Nintendo Switch 2’s Direct showcase came with a lot of details about compatibility between original Switch accessories and the new device. This was in question because other platforms, like PlayStation, don’t accept devices from older generations easily. Nintendo has a long history of keeping its platforms compatible with those that came before, and the Switch 2 is no exception to this.
Now that some of thebiggest questions about the Nintendo Switch 2have answers, the continued value provided by Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers purchased for the original Switch is looking bright. This support casts PlayStation’s approach in an even more negative light than before, as the PS5 is now the only sequel system of its generation to largely ignore cross-generation controller compatibility.
Nintendo Switch 2 Maintains Compatibility With Most Switch Accessories
Nintendo Switch 2 Isn’t Asking For More
Nintendo’s next console,the Switch 2, is making a big effort to work with many existing Switch accessories. While not every accessory will work, most will, making it easier for current Switch owners to upgrade. Luckily, many controllers will still function on the new system. The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is fully compatible, and it can be used wirelessly or charged by plugging it into the Switch 2’s dock with a USB-C cable.
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The original Joy-Con controllers, which are a key part of the Switchdespite many problems, will still work with the Switch 2. However, they won’t attach to the sides of the new console like they did before. Instead, you’ll need to connect them wirelessly, but you’ll have to use an original Switch or a separate charging accessory like a Joy-Con charging grip or stand to charge them.Switch versions of NES, SNES, Nintendo 64, and SEGA Genesis controllers will also work, continuing the thorough support for comfortable ways to play retro games on Switch Online.
Unfortunately, while these will be great for retro gaming,these classic controllers have the same limits as the Joy-Cons: they need to connect wirelesslyand can’t be charged directly by the Switch 2, so you’ll need an original Switch or a charging stand to power them up. That said, alongside these many limitations, not every accessory will work with the Switch 2. You can see the full list onNintendo’s website, but accessories like the Adjustable Charging Stand for the original Switch won’t be compatible.
PlayStation Should Take Notice Of Controller Compatibility
Sony Wants Even More Money For The Upgrade
Nintendo Switch 2’s approach is very different from PlayStation’s, showing where Sony went wrong. While we don’t yet know every single accessory that will be compatible, Nintendo’s promise to support most existing Switch controllers and peripherals is a big win for players.People who already own Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, and other accessories won’t have to buy all-new ones just to use the Switch 2. By making the transition easier and cheaper, Nintendo is being mindful of those who supported the original Switch.
This smart move makes the Switch 2 more appealing to new buyers since they might not need to spend extra on accessories. This is the opposite of what PlayStation did with the PS5. The PlayStation’s emphasis on new DualSense features has some cool benefits, but it’s also burned bridges with controller compatibility. Whileyou can technically use a PS4 controller on a PS5, it only works with PS4 games, not new PS5 titles. This means players have to buy a new DualSense controller even if their DualShock 4 controllers still work fine.
Xbox does let players use Xbox One controllers on Series X|S, but I have not had a good experience with it. I’ve consistently had trouble getting it to work right, and it sometimes won’t let me use the analog sticks, which can make the entire effort worthless. I’m sure Xbox’s plan was to make sure everyone could use it, and I may just have some bad luck, but I’m currently more optimistic about the Switch 2 controller experience.
Accessories Like Controllers Are Getting Too Expensive
It’s Costing More Than Games In Some Cases
The cost of gaming controllers, especially those from PlayStation, has become a major issue. While price increases for various everyday items are common, the rising costs of PlayStation controllers stand out, especially when compared to other brands. The standardDualSense controller, which used to be priced at $70, is now sold for $75onPlayStation’s website. This may seem like a small rise, but it adds up when buying multiple controllers.
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The situation is even more pronounced with the premium DualSense Edge, which sells for a hefty $200 onPlayStation’s website, and is almosttriple the price of the original. These price hikes are not a laughing matter;they’re making gaming so much harder to get into. While you don’t have to buy the DualSense Edge to use a PS5, paying triple digits for a controller isn’t something that sounds normal, and even the cheaper alternative is still pricey.
This pricing method sharply contrasts with Microsoft’s strategy for Xbox controllers. Despite also facing price hikes,Xbox controllers remain generally cheaper, and they’re currently available for $45.30if bought onMicrosoft’s website. Although exact prices differ by store and area, the gap between the basic DualSense and the Xbox Wireless Controller is often significant enough to mention.
To be completely fair, the prices may have a lot to do with higher manufacturing costs that could be outside of Sony’s control. However, that should be another reason to let players use other controllers. They’ve already invested in the console enough to get extra controllers, butwith the current generation, it’s like PlayStation users are being punished for not waiting to buy a new controller. This is why I stick to third-party controllers, which tend to be a lot cheaper.
Consoles generally aren’t the end of the purchase, they’re the beginning.
Nintendo’s controller pricing isn’t any more attractive than Sony’s, withthe new Joy-Con 2 set costing $89.99 and the new Pro Controller coming in at $79.99. Being able to use accessories created for the last system means that far fewer players will have to buy these products just to play a co-op game, however, making it an easier pill to swallow.
Nintendo Switch 2 May Cost More, But It Works Out
The Price Balances Out Considering The Backward Capabilities
The Nintendo Switch 2’s starting price is much higher than the first Switch’s original cost. The basic model is $449.99, which is a big increase, butcompatibility with previous accessories could save money over time. It’s also still cheaper than the MSRP for the Xbox Series X or PS5, and although it doesn’t feature the same hardware power, the portability provides an attractive alternative.
If a player already owns a lot of Switch accessories, they could have already spent a lot of money.Buying a Pro Controller, a charging grip, extra Joy-Cons, and different cases or carrying bags could add up to $200 or more, depending on what they bought over the years. Consoles generally aren’t the end of the purchase, they’re the beginning.
Nintendo Switch 2 Almost Had A Different Name, And It’s One Fans Previously Suggested
In what is sure to be a surprise to many, the Nintendo Switch 2 almost had a different name, and it was one fans suggested in the past.
While theNintendo Switch 2costs more, it feels a little more justifiable when you pair that overall cost with what you are getting against the competitors. Nintendo has set up the Switch 2’s launch to reduce the usual costs of upgrading to a new console. The PlayStation 5, on the other hand, is asking for so much on top of the upgrade price, and Nintendo’s efforts to avoid this problem highlight just how limiting Sony’s approach can be.
