Nintendo’s recent Switch 2 Direct presentation surprised many, not just with the reveal of *Mario Kart World*, but with a significant focus on bolstering its online capabilities. This suggests a newfound commitment to improving the online experience, a previously criticized aspect of the Nintendo ecosystem.
The highlight was undoubtedly the introduction of GameChat, a Discord-like feature enabling voice and screen sharing with friends. While the demo showcased some minor technical limitations, like slightly lower framerates on shared screens and potentially iffy audio quality, the potential for casual online hangouts and cooperative gameplay is undeniable. Its accessibility, particularly the open-access period before a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required, makes it a potentially significant selling point for the Switch 2.
Furthermore, Nintendo is enhancing its existing online services. GameShare, allowing players to share games with friends for multiplayer sessions, has been improved to work seamlessly online. The Nintendo Switch app is also receiving a major overhaul, rebranding to simply ‘Nintendo Switch App’ and adding features like access to the 100 most recent screenshots/video captures. A new ‘Zelda Notes’ section, offering in-game assistance for *Breath of the Wild* and *Tears of the Kingdom*, further adds value.
Nintendo Switch Online’s Expansion Pack also benefits from the Switch 2 launch. Subscribers gain access to a growing collection of GameCube titles (including *The Wind Waker*), and crucially, upgraded ‘Nintendo Switch 2 Editions’ of select games at no extra cost. While initially confirmed for *Breath of the Wild* and *Tears of the Kingdom*, images on Nintendo’s website suggest that this perk will extend to other titles like *Metroid Prime 4: Beyond*, *Super Mario Party Jamboree*, and *Kirby and the Forgotten Land* in the future.
This push towards improved online services is part of a broader strategy. Nintendo’s recent launches of the dedicated Nintendo Music app and the Nintendo Today news app further integrate the brand into users’ daily lives. This focus on enhancing the entire experience beyond just the games themselves signals a serious effort to compete with other platforms on a more comprehensive level.
While the success of GameChat ultimately depends on its performance in real-world use, the overall improvements to Nintendo’s online infrastructure are impressive. It seems Nintendo is finally recognizing the importance of a robust online experience, and the Switch 2 is positioned to benefit significantly from these advancements.
