Nintendo Switch & “Zelda” Launch March 3rd

By
Garth Franklin
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Nintendo just wrapped a major presentation which has set a March 3rd release date for the Nintendo Switch which will score a simultaneous global launch.

The region-free console will cost USD$299 and consists of a tablet-like screen with detachable controllers on either side called Joy-Con controllers which each boast motion control, IR sensor, NFC Reader and haptic feedback. There are three modes:

1. TV Mode – The capacitive touchscreen sits in a dock connected to your TV. The two Joy-Con controllers connect to a block and become a traditional single gamepad or can be kept separate and used as individual motion controllers.

2. Tabletop Mode – The screen can sit on a table or desk with a retractable arm on the back holding it up.

3. Handheld Mode – The Joy-Con controllers click into the screen, turning it into a giant gamepad unit

The Switch screen is said to have battery life from 2.5-6 hours and can be charged over USB-C. Portable battery accessories will be available to charge on the go.

Up to eight Switch systems can be connected for multiplayer over wifi. The Nintendo Switch online service will be a paid service and will launch as a trial with pricing to be announced later in 2017.

Nintendo says there are over 80 games in development for the Nintendo Switch. The big launch title will be “Zelda: Breath of the Wild”. Later in the year comes “Super Mario Odyssey,” “Xenoblade Chronicles 2,” “Splatoon 2,” and “Fire Emblem Warriors” along with robot boxing game “Arms”.