Nintendo Switch 2021: Is It Still Worth It?

Hey everyone! Let's dive into whether the Nintendo Switch 2021 is still a good buy. The gaming world moves fast, and new consoles and games pop up all the time. But don't worry, we're here to break down the Nintendo Switch 2021 to see if it still holds its own in 2024 and beyond. We'll be looking at its features, its library of games, the price, and overall value. Is it still a great console for you and me? Let's find out!

What's the Nintendo Switch 2021 all about?

Alright, first things first, what exactly is the Nintendo Switch 2021? It's Nintendo's hybrid console, meaning you can play it on your TV (docked mode) or take it on the go (handheld mode). This versatility is one of its biggest selling points. The 2021 model is an update to the original Switch, and it brought some key improvements. It's not a whole new console generation like the Switch 2, but a refined version. The main upgrade? A vibrant OLED screen! This makes a huge difference, especially in handheld mode. Games look more colorful and sharp. The OLED screen offers deeper blacks and a higher contrast ratio. The Nintendo Switch 2021 also has a wider adjustable stand, which is much more stable than the original flimsy one. It also has an improved audio system. And to top it off, it has an increased internal storage to 64GB. The original had 32GB, which gets filled up fast, guys! With the 2021 refresh, they kept everything that made the original Switch great: the detachable Joy-Cons, the ability to play with friends locally, and a massive library of games. So, it's the same Switch experience, but better. This console is designed for all types of gamers. Whether you want to play a quick game on your commute or sink hours into an epic adventure, it has you covered. The Nintendo Switch 2021 strikes a good balance between power and portability. It's not the most powerful console out there, but its portability makes up for it. The Nintendo Switch 2021 is a fantastic choice for families, casual gamers, and anyone who wants a convenient way to play games.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's go over the specs real quick, because that's important to understand. The Nintendo Switch 2021, also known as the Nintendo Switch OLED model, has a 7-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels in handheld mode. Docked, it outputs at 1080p, and it runs on a custom NVIDIA Tegra processor. It has 64GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card. The battery life is decent, offering around 5.5 to 9 hours of play depending on the game. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and of course, it has a dock for TV play. The Joy-Cons, those cool little controllers, are included, and they have all the buttons and features you need for a complete gaming experience. The overall design is sleek and modern, with the iconic detachable controllers that slide onto the sides of the console. The build quality feels solid, and the console is comfortable to hold, whether you're playing in handheld mode or using the Joy-Cons detached. The screen itself is the star of the show. The OLED panel is a real step up from the original Switch's LCD screen, with richer colors, deeper blacks, and a higher contrast ratio. This makes games look much more visually appealing, especially in dark scenes. The wider adjustable stand is a welcome addition, and it provides much-needed stability when playing in tabletop mode. The audio system also got an upgrade with the 2021 model, making for a richer and more immersive gaming experience. Overall, the hardware is well-designed and offers a great combination of features and performance for gamers of all ages and experience levels.

The Game Library: Does the Switch Have Good Games?

Alright, let's talk about the games, guys! The Nintendo Switch 2021 boasts an incredible library, and that's one of the biggest reasons to consider it. It's got something for everyone. From huge first-party titles to indie gems, there is a variety of options. First-party games are games made and published by Nintendo themselves, and they are one of the biggest draws. Think of games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. These are all top-tier titles that are exclusive to the Switch and showcase the console's capabilities. These games are fun, and offer a lot of replay value. They provide hours of fun for both casual and hardcore gamers. And they are often visually stunning and packed with innovative gameplay. Beyond those big games, the Nintendo Switch 2021 has a fantastic selection of indie games. These can be games from smaller developers that bring innovative gameplay and artistic style to the platform. Indie games can be fantastic, and they often offer unique experiences that you won't find anywhere else. The eShop is packed with these games, including amazing titles like Hollow Knight, Stardew Valley, Dead Cells, and many more. Also, it has a lot of ports of games from other consoles, giving a wide variety of experiences. In short, the Nintendo Switch 2021 has a game library that is packed with quality and variety. The sheer number of games available ensures that you'll always have something to play, whether you're looking for a quick pick-up-and-play title or a sprawling adventure to get lost in. So, whether you're a fan of platformers, RPGs, fighting games, or anything in between, the Switch has you covered.

Top Games You Should Check Out

To make things easier, let's highlight some of the top games you should absolutely check out if you get a Nintendo Switch 2021. Firstly, we have The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom. These are open-world masterpieces that offer incredible freedom and adventure. If you haven't played them, you are in for a treat! Next, there's Super Mario Odyssey, a brilliant 3D platformer that's just pure fun. If you want some multiplayer fun, check out Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. They're perfect for playing with friends and family. For those who like a more relaxing experience, Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the perfect choice, allowing you to build your own island paradise. The Nintendo Switch also has other must-play titles like Metroid Dread, a fantastic action-adventure game, and Splatoon 2 and Splatoon 3, which are colorful and fun online shooters. And there are tons of awesome indie games to discover! These games alone make the Nintendo Switch 2021 worth it. The library continues to grow, so there is always something new to enjoy!

Price and Value: Is the Switch Worth the Money?

Alright, let's talk money! The price of the Nintendo Switch 2021 is important. As of 2024, the OLED model typically costs around $350 (USD). This is the retail price, but you might find it on sale during special times like Black Friday. Compared to other consoles like the PlayStation 5 or the Xbox Series X, the Nintendo Switch 2021 is generally more affordable. The lower price point makes it an appealing option, especially for families and gamers on a budget. But let's look beyond the initial cost. The value of the Nintendo Switch 2021 comes down to its features, the game library, and the overall experience. The versatility of being able to play on your TV or on the go adds a ton of value. The OLED screen is a big upgrade, and that makes the handheld experience much better. Also, the Joy-Cons are a clever design, allowing you to play in different ways and with friends. When you consider the huge library of games, the Nintendo Switch 2021 becomes an even better deal. There are so many amazing games to choose from. When it comes to value, the Nintendo Switch 2021 offers a lot. It is a good choice for people of all ages, offering a versatile and enjoyable gaming experience.

Comparing to the Competition

How does the Nintendo Switch 2021 compare to the competition? Let's quickly see how it stacks up against other consoles. When it comes to raw power, the Nintendo Switch 2021 is not as powerful as the PlayStation 5 or the Xbox Series X. However, the Switch is much more portable, which is a significant advantage. The other consoles are designed for home use. The Switch is also significantly cheaper than the other consoles. This makes it an attractive option for people who don't want to spend a lot of money on gaming. The Switch's game library is also a significant selling point. It has many exclusive titles that you won't find on other consoles. So, when deciding which console is right for you, consider your priorities. If you want the most powerful console with the best graphics, then the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X is a better choice. But if you value portability, a unique game library, and a more affordable price, then the Nintendo Switch 2021 is still an excellent choice.

The Verdict: Should You Buy a Nintendo Switch 2021 in 2024?

So, is the Nintendo Switch 2021 still worth buying in 2024? The short answer is: Yes! The long answer is a little more nuanced, but let's break it down. The Nintendo Switch 2021 has a fantastic game library, with a mix of exclusive titles and a huge selection of indie games. The OLED screen offers a better experience in handheld mode. The versatility of playing on your TV or on the go is still unmatched. The console is very affordable compared to other consoles. But there are a few things to consider. If you already own the original Switch, the OLED model might not be a huge upgrade unless you play a lot in handheld mode. If you are looking for the most powerful console, you should look at the PlayStation 5 or the Xbox Series X. In 2024, if you're looking for a fun and versatile gaming console that offers great games and a portable experience, then the Nintendo Switch 2021 is still a great choice. It is also a good choice if you're looking for a console for kids or for casual gamers. It's a fantastic console that is still relevant in the gaming market!

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

If you're on the fence about getting a Nintendo Switch 2021, here's a final recommendation. If you're new to gaming or have never owned a Switch before, then go for it! It's an excellent console with a vast library. If you already own an original Switch, consider upgrading to the OLED model. The screen difference is significant, especially if you play handheld often. If you prioritize raw power and the best graphics, you might prefer a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. But if you value portability, a unique game library, and an affordable price, the Nintendo Switch 2021 is an excellent choice. Overall, the Nintendo Switch 2021 remains a top-tier gaming console, and it's definitely worth it in 2024, guys. Happy gaming!