What switches are best for beginners?

If you’re new to the Nintendo Switch and looking for the best options for beginners, both in terms of the console model and games, here’s a helpful guide:

Best Nintendo Switch for Beginners

There are three main Nintendo Switch models to choose from: the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, and Nintendo Switch Lite. Here’s what’s best for beginners:

1. Nintendo Switch Lite

• Best for Beginners Who Want Simplicity and Portability
• Price: $199.99
• Why it’s good for beginners:
  • Affordable: At a lower price point, the Switch Lite is an excellent option for newcomers to gaming who don’t want to make a large investment right away.
  • Lightweight and Portable: The Switch Lite is small, light, and perfect for beginners who want a gaming console they can easily take anywhere.
  • Easy to Use: It’s a handheld-only device, so there’s no confusion about how to set it up for TV mode. You can simply turn it on and start playing.

2. Nintendo Switch (Regular Model)

• Best for Beginners Who Want Flexibility
• Price: $299.99
• Why it’s good for beginners:
  • Versatility: The regular Switch can be used in both handheld mode and docked for TV play, giving beginners the flexibility to enjoy games however they prefer.
  • Detachable Joy-Con Controllers: These controllers are ideal for multiplayer gaming, making it easier for friends or family to join in.
  • Affordable Entry to Both Modes: For just a bit more than the Switch Lite, you get the ability to enjoy gaming on a TV as well as on the go.

3. Nintendo Switch OLED

• Best for Beginners Who Want the Best Display
• Price: $349.99
• Why it’s good for beginners:
  • Superior Screen Quality: The 7-inch OLED screen offers vibrant colors and deep contrasts, which makes it great for those who want to enjoy games with high-quality visuals.
  • Better Audio: Enhanced speakers provide a richer experience for handheld gaming.
  • Improved Kickstand: A wider, adjustable kickstand allows for a more comfortable experience when playing in tabletop mode.

Conclusion on Consoles:

• If you're looking for the most affordable and portable option, the Switch Lite is your best bet.
• If you want a bit more flexibility with the option to play on the TV, go for the regular Nintendo Switch.
• If display quality and enhanced audio are important, then the Switch OLED is a great choice.

Best Nintendo Switch Games for Beginners

As a beginner, you’ll want to play games that are easy to pick up but still fun and engaging. Here are some great game recommendations for new players:

1. Animal Crossing: New Horizons

• Why it’s good for beginners:
  • Relaxing and Easy to Play: You can go at your own pace, building your island, decorating your home, and meeting neighbors.
  • No Time Pressure: The game doesn't have a strict objective, making it great for newcomers who just want a chill experience.
  • Social Play: It’s easy to visit friends’ islands or let others visit yours, which can be fun if you’re just getting into gaming.

2. Super Mario Odyssey

• Why it’s good for beginners:
  • Accessible Controls: The game is beginner-friendly, with intuitive controls and a simple but fun platforming style.
  • Exploration and Adventure: Each world you visit is vibrant and full of surprises, which makes the game enjoyable for new players.
  • Non-linear Progression: You can explore at your own pace, making it great for those new to action-adventure games.

3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

• Why it’s good for beginners:
  • Fun and Easy to Learn: The controls are simple, and the races are exciting but not overly complicated.
  • Multiplayer Fun: You can race with family and friends, making it a great choice for beginners who want to have fun with others.
  • Accessible to All Skill Levels: Whether you're a total beginner or an experienced player, Mario Kart offers a fun challenge without being too difficult.

4. Splatoon 2

• Why it’s good for beginners:
  • Unique and Non-Violent Shooter: It’s a colorful, team-based shooter that’s beginner-friendly compared to other first-person shooters.
  • Simple Mechanics: The controls are easy to learn, and the emphasis is more on fun and team strategy than on aiming precision.
  • Fun and Engaging: The game’s multiplayer modes and events keep it fresh, making it enjoyable for new players.

5. Pokémon Sword and Shield

• Why it’s good for beginners:
  • Simple RPG Gameplay: Pokémon games have long been a beginner-friendly series, with turn-based combat and an accessible progression system.
  • Exploration and Collection: You’ll love exploring the world, capturing Pokémon, and battling other trainers, all at your own pace.
  • Beginner-Friendly Difficulty: The battles aren’t too difficult for newcomers, and the game’s tutorial is helpful for those new to the series.

6. Luigi’s Mansion 3

• Why it’s good for beginners:
  • Lighthearted and Fun: The game has a spooky theme, but it’s all in good fun and not too scary.
  • Puzzle Solving: The gameplay involves exploring rooms and solving puzzles, which is relaxing and doesn’t require fast reflexes.
  • Accessible Controls: The controls are easy to learn, making it great for new gamers who want to get into action-adventure games.

Conclusion on Games:

• For a relaxing, casual experience, try Animal Crossing: New Horizons or Pokémon Sword and Shield.
• For an accessible action-adventure game, you can’t go wrong with Super Mario Odyssey.
• For multiplayer fun with friends or family, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Splatoon 2 are perfect options.

These games are easy for beginners to dive into while providing hours of fun and excitement.