Nintendo Switch 2 for beginners
The Nintendo Switch 2 is a good first console if you want gentle, colourful games, or games to play with family. It is a poor fit if you mainly want the biggest realistic action games. The Switch 2 is also a handheld, which means a console you can hold in your hands as well as plug into a TV.
Who it suits
It suits you if:
- You want to play with grandchildren or a partner in the same room.
- You like puzzles, farming, building, sports and family games.
- You want to play on the sofa or in bed without a TV.
- You want a console that is simple to pick up.
It may not suit you if:
- You want the largest realistic action and story games, which are more common on PS5 and Xbox.
- You want the lowest possible starting price. See the phone and tablet guide for a cheaper start.
What it costs in the first year
US prices, October 2026.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Switch 2 console | $499.99 |
| Nintendo Switch Online (needed for online play) | $19.99 a year ($34.99 for a family plan) |
| First-year total, console and basic subscription | $519.98 |
Game prices vary. An optional upgrade, the Expansion Pack, costs $49.99 a year. You can play many games without any subscription if you do not play online. See Game subscriptions explained.
What to know before buying
- The dock. A dock is a small stand that connects the console to your TV. Put the Switch 2 in the dock to play on the TV. Lift it out to play on its own screen.
- Controllers. The controllers attach to the sides of the console. They can also come off, so two people can each hold one.
- Older games. Many Nintendo Switch games also play on the Switch 2. Check the box or store page for each game. A few games are made only for the Switch 2, such as Mario Kart World.
- Storage. Games can be on cartridges or downloaded. Downloads use up space on the console.
- Text size. The handheld screen is smaller than a TV. If small text is a problem, play on the TV or look for text-size settings. See How to make games easier.
Easiest first games
All are rated level 1 or 2 for beginners on our ratings.
- Animal Crossing: New Horizons is life on an island at your own pace.
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has steering helpers.
- Nintendo Switch Sports uses movement and needs few buttons.
- Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics has familiar card and board games.
- Super Mario Party Jamboree is a family game with short mini-games.
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a gentle 3D adventure.
- Stardew Valley is a calm farming game.
For more, try the Game finder. To check whether a bigger game suits you, use Am I ready?
Is it easy to set up?
Yes. Plan for 30 minutes. You connect the dock to power and the TV, place the console in it, and follow the on-screen steps. You need an account, which is free to create.
Do I need a subscription?
No, not to start. You need Nintendo Switch Online only to play with others over the internet. Playing together in one room needs none.
Can I play in bed or while travelling?
Yes. The handheld mode works anywhere. The battery lasts a limited time, so take a charger.
Is it good for grandchildren?
Many of the best-known family games are on Nintendo consoles. See Games to play with grandchildren.
Next steps
- Compare it with another console: Switch 2 vs PS5 for beginners
- Check what to look for before paying: Buying a first console checklist