‘System Settings’ on the original Switch and go to ‘System.’ From here, select the ‘System Transfer to Nintendo Switch 2.’ With the Switch 2 nearby, select the ‘Done’ option when prompted to have the console switched on and ready, and the transfer will begin.

This will transfer all games, DLC, user profiles, save data, video clips, screenshots, and system settings. That even includes an Animal Crossing: New Horizons island, meaning players won’t have to download any specific app or data transfer tool, as was the case for transferring an island between two original Nintendo Switch systems.

4

Pick Up Some Additional Accessories

Enhance the Switch 2 Gaming Experience

As with any console launch, the Switch 2 will release alongside a host of accessories designed to improve the gameplay experience or protect the hardware. While every accessory may not be suitable for every player, there are bound to be some that tick the boxes for the majority of players. Whether it’s a Pro Controller to give a more traditional-feeling gamepad when playing in docked mode, or a camera so players can make use of the GameChat feature, it’s best to buy these on or around launch day so they’re available when players might suddenly want them. It also ensures gamers avoid any potential stock shortages or further price rises. The full list of accessories available at launch and their pricing is:

• Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: $79.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 Controllers: $89.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip: $34.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 Straps: $12.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con 2 Wheels: $19.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Camera: $49.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set: $109.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case and Screen Protector: $34.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case: $79.99
• Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter: $29.99

5

Set Up Parental Controls

Stop Young Gamers From Playing What They Shouldn’t Be

If gamers have younger siblings or children of their own, making sure that they can’t jump into a quick game of Cyberpunk 2077 or Hitman is something they’re probably going to want to do. The Switch 2, just like its predecessor, has parental controls that grant adults control over how their kids use the system. The settings grant parents the ability to limit how much time younger gamers are playing on the system, make sure that they’re playing age-appropriate titles, and set limits on what they can do online with the system. If younger members of the family are playing online, it also allows adults to manage who their child is talking to while playing.

All of these controls can be managed via a free app for smart devices, and links to both the Nintendo Switch 2 and the original console. These parental controls are a necessity if the Nintendo Switch 2 is going to be used by multiple people in the house, especially younger gamers who might not understand what is and isn’t suitable for them, or might just want to push the limits.

6

Buy Nintendo Switch Online Subscription

Be Ready for Online Play

Games like Mario Kart World require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play against other players online. The subscription also grants access to over 170 classic games from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, and GameCube when the Switch 2 launches. Alongside these headline features, subscribers also get access to the Nintendo Music app on their smartphones, Game Trials, Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers, exclusive games, and save data cloud backups.

With the release of the Switch 2, Nintendo Switch Online will also get some new features. Players can use the new GameChat feature to chat with friends, share their screen, and see what others are up to, all while playing their own games. Nintendo 64 games also get a new CRT filter, button remapping, and a rewind feature when playing via the Nintendo Classics app, and both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom’s Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade packs are included at no additional cost.

Some of these features are exclusive to the Expansion Pack version of the membership, but even at a slightly higher price point, the subscription is still worth considering if this all sounds like features players would use.

7

Download the Day One Update

Make Sure the Switch 2’s Storage Is Ready to Go

Gone are the days when hardware would remain the same from the day it was taken out of the box, to the day fans unboxed its successor years later. The Nintendo Switch 2 will receive firmware updates to bring new features to players and fix any security issues, and the first one will be available on day one.

The day-one update is also pretty important, as it enables MicroSD Express card support. Nintendo had confirmed that an update would be required to enable the feature back in April, but it’s now been confirmed that the day-one update will enable this functionality. It may also enable 3D audio through the console’s built-in speakers. Players planning to insert a MicroSD Express card right away will want to make sure that getting the day-one update done as soon as they set up their system is at the top of their to-do list on launch day.

8

Add Friends

Be Ready to Play Together

Mario Kart World offers players the chance to put their skills to the test against others online in typical races and Battle Mode. But there’s also an open-world mode where players can explore the map, uncover secrets, and take on side challenges at their own pace. To make the most of these modes, host a party on an Animal Crossing New Horizons’ island, or work through Split Fiction with a buddy, players will need to add friends to their system.

Unlike PlayStation and Xbox consoles, players will need to add friends using either their Friend Code or a QR code. Players should make sure to exchange these as soon as possible so they’re ready to jump into the online action when the time comes.

9

Play Some GameCube Classics

Re-experience Some Retro Classics

As mentioned above, one of the benefits of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription is the addition of GameCube games to the retro library. On launch day, subscribers can play The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, Soulcalibur 2, and F-Zero GX, and more will be coming in the future.

All GameCube games will be running at a higher resolution than the original releases and will feature customizable controls. For those wanting a more authentic experience replaying these titles, the wireless GameCube controller might be worth a purchase.

10

Revisit Breath of the Wild/ Tears of the Kingdom with the Switch 2 Updates

Play Two of the Switch’s Best Games in the Best Way

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, are two of the best Nintendo Switch games of all time. Despite the hardware limitations of the Nintendo Switch and the expansive nature of both titles’ maps, they both managed to run fairly well. However, with the launch of the Switch 2, Nintendo is releasing an upgrade pack for each game. With the upgrade packs, the games will run at a higher definition, with a smoother, more consistent framerate, and faster load times. There’s also compatibility with a Zelda Notes app to help players on their adventure, and an additional save slot.

Whether players have completed both adventures or are experiencing them for the first time, their renditions of Hyrule will likely provide a showcase of what the Switch 2 hardware is truly capable of.