Nintendo Limitating Compatibility of Switch 2 Budget Accessories
Revamped Review: Switch 2 Accessories Debacle
The Switch 2 hysteria that's sweeping through the U.S. and global markets offers a glimpse into the frenzy surrounding Nintendo's novel handheld console. Launching June 5, its successor to the original Switch seemingly has consumers ready to shell out up to $450.
But, the joy doesn't end with the console itself. Get ready for wallet-draining add-ons such as $70-$80 games, and additional controllers priced around $100 for Nintendo's first-party accessories. Third-party accessories tend to be cheaper, but even they seem less appealing compared to the official gear.
Take, for instance, the resurrected GameCube controller. At first sight, it seemed like a major win for gamers. But alas, Nintendo threw a curveball. The controller will only work with GameCube titles available via a Nintendo Switch Online+ Expansion Pack subscription. Confused? Don't worry; so is everyone else.
Nintendo confirmed that you can indeed utilize the GameCube controller for other Switch 2 games, provided they're tailored to account for the controller's lack of a left bumper button and a right analog stick resembling a nipple. The new GameCube controller, however, will not work with any console other than the Switch 2.
In regards to pricing, while initial reports suggested the controller would cost $65, the product page now simply states it'll launch alongside the Switch 2 on June 5. Early birds lucky enough to score a spot in the priority sale on the My Nintendo Store may have the chance to secure it first, from May 8 to May 12. Stay tuned for the final retail price.
Despite the hefty price tag, the GameCube controller isn't the only accessory that may fall short of expectations. Streaming to friends using Nintendo's $55 1080p-resolution Switch 2 camera has its challenges.
Enter Hori, a manufacturer of licensed Nintendo products. They're peddling a Piranha Plant camera retailing for $60. At that price point, you'd expect a better resolution, but nope! It's only 480p, not even standard HD. There's a less-cute camera available as well, findable on Amazon's Japanese webpage, but it too limits you to a 480p resolution.
Until tested, it's unclear how these cameras compare to Nintendo's. There's a slim chance the lower resolution on Hori's cameras could mean reduced lag and negligible impact on the Switch 2's screen.
Nintendo's store page indicates compatibility with any USB-C camera, implying a wide range of third-party webcams should work with the Switch 2. However, the company has yet to confirm this.
Why mess with the flawless design of the modern gamepad for the GameCube controller? Why cheap out on resolution for Hori's cameras? My dear friend, I wish I could provide real answers. But for now, before you splurge on Switch 2 accessories, make sure you know exactly what they can do.
Interestingly, the anticipated GameCube controller for the Switch 2 might not meet everyone's expectations, as it will only function with specific Nintendo Switch Online+ Expansion Pack titles. Priced to launch alongside the Switch 2, the controller's final retail price remains unknown.
Moreover, Hori, a manufacturer of Nintendo-licensed products, is offering a Piranha Plant-themed camera for $60, boasting a disappointing 480p resolution. The resolution of this camera raises questions about its performance compared to Nintendo's own offerings.
In the future, we may discover that various third-party USB-C cameras could work with the Switch 2, based on Nintendo's store page indications. However, official confirmation about this compatibility remains elusive.
