I just gave the Nintendo Switch 2 a go, and found the best demo of the new hardware in the most unexpected place

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the Nintendo Switch 2 experience in London. The atmosphere was lively, with kids of all ages eagerly trying out the Switch 2 for the first time. There was excitement in the air as groups of friends played games like Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV and Mario Kart World.

My main focus was on testing the hardware of the Switch 2. While improved games and performance are great, the real difference for most users will be in the hardware itself. The larger screen, updated JoyCons, and new custom CPU/GPU units bring the device to life. But the most intriguing aspect is the new ‘mouse’ functionality.

The price of $449.99 may seem high, but if Nintendo delivers unique features and fun experiences, it could be worth it. The Welcome Tour showcased the capabilities of the Switch 2, but how will other games utilize this functionality? Will it be as integral as the DS touchscreen or as forgettable as the Vita touchscreen?

One game that stood out to me was Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, which included mini-games that made great use of the JoyCons and mouse functionality. These mini-games were unique to the Switch 2 and added an extra layer of fun and engagement to the overall gaming experience.

The mini-games, such as Luxencheer Rhythm Catch and Ringabel’s Panic Cruise, showcased the precision and entertainment value of the JoyCon’s mouse functionality. These games were not only fun but also rewarding, offering players actual awards for their achievements.

The creativity and playfulness of these mini-games give hope that developers will continue to explore the unique capabilities of the Switch 2 hardware. It’s exciting to see how non-first party developers will embrace the innovative features of this console.

With games priced at $80 each, consumers would naturally expect some added features to enhance the overall gaming experience. While it’s easy to be skeptical, I found myself pleasantly surprised when I delved into Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster. Despite having to pay full price for a 3DS remaster, the game’s little surprises truly justified the cost.

Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster has transitioned from a quirky niche title to a shining example of the capabilities of the hardware. I was already planning on purchasing it, but now I’m excited to showcase it to my friends and family as a demonstration of what the Switch is truly capable of. It’s a solid launch title and something that the Switch 2 will need to establish itself from the start. Well done, Square Enix.