When I went to check out Nintendo’s upcoming lineup a few weeks ago I joked “Y’all are releasing so many big games in the next three months it’s almost like you’re trying to promote a new piece of hardware.” From the end of June through September there’s Super Mario Maker 2, Marvel Ultimate Alliance 3, Fire Emblem Three Houses, Astral Chain, Daemon X Machina, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening, and Dragon Quest XI. And not long after that there’s Pokemon Sword and Shield.
It turns out I (and lots of other internet rumor mongers) were right. Nintendo is promoting a new piece of hardware coming out this September. Here’s your first look at the Nintendo Switch Lite.
Ever since Nintendo finally quietly killed off the 3DS it seemed all but inevitable that the company would release a more portable-focused Switch to carry on its handheld legacy and unify their software development at long last. And that’s exactly what the Nintendo Switch Lite is.
This is a lighter, cheaper, sturdier device meant for kids with smaller budgets who like to give out tougher beatings. The 5.5-inch screen is slightly smaller, the battery life is slightly longer, and the Joy-Con controllers are built into the device rather than being detachable. That means no motion controls, IR camera, Labo support, or HD rumble. But at least you get a better D-pad.
However, despite having the Nintendo Switch name, the Switch Lite doesn’t actually switch into a console. You can’t connect it to a TV and there’s no kickstand for propping it up. It’s only for games that say they work in handheld mode. I never expected this device to come with a dock, but I am a bit disappointed it doesn’t work with them at all.
Still, stripping out these features has reduced the price. The Nintendo Switch Lite launches September 20 (the same day as Zelda) for $200. You can get it in nifty yellow, turquoise, and grey colors as well as upcoming collector’s versions themed after Pokemon Sword and Shield. I’ll just wait for the Switch Pro next year, though. In the meantime, here are some cool Switch games you can play right now.
