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[Nintendo Switch] THIS THREAD IS DEAD! POST IN THE NEW ONE!
MNC Dover
Full-time Voice ActorKirkland, WARegistered User regular
Full-time Voice ActorKirkland, WARegistered User regular
The Switch is Nintendo's 7th home console 5th handheld newest hardware. After the Wii U's struggles over the past four years, especially with advertising and PR, this is Nintendo's attempt to get people back on board and right the ship.
As the name implies, the Switch is a hybrid console, capable of going between standard TV play and on-the-go gaming. The console itself is actually just a thin, tablet-esque bit of hardware that's like a slightly smaller and less bulky Wii U gamepad. But don't be confused: whereas the gamepad was just a screen that streamed from the Wii U itself, the Switch is a fully independent console. It has a capacitive touch screen (a departure from Nintendo's preference for resistive), two slots on the side for controller attachments, Wi-Fi, and uses a USB-C cable to charge. Due to its mobile nature, it uses cartridges to play games. There are three main ways to play:
TV Mode
This the traditional couch playing mode. The Switch comes with a dock that uses an HDMI cable to broadcast the Switch to your TV. This is where the Switch acts like a regular home console, and there's not much else to say. You can play using the game's controller (Joycons) separated or together (there is a grip included in box to give the joycons a controller form factor, but it does NOT charge the Joycons), or you can opt for something more typical like the pro controller (Sold Separately).
Handheld Mode
The mobile mode, this is just taking the Switch out of the dock and playing on it. The Joycons slide on to each half of the console, giving you a more handheld experience. Battery life will vary based on the game and what you are doing, with estimates being a broad 2-6 hours. Breath of Wild was used as a benchmark, going three hours on a single charge. People are saying something like Shovel Knight can go as long as 7 hours. The general rule of thumb is that polygon-based games will drain the battery roughly twice as fast as ones uses sprites or less demanding graphics. Switches can also connect to up to seven additional Switches for local multiplayer purposes.
Tabletop Mode
Tabletop mode is basically handheld, but the Switch has a little kickstand that lets you prop it up. Each half of a Joycon can operate as its own independent controller, so you can use this mode to play games with another person. The Joycons also have an attachment called a strap that slides in and gives you better L/R button and a bit more grip. It's worth noting that ALL controllers work in this mode, including the pro controller, so you don't need a bunch of joycons.
Oh, and the Switch won't be region locked. Prepare to import.
In the USA, the Switch will retail for $299.99, and it comes with the following:
- Switch Console
- TV Dock
- Left and Right Joycons
- Joycon Wrist Straps
- Joycon Grip (NOT a charging grip)
- HDMI Cable
- AC Adapter
Need more crap? Accessories are available if you got cash to burn.
MSRP: $69.99
Want a more traditional controller? That'll be seventy bucks, pal. As a bonus, it comes with a USB to USB-C cable that can also charge the Switch itself, and the Pro can connect to your bluetooth-enabled PC with little difficulty. The Pro has most of the features of the joycons, including motion controls, HD rumble, and NFC support. I don't think it has the infrared scanner thing, however.
MSRP: $79.99
Additional Joycons can be purchased for a hefty fee. They do come with two straps, however.
MSRP: $49.99
Lose just ONE Joycon? Nintendo has got you covered, although they will charge you an extra ten dollars more than what they cost bundled together. Because business.
MSRP: $29.99
That pro controller sure was pricey, wasn't it? Well, for less than half the cost, you can just slap your joycons in this thing and get a similar experience while pretending it's a dog or something. This one also charges your joycons while they're connected to it, unlike the one that comes with the Switch because Nintendo is cheap.
MSRP: $14.99
Because you really want a wheel icon next to your name in Mario Kart. Slap a joycon in and race or just use it as a very awkward controller grip.
MSRP: $89.99
Breakdowns of the dock expose this thing as being hilariously overpriced. Please don't buy it.
The Switch will probably be Nintendo's biggest step forward regarding online play since it actually added online services to its hardware. It seems like Nintendo is finally learning from its contemporaries, having all online stuff managed from your Nintendo account. Sadly, Nintendo is also learning from its contemporaries in that they're going to charge us just to play online. The good news is that the service is fairly cheap, being $3.99 on a month by month basis, or $20 for a year. The service doesn't launch until Fall 20172018, but people can play online for free during a "trial" period going on now and ending whenever they get the service running. Check out the chart to see what a subscription gets you versus being a plebeian who thinks online play should be a basic free service.
The monthly game downloads may have caught your eye. Nintendo is doing something new, and they're launching a Netflix-esque service for their catalog of classic games. While subscribed to Nintendo Online, you'll have access this library along with bonus features like online leaderboards and multiplayer. It's (currently) just NES titles, but SNES is under consideration.
What's the battery life for everything?
The Switch: 2-6 hours depending on the game. As a rule of thumb, 3D games like Zelda or Mario will last about three hours. A game with sprites or 2D effects like Shovel Knight will last about 6-7 hours.
Joycons: 20 hours. Note that that do not draw power from the Switch when attached to it and in portable mode.
Pro Controller: 40 hours. The dock does have three USB ports that can be used to charge.
Is the Switch backwards compatible?
No, it uses carts and has no disc drive to play Wii U media. And no, it's also not backwards compatible with the 3DS, DS, or any other Nintendo system.
Do the carts really taste bad?
Yes, they are coated in denatonium benzoate, which is one of the most bitter compounds for humans. It's meant as a deterrent against children eating them. Don't lick the cart, dummy.
Can I go online in portable mode?
Yes. Also, while it has no browser, if you are at a place with Wi-Fi, there will be an applet that lets you pay/agree to their terms so you can get online.
Are there seriously friend codes?
Yeah, who knows why. The good news is that when you punch in someone's code, they'll get a request instead of playing this game of "Did you send it?" Furthermore, more options are set to be added like traditional friend requests through your Nintendo account, which...raises the question of why use friend codes in the first place.
Is the Switch region-locked?
Nope! Import to your heart's content. You can even switch regions on the eShop, BUT you will lose whatever current balance your account has in its current region. So spend your money first.
Can I connect to the TV using third-party USB-C cables?
No, for whatever reason the Switch must be docked to display on the TV.
Will I be able to recharge the Switch using a portable power bank used for cell phones?
The Switch uses about 30-40 Watts, which exceeds most portable power sources right now. It also doesn't use quickcharging functionality of USB-C, so that's another concern. In other words, your average power brick may extend your Switch's battery life by an 60-90 minutes depending on the wattage, but your system will still consume power. This is dependent on the game, however, and you'll get more juice out of a power bank while playing Shovel Knight than Breath of the Wild. However power banks for phones WILL take significantly longer to charge the thing while the power is off (we're talking eight hours in some cases). There are a few 15v/3A batteries meant for MacBooks that DO charge the Switch, but at a rate of like 1% every five minutes. To be honest, there are serious cost/value considerations to make, as a laptop charger that can feed the Switch will run into the triple digits. Do you really need 20+ hours of Switch battery? If not, then consider a $50ish dollar power bank for just the Switch, one with 5V/3A that has a USB-C slot, and use a high-quality USB-C cable to charge. It will, at the very least, double your Switch's battery life even if it's not the most efficient charging solution.
tl;dr: most phone chargers are good for extending the battery, but not recharging a system. Try to get as close to 15V/2.6A as possible, and use USB-C instead of USB-C to regular USB.
Which screen protector should I used?
Tempered glass. While plastic ones are cheaper, they themselves are prone to being easily scratched, which means you'll have to replace them every so often. On top of this, tempered glass feels better when using the touch screen, and they tend to be easier to apply (fewer bubbles). Tempered glass will set you back more cash, but you'll save more in the long run. Right now, amFilm is the screen of choice for most people.
How much memory does the Switch have?
32 GB, of which around 25 is usable. For reference, Breath of the Wild uses around 13GB. You can use micro-SD cards to expand the memory. Because Switch carts are so small, I recommend a micro-SD with plenty of memory, because Switch games will be large and it defeats the purpose of going digital if instead of 32GB carts you're just swapping 32GB SD cards. A Sandisk Ultra with 128GB of memory should last you a while.
What's up with the Joycon desync issue?
Some left joycons have manufacturing defects that make their signal weaker and easier to block. If you think yours is acting up, then you can ship it off to Nintendo for a free repair. Just...hope you have a Pro Controller or something while you wait.
Can the pro controller cable be used to charge the Switch?
Yes, the cable that comes with the Pro Controller can be used like any other USB to USB-C cable. Hook it up to power banks, charge your pro controller through your PC's USB ports: go wild.
Where's Virtual Console?
It's coming. Nintendo has stated that their online service (which offers a Netflix-esque selection of classic games while subscribed) will NOT be replacing Virtual Console. So there are definitely plans for it, but that's about all we know.
Does this mean end of the line for the 3DS/Wii U?
The Wii U is definitely done. I think Breath of the Wild will be the last first-party title for the system, and hardware production was ended last year. The 3DS, on the other hand, is still going strong and has titles planned throughout 2017 and 2018, including yet another hardware iteration with the New 2DS XL. This is probably going to be a GBA/DS situation, where Nintendo will claim that both pieces of hardware will coexist...until one of them sinks or swims. So if the Switch does well (and it currently is), then expect development for the 3DS to slow down until they quietly discontinue the 3DS hardware.
The Switch will have games, making it a true revolution in the industry. Oh, and in case you missed it: the Switch is not region locked. You can create separate accounts for other regions and access their eShops there. All dates are for NA.
G&T Approved!
The following games are almost unanimously praised by the community. If you need a place to start, make it here.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Snipperclips
Fast RMX
Shovel Knight: Treasure Trove
Blaster Master Zero
Puyo Puyo Tetris
Tumbleseed
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Disgaea 5
ARMS
Splatoon 2
Sonic Mania
Mario + Rabbids: Kingdom Battle
Pokkén Tournament DX
Fire Emblem Warriors
Mario Odyssey
Xenoblade Chronicles 2
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Doom
Steamworld Dig 2
Mummy Demastered
Has Been Heroes
Resident Evil Revelations I & II
Upcoming Major Releases
Rocket League - Holiday 2017
Metroid Prime 4 (Nintendo) - 2018
Pokemon (Nintendo) - TBA
Yoshi
Wargroove
Octopath Traveler
Wolfenstein II
Kirby Star Allies
Lost Sphere
Battle Chasers
Dragon Quest Builders
Need a voice actor? Hire me at bengrayVO.com
Legends of Runeterra: MNCdover #moc
Switch ID: MNC Dover SW-1154-3107-1051
Steam ID
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Legends of Runeterra: MNCdover #moc
Switch ID: MNC Dover SW-1154-3107-1051
Steam ID
Twitch Page
MNC Dover on
+5
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I just go to the great plateau again
every watch tower boko will drop 5 arrows and if you use your shield or just dodge, they'll miss you 3 times so you get a total of 8 arrows from each one
works out to be around 100 arrows
Blizzard: Pailryder#1101
GoG: https://www.gog.com/u/pailryder
Resident 8bitdo expert.
Resident hybrid/flap cover expert.
I logged the whole experience at the link, most of the weapons I found would be in the exact same places I got them for everyone, like the little lizal camps leaning up against logs, just lower-level versions like regular lizal boomerangs.
High level advantages were largely negated since for whatever reason that path seems to stay low level for longer, basic lizals and basic weapons even at endgame. I came across one or two high level guys and found a few high level weapons. Also I focused on using as many low damage garbage weapons as possible and broke lots of them, sticks and traveler's swords, so it's not like I got one great drop and used it for the whole path. I feel like it would've been doable at any point in the game.
Other notes:
I mean, there seemed to be a trend where the more damage a weapon generated, the more durable it was, but it would've been nice to have a firmer grasp on the mechanic. Also, I found the Master Sword recharge to be annoying because you had to actually break/drain it completely before it would recharge. I wish there was a way (difficult quest chain) to grant it the ability to always be recharging.
That said, I still really enjoyed the game. Post-apocalyptic Zelda is a pretty cool idea, and I think it was implemented well.
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Watching the Nindies@Night stream last night, Floor Kids looks surprisingly interesting.
Switch: 6200-8149-0919 / Wii U: maximumzero / 3DS: 0860-3352-3335 / eBay Shop
just for posterity, it should be noted that you can simply avoid around a third of that hike even with the rain. also, you don't have to go to that area asap! You can accumulate tons of stamina, hearts, armor, and food before stepping foot in that area if you so desire
Legends of Runeterra: MNCdover #moc
Switch ID: MNC Dover SW-1154-3107-1051
Steam ID
Twitch Page
On a side note, I'm still fucking psyched about that No More Heroes: Travis Strikes Back trailer and knowing its release isn't too distant.
I need there to be a Travis Strikes Back t-shirt.
Even if more than likely it would just sit with my amiibos and become a conversation piece.
Travis Touchdown amiibo please
Also, if we wind up not being able to share this thing very well (I'll be wanting to play BotW nonstop while he'll think the Switch is his own personal Minecraft machine), how do digital purchases work with multiple Switches? Will I be able to log in as "me" on both of them and then have access to my digital games on both devices?
I can answer the first question for you; Yes, if you buy the games on one Switch, any user on that account can play them. My wife's account on my Switch has her own save files and junk that's seperate from me, but she can play any game I can, including the ones I've purchased on the eShop.
We only have one Switch though so I can't tell you for sure how that or switching accounts between devices works.
Thanks. I figured that was the case, nice to have confirmation that it works as intended.
Regarding the second question I had, some googling has told me that an account can only have 1 Switch "active" at a time, so sharing digital games on multiple systems is a no-go, at least right now (probably forever). If we go all digital, and we wind up getting a second system, we'd have to rebuy any digital games that we'd want on that system on a second account.
This is something that I think is still not 100% clear though, or at least I forget precisely how it works.
An account can only be on one Switch at a time, but a Switch can have up to 8 accounts at one time. And any accounts on a Switch let you play any games associated with any of them.
So...presumably you could buy Minecraft and games he likes while logged in on his account, and buy Zelda on your account, and later transfer your account to a second Switch, and you'd have Zelda and he'd have Minecraft but not Zelda. And you could transfer back at any time to give him access to Zelda again. I think. But I'm not sure.
Might be worth buying games that will be "his" that you'll never want to play while logged in as him. Or at least diversify between two accounts, and see if transferring lets you split things up later. I think you can.
I think this is a problem that all open world games that aren't RPGs deal with, even the ones with pseudo-RPG skill trees. Even in those at some point you max out your skills or you're tasked with killing the mooks in specific ways to maximize your exp gain. I've been playing through Horizon Zero Dawn and am utterly bored whenever I have to clear out another pack of the weaker robot dinosaurs or take the time to sneak by them. The weaker enemies were similarly not terribly engaging in BotW but it was easier to bypass them by just gliding well away from them or using a monster mask and having them ignore you.
The monster masks were a great feature that I don't think gets enough appreciation for how much easier they make it to enjoy the open world.
Steam Profile
3DS: 3454-0268-5595 Battle.net: SteelAngel#1772
Twitch: akThera
Steam: Thera
I feel like Animal Crossing is a Holiday 2018 title at the earliest. We've still got a mobile game in the pipeline first and New Leaf got a pretty hefty update in November 2016.
Switch: 6200-8149-0919 / Wii U: maximumzero / 3DS: 0860-3352-3335 / eBay Shop
And the news that Stardew Valley was submitted to Nintendo for certification is awesome. Sooooo looking to having a farming-rpg-sim on the Switch.
Next they give me an Animal Crossing on the Switch and I'll be a very happy man indeed. They skipped a generation on the WiiU, so we're overdue for a new Animal Crossing.
And the itemization in the bethesda fallouts is even worse! FO3 only a single weapon type per archetype, with a unique variant which usually wasn't really worth it. FO4 was a bit better with the weapon mods making it closer to the enchantment system described above...but like the above, the gun you already had crafted and modded out was heads and shoulders above anything you ever found in a dungeon.
Which is really why the weapon degradation in zelda is kinda the key to the whole item economy.
Nintendo ID: Incindium
PSN: IncindiumX
With Fallout 4, the settlement system went a long way in making a lot of itemization that wouldn't be great otherwise better. I might be disappointed at the legendary pool cue that did extra damage to robots but then proceed to loot all the microscopes in the room for their components for use in laser turrets and whatnot. Being able to repurpose drops you might otherwise not have much use for is a tricky thing but it pays dividends. I was very happy to take all the food I wasn't using in nu-Prey to a recycler so that I could later use the resources in crafting.
Even with weapon breakage, I left a lot of weapons lying around in BotW because they just weren't worth it compared to the rows of dragonbone clubs I was looting after a while. I wouldn't want an extensive crafting system shoved into that's traditionally been a bit minimalist like Zelda, but still think something better could have been done with some of the itemization even if I was fine with the weapon durability systems.
Steam Profile
3DS: 3454-0268-5595 Battle.net: SteelAngel#1772
Lick the cartridge
Also, do we know anything about Golf Story outside of the brief trailer?
It's like you didn't even read the thread title
If you can't do that, ask about how Mario perceives reality now that every sentient being in the Mushroom Kingdom and beyond are his mere playthings and what they think the sense of self must be like for someone who can, with the toss of a hat, become literally anyone.
This sounds more up to my speed.
Resident 8bitdo expert.
Resident hybrid/flap cover expert.
The limits for FIFA on Nintendo Switch
Switch (JeffConser): SW-3353-5433-5137 Wii U: Skeldare - 3DS: 1848-1663-9345
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Laying the groundwork early for when they pull support for the system.
Some engines just don't play nice with the Switch, apparently (sadly) including the one used to make certain indie games like Cook Serve Delicious
Frankly I was completely astounded that Mario + Rabbids uses Snowdrop.
I think they flushed the mobile game when New Leaf got that update.
I feel animal crossing is 2019 summer as New leaf still is kicking sadly