Author: Trafficblast

Thanks to its ability to be played on a TV or on the go, the Nintendo Switch is the most versatile gaming console available right now. It’s also home not only to Nintendo’s first-party games, but also a growing number of third-party and indie gems on the Eshop. All of which is to say that if you don’t own a Switch yet, there’s a good chance you’re considering adding one to your gaming setup. To make sure you cover all of the essentials, here’s everything you need to get up and running on Nintendo Switch.

Console

Compared to buying an Xbox One and PS4, choosing which Switch to buy is relatively easy because it only comes in one internal hardware configuration. But that doesn’t mean you won’t have to make any choices. The Switch comes in two different color options, so you’ll have to decide if you want your console and controllers to be gray, or if you want to add a splash of color with the red and blue Joy-Con option.

Additional Joy-Cons are available in an array of colors, but the Switch console mainly comes in either gray or red/blue. Read our full Nintendo Switch review for more details about the pros and cons of the Switch’s hardware.

Games

You won’t find much to do on your Switch without adding some games to your collection. Here are some of the best Nintendo Switch games available now.

Super Mario Odyssey — 10/10

“Odyssey is sustained beyond its major milestones not only through colorful worlds and hidden challenges, but through the sheer joy of controlling Mario, who’s never felt more responsive or dynamic in action. Even with everything new that’s been introduced, Nintendo’s forward-thinking platformer retains the series’ classic handcrafted appeal, which is even more impressive when you realize how densely packed each kingdom is.” -Peter Brown [Read the full review]

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild — 10/10

“No matter how gorgeous its environments are, how clever its enemies are, and how tricky its puzzles get, the fact that Breath of the Wild continues to surprise you with newfound rules and possibilities after dozens of hours is by far its most valuable quality. It’s a game that allows you to feel gradually more and more empowered yet simultaneously manages to retain a sense of challenge and mystery–which, together, creates a steady, consistent feeling of gratification throughout the entire experience.” -Peter Brown [Read the review]

Splatoon 2 — 8/10

“At first glance, Splatoon 2 seems very similar to the first game. But all the small changes, and even the bigger ones in single player and League Battles, make for a fresh take on the already unique shooter. If you played a lot of the original, the sequel has enough to keep you coming back, and if you’re new to the game, it’s a fantastic place to jump in.” – Kallie Plagge [Read the full review]

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe — 9/10

“For Mario Kart fans, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe might look like more of the same with small Double Dash-inspired tweaks. But thanks to a series of updates both big and almost unseen, it’s the version of Mario Kart to get… It plays beautifully on Switch in both handheld and docked mode, and its core racing is as exciting as ever. And, most notably, it completely revamps the original’s lackluster Battle Mode, rounding out an already great racing game.” – Kallie Plagge [Read the full review]

Octopath Traveler — 8/10

“Despite the lackluster stories that pull you through the world, Octopath thrives on its character progression and the temptations of high-level challenges and rewards. The promise of new jobs, exciting boss fights, and powerful gear will inspire you to poke around every corner, and there are no shortage of discoveries to strive for. And all the while, you’re treated to one of the most interesting and effective re-imaginings of a retro aesthetic around.” -Peter Brown [Read the full review]

Bayonetta 2 — 10/10

“Bayonetta 2‘s combat is so expertly constructed, and its presentation so joyously insane, that you’d have to try so very hard to get bored of it all. In a year filled with the promise of ever more elaborate experiences on all the shiny new hardware, that Bayonetta 2–a homage to classic game design and escapism–should be the most fun I’ve had playing a game all year is unexpected.” -Mark Walton [Read the review]

Stardew Valley — 9/10

“The sheer number of things to accomplish in Stardew Valley can keep you interested beyond the original three in-game years you need to reach the end of your story… And that’s truly what makes Stardew Valley such a lovely experience, it encourages you to go out and be the best you can be, in whichever task that brings you the most joy. Stardew Valley motivates naturally, with blissful optimism.” -Mary Kish [Read the full review]

Read our regularly-updated list of the best Nintendo Switch games so far for even more suggestions.

Services

The Switch’s paid online service isn’t live yet, but once Nintendo Switch Online launches in September, you’ll have to pay $20 at least per year to take most games online. You’ll also get access to a selection of classic NES games with new online capabilities.

Accessories

Perhaps more than any other console on the market, the Nintendo Switch is an accessory-friendly device. That’s mostly because of its hybrid nature as an at-home console and a handheld you can take on the go. Each use case lends itself to different accessories. Here are some you might want to consider.

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

The Switch comes with a Joy-Con Grip to make your Joy-Cons feel as much like a standard controller as possible. Even so, it’s not the most ergonomic piece of hardware. If you play lots of games on your TV–or if you just want a controller that fits better in your hands, buying the Pro controller is the way to go.

Extra Joy-Cons

Whether you want to adorn your Switch with different colors or you want to bring in a couch co-op partner (or competitor), you can’t go wrong by stocking up on additional Joy-Cons.

Carrying Case

What good is a portable device if you don’t take it on the go? This Nintendo Switch carrying case offers terrific protection for your device, plus offers plenty of room for games and pockets for cables or other accessories.

Screen Protector

Nice screen you’ve got there; it would be a shame if something happened to it. With any portable device, it’s likely to take a beating from time to time. Protect your Switch’s screen from scratches with an affordable screen protector like this.

Additional Dock

One great thing about the Switch is how easy it is to hook up to other televisions. Adding a dock to a second TV makes it even easier.

Headset

The Switch is a fantastic gaming machine, but its onboard speakers leave much to be desired. Sidestep that issue by investing in a quality headset like this one.

At Anime Expo 2018, we learned the critically acclaimed 2013 anime Kill la Kill was being made into a video game called Kill la Kill the Game: IF. The game is being published by Arc System Works, developed by APlus Games, and scheduled for release next year. At Evo 2018, Arc System Works showcased a demo for Kill la Kill the Game: IF and further explained the arena-brawlers’ mechanics and story.

Mechanically, IF plays like any other fighting game. Players can mash buttons to lash out with simplistic attacks or perform complex combos to pull off more powerful moves. Every movement in IF is a part of a multitiered rock-paper-scissors system–similar to Dead or Alive–forcing players to counter their opponents while covering for their own weaknesses.

In Kill la Kill the Game: IF, Blows can counter Break Attacks, which break Guards, which block Blows. However, Blows can also counter Evasion Attacks, which can catch Evade Actions, which can dodge Blows. There are two rock-paper-scissor systems at play, and players need to be mindful of both to succeed.

This rock-paper-scissors system extends to the game’s clashing mechanic. If your opponent lashes at you with a Ketsui Burst special attack, you’ll both engage in a verbal dispute called Ketsui Hyoumei Enzetsu. Provoke overcomes Abuse, which trumps Mock, which beats Provoke.

No new fighters were shown at Evo 2018–the demo solely focused on Ryuko Matoi and Satsuki Kiruin. The presenters reiterated that IF is a retelling of Kill la Kill from Satsuki’s perspective, before adding that Satsuki will take a new final form at the game’s end. IF’s story is written by Kazuki Nakashima, the screenwriter for the anime, and Arc System Works said the company is thinking about including an English dub in the final release of the game.

A new build of the game is expected to be shown off at this year’s Tokyo Game Show in September, but nothing has been confirmed. Kill la Kill the Game: IF is scheduled to launch for PS4 and PC in 2019.

The next RPG in the Persona franchise brings together the lovable casts from the past three main games. Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth will be a Nintendo 3DS exclusive and is a follow-up to Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth from 2014. This new adventure brings the Phantom Thieves from Persona 5 to take part in Persona Q’s rand of crossover fun. The result is an inter-dimensional mystery centered around movies and cinema, with an all-star Persona cast at your fingertips.

An initial reveal trailer was dropped on August 4, but developer Atlus followed up with an additional trailer (see below) and new details. Note that both trailers are in Japanese since the game has only been confirmed for Japan.

Story details were deciphered by Persona Central, and new characters named Nagi and Hikari will play a large role in the mystery behind the movie world. The Phantom Thieves get lost while exploring Mementos and find themselves in uncharted territory fighting new enemies. After escaping, they end up in a movie theater that brings together “people with the same power,” which unites the casts from their respective worlds.

It has been confirmed that characters from all three games (Persona 3, Persona 4, and Persona 5) will be playable, making a total of 28 possible party members; this includes the optional female protagonist from Persona 3 Portable, which is a wonderful surprise. The first Q game adopted the Etrian Odyssey-style exploration and combat, but maintained key elements of the Persona battle system like exploiting weaknesses and executing all-out attacks. You’re limited to having five party members at once with a front row and back row, which plays into combat strategy. And when exploring grid-based dungeons in first-person, you’re expected to create maps by hand on the bottom 3DS screen.

The Phantom Thieves will join the Investigation Team and SEES in chibi form!

As for music, the trailer included a new song called “Road Less Taken” by Lyn Inaizumi (Persona 5 vocalist) and rapper Lotus Juice (Persona 3, Q, and Dancing All Night). Nine songs from previous games will be included the Persona Q2’s soundtrack for download; first-run copies of the game will include a code for the tracks to be used as alternate battle themes:

• Mass Destruction (Persona 3)
• Wiping All Out (Persona 3 Portable)
• Light the Fire Up In The Night – KAGEJIKAN Mix (Persona Q)
• Reach Out To The Truth (Persona 4)
• Time To Make History (Persona 4 Golden)
• Light The Fire Up In The Night – MAYONAKA Mix (Persona Q)
• Last Surprise (Persona 5)
• Life Will Change (Persona 5)
• Will Power (Persona 5)

Box art for the Japanese version of Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth

Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth launches in Japan on November 29, 2018 for Nintendo 3DS. Details on a localized version for the West have not yet been revealed. You can explore the game’s official Japanese website for art, screenshots, and details.

We consider Persona Q: Shadow of the Labyrinth one of the best 3DS games available; it unites the Investigation Team and SEES for a challenging and charming RPG. We also awarded second place to Persona 5 in our best games of 2017 list. This year marks the 10-year anniversary of Persona 4, be sure to read our retrospective feature in celebration of the game’s impact and legacy.