The Nintendo Switch 2 may have finally been revealed, but the fan reaction hasn’t been all cheers and applause. While the console’s specs are promising and the Direct event did build serious hype, many gamers are now comparing it to the Xbox One—and not in a flattering way.
Price Tag Woes: Echoes of Xbox One
The biggest criticism? The price. With the Nintendo Switch 2 expected to launch at a premium, and Mario Kart World costing $80 digitally and up to $90 physically, fans have raised eyebrows—and their voices.
This has drawn clear parallels to the Xbox One launch, which was infamously expensive and bundled with mandatory hardware features many didn’t want. Now, like Xbox One back in 2013, the Switch 2 is being labeled as out of touch with average gamers’ budgets.
Doug Bowser’s Comment Adds Fuel
In an interview with CBC, Nintendo of America President Doug Bowser acknowledged the concern, stating:
“We recognize there are some people that may not be able to afford [the Switch 2’s] price point. That’s why we wanted to make the other Switch platforms available, so [people] still have an opportunity to come into our gaming universe…”
While Bowser meant to reassure fans about continued support for the original Switch models, the comment reminded many of Microsoft’s infamous Don Mattrick moment during the Xbox One era, where he said those without internet should just “stick with the Xbox 360.”
No way they’re about to have their Xbox One moment https://t.co/EFazVryCQZ
— MastaMunsta (@MunstaMasta) April 2, 2025
https://t.co/GmiOo41dsm pic.twitter.com/EW03MGaIJQ
— Tom Warren (@tomwarren) April 8, 2025
Leaks Took the Surprise Out
Another reason fans weren’t overly thrilled? Most of the Switch 2’s features were leaked well before the official Direct. Instead of a showcase full of surprises, the reveal felt like confirmation of what gamers already knew, deflating some of the excitement.
Comparing the Consoles: Then and Now
While the Switch 2 is a technical leap over its predecessor, its performance and price combo are eerily reminiscent of the Xbox One’s launch strategy—aiming high, but possibly alienating parts of the fanbase.
Nintendo has long thrived by doing things differently, and fans are hoping this stumble is just temporary—not a sign of a rocky road ahead.
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