There’s a new Switch on its way and it’s smaller than the original. Nintendo introduced the Nintendo Switch Lite, a device that the company says is designed specifically to play Switch games in handheld mode.
The original Switch was launched in March 2017, making the Switch Lite the first major addition to the popular console range. Unlike the original which offers three gameplay modes and removable Joy-Con controllers, the Lite has integrated controls, no kickstand and doesn’t support video output to a TV.
While it might seem more limiting than the original, the Lite is lighter, has a proper D-pad and feels more sturdy according to The Verge.
The new device has a 5.5-inch touch-display making it smaller than the 6.2-inch display found on its sibling and has improved battery life. Nintendo says that you’ll be able to play all games in the Nintendo Switch library that support handheld mode but some games will have restrictions* and will warn you if it’s not compatible with the Switch Lite. Physical game packaging will also have notifications advising if the title is compatible.
The Switch Lite will be available in three colours at launch: yellow, grey and turquoise, as well as a limited Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian & Zamazenta Edition console on 8th November. The limited edition console will feature cyan and magenta buttons and illustrations of the two new Legendary Pokémon from the upcoming Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games.
The Nintendo Switch Lite Zacian & Zamazenta Edition console will be available while supplies last. The Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield games are available 15th November for all Nintendo Switch consoles
For additional information about Nintendo Switch Lite, visit the official Nintendo South Africa website.
* For games that support tabletop mode, players can wirelessly connect Joy-Con controllers (sold separately) to Nintendo Switch Lite. In these cases, you will need to have a device to recharge Joy-Con controllers, such as the Joy-Con Charging Grip.