Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2: Discovering the Ultimate Demo in a Surprising Spot

I had the chance to check out the Nintendo Switch 2 event in London, and what an enjoyable experience it was! The atmosphere buzzed with energy as excited children and adults alike eagerly got their first taste of the new console. The room was alive with the sound of cheers and playful banter, especially from friends gathering to play the rather oddly titled “Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV.” And let me tell you, seeing a middle-aged man triumph over a group of kids in Mario Kart World was quite the spectacle.

My main reason for attending was to get hands-on with the Switch 2 hardware. Sure, improved visuals and speedier load times are great, but what really sets the Switch 2 apart is its updated design. The bigger screen, revamped JoyCons, and advanced CPU/GPU make everything feel more immersive. But there’s one feature that truly caught my attention: the inclusion of ‘the mouse.’

At $449.99, the price tag isn’t exactly light. Yet, with Nintendo’s penchant for quirky innovations, perhaps this console will prove its worth. The Welcome Tour demo teases all the hidden gems tucked away inside this device, but I’m curious to see how other games will utilize these new features. Will they be as game-changing as the DS’s touchscreen, or perhaps as forgettable as the Vita’s?

Unexpectedly, one game that stood out today was “Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster.” Buried within its mini-games, it demonstrated remarkable use of the Switch 2’s new capabilities. The RPG features two mini-games that cleverly use the JoyCon’s mouse capabilities. One is a rhythm challenge reminiscent of Theatrhythm or Persona Dancing All Night, while the other is an eccentric airship adventure led by Ringabel, a charming yet bumbling protagonist.

These experiences likely wouldn’t translate well to a PC version, unless you wanted the hassle of connecting two separate mice—or perhaps utilizing the Steam Deck’s trackpads. Surprisingly, these mini-games are a delightful extension of what the hardware can offer and are more than just fun little distractions. They promise in-game rewards and are available in the ‘Game Corner’ menu, as noted by a helpful event guide.

The rhythm game, Luxencheer Rhythm Catch, really stole the spotlight. It seemed to charm everyone; players would often rejoin the line just to give it another go. The comparisons to Persona Dancing are obvious, but the interface borrows the best aspects of Theatrhythm, making it easy on the eyes. Using the mouse-like JoyCons, you perform hand movements that mimic dancing, perfectly aligned with what’s happening onscreen.

I always loved how Theatrhythm could make you feel like a tiny conductor, guiding melodies with a stylus. This remastered version offers a similar sense of rhythm and style, letting you jive along with the music like a seasoned dancer. It highlights just how precise and enjoyable the JoyCon’s mouse function can be.

Then there’s Ringabel’s Panic Cruise, an airship mini-game that isn’t groundbreaking in terms of hardware use but is packed with Nintendo-esque whimsy. Navigating an airship through a series of chaotic tasks, you juggle different controls and demands from your crew. Therein lies its charm—and absurdity. Your hands will be busy managing throttle, direction, and a host of other cockpit antics, creating a delightfully frantic experience.

While these are just snippets of the overall gaming possibilities, the creativity shown by Square Enix in crafting such unique small-scale adventures is promising. It suggests that third-party developers might harness the innovative spirit of the Switch 2 for even more imaginative games.

With individual games priced around $80, you’d hope for a little extra sparkle in the package. Admittedly, I was skeptical when I first approached “Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster,” but these delightful surprises make the investment feel worthwhile.

Overall, the remastered game has transitioned from a curious oddity to a prime showcase for what the Switch 2 can achieve. I had initially planned to purchase it, but now it’s also something I’ll proudly share with friends and family to illustrate why this isn’t just a slightly upgraded Switch. As a launch title, it’s exactly what the console needs to make a strong first impression. Hats off to Square Enix for a job well done.