The most controversial aspect of Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour has undoubtedly been its $10 price tag. While the software primarily serves as an interactive guide for the new $450+ console, many argue it should have been bundled for free. Despite this controversy, after spending 45 minutes with Welcome Tour, I found myself unexpectedly intrigued and even excited for its full release on June 5.
Not for Everyone, But Perfect for Nintendo Superfans
Let me be clear - Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour won't appeal to most players. However, for die-hard Nintendo enthusiasts who track financial reports, devour behind-the-scenes developer interviews, and could explain the differences between every handheld model since the DS, this experience offers unique value. The game educates players about Switch 2's features through exploration, minigames, tech demos and quizzes - all delivered with just enough Nintendo magic to feel special.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour Slideshow
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The experience begins by selecting from a wide variety of miniaturized avatar options (though I personally wished for Pikmin characters as guides). Players then explore digital recreations of the Joy-Con 2 controllers and Switch 2 console itself, uncovering hidden stamps tied to hardware components while encountering various activity stations.
"One particularly engaging minigame challenged me to pilot a UFO against endless spike balls using the new mouse controls," recalls our preview. The controls responded beautifully, and Nintendo's signature completionist elements - awarding stars based on performance - created that irresistible "one more try" temptation. Higher star counts unlock more challenging difficulties, with menus teasing numerous medals to collect.
Tech Demos That Showcase Innovation
The standout demonstration resized the original Super Mario Bros. level to 4K resolution, dramatically stretching the famously compact NES pixels across a modern screen - a clever illustration of technological progress. Other demos effectively highlighted Switch 2's HD Rumble, 120fps capability, and HDR features. Nintendo clearly wants to showcase their hardware advancements through accessible, enjoyable demonstrations rather than technical jargon.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Nintendo
Welcome Tour's Insight Quizzes delve into fascinating hardware design decisions, from the U-shaped kickstand to improved front-facing speakers. While Nintendo restricted sharing specific details pre-launch, these segments offer genuine insight into the company's typically secretive development process. The depth of information surpasses expectations - far from being a simple sales pitch, it caters specifically to tech-curious Nintendo fans.
Our Verdict So Far
While I ultimately enjoyed Welcome Tour more than anticipated, the experience reinforced my belief that this should have been a bundled introductory experience rather than a paid product. Its charming presentation and fascinating hardware insights would benefit all new Switch 2 owners. Whether $10 represents fair value for learning about cartridge slots and watching HDR fireworks remains debatable - stay tuned for our full review post-launch to help make that decision.
