As a note. For me, the ideal transition, using a hypothetical next generation Switch 2. And, just note before arguing “NO! This is unlikely to happen you stupid piece of shit!” these are ideals, not necessities :)
What I think would be major pluses:
* Not just backwards compatibility, but having the next generation hardware function as an expansion of the existing platform—that is, no “Switch mode” that is effectively an emulator for the old Switch, but Switch 2’s EShop is the same EShop as Switch 1. Some other points. Basically, once a game is bought, it’s permanent across all future Switch platforms without hurdles (like Wii Mode, or needing to access old hardware)
* Fix performance issues in the EShop. The current EShop has poor performance when loading large lists, and some videos have buffering issues.
* Switch 1 continues to be supported and viable for consumers throughout the next generation. Kind of like an old iPhone or PC still being viable despite the existence of new generations of hardware.
* Newer and patched Switch 1 games have the option for improved performance and fidelity on Switch 2.
* Getting as many games as possible on the NSO+ subscription service - I’d prefer a higher priced model with as close to everything on it as possible. 12-20 USD a month for access to full (within reason) NES, SNES, N64, GB, GBA, DS, Wii, and other older consoles games. I understand some companies are going to be infeasible due to various strategies that might not align with the Netflix style vision.
* The entire Nintendo catalogue on EShop, more options to play is always better. I don’t care about the pricing, just the option.
* Allow users to integrate old pre-Switch digital purchases into Switch 2 (excessively unlikely, but I’m focused on ideal transitions). So, for example, if someone has a bunch of VC or WiiWare purchases on Wii, they redownload those games from the EShop on Switch.
* Have a 3D model Switch 2 that can play 3DS games in 3D and newer games from other companies who want to go that route.
* Have OS aesthetic options, I thought this was really cool on 3DS, but I’d love it if I could log into Switch 2 and be greeted by an OS that has all the visual and audio aesthetics of the Wii or Classic Mini if I so choose that option—I understand this could make it a nightmare to upgrade, but again, these are ideals rather than necessities.
So, in other words, while I do think Nintendo has had good transitions, the sky is the limit for making even better ones.
I describe myself as a little dose of toxic masculinity.
