Nintendo Switch Release Date and Pricing Revealed for Australia
Nintendo have at long last revealed the release date and price for the Nintendo Switch console. This console is a home console/handheld hybrid that allows you to play games on your TV screen as well as take them on the go with you. You’ll be able to buy one on March 3rd for $469.95. It comes in a package that includes:
- the console itself
- two detachable Joy-Con controllers (one for the left side of the console, one for the right)
- a Joy-Con Grip that allows you to use the two Joy-Cons as a single controller
- a set of Joy-Con wrist straps (to avoid destroying living rooms like it’s 2006)
- a dock that connects the console to the TV
- an HDMI cable
- an AC adapter
There’ll be two different packages available – one with grey Joy-Cons and one with a combination of blue and red Joy-Cons.
More detail was also given about the detachable Joy-Con controllers. Each Joy-Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyroscope motion sensor, allowing for independent left and right motion control. They both also possess a new ‘HD Rumble’ feature which allows for more detailed vibrations. An example given was that it could simulate the feeling of individual ice cubes rolling around in a shaken Joy-Con.
The left Joy-Con has a Capture Button that players can press to take screenshots of their games, while the right Joy-Con features an NFC touchpoint that can be used to scan amiibo (as well as Skylanders!) which I’m sure is a feature you’re excited for if you’re here ;). The right Joy-Con also has an IR Motion Camera that can detect characteristics of nearby objects, such as how far away a player’s hand is, and even if the hand is forming a rock, paper or scissors shape.
Up to 8 consoles can be connected for local play, and while the console supports Wi-Fi for online gaming the online service now requires a subscription fee. It will begin with a free trial at launch, with a fully-featured paid service becoming available in the spring. The new online service includes an app for smart-devices that will let players invite friends, chat, and more.
You can watch the full Switch presentation below for additional details on the console and games, and we also have articles on Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon 2, and Skylanders Imaginators which will all be available for the system this year.
