Since its release in 2017, the Nintendo Switch has become just as beloved as the consoles Nintendo released in the past. The console's user-friendly design is appealing to all gamers from seasoned vets to the casual fan. The Switch is able to convert from a home console to a portable handheld with ease.
Like all of Nintendo's consoles, the Switch has a large selection of accessories to make gameplay more interesting and to make the system stand out against its competitors. While some may seem familiar, there are certainly plenty that are unique to the Switch, and which gives the system ammunition in the modern console wars.
Micro SD Card
As well regarded as the Switch is, one setback of the console is its lack of internal storage. While there are some large games available, the system alone is unable to house many games at one time.
This is a simple fix, as the Switch is compatible with micro SD cards. There are even some designed in partnership with Nintendo featuring characters from the Mario and Zelda franchises. While fun in a novelty manner, these special cards tend to be much more expensive than standard micro SD cards which work just as well.
Joy-Con Charging Grips
The Joy-Cons are the Switches revolutionary standard controllers. They attach to the side of the console for portable play and can be removed for play while the system is docked to the tv. While there are alternatives, many fans choose to play their favorite games with the included Joy-Cons.
The controllers charge while attached to the docked switch, but unless you have another controller alternative, you can only play while the Joy-Cons have power. This is where the charging grips come in. You attach the Joy-Cons just like you would with the included grip, except this one charges the Joy-Cons as you play meaning you can game longer.
Joy-Con Wheel
Ever since its initial release on the Super Nintendo, the Mario Kart series has been a staple on each Nintendo Console. When the game made its inevitable debut on the Wii, it came packaged with the Wii Wheel, a plastic steering wheel you placed the Wiimote into to simulate steering the character.
This proved to be a massive success, and when it was revealed the Switch would also support motion controls, it seemed like a no-brainer the switch would have its own wheel. Similar to its predecessor, the Joy-Con Wheel is used by placing the joy-con in the center. While considerably smaller, the wheel is a perfect addition to any driving game on the console.
Nintendo Labo
In recent years, the rise of VR in gaming has been impressive. While Nintendo has yet to release a traditional VR peripheral for the Switch, they have released an immersive experience that has no equal in other systems.
The Labo uses cardboard pieces to allow players to create anything from a piano to a full-on mech suit to interact with the packaged game. While mostly minigames, the Labo offers a fun and unique gaming experience like no other. The pieces are simple to build and allow the imagination of the player to run wild, something Nintendo excels in.
Joy-Con Charging Dock
Many gamers choose to have more than one set of Joy-Cons. One pair may be charging on the console and the player may choose to game with a different controller. This leaves one pair unaccounted for, and gamers want them to be play-ready when the need arises.
This is where the charging dock comes in handy. The charging dock holds up to two pairs of Joy-Cons and connects to the Switch dock via USB. They charge while being connected, while also being a safe place to display the Joy-Cons.
Ring Fit
One of the most popular gaming consoles in recent years was the Nintendo Wii. The system's revolutionary use of motion controls made for a unique gaming experience, and also a unique exercising experience. Wii Fit was one of the most successful games on the console, so it would make sense that for Nintendo's next giant console, something similar would be made.
Ring FIt was the answer. Using a ring that houses a Joy-Con, Ring Fit offers an exercise experience disguised as an RPG. What makes Ring Fit stand out from Wii Fit, is that you feel more like you are actually playing a game while still getting a steady workout.
Joy-Con Zapper
Nintendo has had an incredibly successful run in the home console market. It all started with the classic Nintendo Entertainment System. Most consoles were packaged with a cartridge featuring two games. The legendary Super Mario Bros. and Duck Hunt. The latter of the two used a controller resembling a gun, a concept that has become a staple for a Nintendo Console.
The Switch is no different, featuring a gun-shaped controller that houses the two Joy-Cons. This controller makes any first-person shooter much more immersive while harkening back to Nintendo's classic flagship console.
Nintendo Online Controllers
A membership to Nintendo Switch Online offers many perks for a low price. One of the most exciting is the access to a library of classic NES and SNES games to play anytime. Nintendo has even released special controllers designed to look like the controllers of their classic systems.
The NES controllers hook to the side of the Switch like the Joy-Cons, while the SNES can connect to the system via USB when needing a charge. These controllers add to the retro experience and serve as the ideal way to replay these classic titles.
Pro Controller
As iconic as the Joy-Cons have become, many gamers prefer a more traditional controller while playing on their tv. While there are countless types of controllers, the best is by far the pro controller. The pro controller offers virtually everything the Joy-Cons do while providing a more classic gameplay experience.
These comfortable controllers have motion capability, rumble, and even Amiibo support. The controllers are also wireless and have a great battery life, meaning your gameplay won't be interrupted as much. They do connect to the Switch with a USB cable, so even if the battery drains you can keep playing.
Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit
Mario Kart remains one of the most highly regarded racing franchises of all time. Each Nintendo console starting with SNES has had an entry in their library, and Nintendo has released one of the most unique gameplay experiences of all time. Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit uses the house as a real-time Mario Kart track.
The game comes bundled with an RC car of either Mario or Luigi and a selection of obstacles to physically build a track in your home. The car is controlled with the Switch, and the track on screen with all the bells and whistles gamers have come to expect from Mario Kart can be seen. The RC car is driven through custom obstacles, making it a fun experience for gamers and onlookers alike.