Back in 2016, Nintendo unveiled the inaugural trailer for the Nintendo Switch, capturing audiences with a vibrant montage of people using the console in a myriad of everyday situations. The video, just over three minutes in length, aimed to highlight the console’s versatility—balancing the use of both handheld and TV modes. However, it didn’t just showcase utility; it ventured into the realm of the slightly absurd. Take, for instance, the scene where two women whip out a Switch at a rooftop party amidst the dimming twilight, catching the attention of a crowd adorned with their iconic red plastic cups. Another quirky scenario features someone enjoying a game on their Switch while casually strolling through a park with their dog.
Fast forward to the present, and Nintendo is playing its cards close to the chest regarding the Switch 2. The company has yet to divulge crucial details about its price and hardware specifications, leaving fans and experts in a speculative frenzy. Amidst all these intense speculations, my thoughts veer in a different direction: Is a rooftop soirée the prime hangout for my new Switch 2? And could I leisurely walk my dog while tinkering with this next-gen device?
These musings might sound whimsical, and they somewhat are, yet they’re also rooted in genuine contemplation.
Depicting how a console is used goes beyond mere visuals; it paints a picture of its potential life within users’ hands. Even if, initially, playing a Switch amidst a bustling party seemed humorous, it effectively communicated its portability and the innovative shared use of the Joy-Con controllers. Observing similar scenes with the Switch 2 could unravel the many mysteries that shroud its details—for instance, whether its Joy-Con will mimic a computer mouse, or assess just how sizeable the console will be.
So, in retrospect, those rooftop gamers with their whimsical antics seemed to capture the essence of the Switch’s spirit, leaving me nostalgic as I anticipate the Switch 2’s debut.