Here we are, a week out from the launch of the Nintendo Switch. It’s a console that’s been driving us mad here at Pixelrater for many reasons since it was revealed under the codename, NX, back in 2015. As different members of the press are get theirs hands on the final retail units, we’re starting to hear random bits of information here and there along with new information from the big N themselves. Let me give you the bullet list version.
- First off, and most disappointing, is the news from Nintendo that there will be no Virtual Console at launch. That’s not to say it won’t come later, because it probably will, but we aren’t even given a timeline to look forward to.
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We, along with a lot of other outlets, shared the news that Switch will support wireless Bluetooth headsets. However, it seems there was a mixup over at the French site Melty, as Nintendo of France reached out to clarify that Switch will not support wireless headsets. At least not right away.
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There will be a big day one update which will enable the following:
- Access to online services such as the Nintendo eShop, online multiplayer, and the ability to share screenshots on social media
- The ability to link a Nintendo Account to your Switch
- Enable connecting to hotspots that require authentication via a web applet like hotels, airports, cafés, etc.
Whats really neat about the update is that, unlike the Wii U, it will automatically download and install in the background without disrupting your play through of Breath of the Wild.
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There is an option in the power menu to disable sleep while media is playing. This leads us to believe Apps like Netflix and Hulu aren’t far behind, although we don’t know how much we’d honestly utilize them.
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Nintendo confirmed digital eShop purchases are tied to a Nintendo Account, however, a Nintendo Account can only be tied to one Switch at a time. That’s a bummer for families hoping to share their digital purchases with one another.
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Parental controls can be set up within the console itself rather than in the smartphone app. Although the app looks super slick.
