Nintendo Switch to launch on March 3

Nintendo has announced that the new Nintendo Switch system will launch worldwide on March 3, 2017 for $299.99 US / $399.99 CDN.

The launch bundle system will include the main console, Joy-Con (L) and Joy-Con (R) controllers, a Joy-Con grip, a set of Joy-Con wrist straps, a Nintendo Switch dock, an HDMI cable and an AC adapter. Two versions of the system will be released: a version with a set of gray Joy-Con, and a version with one neon blue and one neon red Joy-Con. Both versions will be the same price.

Nintendo Switch can be used on a TV with the dock, or as a handheld using its 6.2-inch screen. The screen includes capacitive multi-touch capabilities for compatible games. Video Output is up to 1080p resolution when played in TV mode, and up to 720p when played in handheld or tabletop mode. Nintendo Switch has 32GB of internal storage, a portion of which is reserved for use by the system, and has the option to expand its capacity using microSDXC or microSDHC memory cards.

Battery life can last for more than six hours, but will vary depending on the software and usage conditions. For example, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild can be played for roughly three hours on a single charge. Nintendo Switch can be charged by plugging the AC adapter into the console’s USB Type-C connector.

Two Joy-Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as one game controller when attached to the Joy-Con grip. They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy two-player action in supported games. Each Joy-Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro-sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible.

The left Joy-Con has a Capture Button that players can press to take instant screenshots of gameplay to share with friends on social media. The right Joy-Con includes an NFC touchpoint for interaction with amiibo figures, as well as an IR Motion Camera that can detect the distance, shape and motion of nearby objects in specially designed games.

Up to eight Switch systems can be connected for local wireless play. The player can place the system upright anywhere by using the built-in stand, then share Joy-Con for multiplayer away from the TV. The system will support online Wi-Fi multiplayer gaming. Nintendo also unveiled a new online subscription service that will begin with a free trial at launch. The service includes a smart-device application available in Summer 2017 that will let users invite friends to play online, set play appointments and chat with one another as they play compatible games. The fully featured paid service will be available in the fall.

Nintendo Switch promises to be supported by third-party publishers including Activision Publishing Inc., Electronic Arts, Take-Two Interactive, Ubisoft, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and major Japanese publishers.

There is an NFC reader/writer located on Joy-Con (R). This is also included in the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. Nintendo Switch is compatible with existing amiibo; usage is game-dependent.

The Switch follows The Wii U, released in November 2012. That console shipped over 13 million units worldwide.

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