Nintendo Switch Lite Officially Revealed, Launches This September

What! Why isn’t there a million comments? I’m off to get a coffee and sit back

I’m down for a lite! I hope it can wirelessly support the Pro Controller as well as the JoyCon.

Ps this is the finest “first post” in my NL “career”

Holyyy Molyyyy! Don’t shadow drop on me like that Nintendo!!

I’m good thanks!

Wow, didn’t see that coming😒

Yes Nintendo Swatch™ is here. (Why called it a Switch when it can't?)

No announcement at E3, no Direct and plain denial for the past few months. Nintendo lied again.

If the sticks start drifting you can't replace with new joycons, and there's no HD Rumble. This is 2DS for kids (but with no LABO support).

Yeah I've always wanted something that is a downgrade from the previous model....
Yes I know it's cheaper.

Told ya so. (Kermit singing voice. )

Yeah, we're still calling it the Switch Vita in my house.

I was curious to see what would be dropped in the budget version, and it seems the answer is the Switch’s ability to... switch!

I mean, that’s not to say it’s a bad idea. The 2DS did well after dropping the console’s main hook of ‘take anywhere 3D’, and I’m sure there’s a big market of people who only play portable and just want the easiest way of getting their hands on Nintendo’s titles. But still, it’s interesting!

Out of the blue, as expected!!
I would have liked a pro, but I think this is the better move for their sales considering it's the 3ds replacement.

Looking good!
I wonder what the specs are

A lot of stuff releasing on 20th September now - Switch Lite, Squirtle, Ivysaur, and Snake Smash amiibo, and Link's Awakening with it's amiibo too

Good to know. But my Switch is just fine as it is, thanks.

@graysoncharles You know, many of them were saying something along those lines "I am not believing it until there's an official statement". So they will now say that there is an official statement

Finally, the 50 articles on speculation can stop now.

Not bad at all. Great move Nintendo!

I would have bet that it could still be attached to a dock. Otherwise, it is as to be expected.

@Gau
Expect it to be the same as normal switch but as it has no joycons and dock it's should be a lot cheaper, which is good news for those who want a cheaper switch and not bothered about having it hooked up to a tv.

Oh my days it has an actual Dpad! It’s automatically superior to the the OG Switch!

Same Day as the world cup kicks off

This looks good!! Finally getting a Switch of my own.

I'm so, so relieved this is closer to the Vita than the (old) 2DS in terms of design.

Nice colours. I know people have been crying out for this, but presumably the original Switch is going to get a price drop at some point - so why get a gimped version?

I was gonna surprise my wife with a Switch for her birthday. Now instead I’m texting her about this and ruining the whole surprise, haha. Dang it, Nintendo.

That thing is very cute.

Also, it's what we all though it was. LOL

I like the idea of this a lot - particularly as a guy who primarily plays Switch as a handheld - but those colors leave a little to be desired. The base Switch is such a pretty piece of tech; it's a shame to see Nintendo abandon the look.

Ok, now the fanbase is pleased.

Now, confirm the pro version!

I am curious if the analog sticks will suffer the same issues as in Joy-Cons

@SenseiDje

Yep. Hopefully by early next year the switch2 will be announced/released.

Meh. I’m glad more people will be playing the Switch, but I hope this doesn’t disincentivize the creation of higher-performing games.

I like that people can get a more affordable Switch now, but I don’t think this does anything for me.

I don’t play docked much, but I like the option, and it’s what the system is named after.

The standard Switch is already not the most ergonomic design and my eyes sometimes feel like they strain a little with the screen, so making it smaller sounds awful, at least without actually holding it.

Yeah, pretty disappointed they didn’t just reduce the price of the original model and release a more refined model, with a more ergonomic design, more reliable hardware, a better dock, and much more internal storage.

I'll get one. I play handheld exclusively, but hasn't bring the Switch with me outside lately as it's quite bulky. This is perfect for me.

Hopefully the joycon drifting issue is fixed. And I'm quite disappointed with the removal of HD rumble.

R.I.P. Nintendo DS line of products. I just feel sorry for everyone's eyes trying to play certain switch games.

That retail release of Tetris makes a little more sense now. Almost certainly a throwback to Gameboy Tetris.

@YessMasster I wouldn't want the whole handheld to be sent away for repairs. If Sony can get away with decent sticks in the Vita there is no reason Nintendo can't.

No thanks, I've got my own Switch. But hey, that's really cute. I'd say the price is just right. Nice to have more options available!

I want to see a size comparison next to a regular Switch.

I also want to know, for example, if I already have a Switch could I use this as a device to take with me and leave my regular Switch at home? Would a gamer I play on my old Switch piuck-up right where I left off on here? Or would I not be able to sign in to my account on the Lite if I'm signed in on my old Switch. Would Animal Crossing, which doesn't support cloud saves, only work on one console, not both?

Goddammit, Nintendo, this year is going to expensive enough as it is, without stumping up for two of these, though I may try and hold off and see if there are any AC editions inbound....

( and for those complaining about it being a downgrade, remember the audience, it’s aimed squarely at those coming from a 3DS, a console known for it’s inability to connect to a TV. Switch may well have been the original idea, but it’s now the brand.... ).

@RadioHedgeFund my Left Joycon is acting up. Don’t know whether to buy a new pair, get this one repaired or just buy a 2nd one

Has no kickstand, no TV out, but you can connect joycon? Guess 1 person holds it and the other gets inside their pants?

I can see no TV out being a selling point for parents who don't let their kids watch TV, or don't have a TV, and $199 is the price we all expected and wanted, but I'm still not sold on the no tv out.

I always knew it wouldn't fit in the current dock, thumbsticks get in the way, and thought an HDMI out port would kind of make the dock on the original Switch look even more stupid than it already does, but I still thought they would figure something out for TV. Go the Apple "everything needs a $49 adapter" root maybe.

Don't suppose it has cell service? I suppose not for a kids toy. That may have made up for the no tv out. IT does at least still have WiFi right? They didn't go completely neutered Wii Mini on it did they? That would suck, 90% of it's games are download only.

As is, I'd have to say $299 Switch > $199 Switch Vita.

Oh well, the important thing is it's out, and once again bigwigs at Ntinedo were technically correct, they weren't showing any new hardware at E3, you had to wait another 4 weeks.

So it's a Switch without the Switch's best features.

Nice.

Meh don’t need one but this is the new 3DS replacement. Good price point though and will encourage people to double dip

Fake news (at least for those who vehemently denied Nintendo would ever dare to release a Switch mini)

Amazing Nintendo good for the handheld players with a tight budget

@Decapre I didn't notice the d-pad at first, that's actually a wonderful upgrade! I finally picked up one of those Hori Zelda handheld joycons a few weeks ago and it's made 2D games a million times better.

Be interesting to find out the screen size on this compared to the original Switch.... They are selling it at a good price point, this will sell heavily in the run up to Christmas.
However, It's not for me as I play mostly docked....

Looks cool, but if the joysticks drift, I'm thinking it will be a lot harder to open up to fix. Think I'll pass.

@graysoncharles
The "deniers" are right here. I've been saying I wouldn't believe the existence of a new model until I had good reason to. Now I have good reason to. Simple.

Welp, 12,000% not worth it. Sure its 100 dollars cheaper but they took away one of the primary features of the product and HALF of the functionality!!

I'd understand not shipping with a dock, but why on Earth would they take the functionality away entirely?!

Colors are ugly too. Those white buttons and joysticks are hidious. Plus mustard yellow, baby blue and faded grey?! Yuck!

Sticking to my original model. Call me when Switch Pro drops.

@ROBLOGNICK These are great questions! We'll have to wait for more info it seems.

Eh, I'll just wait for the Switch iXL Premium Edition.

Ah, the Nintendon't Switch

@Kalmaro nah they will just swap over to the switch pro rumours

Sounds great for those who only want a handheld. I can only hope that they have a solution to Joycon drift, because you’re screwed if these built in ones get it.

Since it has a d-pad, I wonder if that means an official left joycon with one is on the cards? Ironically I ordered the Hori one yesterday as my Left’s analogue stick has started acting up.

The no TV out is kind of a dealbreaker for me; the only way inwould have bought one is if I could transfer saved games back and forth so I would use this when travelling and the other one at home.

Still, for the handheld exclusive player the $100 reduction will be a nice bonus.

@Heavyarms55 hey, it's just not for you bro

Would have rather they announced a Switch Pro.
I mean, the whole points of the Switch is that it's a hybrid. It functions well as a handheld and a console. I personally don't see the point of this...

Looks pretty nice actually. I might get one for my daily portable sessions on the train. Finally we are done with those annoying rumour articles and videos for the time being

@smithpa01 sighs

It made sense to have this with Animal Crossing and Pokemon coming up.

I just hope Ninty has kicked the drifting issue, because it's not like people will just be able to replace the joycons on these...

Also, sell a left joycon with the D-Pad, Nintendo!

It seems unnecessary removing, the ability to play it on tv, it should’ve been compatible with already owned docks

This is a great option for people who prefer to play handheld most of the time. My son has a Switch, but rarely uses it on the TV.

I am on the other end, almost never playing handheld, so I would be more interested in a more powerful docked Switch.

Wow that grey one is awful, is it for color blind kids who wont' know any better? Not as cool looking as white, not as cool looking as black, just looks like someone left it out in the sun too long.

And what's with that logo lite being so freakin' huge? It's like they finally realized the U in Wii U was way too unnoticeable so they made up for it by going overboard on the Lite. Unless that's just one bad graphic now and it won't look like that going forward on the box and real advertising material.

Switch OS needs a flashlight app so we can call it SwitchLight @aaronsullivan

@templag It's not. It's also a bad idea. There is no reason to remove that feature entirely.

I think it’s a mistake to not include output to a tv. But maybe that would have greatly increased the cost of the system. I dunno.

@HorridCrow It's much cheaper and handheld mode oriented, which means it's a great device for people who wanted a 3DS replacement and/or would like additional Switches for their children or other family members. It's a great idea, considering how many big-on-handheld Nintendo franchises are getting new games soon.

Apparently the screen on the lite is 5.5 inches compared to 6.2 on the original Switch....

They should have called it the "No Switch".

Pointless for me and I don't really see the point in it lol

It seems expensive for what it is with loads of missing features lol

£180? And no option to play on TV?... No thanks

Ow, wow!
I like the Turquoise color.
Well... with smaller screen i might have more difficulty to read tiny texts on Lost Sphear. 😅

Do the common joy-con problems also occur on this one? Because I think it would be hard to manually fix if that happens.

The D-pad is the best upgrade (I hate the original joy-cons). The smaller screen means higher pixel density which is good. It's 1/3 cheaper. The only bad thing is that you can't switch to TV, they should have included an HDMI out port, and that a better specifications revision is rumoured.

@Robzilla Removing that feature keeps the original hardware a viable product. How many opted for an original PS4 or Xbox One when the slimmer versions were available. The DS Lite killed off the DS too.

Aww, I'd be all over it, but no dock = no buy

I might just get one to have lying around as a replacement in case my Switch ever dies out on me if the price is right.
Not having a kickstand and separable controllers is kind of a bummer since stuff like playing the thing in tabletop mode or not having to drag around extra controllers when you want to play multiplayer are pretty useful features for handheld play.

@nintendolie From what I recall, Nintendo said "we have nothing to announce" instead of them saying there was nothing being created. In fact, the CEO has repeatedly said they are always looking at hardware. It's ok if the product is not for you but I don't think it's appropriate to create a fake narrative that suggest something sinister. Then again...I suppose your name should have been a hint....

It's not really a Switch, it doesn't "switch" in any way. This is why I didn't believe the rumors.

But yeah, Nintendo is phasing out the 3DS. And the Switch is quite expensive for children. I can see why they did.

@Heavyarms55 well i guess it's for me who always mobile and didnt need tv. But i already have the old switch and it's still as good as my grandpa's horse

seams like a good option for the little brother/sister of the kid that has the main swithc

I would get this without a doubt it I knew Nintendo would let me share my already purchased digital library to a new Switch Lite. They would have a much larger rate of existing Switch owners buy a second or even third Switch/Switch Lite if they allowed a shared ecosystem with their digital storefront. Every other major player (Microsoft/Sony/Apple) allows multiple devices sharing the same account!

Looks nice, great option for kids in particular but I knw a few people that will be lining up for one of these. Not for me but can see the benefit for the right person. Personally I'll be holding out for the Switch "Pro", if that turns out to be real as well.

I want a Switch Pro so Bloodstained can be ported with better graphics and no input lag.

No clamshell?
If they're going to make it "just a handheld", then they should've taken the time to make it into a proper Nintendo Handheld, and ever since GBAsp, that's meant having a clamshell to protect the screen.
Really really disappointed in this.
It's bland and unoriginal, and .. honestly, why even bother? Just get a Switch..

When is the pro XL gonna be revealed?

@Trikeboy Good point

Clever pitch at the very end Nintendo regarding benefits of having multiple switches in the household. I thought though that we were trying to incorporate sound sleep hygiene practices and not encourage screen time right before bed? Oh wait you’re a video game company...neverrrrmind 😋

Glad its finally revealed. I'm fine with the standard Switch. But glad there's more options for those who wanted a strictly handheld device (though you could just use the standard Switch strictly as a handheld). I personally wouldn't feel comfortable carrying something like this around without a case or as some have mentioned, without a clamshell design

1 player only switch... how can we connect the te joy cons ? Bluetooth?

I’m not in love with it. I’m not even sure if I like it. It’s just 🤷🏻‍♂️.

@rjejr: And you and I will call it the Switch Mini!

Should have been called the Lite Switch

My least favourite aspect of this news is that it suggests no price cut for the Switch. I think I'd rather get another Switch for the kids rather than 2 x Switch Lites.

Not for me, but the price is great for kids and families.

A Switch Lite bundled with a game at $/€200 during Black Friday should fly off shelves.

@WBH1981 You can actually. Just make the Lite Switch your "default" Switch and then share your account with the main Switch.

There are 2 limitations:
1. You can't play on two systems at the same time.
2. The "guest" system needs to be online while playing the shared games.

The Switch Lite is obviously directed towards more casual players, and it'll definitely sell well. Not the biggest fan of it personally (I already own a Switch and that's not going anywhere), but I do see the appeal of it.

I'm good...I'll wait for an upgrade rather than a downgrade.

@nintendolie They didn't lie. They didn't say it didn't exist. They just stated that had nothing to announce whenever the subject was brought up. Big difference

A 2ds style Switch with less features than the original model? And they left that thick border around the screen? And no Switch Pro in sight?
Man... :/

It is few mm bigger than the PS Vita which for me is a sweetspot handheld wise.

Just so sad that unlike on Sony having multiple saves and account doesn't work as flawless on the Switch, in that case this would be my system for on the go and the older on for home.

Looks great, has a normal d-pad and sadly speakers are on the bottom.

I am a littlebit concerned about the power button location, the rest is fine.

@Krull I don’t think the base Switch will ever see a price drop unless a more powerful model comes out i.e. a Switch Pro.

@gcunit Why would they announce a price cut at the same time that a new model's coming out?

Also, the Switch has sold over 35 million units so far. Why would a price cut be necessary?

Why even call this thing a Switch when it doesn't switch to anything at all? Stupid decision not to have video output to the TV, Nintendo. No rumble, no IR, no motion controls? I don't see this thing selling very well. I'll keep my actual Switch.

@Ryno

"I knew you'd come."(back)

This is perfect for me. I hoped for a handheld only version for 200€ or less with better battery life. Looks really likely that i will be getting a Switch this year.

If my regular Switch breaks, I'll probably pick up one of these to replace it. In turquoise for sure.

What's with the pee yellow color choice? And I wish the grey was darker but whatever.

Hey.. they re released the Wii U lol

Oh gosh... what a surprise ‘ Not like there were leaks or anything. Anyway that aside I can’t say I’m interested.

Seems a bit "lite" on the features, including being able to dock but at least there's a date. Hopefully they implement a system transfer tool to make jumping from one Switch to the next, seamless for owners

If there is a pro in the works. I would not be surprised if they make it exclusively for docked mode.

I ONLY play TV mode. I hate the handheld mode on Switch I find it very uncomfortable.

So it's called a switch even if it can't really? It's a NintenDon't switch. I'm sure they will come up with the pro model that can't switch either, but instead of being a portable one it will only play connected to the tv. And it will be called Nintendo Stitched. All jokes aside, that yellow looks so adorable I might "need" it!

@T0M0 They wouldn't announce a price cut at the same time - that's exactly my point.

A price cut would grow the install base, which is what Nintendo is trying to do. I'm not saying it's necessary, I just want it to happen.

Great move by Nintendo.

New Nintendo 3DS XL is around $200, so pricing the Switch Lite any cheaper would be a bad marketing move.

However, once 3DS line is through, I bet this will drop $50 in price, alongside the normal Switch. Then you get closer to the inexpensive handheld vision for Switch Lite, where everyone owns one due to the cheaper price.

No TV connection is a bit of a bummer. I looks cool overall

I haven't had a chance to read all of the comments, but after reading a few, here are some of my thoughts. This is not made for everybody obviously. This is for people who want a pure portable experience. If this was able to be used in a dock, what would differentiate it from the regular switch. I guarantee there are many out there that will never use the dock and that $199 price tag will be much more tempting for them. I bet having the controls built in, instead of removable will also make this much more durable as well.

@MsJubilee I don't think so. That would be like the PS Vita TV which bombed in Japan (and everywhere else).

A handheld only Switch is better for Japan. A TV only Switch is just pointless. I think a more powerful Switch would be like the current version, but yeah, more powerful.

Not for me, but I'm glad it exist for those that wanted a cheaper alternative.

This is a stupid release if you ask me. You can no longer use different joycons that connect to the Switch.....if you want to play a game that allows splitting up 2 Joycons to play in tabletop mode you then need a full second set of Joycons....it doesn't connect to a TV at all and it has a smaller screen. The entire purpose of this console and the hype around it when announced was that it would connect to a TV or allow you to play on the go. Just seems like a total screw up for Nintendo just like going from the Wii to the Wii U was moronic and cost them a ton of console sales.

The last feature I expected them to drop from the switch was the feature that influenced its name (the TV out)... I can imagine that there will be some disappointed people who buy this but do not realize right away that it does not have that capability.

...I'm in no rush to buy the switch and will buy one when they come out with an upgraded fully featured model (longer battery or smaller profile)... guess I'll just be saving more money picking up the games a year later than expected at discount prices. No interest in carrying around something the size of a tablet for portable play or sitting right in front of my 75 inch TV playing a switch lite (which doesn't even look that much smaller) in handheld-only mode.

The people most happy about this will probably be the people who already own the switch and were whining about the new models because they didn't want theirs to be obsolete right after buying them.

That is pretty cool! Not bad! And at a good price too.

Is it easy/possible to share saves between two Switch consoles?

Looks great!! Still sucks it cannot hook to the tv. I’m glad it has a dpad and $200 is the perfect price point. Good job Nintendo. I may just get one for my nephews.

Awesome 😎👍

I’m definitely buying one

@Ryno What @gcunit said.

They were probably going to call it the Switch Mini but when everybody else started calling it that, and 89% of people will continue to do so, they probably decided on Lite.

It really isn't a Mini though w/ no tv out. It is lite on several features - no HD rumble just seems weird, some games need at least a basic rumble - though I believe the DS Lite was better than the DS. It really is as close as they could get to turning a Switch into a 2DS for kids, drop everything. I wonder if this only has mono-audio like the 2DS has?

I was planning on getting 1 for my kid next year, seemed like a good idea for going away to college, figuring he doens't need a dock on a college campus, but I dont' like the colors for a college campus, it screams kids toy. Though that's a year away, who knows what Nintneod will launch by then.

Big question - I always knew Ntineod would release these for Pokemon - too many kids play that non-stop for 100 hours - but if they bundle these with Pokemon and keep the standard bundle pricing - ie charge more for the bundle than the individual parts - then this $199 toy becomes $259. Not much of a savings there over a normal Switch. But if they bundle Pokemon w/ this for $199 I could see my kid getting it not to have to share with his brother, that would make the console $139. We're a very price conscientious household.

@graysoncharles It was never about denying, it was about having enough of those 150 daily posts about rumours, speculations and pseudo confirmation.

It looks OK, but this has to be one of the most underwhelming revisions of a Nintendo handheld to date.

No tv dock or tvmode, pass. That’s one of the main reasons why I love my switch. But I’m sure some will be happy about this. I played 90% portable, but to not have the option...

@Kalmaro : Oh, they'll continue to milk this for all its worth.

Close-up shots, "bargain" guides (with those tasty affiliate links), performance comparisons, durability tests, clickbait "soapbox" articles (you know the kind, the ones that attract hundreds of comments).

The tide shall rise yet.

@Ralizah It's only 100 cheaper, which doesn't add up if you notice how many core features they have removed from the original model. The Switch was perfectly fine as a handheld to begin with. I feel like they are undermining this great concept of a hybrid they have. The name also makes zero sense now.

@YessMasster oh no, they were saying much more than that.

They were actively rooting against one ever existing as they would somehow feel slighted as a day 1 purchaser of the original switch. Or some ridiculousness along those lines.

The rumor articles almost infuriated them, and yet, deep down they all knew it was true.

This is great for Nintendo and Devs alike.

1) You have a cheaper entry point for those that don't liek / need to play on a TV
2) It's a dedicated handheld and I assume with the controlers baked in and HD rumble and motion sensors removed, this will probably have a better battery endurance
3) It still has access to most / all of the switch titles.

The thing that will be good for Nintendo and Devs alike will be, they can bury the 3DS and don't need to fiddle with extra SKUs.

Should have a 3ds toggle and allow for them carts too.

What a surprise, it is called Switch Lite, like the DS Lite and not the NES/SNES Classic Mini... Who could have guessed?

Now can you stop calling the other rumour "Switch Pro" and stick to something Nintendo-y, like New Switch, or Switchi (the latter sucks but it is not as dumb as "Switch Pro", which is the name of the controller)?

@WynterIsHere @HorridCrow Technically, you can still "switch" i.e. from playing in handheld mode to a sort of table top mode with external Joy-Con. So it's fitting to still call it a "Switch."

I'll just stick with my OG. Nothing it can't do that this one can't.

If I wanted just a portable version I'd buy the regular model and sell the dock. At least I could buy the dock back if I wanted to play again on tv.

I find it strange that is still has the little outcut at the back for connecting the switch to the dock. I wonder why. Possibly for a few accessories, but I don' t think there are many accessoirie for that.

Boring design . . . And theyre really pushing it calling it "Switch" Lite. The "Switch" is the USP ... which theyve removed completely.

Not being able to dock like the EverArcade is a big DownSider. But for the Gamer on the GO! this might get them GO!ng right...

@hihelloitsme no one was slighted Day 1. The Lite can't Dock and that will set it apart from the Bigger Brother for that reason.

I do think it would have been better if they had inclued TV out but not provided the dock and required that you source your own controllers. That would make it more appealing to me, though I guess this still could work as an extra one for a child or something.

No thanks. I am fine with my Nintendo Switch for TV and for outside (I rarely use it for outside anyway) This is 3DS wannabe. I will ignored it. Don't liked it! I will wait for Nintendo Switch PRO rumour to be for the next year.

Sticking with the standard model, but still pretty cool.

I am happy with my current switch. Always good to have more choices for us gamers. I don't like the colors though...

Is the battery life better?

@Jayenkai that's a bit harsh - so why not port Spike Dislike or even a "GameAWeek master compilation" to brighten it up?

@DannyBoi it's the same battery, but with the smaller screen & removed bits you should get about an extra hour playtime (according to the official Nintendo comparison thingy)
https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Nintendo-Switch/Which-Nintendo-Switch-is-right-for-you-/Which-Nintendo-Switch-is-right-for-you--1596110.html

@DannyBoi The battery life is longer according to Nintendo (4 hours compared to 3 playing Breath of the Wild). I think that the capacity is the same (charging time is the same) but the screen is slightly smaller so the battery life is longer.

Lite is considerably smaller, normal is 23.9x10.2 cm and Lite is 20.8x9.1cm; it's also much lighter, Normal is 398g and Lite is 275g.

I have three OG Switch consoles in my house already. Don’t think I’ll replace any for this Lite. Me and my two sons enjoy playing in both modes. That being said, my younger daughter (6) really wants a Switch for her birthday in November and this looks perfect. $200 is a nice price point too. Think i’ll get her the turquoise one.

Genuinely I really like the look of this - it's pretty much what I've wanted (and 90% of the time I'm playing portable anyway) but considering the USB-C port and most of the internals are still the same there's no real reason it shouldn't support TV out via an adaptor or 'Lite dock'. I think the main question now is whether the analogue sticks have been improved to avoid the drifting issue...

@BlueOcean @DannyBoi

This and the removed functions from the baked in controllers.

@chardir As long as you have a Nintendo Online subscription, it is. You can automatically back up your save data to the cloud to play from another system. That being said, certain games like Pokemon nad Animal Crossing don't support this feature

Did anyone notice on the video the charging port is on the bottom just like the Switch. I think that seems like a size to fit the Dock but I'll wait to see if reviewers test to see if this true or not. I do like the direction controller redesign.

@Krull If anything, this would suggest there is not going to be a price drop anytime soon. If ever an upgraded version launches at the $299 price point and we do see price drops, I would expect the Lite price to drop too. Regardless, price drops or not, this will be cheaper than the original model, so will always be desirable to some.

@Lemmy_the_Koopa Right, it doesn't have HD rumble (they don't say if it has normal rumble but I'd say no) and IR camera (although Breath of the Wild doesn't use the camera). It has NFC though.

I like the yellow and turquoise models.

Sooo...the Switch Lite is not a Switch at all. Dumb. Lol "Lite" is an understatement. More like "Switch nothing".
I literally just told my 6 year old about it and he thought for a sec and said "...that's a bad Switch." LOL

I play handheld 90% of the time and can live without an ir camera or HD humble (but I'll miss that), seems great if Nintendo really wants "everyone to own a switch". Cant wait to get one for myself!

No I wont be getting one, I already have a Switch. Im not sure who Nintendo are aiming this at.

I have a 3ds and that has been different enough for me to support both. But a smaller lesser device will have its own limited market. Nintendo designed games for use on the 2d/ 3ds, and they looked and displayed correctly. I would guess the small Switch screen will be just to small for a lot of Switch games. Zelda botw looks at its best on a large TV screen, OK on the Switch handheld and at its worst on a mini Switch screen. I guess it will sell with those that just want to play the small indi or shovel games. But I don't see many gamers paying the game card price for the mini Switch.

I guess the colour choice available suggests that it is not aimed at the serious games. 🙄

Nintendo seems OK at innovation but not at continuously developing that innovative. It dumps every thing in favor of its latest idea.

The 2d and 3ds is what Nintendo are about. These handheld games consoles sprung from the original Game boy. The 3ds, two screens, plays 2d and 3d games, stylus control at an ideal size. Imagine a newer version, it could have been lighter with a bigger screen and a1080 display while keeping its dimensions much the same.

But we dump that for a mini Switch and close the book on the Gameboy history. Phew.

@rjejr I would imagine the different colors would be attractive to young people. In public, I look at the device colors and covers young people use for their electronics and they are all over the place in terms of designs and colors. If anything, I would think a bright color would get you noticed, which is what you partly want in showcasing your device. Though I obviously don't know your son and he may feel otherwise

@xanderten50 Not sure about the dock Lite because the dock was designed to use with detached joy-cons but Switch Lite could have an HDMI out port and they are not expensive but, you know, it's Nintendo...

@electrolite77
https://www.theverge.com/2019/4/25/18515561/nintendo-no-new-switch-e3-2018-cheaper-report-rumor

I've been thinking about it, and I might be willing to spring for one of these if they were still able to pair with a standard Switch and be used as a controller. Then we could still play multiplayer in some games, but still that one person could have that option of taking it with them when they leave.

I'm a bit surprised at some of the folks complaining that this is just the switch without the switch's best feature. I think this is great. I have a switch that is used by the whole family. Now I can buy cheaper ones that I or the kids use away from the TV. Personally, I do nearly all my gaming in handheld mode so it makes sense for me to buy my own personal switch lite in addition to the main switch. This is great. Edit: If I was a single younger adult I would only have the normal switch. I think this new one is for kids and families.

So, now...
How will devs react?
Will they "optimise" their games to run well on this portable only version of the Switch and regard the TV mode of the OG Switch as an afterthought that is not necessary to be optimised (1080p, high and constant frame rate)?
Hopefully not.

@nintendolie No, they just denied it wouldn't be at E3, not that it wasn't coming at all. Corporate speak = deny it exists until you're ready to reveal its existence.

I could see myself playing a lot with this version. I really loved playing with my 2DS, so maybe I'll try to get one in the future for myself for the reduced price and weight and leave the original Switch on the TV for the family game nights and for those times I want to play on the big screen with the Pro Controller.

@zool "Im not sure who Nintendo are aiming this at".

One third cheaper, much lighter, smaller, higher pixel density... Many people would prefer this.

Real news? An official trailer featuring Koizumi? Meh. Nothing about this made sense to wait for instead of spending two months chasing idiotic "leaks" and supporting potential data theft. 😏

More power to Ninty and their options, but I do wish they had come up with an appropriate title - unlike DS and 3DS revisions, this one is stuck with a brand name it can no longer back up. ONE mode left out of three (so literally no switching to anything), no IR camera and... no HD Rumble? AFAIK that should significantly limit 1-2-Switch functionality even if you connect JCs. Probably some of SMP's, too. Obviously no Labo either. Not counting BC losses of the past, it might be the first Nintendo hardware "gaiden" implied to REDUCE access to the general platform library, even though I imagine the actual number should make a fairly negligible percentage.

EDIT: scratch "first", I keep forgetting that along with GBA support, DSi also effectively lost the already released Guitar Hero games.

Good for those looking for smaller devices and/or feeling D-pad nostalgia (just be ready for repairs if something befalls this D-Pad or other buttons 😅), but I don't see myself in the market for an NSLite even despite using my Switch in handheld mode roughly 99% of the time. To each their own.

About time.

I've already given up on 2019, but I'm relieved they've managed to get this out the door in time for Pokemon so it doesn't drag into 2020.

There's been a clear shift in going after a casual audience ever since Pokemon Let's Go released last November. Still waiting, increasingly impatiently, for them to shift back again.

Roll on January 2020...

@BlueOcean Yeah this is great. I've been eyeing a second system for myself because the kids play our Switch all the time. A cheaper switch lite will be perfect for me.

this looks horendously bad.
even the pokemon pink version looks ugly.
why buy this if you can't even connect to a tv.
guess nintendo lost a buyer.
this and the awfull looking pokemon game (throwing in giant pokemon makes me puke).

@gcunit pretty sure the current switch will be replaced with a newer model at the same price. They don't want to cut the actual price per system they are selling.

@nintendolie "Yes Nintendo Swatch™ is here. (Why called it a Switch when it can't?)"

You've spotted a marketing error there.

@BlueOcean by rights you can support HDMI out via USB-C, I'm pretty sure that's how the standard Switch (and most modern smartphones etc.) does it - and there's no real change in the internal hardware (excluding the physical stuff removed natch.) so I see no reason why they would remove that functionality... it just baffles me is all!

I was really betting for the opposite solution, a docked only no portable console version. No screen, no battery... I think its price could have dropped to 150$ at least.
But ok I guess

@UmbreonsPapa The yellow and baby blue are fine, I'm just fixated on how ugly the gray one is. Though I was until I saw it w/ the red and blue buttons on the Pokemon edition. Gray is trash, Poekmon edition is collectors edition. Amazing what a little splash of color can do.

But it's a 2DS replacement, and the colors show that. If they wanted gamers to buy it they'd have gone with PS Vita piano black or Apple white. Or Mario red. These are cheap looking 2DS colors that appeal to kids, not teens. Well kids and Antimatter.

That d-pad got me like 😍

@Chozo I like the yellow or turquoise Lite for myself and no, I am not a child.

@HorridCrow
1) A $100 price drop is significant. Especially for a successful console that continues to sell well.
2) If the idea of a handheld-only Switch doesn't interest you, then this isn't for you.
3) People who care about playing on the TV likely either own one or plan on owning a base model at some point in the future. The loss of this "core feature" won't matter to the people this is intended to sell to. The lack of HD rumble is... unfortunate? It's not a big deal. It's not well-implemented in most games. Having it certainly isn't worth the extra hundred dollars.

Handheld Nintendo consoles sell gobs. This model opens up the library to everyone. It's obviously not going to replace the base system, though.

I hope that along with this new model a revision to eshop is coming. There has to be a way for people to tell whether a game works better as a handheld or a console title - maybe something along the lines of user surveys on 3DS. User reviews and tags would be the best option, though.

So this will be for the kids. I will wait for a Pro or 2.

@xanderten50 Oh, does USB-C support HDMI? Then do you think that a third party will release a cable to connect the Lite to the TV? That would be awesome and likely because the normal Switch also uses the USB-C port and whatever is in the dock.

Okay, I get the idea that nintendo wants to ride the success of switch. And if I didn't own one, i MAY be tempted. But here are two points i haven't seen:

1. Sales will slow for Switch, even though overall sales will grow.
2. Confusion for non-gamers buying these: example: parent buying the Lite for kid, when kid really wanted the Switch.

These are not big issues, but they will happen.

I'm down to get all the colors!!! Need more money$

Wow!!!! Now we cooking with gas. This has zero competition. It will sell like hot cakes

PS5/Scarlett/PC + Switch LITE will be the best combo in gaming

@Redax How can you even determine that the screen looks better?

@Ralizah you make several good points, i agree.

@dugan Nothing more confusing that a Nintendo 2DS that plays Nintendo 3DS games in 2D.

Not keen on those colours : /
But it also doesn't have TV mode so not interested. Maybe the next Switch revision will.

@Zequio I agree about the pricetag. It should be lower. Kinda pitty it goes full handheld mode. Good for people who are only into that I guess. I might get one, but then seeing how tiny the screen actually is.. I pass. I need a bigger handheld screen to enjoy the games properly. Look how tiny Mario looks in the video. You can enjoy a videogame like that? not me

@Agramonte Scarlett + Switch Mini will be better.

I am surprised that it doesn’t connect to a dock though...I know the leaks said it wouldn’t, but I still thought it might. Why lose the opportunity to sell a spare dock? Of course, then you’d bring the price up almost to a regular model, but it would be something that could be purchased months later.

I would have gotten a second unit except that you have to buy all your eShop games on the new console as well. If only their policy is like that of the mobile app stores, I would have bought a second or third unit (special editions), but their restrictive policy means no purchase of an additional unit for me...

@cacnea310

> "didn't just reduce the price"
> "and much more internal storage"

Looks good. It'll definitely be good for younger kids coming from a 3DS. The Switch Lite is to the Switch what the 2DS is to the 3DS anyway, and the 2DS sold really, really well. It's just extending the brand more. My one concern is with the battery life, which still won't be very good.

As for everyone saying that this is a downgrade and that they're staying with their regular Switches, yeah, of course you are. This isn't for you. This is a "Lite" version. Nintendo doesn't expect anyone to switch to this, they want a completely different audience. Of course they removed TV Mode and made it smaller, this is aimed towards handheld gamers.

I'm pretty certain we'll see a Switch Pro at some point, but I'd probably peg it's release for sometime next summer, before the PS5 and Xbox Scarlett release.

@BlueOcean okay, good point, I have both 2ds and 3ds and rarely used the 3d feature. So confusion will probably be a very small problem.

@electrolite77 The biggest gaming Expo of the year and they didn't revealed it there, most people would assumed there's no console coming.

While I have no interest in this personally, good move by Nintendo. These will sell like hot cakes throughout the holiday season. Now 2020 can probably bring a redesign of the original model.

Nintendo is milking the platform to death, given that the handheld only platform lends itself more to special editions, so we should see Zelda SE, Mario SE,and more just as they did with the 3DSXL... I'd fallen for it then owning 4 3DSXL when only using one.

@nintendolie They didn't really lie though. They explained that they would not be discussing any new hardware at E3 big difference. Also considering how this is intended to be a budget alternative and likely for kids of course I expect the design to be a bit more rugged

The name Switch doesn't make snese now lel

@Heavyarms55 I didn't even notice the white buttons at first, but they do make the system look more like a toy.

@BlueOcean
Remember some docks bricking the Switch after an OS update?
So better do not count on a third party solution. You never know what Nintendo will come up with in a future firmware update. Maybe some third party solutions will again brick a switch.
Who - gamers and hardware developers - would want to risk that?

Oké if only the Pro will be announced also I will buy both. I will Give the lite as a present to my younger brother.

Realistically this is not that great. I get that everyone is still in the initial hype phase but there are a few issues.
1. Most big title games look awful in handheld (BOTW and Xenoblade come to mind)
2. You lose the switch's ability to switch
3. The joycons are notorious for drifting and I find a ton of lag in smash bros when it comes to the triggers. So these attached joycons better have better functionality

Overall, if I had a young kid that is all over my switch I would probably pick this up. But I think I would rather pay the extra money for docked mode, a larger variety of games, and detachable joycons.

If I am going to drop $150-$200 for a gaming system (I am just estimating the price) I would probably just pay the extra $100 dollars for the fully functioning switch plus the detachable joycons it comes with. This is a massive pass for me.

How are we supposed to play Super Mario Party on the Switch Lite if you can't detach the Joy Cons.

@techdude Least this time we can use the same Nintendo account for our future many Switch's. XD

Well it's about what I expected. I don't want one. It seems like a definitive downgrade.

But I suppose people who need a cheaper alternative will like it and more power to them. I'm just glad it has super similar specs.

@Ambermoon Right, I've never understood how that could happen. Did Nintendo brick consoles on purpose so nobody used an unofficial dock? :S

Looks great, wish they would've addressed the battery life....

That should be helpful for those that stick with physical copies and want to have both systems (I personally don't tote my Switch around much, but I could see getting one of these to fill that role).

I just hope there aren't many cases of games that don't allow for being used in more than one system. Namely - Mario Maker. The 3DS version was restricted to just one system, so you couldn't pop it into a second 3DS. I haven't heard the Switch Mario Maker having this issue, but I only have one Switch so I can't try it out.

I still think a Lite version is fine, and as I said I might grab one at some point to have a system I'll feel more comfortable carrying around. I guess all the games I only got digitally wouldn't be available, though.

Uh, it seems you can't play games like Super Mario Party or Nintendo LABO on it, and for motion controls you still need a separate set of Joy-Cons. The d-pad is nice but what's the price?

I guess it's a neat alternative for people that play in handheld mode only, and 95% of the Switch games library has that option.

I think it will appeal to a lot of gamers. I’m not a hand held gamer so it’s not for me.

Soon Switch games will be only Light supported... leaving out the Switch... soon people. Pro? wait a year or 2 when the new next gen consoles are out

@BlueOcean well, yesterday the existing Switch was the ideal handheld device. And while I agreed it was a handheld it was not so portable. Now we have something that is more portable but with no docking option. And while the price is about a third less the game card will be a third more, compared to the portable 3ds game card.

@BlueOcean
That we'll never know.

@BlueOcean Yeah sure, Or PC... Same concept.

Edited 😀

@electrolite77 The lying is subliminal. You need to be very sensitive to detect it.

Does it have a touch screen?

If so, make it connectable to a regular switch as gamepad controller so that we can play Mario Maker 2 on the TV with touch screen controls.

I wonder how possible that would even be but I think it would be great if they did it.

@rjejr LOL. Fair points. I do think more dynamic, mature colors could have been chosen. I too do like that Pokemon edition.

@Krull You can get the Switch for as low as 259. Expect this price to repeat for Amazon Prime days.

I bought one for a friend for 270 on Walmart, with a 35 ticket for digital games, like 6 months ago.

I'm kind of disappointed that they didn't go with a clamshell design, like the GBA SP. That would've made it a whole lot more portable.

Better invest in a good screen protector.

This is smart marketing in my opinion. I know plenty folk with little ones who will find this a great option for them. Let’s face it, this is a ds replacement, one that shares a Eshop with switch is clever.

It’s not going to be of any interest to those who want to play on the tv but as an addition for the kids in the household I think it’s great.

Why do I want one, but already have a Nintendo Switch.

Very cute. Not really for me, I like to play the Switch with the TV, but who knows...

I'll wait for the Switch Pro announcement in July 2020, release in Sept after that.

I don't have any need for this. But I can see it selling very VERY well at €200.

So... Nintendo Vita.

I won't be getting one, I'll hold out for the Switch Pro

I can see why they did this though, if anything it's to get people on-board who don't already have a switch

Or maybe even those with kids who don't want to drop too much money on something their kids might end up breaking.

Lack of a kickstand seems pretty silly... tabletop mode would still work for the most part, right? I'm a little tempted, but I'll need to hold it in hand to get a feel for the size.

While I'm not going to buy it because I already have a Switch, this thing looks beautiful and sleek! This is such a smart move by Nintendo and will definitely sell like gangbusters

I have zero interest in this, but at least there are options for people who don't want the flexibility of the Switch...like a bigger screen size, the ability to dock to TVs...playing with others on the fly.

Now, a Switch "pro" would pique my interest, which would be the natural evolution of the existing hardware.

No TV support = no sale. I play docked mode 90% of the time, this is near useless to me. Wake me up when we get a Switch Pro.

Such a dumb and unnecessary move.🙄 This will only lead to confusion and fragmentation. But okay, if the consumer wants it, he should get it.

Wonder how cloud saves work with this. I almost never take my Switch out the dock so having a backup for travel might be neat.

The problem I see with this, is that unless I'm unware Nintendo changed its policies, isn't a user not allowed to have multiple Switch systems? I mean, If I have my regular Switch for home use and buy a Switch light to carry on the go because I prefer its slightly smaller form factor, would I be able to install my e-shop games on both?

If yes, that's cool, but like I said, unless I missed something, I don't think Nintendo would allow that. They usually only allowed to have one "main" system and that's it. They only allow "transfering" to a new unit, not having games installed on both. Right?

Then the market for this would only be people new to the platform, or those wanting to change their current model for this new portable-only one.

Not to jump right into negative speculation, but here's how it SHOULD work for owners of the current Switch:

A Switch user account should allow for one Switch lite to link to the same account, and be able to access and load any digital games purchased on that account.

How it probably WILL work:

A Switch lite will have no connection to any previous account and require it's own account and any digital game purchased for a regular Switch will have to be purchased separately for the Lite.

I hope they do this right, it will create a lot more incentive for people to buy one as a compliment to their regular Switch if they allow them to "work together" like this.

Roll on Switch Pro announcement - then I’ll be buying another Switch.
I don’t see the need for a Switch Lite.

They could have easily added a way to dock it through a cable, but I bet they've removed the docking functionality completely. Typical illogical Nintendo with their 2 steps forward, 1 step back thought process.

Honestly 100 dollars isnt worth a smaller screen, no tv, rumble, or motion sensing functionality. The D-pad just doesnt make up for it. For me. Im sure there are plenty of people that love the price point but it doesnt seem like a good deal for the 100 dollar difference. I almost thought about using it as a mobile type of deal but for now you cannot easily share save files from a lite to a switch (eventually) and when animal crossing comes out thats going to be ridiculously difficult since no cloud saves so its a no for me.

Just release the freaking D pad Joy cons already. That would have been a better announcement than this..

I don’t like this. They should have released a refreshed Switch with improved display and internals along with this portable only $199 model. Or they should have included an HDMI port so you could output the Switch Lite to a TV, even if you had to buy the extra dock or cable yourself.
Can you buy a set of joycons to wirelessly connect to the Switch lite?

Most intriguing indeed

To be honest, I'm perfectly fine with my original model Switch, so I'm probably going to skip the Switch Mini.

That being said, if Nintendo were to release the oft-rumored Switch Pro, I might sink some money into that, especially if it boasts better processing power, significantly more storage, and a significantly longer battery life.

Not surprised at the number of "How dare Nintendo create a product that opens up more options for the consumers? If it isn't for me, it shouldn't exist at all!" comments...

This product probably isn't for anyone on this site i.e. hardcore Nintendo fans who already own the original Switch.

I like the idea but the only concern for me is the quality of some of the games coming onto the system. There have been some games that have had issues in hand held mode and I just hope that these issues are highlighted well to consumers before they purchase these games.

Still, a great system for people not fussed about playing on a TV!

@graysoncharles I already ate my words. No need to rub it in now.

Lite - the word used to contradict the first word in the name

It's equivalent to the try it before you buy it!

To anyone who doesn't already have an actual Switch, I will not be recommending this piece of hardware to any of them.

When the Pro version drops however...

@westman98 But this version takes away options for the consumers. The only "new" option for the consumers in this regard is the selling point. This is a smart move on Nintendo's part but a stupid move for any intelligent consumer.

Want to see the face of everyone saying this would not happen and “Nintendo already makes a portable switch, it’s the Switch!”

I do not understand this. Okay, if you want to have a cheaper price point...makes sense to remove joy cons, rumble features, not include the dock, maybe a slightly smaller screen...but why shouldn’t this be able to connect to a docking unit??

I don’t understand what about this is “optimized for handheld” – doesn’t seem better than the original switch at all, slightly lower price point maybe?

Seems odd to me. Phasing our the 3DS/2DS and Nintendo wants a similar handheld around the same price point...but at $199, seems like you might as well just get a Switch. If this were $99, i’d understand.

I rarely use my Switch in handheld mode, but happy for the people who do and would like a cheaper (and more yellow!) option.

@electrolite77 Yes they lied.

https://www.gameinformer.com/2019/01/25/nintendo-president-says-they-are-not-considering-a-switch-successor-or-price-cut-yet

That is pretty nice, I like the yellow color more than I thought I would.

I already know this is not for me since I already own the original and use all the features it provide. It would be like me buying a new 2DS (or 2DS if taking it to the next level) when I already own a new 3DS XL.

Beauty about this thing is, more choices for people with different game style and budget.

@nintendolie this is not a successor or a price drop on the standard unit, though.

Less bezel than the normal switch, that's pretty embarrassing.
I will have to get one.

The Switch Mini isn't for me, but it's nice to have a budget option out there for those who want it. As for me, I'll stick with the original when I pick one up later this year. Hopefully the rumored minor hardware/chip update happens. If not, I'll grab one anyway. XD

@NintendoByNature This explains why our birthday month is so full! XD

The magic of the Switch is you can play it however you want...at home on the TV, handheld away from the TV, on the go...so versatile. Now, you have a much less versatile option also called the Switch that muddies the waters. Why force customers to research differences between the two? Why call it a Switch at all? There’s nothing about this that switches modes.

Do I have to take the whole thing apart to fix it when the joysticks start drifting? Oh who am I kidding... I'll buy one the day it comes out.

@PharoneTheGnome Just clean it. But first clean your home.
Electric contact cleaner is the solution.

@Krull That's not quite how Nintendo works with pricing. This is the Switch price drop.

No pink = no buy.

Not interested but this is also not geared towards me. This is the Switch version of a 2DS meant to be cheaper for parents to buy for kids who might not be ready for the standard model with its small parts and expensive price tag. This satisfies those who fall in to this but no longer want or play a 2DS. They get to play their Switch games they've been wanting. But for me this also goes against the original mission statement of the Switch, which was supposed to unify the handheld and tv console business of Nintendo. The hybrid system really is the best of both worlds and I like having the choice on where and when I play my games. But again this isn't designed for someone like me. Now call me when the Switch Pro releases and I'll surely purchase that! Something that I know won't be totally in-line with the PS4 Pro or Xbox One X but something close which could run more graphically intense 3rd party games and be a bit more future-proofed. I'm sure something like that will be coming sooner rather than later. For now I'll stick with my good ol' standard Switch!

@BlueOcean it can do, there's a whole world of USB-C based adaptors that work with smartphones and laptops - and like I said I'm reasonably sure that's how the standard Switch does it through the dock (which, let's be honest is just a glorified multiport adaptor). So there's no reason why Nintendo couldn't make an official adaptor or mini dock further down the line to appease people (like me) who want a mini Switch but to keep the option of TV out... but they've gone and said for the record that the Lite will not support TV out at all - making it sound like they've changed/removed something fundamental for whatever reason (and that makes no sense to me) and I doubt any third party dock/adaptor will change that without modifying the console at least (and nobody really wants to start doing that either!)

@Kal_el_0724
It's a new version how does it do anything but provide consumers with more options? It may not be one you like, but ultimately you're correct its USP is the main selling point. As well as being a simplified SKU that is more ideal for kids.

Mmm those colours, that small screen and no screen cover or clamshell, seems 2b a rush job Imo, Bowser even hinted at that by saying "They've observed how people play the Switch", as soon as that data was collated by the Marketing department it was all systems go 2 get it into production. If the data showed more people play it docked what wud they have done ?, probably nothing.

Now that this is official the next topic to tackle is if you already have a Switch this is not targeted at you. This is targeted at kids to increase the player base. If you already have a Switch buying a second one does not increase the player base. Nintendo bases many financial points on units of software sold because they are far more interested in a large player base than simply selling hardware.

So that's the point of the Switch Lite. If you have a Switch already there isn't much of a point to buying a Lite. And now it's time to read a million more "I already have a Switch so why would I buy this" comments. Protip: you don't have to buy every single thing Nintendo makes. I swear, some people must think Nintendo makes decisions with just them in mind.

Have been playing mostly handheld already long time. For me original is enough, at least for now.

The people saying that the Switch Lite is for kids are the same people that said Smash Ultimate is a port. It's clearly being marketed for those who consider the Switch to be their go-to handheld, and multiple demographics use the Switch as a handheld. Not just kids.

@Rygar It's cheaper to buy multiple kids (or even one kid) a Switch Lite than a Switch and a TV.

@Krazzar I fully intend on buying a second Switch for my Mom so that we can play Animal Crossing: New Horizons together.

It isn't going to be a Lite, though, it'll be the full-on experience; she'll be playing it on her TV and wherever else she wants to play it.

@Yorumi It's not incompatible, it just requires a set of Joycons. Those are also edge cases like Mario Party that require a detached Joycon. Most games can be played in handheld mode and the extra control schemes are just that, nice to have but not required.

Why are so many saying the Light is for casuals or kids? Or do you guys think all Handhelds are for casuals or kids?

@Patron Dude - this is a Nintendo fan site. If you want to bring up politics, go somewhere else.

@Patron Corporations always donate to both parties. They always pick both sides! That's how they nearly always win.

@Tyranexx exactly 🤗. I got a good $150 I'll spending that month on Nintendo software( or asking for at least 😂). I'll prob be passing on the lite tho. Maybe grab it for my middle child. We'll see

@dugan It's a video game console. It is a toy. Just like every other video game console.

@xanderten50 Digital Foundry has a video about new Switch tech that suggests new, more efficient chipsets could eliminate the need for a fan. If it was dockable that would mean increased clockspeeds and probably require cooling. I'm curious to see if DF does a teardown video once Switch Lite comes out.

@westman98 But this product renders stuff like HD rumble and the IR camera to unused gimmick status, as now a new segment of the userbase won't have those features. It's also less incentivising for developers to do separate Joy Con stuff if a lot of the userbase won't have them.

The lack of docking it to a TV and how powerful it is in portable mode may also affect other things, like developers no longer optimising as much for docked games. If the handheld performance is the same as a docked Switch, then it's okay.

Yes! Good for you Nintendo!
The only thing I would change is the name. ‘Switch’? It’s been said before, this thing can’t switch. Come up with a cool name, like Nintendo Go.

So I guess the next big direct ( probably the last one for 2019) is 9.20? Makes sense with literally everything being released on that date. Links Awakening looks like a cool handheld game.

By the way they refer to the ‘Switch Family’, even though there are only two Switches, are we gettting a Switch Pro/ New Nintendo Switch? I feel like since this appealed to wannabe switch owners, but what about us who have a Switch? I’m not buying one, I really want one, but the switch is already handheld and that’s all I use it for.

(Sorry for making you read all this)

@Yorumi Mario Party and 1,2 Switch work with an extra set of Joycons. LABO may have a different kit in the future but LABO VR should still work. The games that require additional Joycons are also the ones most likely to be played with a TV.

Removing the TV output simplifies the chipset and lowers the constant power draw, something that is more important to a handheld. Battery life is weighed more heavily than TV output, which is good for those that don't use a TV at all anyway.

I totally want a torquoise Lite! But I'm more excited by far that this announcement lends credence to the rumors of a Switch Pro coming soon, hopefully this year! I hope for a torquoise or green Pro that has much higher clock speeds when docked that allows improving frame rates on hundreds of older Switch releases! More internal memory would be nice, as would an OLED screen.

As long as I can use the Lite for handheld play and still use my standard Switch for TV play, I'm happy with this. Loving the fact it has an actual dpad too.

One wonders if the rumoured 'Pro' model will just be an Apple TV-sized box you can stick Switch cartridges into that comes bundled with the pro controller rather than some super powered handheld?

Then you have all 3 bases covered: dedicated handheld, bridge device and dedicated box that all play the same games.

The SWITCH with NO SWITCHING...
The SWITCH with unplayable Nintendo labo...
The SWITCH with a non existing "2 players mode"...

I love today's marketing.

@RadioHedgeFund That could be the smallest console ever. It could be much smaller than the PC Engine. I'd still rather have a Switch Pro though. I want to be able to boost frame rates in both handheld and docked play. Plus, an OLED screen would look gorgeous, if they could include something so nice on the Pro model...

@Yorumi As usual, the cheaper product, theoretically more fitting for those with lighter wallets, actually has a bad "feature-per-dollar" value and the more expensive version is a much better deal. Add to that games that cost more than on other dedicated handheld devices and the only reason it's going to work, while making Nintendo some crazy money, is because there's no competition.

@Krull It's going to be a while before there is a price drop. Nintendo just made sure of that.

Not for me, I am glad that Nintendo announced it though. I hate rumors. I do hope that it doesn't impact performance modes and options (such as HD rumble) on games for the regular system (because devs are cheap), and at least since there is no "Pro" model I can still get the DQ system in september. I am glad that Iwata-denka's promise of one ecosystem finally came to pass, so thank you sir.

It does seem like an odd concept though since it chucks out the main feature of the switch, but hey obviously they crunched the numbers and there is a marked for this. At least house holds that need multiples due to having many kids will have a cheaper option.

So no dock, usb-c cables, or an HDMI cable... and still $200? Not a price difference... cost the same as a switch without the other hardware. But can’t connect to a TV... nope.

The fanboys who don't get this - it's not for you. It's for everyone else.

It should’ve had a option where you can connect it to a TV. Maybe buy the dock separately to keep the price down or have it connect to the existing Switch dock. Playing games like BoTW on a small screen is a waste

Hmm, now I understand why September is so packed with games; sort of like a relaunch for the Switch, so they release loads of games suited for single player handheld experiences (DQXI, Link's Awakening etc).

I already play my current system in handheld mode anyway because it gives me that option. So I won't be getting it.

@Yorumi Or don't buy Mario Party and then it's $200. You're really just making accommodations for a very short list of games. The focus of the system is handheld, 1 player per Switch gameplay.

From another angle, the Switch Lite costs around the same as two sets of controllers (two sets of Joycons/Pro controllers or a Pro controller and Joycons) , enabling same-room multiplayer with better performance than split-screen with most games. In fact, there are far more games that support online or local multiplayer requiring two consoles (no split screen) than those that require detached Joycons and motion controls.

A better name for this would be the Non-Switch since you know it can't switch anymore. I'll probably buy one when it dropped in price like the 3DS. For now I'm waiting for the Pro version.

@ARhollow

I am surprised they didn't include TV connectivity. It's the reason it's called 'Switch' after all.

@Kalmaro You think? Now we will even get more articles

@Franklin Just check to see if it had a USB-C port, if it does you could still connect it to a third party dock and play it on an HDTV. Nintendo probably just move the USB-C port more to the right and design the system to be clumsy so to not fit into the actual dock. The only way it wouldn't be able to play on the HDTV at all is if it used a micro USB instead of the original USB-C.

Defeats the entire purpose/concept and name "Switch". Normally once a company starts production of a new, slimmer model, they slow down & eventually stop producing the original not too long after...

So can Nintendo finally admit the 3DS is ending it’s great run?

I’m fine with my original Switch, I’ll just hold out for the inevitable power upgrade. I just hope it’s a significant upgrade, but knowing Nintendo, I doubt it.

@SleeplessKnight Here, here! Was literally just writing: "I genuinely don't understand this move. How is $100 in savings worth sacrificing the reason the thing is called a "Switch" in the first place?"

...And I thought they weren't going to do do this as they said that they weren't planning to or planning to reveal something at E3. Well...Surprise!

@Franklin Should have read your comment. I just echoed you, sorry.

@SleeplessKnight True which is why they're bringing the Switch Pro version next year which will offer more powerful performance as well as dock, tabletop, and handheld mode support. Nintendo isn't stupid you know, this gen they doing the same marketing as they did the 3DS. They release a cheaper one with less feature for the kids and a more powerful one with more features for the core gamers and then dropped the price of the old model and eventually discontinued it.

Phase 1 complete. Sell over 30 million Switches under the guise of a home console/portable hybrid. Phase 2: drop a dedicated handheld-only model officially killing the 3DS. Phase 3: in 2021 (a year after PS5 & Xbox Scarlett) bring out a new, traditional, disc-based home console with a new revolutionary controller (which has been reported they're working on) that's closer to the power of the PS5 & Scarlett, thus giving Nintendo their traditional 2-prong home & portable console approach.

@electrolite77

I would have considered buying, as I already have a dock. I think quite a few feel the same. I can cope without it, just seems an odd decision.

Perhaps people who actually know technology can correct me, but I find it hard to believe that TV connectivity would have added much to the production costs and retail price.

No big surprise, Nintendo does this with most of their consoles eventually. I just don't think removing TV output was a good call. The spirit of the Switch is that it can switch from TV to handheld. Without that it's really just a much more powerful Game Boy Advance...not a bad thing, but a 'Switch' it's not.

Hopefully Switch Pro is also a thing, but I'm not really expecting that to happen. More power isn't Nintendo's design philosophy... but I've been wrong before.

I wonder if they fixed the joycon drift and input lag.

I think everyone here is missing the bigger picture.

You can play this thing in SPACE.

They should call it the Nintendo plain. They took most of the unique functionality away like they did with the 2DS. Typical Nintendo, they create hardware with neat functionalities but they don't back it up.

Like the 2DS I don't have to buy it. The Switch Lite doesn't bother me for that reason. Some people are looking for exactly this. Though removing TV functionality seems a bit overkill...

Still I'm a bit sad. I just want a true handheld console. With games specifically made for handheld. The Switch Lite won't be that. They say it's dedicated to handheld but developers will make games compatible for both Switches.

But I musn't complain. The regular Switch is still a great console that fits my lifestyle and increasing the playerbase is a good thing.

Going to get the Animal Crossing special edition for my wife when it comes out.

Oh, it's actually happening. I'll still stick with my OG Switch though.

Cant wait for this to be released. I use my switch mainly in handheld mode but always wanted a smaller more portable version. Will be getting the Turquoise colour. Will go nicely with my 8 year old original Aqua blue 3DS!

@Dualmask If this Switch Lite is a thing then the Switch Pro is likely a thing now too as the rumor did say they had two models coming. It's the same deal with what they did with the 2DS and New 3DS. The 2DS loses the clamshell design while the New 3DS been slightly more powerful and had new buttons and features retain all of what the original 3DS had. They may eventually make a more powerful Switch Lite with dock support someday as even though Nintendo released the 2DS which is missing the clamshell design they did released a more powerful clamshell New 2DS later on so this Switch Lite is just a redesign in a string of other redesign to come.

Looks lovely! We are going to buy another Switch later this year (my partner and I fight over my Switch often enough as it is, and with Fire Emblem, Zelda, Pokemon and Animal Crossing coming soon, we’ll definitely need another console to avoid literally nicking it off each other every five minutes), but the lack of TV output makes me lean more towards a second traditional Switch rather than a Lite. I would likely be the one getting the smaller console (being the person with the smaller hands), which would mean I would be unable to play Pokemon or Animal Crossing on the big screen (since dear old Ninty does not allow cloud saves for either of those games); while I do play undocked around 80% of the time, it would still be nice to have the option. Such a pity! I’m 100% sure they’ll do a really cute Animal Crossing edition...which may still make me cave in the end, depending on how cute it looks. 😝

@graysoncharles,

I am here (lol, just joking. I did never deny it). That being said: Can this site finally stop with the endless articles about this device?! Or will their obsession now turn towards a mega, ultra switch? Please no!!

By the way: Does this announcement mean that the Switch sales have slowed down? Possibly.

@Kal_el_0724
Last I checked, the normal Nintendo Switch is still on sale

@yuwarite
Anyone can just buy an extra pair of JoyCons to use for the Switch Lite if HD Rumble and the IR Camera are that big of a deal. The Super Mario Party JoyCon bundle is pretty good.

Comment Section Review:

Sometimes in gaming, especially since the advent of social media, anticipation can reach a somewhat fevered pitch. Anticipation fuelled by nebulous internet speculation can mount to the point of palpable vibration. Could anything ever live up to such cacophony? This is a story of unrequited desires in the age of the internet.

I woke this morning to check the news over a coffee and was quickly floored. I thought, “It’s here, the rumours were true. The deniers be damned, it’s really happening! It’s what we deserve, it’s what we were promised, the oppression is finally over... the greatest comment section, ever.”

But alas, it all came crashing down before the cuppa even had a chance to cool. Why was nobody cruelly disparaging the opinions of others? Why has no one made a video of them burning their Switch while declaring this a hate crime? Some were even, and it pains me to even say it , somewhat reasonable. The horrors of today will surely be etched in my mind for what could very well be the rest of my mortal life.

Pros:

• decent length.
• if your comedic senses are tickled by the likes of “Nintendon’t Switch” et al, then this is a Day 1 recommendation for you.

Cons:

• boring, do better next time.

Verdict: 4/10

This trailer was hilarious. It was all, "let me show you all the features we removed."

So the Switch Pro is going to be a normal home console that doesn't have a screen?

@graysoncharles
The deniers are the ones loudly complaining now. If you find yourself in that boat, keep the original switch. I’ll
Never understand people hating on others based on how they spend money, or for having a different opinion.

OMG OMG OMG THIS IS SHOCKING! THIS IS A REVALATION! THIS IS SO...SO.... .....it's exactly what half of us said back in Feb 2017, right down to the exact price, name and launch date.....

inb4 "Nintendo get's it wrong again! Where's Switch PRO?! Knead Moar Powers!!!"

@Judal27,

Lol, if Sony or Microsoft did this it would fail immensely. While Nintendo does it: "Wow, look at all the features they removed! Instant buy!"

@westman98 They can, but I'm talking about developers dropping the incentive to do those features, when they know a new segment of the audience won't have them by default.

I would like to see a side by side and a stacked comparison of the lite vs original switch.
I was hoping it would be a little smaller still so I’m on the fence on the pre order as of yet.

Also, 4/10: Not enough Karen. -IGN.

@Edelgard There are few games made exclusively for handheld mode in the eShop so you're in luck. Titles like VOEZ and Drift Legends were made with handheld mode in mind, heck you can't even use pro controller or joycons to play them and they will only function when the joycons are attached and the system is undock.

@westman98 And?

This is about marketing and false advertisement. Everyone knows what a Switch does. But come time for Holiday season, little Jimmy's mother is going to go out to the store, see the price difference and get the cheaper product.

Little Jimmy is then going to open up his gift and realize it doesn't Switch. Then he's going to have a conversation with his mom who will say that 'It's a Switch, it's what you wanted'.

Little Jimmy will now be one of millions of disappointed children including myself whose parents were lead astray by false advertisement.

What an average consumer vs a smart consumer sees in this product is vastly different.

An average consumer will see name and price point.

A smart consumer will see name, price point, and features.

The $100 you're "saving" is actually giving up much more than $100 in worth.

The average consumer in this case has been conned.

I can't help thinking that they might have been better off just selling the standard Switch without a dock. Sure, they might not have pushed the price down quite as much but you still get the handheld focus without sacrificing the other features.

Though it would be harder to promote the same old Switch without a dock, compared with the shiny, new, "optimised for handheld" Lite version.

Why would they still call it Switch? They removed the feature that gave it that name

@Kal_el_0724 I don't think it is false advertising, since they are being very much up front about its limitations. It may also be slightly overly cynical to suggest that they are banking on consumer ignorance on these points, when they have made every reasonable effort so far to state what this product is.

@Henmii yeah, that's the sad reality. But the good thing is that this is literally just a worse product so I have no need to change my switch to a lite. If they had announced a "pro" version then I would have become worried that they'd make a few games exclusive to the pro switch like what they did with new 3ds.

I'll be all over that. Already got two switches on the house, this will love perfect for me and my daughter can have mine

@WarpSpawn Yeah in the video. The average consumer doesn't watch these videos. They will either just see a 30 second ad on TV or nothing at all.

And I wouldn't say they're banking on it. They just should have titled it something else. Calling it a Switch is like me calling my phone a Switch.

But I get it.... it's all branding as it plays the same games*. It would potentially be more confusing the other way around. But still...

*this system will not support all Switch games

@graysoncharles,

True, though at the same time it is often (but not always) a sign that sales have slowed down.

@Rygar They cut the video output on the board to reduce the constant power consumption. It maximizes the battery life in exchange for removing a feature that is the antithesis of what most people interested in a handheld would use.

@yuwarite
Are there really any developers outside of Nintendo themselves who have made Switch games that truly make use of those features with no control alternatives?

> 1-2 Switch is a one-and-done launch title.
> Labo hasn't been that successful. Nintendo probably doesn't care about it that much anymore.
> Super Mario Party will certainly get a sequel because of its huge success. The sequel will probably still require the JoyCons to play.

That's it.

@retro_player_22 Or if they removed the video output processor from the board, which they probably did to extend battery life and bring down the cost. If not it can be disabled entirely. Most likely plugging it in will not do anything other than charge the unit.

@Judal27,

To be honest if I didn't already have a Switch I might have gotten this version, simply because I always play in handheld-mode. I don't have a hd tv, I don't care about detachable joy-cons. I care about costs though (this one is cheaper, but probably not in Holland). And its more compact.

I’d be down for a dedicated handheld, but this still looks a bit bigger than I’d like for carrying around everywhere. I’m surprised they didn’t show a comparison shot, makes me wonder why.

RIP HD rumble, we hardly knew ye.

@electrolite77,

True.

OMG OMG OMG I DONT NEED ONE BUT I’M GETTING ONE!

Nintendo has always aimed for the non-hardcore, more family-oriented gaming market, and this just reinforces that. They don’t want to compete with the AAA consoles, and there is a niche to fill between them and smartphone games. The nice thing about software compatibility with this move is that developers have more incentive to design new or port games.

@UmbreonsPapa Mature colors could work on a Doom edition. (blanked on the name, Eternal?) At this price I could see a special edition 4 or 5 times a year. Animal Crossing without a doubt. Do we have date for Luigis Mansion 3 yet? A lot of people like green.

@Kal_el_0724
The average consumer should know that the $300 Switch will be better than the $200 Switch. The boxart alone should be an indicator of what each Switch model includes (i.e. the dock).

Nintendo themselves have also made it pretty clear over what features each Switch version does or doesn't include. Ignorance is not an excuse to cry "false advertisement."

@Kal_el_0724 I suppose that is one of the pitfalls of naming a product after a key feature of it. At least it was a bit of a no brainer what to call a 3DS when you take away the 3D though. but then I don't think it would have been a lot clearer if they had called it something else and then had to try to explain to people that this "not a Switch, honest" is designed to play most Switch games.

Keeping the TV out feature would have given the branding a bit more credibility. But perhaps one reason they did not is that allowing people to purchase a Lite, with a cheap third party dock and controller, might canibalise sales of the regular Switch.

@NintendoByNature I have both Collection of Mana and the Link's Awakening bundle and amiibo pre-ordered. I'm also probably gonna be getting a 3DS game or two according to some sources. XD I want Astral Chain as well but will probably get it at a later date. Sooo many games already!

...I think I need to clone myself in order to play everything.

But I thought Nintendo were not going to reveal a mini version of the Switch,that's what certain people on here said anyway.

The lack of the key feature, namely Switch-ing is a deal breaker for me. I can understand not wanting to kill the sales of the big brother Switch with a less expensive model but removing this feature has killed any interest I had in this refresh. The clock now counts down to the ACTUAL Switch update we deserve.

@nintendolie,

No they never lied,they said they would show no new hardware at this years E3 event,that did not mean they could not reveal something later.

Yes yes a Nintendo Vita

@Jumpman23,

This console is a partner to the original Switch,and is designed for 3DS owners and people wanting the handheld feature,an inevitable Switch pro version would be my next purchase...although my daughter already want's one of these..and Mario Kart 8 handheld battles sounds pretty good to me.

@Deanster101 OMG OMG OMG I want one but I can't have one

@Tyranexx i hear you. I bought mana collection on launch day. I have my gripes about secret ( you can check back in the chit chat thread for my rant lol), it's worth the price though. Only one game played and im at 30hrs. I still have to play the other 2. So that saves me for paying for the physical which is dropping along side everything else 😊. I'm 100% getting astral chain which considering its release day It might as well be taken as a September release. Probabaly getting pine when that releases ( August i believe they said ). Then there's September..... prob getting spyro, as well as contra, 100% getting links awakening the dreamer edition. I never order limited editions but i am this time. Might even grab the amibo.. I know im for getting another game for September im getting. Then October hits and I'm grabbing LM3. NEED......MORE......MONEY

Didn't take me long to remember why I rarely visit this site anymore.

I am pretty sure I lost a couple of IQ points ready these comments.

I'm happy for all those who primarily play in handheld mode. I play docked and tabletop more then I play handheld so I will be skipping this model.

I'm done with Nintendo. This is a shameful product that breaks any game that uses Joy-Con gestures just to save a measly inch of space so you can put it in a jacket pocket or something. I thought it was a stupid product when I heard about it because I knew they couldn't save much room, but they made the bad sacrifices to save the small amount of space. They could have released the Switch without a dock here in the US like in Japan, but nope, they had to give us this gimped POS. This never would have happened under Nintendo's previous management, I guess this is what happens when you put the replace the President of a company with the CFO.

This is a smart move on their part. Sure, it's been hinted at for a while now, but with the 3DS on the way out, a smaller system that appeals to younger players in the handheld market is a smart idea. It's not meant for console players like me. It's their answer to maintain that handheld market. Having that with their huge library is just good business. Let's them keep all their eggs in one basket, develop for one system, and have a strong console and handheld market.

It’s an obvious move. It will sell like hot cakes. It will grow the install base by millions.
Bad idea? Nope just sound business by Nintendo

You mean to tell me they’ been sitting on that beautiful teal color and I can’t have it in a joycon color?

2DS version 2.0

This makes sense. With so many Handheld series heading over to Switch in the next few months, Fire Emblem, Luigi's Mansion, Pokemon and Animal Crossing, it makes sense to make a version that'll appeal to the 3DS playerbase, who may not have interest in a "home console".
That said, for me personally it feels like a step back. The big appeal of the Switch is that you can play it on the TV or on the go, and IMO the current Switch isn't exactly difficult to carry around. I can honestly only really see this version actually been worth it if it's a significant amount lower in price than the current one, otherwise you're better off getting the one that offers you both styles of play.

@Yorumi Well now that is simply not true. Countless products keep the same fundamental name over an entire range, potentially even multiple generations and with radically different features across the ranges. Just how many Samsung phones share the name "Galaxy", for example, with just a number to identify the different models? You think the average person assumes an A40 has all of the same features as an S10, just with a different external appearance?

Of course they will put the features on the box. Maybe in smaller print than some would like. But the clear intention of this launch appears to be to big it up as a mobile version first and foremost. It is a bit premature to assume too much about future promotion of it but if they continue as they have begun, it is pretty much on the consumer if they get overly confused by what this is.

Now getting confused about why they should buy it over a regular one, other than to save a few quid? That I can understand.

Dammit. It's lovely and I want one. (Turquoise please!) I have to keep telling myself this is not for me. It's for folk who haven't jumped in and bought a Switch yet...

Umm :/

Nope.

Another PASS from me.

Long live the 3DS in my home for handhelds.

@teamdave2002 Okay, you are right.

Consumers need more choices on colors, but black is probably the best choice.

@Yorumi Then it is up to the consumer to read the box or watch the promo videos or whatever it takes to familiarise themselves with it.

Admittedly the implications for specific games with some of these missing features may be less obvious. But it should not be that hard for the buyer to at least know what the missing features are.

Now don't get me wrong. I am not 100% onboard with this concept. In some ways it seems overly limited, in order to differentiate itself from the regular Switch, where it might have been better to simply leave features in but without accessories to utilise them. I might possibly get one for a child instead of buying another full fat Switch but I'd be happier if I could stick in in my existing dock on occasion. And providing an inferior experience on flagship Nintendo games could come back to bite them. I also think it is weird that they are suggesting getting joycons separately, when doing so eats up most of the saving over the regular Switch.

So am I entirely convinced by it? Not really. Do i think there is anything particularly wrong with how it is being promoted? Not especially.

@electrolite77 One can justify a lot with "perceived value", especially when marketing experts are hired to make sure it's high enough.
I will have a hard time recommending Switch Lite to my friends, who have expressed interest in Switch Mini in the past, due to the pricetag and having to pay full price for games which will be playable in their worst state with literally no advantages.
Lite makes sense for families with multiple systems, and even then it's mostly because of no option to buy Switch without the dock in the west (at least as far as I know).

@Wavey84 Good call on the button designs. I was also unaware of the lack of HD rumble, which is a drag. This feels less attractive to me, though I'll confess that it'll remain an interesting option when Animal Crossing comes out next year and my wife is looking for us to become a two Switch household. I'll cross my fingers (though not hold my breath) that a Pro edition is announced by then.

Excited for people that want this, I am holding out for a switch pro hopefully in 2020.