Gaming Analysts Predict 'Switch Pro' And 'Switch Lite' Revisions For 2019

now this is exciting

Well, who knows.
I hope the Mini version will not too small and the Pro version is not too bulky.

Can they redo the ambassador program and give me a bunch of gba games (and more) to benefit me for being an early adopter?

I'd buy a Pro, but at the same time I'm not clamoring for one. I mostly play indie and Nintendo games and the OG Switch runs them fine. Plus I bought Satisfye's Pro gaming grip, and it's super comfortable. I'd rather Nintendo focus on some QOL stuff for the Switch first, like themes. GIVE US THEMES MIYAREGGIE-SAN

Lol at Pachter. It’s not a Switch if it’s portable only. I don’t think Nintendo are about to sell out on their concept for the entire console to release a portable only

@Bevinator

Yeah, me either. I believe that the Switch is a portable that can be played on your TV, but the fact that you can switch between the two is the whole gimmick and I don't see that changing.

Take it this is the same report where Pachter gives himself an A+ on last years predictions re: Switch sales not reaching 20m as he reckons it is tracking to be 13m (he also said in August it won't do above 8m for the year).

So the new Handheld only "switch" will now be called THE BROKEN SWITCH!

Wouldn't that preclude a number of games out of the box if they effectively ditched the joy-cons and went full handheld?

"Let's jam the same technology into a smaller space so it's cheaper."
That's not how it works.
That's not how any of this works.

Who takes this Pachter guy seriously anymore after his previous "predictions"?

Nintendo already said they are not gonna make new crap with the Switch until people had enough of the old one so don't bet your money on this just yet.

Saw Pachter and disregarded this. He's been very anti Nintendo since the Wii days and most of his predictions have been incredibly poor.

Personally wouldn't be very happy with a Pro if it meant games you can't play on the original Switch but if it's more of a PS4 Pro situation don't see too much of a problem.

Yes a Switch Pro would encourage 3rd party developers to release their AAA games on the Switch simultaneously with the xbox and PS rather than 5 year old games.

And a new 3ds with a bigger and better screen that can take Switch cards as well as ds ones, that does not connect to a TV but is renamed 3dSwitch Lite, is the way to go.

I am so happy with the current state of Switch I would hate to see this so soon... I hope they hold off until 2020

Not happening. Nintendo won't fragment the ecosystem this soon - especially with the modularity of the Switch (Joy Cons, Labo etc etc)

@toffeecrit That's what I am thinking. Games like Labo, Super Mario Party, and 12 Switch wouldn't be playable on it, and they would need to state that on the box or something.

A smaller screen would also be an issue, since games like BOTW, Hyrule Warriors, and other ports from home consoles have absurdly small text that's already hard to read on the current screen.

It'll be a very messy change.

@Frenean Nintendo threw the 3DS’ gimmick overboard with the 2DS though, so it’s not as impossible as you say, although the loss of loose controllers would cause sizable trouble with LABO and certain games.

Making a “pro”-version would be a sizable “F U” to people who bought Switch so far, not sure Nintendo will take the risk for that, either...

Nintendo will continue to release limited edition models whilst not cutting the price or releasing a hardware revision whilst it’s still selling like hot cakes.

"Pachter"

I stopped reading right there.

Revisions are definitely gonna happen, it's just hard to say when exactly.

What is the selling point of the Switch Lite? It seems like a step backwards for Nintendo to do another only handheld version. This speculation doesn’t seem on point at all.

@MysticX @Frenean It's a good point, although I'm pretty sure Nintendo dropped the 3D gimmick because of people (and parents in particular) not understanding it properly and thinking it would cause eye problems.

I agree that dropping the whole "Switch" mechanic makes absolutely no sense, and whilst both analysts make sensible predictions that would definitely generate more money... they also show a naivety that Nintendo only want to maximise profits, as opposed to delivering on their promise to entertain in new and exciting ways.

I believe a Pro version with improved specifications is far more logical, but not before late 2020, and that the standard edition will shed £50 off the price in late 2019.

I’d say 2020 would be a good year to see a Pro, but this year is a little too soon, I don’t think the game library is exhaustive enough yet to make the jump to higher specs - there’s still a ton of games I’d love to see on the current revision that need porting to it

Wasn’t it reported here @nintendolife in the past few months that Regi of Nintendo USA went on record and said there would be no Switch Pro in 2019 or was I just imagining this?

@MysticX

I don't really see how a Switch Pro would be an "F you" to people who already have one, though. No one is forcing you to buy an upgraded version, and if you don't think it's worth the money you don't have to buy it. The current state of the Switch is amazing enough that I really don't see current owners having a big reason to get one other than that they can afford to. Reiterating on a platform and making more powerful versions is ultimately good for the brand, if they do it every 2-3 years I can see the Switch having a very long lifecycle. As long as games are made for the base Switch first, I don't see what the problem is.

Pachter is a fool.

This is exactly what my thoughts have always been on the subject: Lite (same specs as current revision but handheld only thus cheaper), Standard Switch (will be in the market for 6-12 months until being completely phased out) and Pro (similar in to current revision but with higher specs). Games would work for all Switch models (unified development) much like PS4 and PS4Pro.
This is the only way to prevent people from viewing Switch in a lesser light: handhelds are associated with poor specs, kids, not hardcore (not my view but that's what most think), waterdown games, etc.
Switch sells because it caters to both "Home console" buyers AND "handheld" users. Lite and Pro can co-exist and keep the console reaching a much bigger market.

@nocdaes

True, but I think the Switch is Nintendo's best console in terms of hardware and gimmick yet. It truly is the most fun platform I've played on since I was a kid. It's easy to understand, works really well, and the transition from handheld to tv play is so fast and smooth that it feels effortless to just get up out of bed and just slide it into the dock. I liked the 3DS' 3D, but a lot of people I knew said they couldn't see it so I don't think it was entirely successful.

I can easily picture a "Lite" version with non-removable Joy Cons built-in, but there's no way it's going to lack the ability to link to a TV. It may require separate purchases of a special mini dock, and the standard separate Joy Cons (or the Pro Controller) in order to utilize the feature, but it'll definitely still have the ability to "switch".

Maybe Lite because of Pokemon 2019 being more handheld focused or a version with small QoL improvements like 64GB of storage and improved battery life but no for Pro if by Pro they mean a more powerful Switch. Way too early and with next gen Xbox and Playstation inbound a Pro model would probably lead to another Wii U situation.

@BusyTressa like even if a feckless version is released I highly doubt they'll entirely remove its ability to be charged or play via dock.

More likely it will remain compatible with docks(which can already be purchased separately) but instead the "joycons" will be built-in and unremovable(which tbh could be a plus allowing more comfortable portable play without compromising docked play potential beyond needing additional controllers).

Though even then the ability to play multiplayer on the go with multiple controllers is a strenght of the Switch unseen in previous portable consoles so even that feel unlikely since an handheld only console would kind of miss the point of "a console you can show off and play with co-workers who don't own one yet" that made the switch such a brilliant move since it basically turned every consoles into a mobile demo station.

And I can attest from different friends "people bringing their switch to work and playing with coworkers during breaks" is a thing that happens.

Pachter?? Must be true then! LMAO

I could maybe see a hardware revision where the system is more powerful (like they did with the 3DS)...but I don't see that happening anytime too soon.

And as far as the fracturing the hybrid nature behind the Switch? Yeah, no. How in the world is one supposed to play Super Mario Party with joy-cons that don't detach? lol

I predict there will be 2 versi0ns:
-Switch PRO will have more memory, better wifi, better screen, and overall build quality.
-Switch GO will have built in Joy-c0n, and a more family friendly plastic frame. I think it will still be able to c0nnect to the TV, though.

@WillQuan Same here! I see that name and cringe every single time!

@Iacobus They would still sync with regular Joy-c0n. You would just need to buy them separately. I think Nintendo would love to get you in the door with a lower price point and make up the difference by selling you accessories. It's kinda their thing.

@Ludovsky Write your own material! ;-P

if they do sell a pro or lite version i will probably buy it and mod/hack my old one mainly in preparation for the inevitable pokemon randomizer

Pachter couldn't be more off the ball here. I cannot fathom why nintendo would take away the ability to switch between home gaming and portable gaming, the concept is in the name of the product. Also fixing the joy cons to the switch at the same time seems silly. Unless they pack it in with another controller. Nintendo has used the on the go gaming and easy to pick up local multiplayer a massive pillar of their advertising efforts for switch.
Just my 2 cents.

If there is a pro version that has exclusive games, I'll hate it. Seems early in the lifecycle to do so, though.

Saw Michael Pachter, stopped reading

The Fact that 'Switch' can switch is whole appeal , Changing it in a revised version will defeat the purpose

edit..

I just can't imagine a version without remove-able joy-cons. So many games and many of the benefits of the switch being mobile have to do with table top mode and being able to detach the joy con's on the go. Motion controls would be difficult in that configuration as well. Too many reason not to do it.

@BusyTressa What exactly is your idea of a "Pro" model? If your idea is one with enhanced processing power like the New 3DS, then I agree with you. But if you think it would be beyond Nintendo to release a model of same basic internal hardware only with 64GB or 128GB of internal memory and an improved screen along side a mini-model, you're probably kidding yourself.

@Seacliff “Jamming the same technology into a smaller space” wouldnt be the only change.. there’s no dock, no HDMI cable, there’s built in controls instead of joy-con so no need for those to have their own batteries or any mechanisms to attach or connect wirelessly. It’s also pretty old tech at this point, the chip inside the Switch was already over a year old when the Switch came out so this would be a 3-4 year old chip at that point. I think a Switch mini (or whatever it gets named) for $200 would be great and absolutely still profitable.

@RandomNerds You seem to be overlooking the fact it would still be able connect to the standard Joy Cons and Pro Controllers. Even though it would require separate purchases, no functionality would permanently be lost by simply offering a version with controls built-in. Market a cheaper version specially tailored for extra portability, and once people own it, they'll likely eventually buy a dock and the separate controllers. It makes perfect sense.

I don't know about a portable only Switch. I know a lot of people think of the Switch as a powerful handheld, which of course it is. But the ability to Switch really sells the fact that these are console quality games on the go, which the marketing has been clear about. The clear marketing is a big reason the Switch has done so well and I doubt they'd want to screw it up. A "pro" model, same size more powerful, could work though and wouldn't interfere too much.

@Bevinator which is why he literally said in his quote:

"Since it can't "switch" from handheld to console, it's hard to guess what they will call it"

Some people's blind rage for that guy astounds me.

@Sidon_ZoraPrince yeah but... if Nintendo did go through with what he's predicting, and break the "hybrid" nature of the product, you can sure bet they would go the all portable route that he's proposing vs. the home console route.

@BusyTressa think more along the lines of PS4 vs. PS4 Pro instead. Same game is compatible for both, just runs at a higher resolution/framerate on the Pro.

It wouldn't be like a New 3DS situation.

Lets say they do release a new version and I upgrade... Does this mean I won't be able to download any eshop purchases on the new one? I remember reading somewhere they were non-transferable, or at least that Nintendo were very fussy about allowing you to do so...

Michael “10 milion with a price cut” Patcher
Michael “Listen to my stock suggestions and lose money” Patcher
Michael “Iwata the late and not so great” Patcher
Michael “XBOX One will be the dominant console” Patcher
Michael “This is the last generation of consoles (7th Gen)” Patcher
And now another one to add to this list:
Michael “Predict two models will come out the same year, because the internet said so” Patcher

Although I don't agree with Pachter, his Switch lite suggestion is about replacing the 3DS, rather than an alternative to Switch. It's specifically for those younger customers.

Although I think Nintendo is targeting them through smartphones.

I think we'll get a revised Switch. Looks a bit different. Slight bump in battery life. Some minor spec revision. But a better WiFi connection for game streaming.

it's possible because they will probably keep the life cycle longer and for further interest

The stripped down model will be called the Light Switch!

@Frenean Well they kind of rebranded the 3DS to 2DS which also changed the whole gimmick...

Here's what I'm picturing:
"The Pro model"-- $300, Will replace and will essentially be the same as the current hardware, only with 128GB of internal storage, and possibly improved battery life.

"The Lite Model"-- $200, 64GB of memory, controls built-in (will feature D-pad instead of separate directional buttons), smaller screen. Special mini dock available but sold separately. Separately purchased Joy Cons can connect wirelessly but won't be able to attach.

I love how analysts predict things and online vloggers theorize. Both are basically the same but one group do it for a living and the other are annoying people who guess. I'll let you decide which is which.

My question to Mr Pachter is - just because he thinks the joycons will not be detachable on a new Switch, why does that mean it can't dock?

No reason for that whatsoever (you can dock the current switch with joycons attached) and Nintendo will avoid brand confusion at the same time...

@jrscruff nah dude, just throw your account information on to your Switch and download away.

@MysticX Not really accurate to say they threw the 3DS' gimmick overboard with the 2DS. The 3DS was basically "DS, but with 3D", not a whole new thing. The core of its identity was dual screens, with one of them touch-sensitive. The 3D was just a novelty. There was, what, one game that made it a gameplay feature? And it made the machine too expensive to be really kid-friendly, in addition to major concerns about the effect of the 3D on younger kids' vision which were keeping it from reaching its largest potential audience.

To fight that problem, they stripped the 3D, but they kept all the features that made it a DS.

Making a "Switch Lite", or whatever people want to call it, would be a much bigger change. It would take away its trademark feature. The Switch logo is literally two Joy-Con, just like the logo for the whole DS family was two screens. This would be a whole new machine, not a Switch.

Again, I wouldn't presume to say there's no chance Ninty will do this. They've done some strange stuff in their time. But I don't think it's very likely, certainly not right now when the Switch is moving numbers Nintendo haven't seen since the Wii and they are still selling 3DSes and 2DSes.

Michael Pachter is such a plonker. Wish I could get paid big bucks for talking bollo... rubbish.

I’d take a mini version for sure. Something I can lob in a jacket pocket and not be tooooo precious about.

BUT I would need to transfer the games I’ve already bought to it. Deal breaker.

If Nintendo release an enhanced model, I hope it coincides with the release of a Fire Emblem version.

A Switch Lite revision in 2019 and a Switch Pro in 2020 sounds realistic.

I do not expect a handheld-only, JoyCon-less Switch SKU, as the hybrid concept is far too successful to abandon, not to mentioned the fact that games like Super Mario Party and 1-2 Switch are unplayable in handheld mode (and would thus be completely unplayable on this supposed handheld-only, JoyCon-less Switch SKU).

I also do not expect 3rd party publishers to release games that are only playable on the Switch Pro.

Some people need to keep their expectations in check.

@Bevinator for sure, Nintendo would never do that. Like the 3DS, they would never release a stripped down version that removed a key feature.... Oh wait.

Other than Pro Controller like sticks and buttons or perhaps longer battery life, I don't see anything else a "Pro" Switch could realistically add without needlessly segmenting the hardware. EDIT: And even those are unnecessary.

These rumors has been around since before the launch of the Switch. However it's always debunked by Nintendo.

I do think we'll see a Switch refresh. But no smaller screen, and no huge upgrade in specs. (All games will be compatible with the OG. Switch, but some games might run better on it).

And IF we'll see it, it will launch with Pokémon Gen 8.

Handheld only won't work, because there are games that don't work handheld only. (For instance 1..2 Switch and Super Mario Party) Also a smaller Switch wouldn't fit in the Labo kits or the current dock.

I can’t see a revision but stability updates

I could see Nintendo doing something like the 2DS for the Switch when the new Pokemon game comes out, but if it doesn't have detatchable joy cons you won't be able to play Pokemon: Let's Go so I don't believe that is the direction they'll go..

a "switch lite" wrecks the whole concept of the switch; switching from portable to handheld so, no. i expect a revised version of the switch launching alongside the next gen playstation and xbox consoles though.

@AstralOrange64 A better battery would mean a BIGGER battery, and by that logic the screen would actually be bigger than the current screen. It might come in the form of a Switch XL with a larger screen actually.

My prediction is, Switch will be Nintendo's only console sooner or later and the 3DS/2DS will be replaced by mobile games.👍

@MrBlacky Nope. The 3DS/2DS will be replaced by a "GameBoy Switch (or different name)". Which would actually also play Switch games (handheld mode) and special games made for this system.

Mark these words.

I think they are right on everything...but the not being able to dock. I can see the controllers not coming off, and you would need to buy a dock, and or controllers separately. I don't think it just won't be able to dock. That doesn't save them money at all.

What kind of hardware do these "Switch Pro" predictors expect to be in the revision and how much do they expect it to cost?

@sanderev
In a 2-3 years, we will see, who's more right.🙂

@daveloft What key feature? 3D? Can you name three games that used 3D as a gameplay feature? I personally only know of one. Every other 3DS game I know about, you could disable the 3D with ZERO effect on gameplay. If 3D had been an integral feature of any games I would not have been able to play them, as I'm blind in one eye.

The 3Ds was part of the DS family. So was the 2DS. 3D was never its identity.

I'd like to see a new Switch model.

I always think of this when I see the images above:

https://inceptionalnews.wordpress.com/2015/06/26/heres-the-gist-of-my-idea-for-nintendos-nx/

But, given how the Switch works, I'm not sure a version that doesn't have detachable Joy-Con makes best sense. It depends on how many games would be affected by not having the option and if it's a small enough issue to ultimately not matter. But, I absolutely think it still needs to have both the full portable and docked options--that's easily its biggest USP--Pachter, you fool.

It will be interesting to see what Nintendo ultimately goes with in a new Switch model.

@MrBlacky The fact is, Nintendo is reluctant to make the Switch the successor of the DS line of systems.

But I honestly believe there won't be another DS system. Dual screens just don't work out really well. And it's mostly a gimmick on the 3DS.

However handheld is still the biggest market for Nintendo. So going back to a single screen handheld only (which supports Switch games) seems plausible.

Nintendo isn't going to give their full handheld market to Google or Apple. Even IF Nintendo would go "mobile" for their next handheld I'd say that they'll make a special fork of Android that has a Nintendo eShop for Nintendo games (and physical buttons)

What's the purpose of a switch pro ? Bigger screen so that we will have to buy new joycons again ? Meh
A switch mini ... maybe, why not, but a Switch pro ... No please, it's useless, knowing how Nintendo manage marketing and communication, I'm almost sure that it will be misleading

@LightBeam As long as it doesn't have exclusive games I can get behind a Switch Pro.

The Switch Pro should, however, remain the same size. But come with a faster CPU/GPU and more internal storage.

@sanderev
The Switch is already the successor to the Wii U. Didn't say anything about it being the DS family successor.🤔 In fact, I said mobile games will replace the DS-/3DS-lineup.

@MrBlacky Read my entire reply DS market is a LOT bigger than the Nintendo mobile market. (So that won't happen) Also going mobile only would mean that Nintendo would lose 30% of their mobile revenue to Apple and Google. (So, again not happening)

And phones don't have proper controller buttons and sticks. Making gaming on them nearly impossible. (except for simple match-4 style games and autorunners)

Honestly, this needs to stop. It’s called SWITCH for a reason. If this happens and they make a dedicated form of the Switch, it better have a different name. The Nintendo Leave-Me-In-One-Piece, or the Nintendo LMIOP. I think the whole “Pro” thing is ridiculous. What more can it do? It would only splinter the market. What good did it do for New 3DS? Faster load times? 4 or 5 exclusive games?
I’m all about improvements but come on I just bought the thing a year ago. I don’t need to go buy a “pro” version.

@Alto Then don't. You can play almost any 3DS game on the first 3DS Nintendo released.

A Switch Pro will play all Switch games. It will have some improvements in some games, but I don't think any games will be Switch Pro exclusives. Same situation as on the PS4 Pro and the XBOX ONE X...

@sanderev
Like I said: We will see.😉

@thatawesomedude I did consider it, but I feel like Nintendo wouldn’t do that. I feel like they’d just keep them removable. But to your point, yes, permanently attached joy-cons wouldn’t prevent other wirless controllers from beign used.

@MrBlacky Indeed we will. But I would also like a Nintendo developed smartphone. But then with a Gamepad attachment (optional) so you can play certain NES and SNES games on it.

@sanderev I’m picking up what you’re putting down... someone said above how it would be cool to see a switch mini. That’s cool. Maybe a clamshell switch or something where I didn’t have to be so worrisome lugging around because of the screen. Or a switch that could play 3ds games...
I guess it’s kind of counter-intuitive in my head though. You’d want 3rd party publishers to have an opportunity to port their graphically intense games to switch easier, but then you leave your customers who don’t buy the hardware in the dust. Games sitting on shelves because people don’t see the need to upgrade. I think 3rd party publishers would see that and still not port the games over even if they could. (Not worth it for them)

Time will tell!

Switch Lite messaging “Hey, here’s a cheaper handheld Switch that can’t be play with some of our games, and also can’t be used in tabletop or table-only mode. Make sure to read those game boxes!”
Switch Pro messaging “Hey, here’s a more powerful Switch and dock. You can’t use the old switch with this new dock, or the old dock with this new switch. Also, not all games even take advantage of it. Make sure to read those game boxes! (And it melts after 30 minutes in handheld)”

This is legit, got it from Pachter’s uncle at Bintendo.

@Bevinator, watch. They'll call it the Nintendo Solo!

Give me a Switch lite for on the go please!

Dude I just ordered a Switch, if they will release a Pro in the upcoming months I'll be really pissed off!

Weren't they on the Doom train like last month?

Switch 2 in 2020 id take with backwards compatibility and a lot better hardware but tbh a pro would be rather pointless if it can only play the same stuff as a regular switch
A lite I can see happening as a game boy style

I just want them to fix the current console from the frequent overheating, fix the kickstand and provide a better dock that doesn't block air flow.

So, more people who don't actually know, make the same assumptions as everyone else. They just have a fancy title while doing it.

This has happened before. Without Nintendo playing ball.

Leave it to Michael Pachter to make the dumbest possible prediction about a Nintendo console. And this one is pretty stupid even for him. Has there ever been another soul on this planet so utterly incapable of understanding Nintendo products than that guy?

My TLDR; Keep the Joycons, release an Expansion Dock for existing Switch Users alongside Switch 'Pro' for PS5/Project Scarlett parity.

The 3DS will remain THE handheld to go to for the next 1.5 years minimum, until Nintendo are able to profit off a Nintendo Switch that sells at a $140-200 price tag. Nintendo have expressed their commitment to the platform, and while it may not be receiving any new high-profile games, it retains an impressive library of existing ones. The 3DS/2DS has no challengers in the low-end console spectrum.

The current Switch currently exists at the medium-high end of the console spectrum, trailing more so to the med-end VS the PS4/One leading towards the higher-end. Considering the rumors of the potential PS5 & the growth of the One X AKA the purely high-end console market, it's reasonable to believe if there is a revision it would follow suit in that high-end market. Despite history of Nintendo under-powering their consoles (480P Wii amongst 1080P PS3/360 & Wii U vs current-gen), I believe current third-party interest has Nintendo wanting otherwise this time. For that, they need be sure that there is some form of console performance parity WITHOUT sacrificing the good points of the current Switch.

Nintendo will never have a Joycon-less, "all-in-one" Switch. It is unreasonable to ask developers to take advantage of Joycon-dependent gameplay without the guarantee that EVERY Switch user have them. To introduce a Pro version by itself may also alienate the existing user-base if we consider how substantial such a leap may be.

The best compromise IMO is Nintendo releases a Switch 'Pro' (the 'new' Nintendo Switch, etc) that features similar design , substantially better performance but ALSO an expansion dock for existing Switch users to have parity with the new Switch. Considering how developers currently juggle portable/docked performance, I would imagine the above setup to look like this:

Portable (current Switch)
Docked (current Switch) / Portable (new Switch)
Expansion (current Switch) / Docked (new Switch)
OR
Portable (current Switch)
Docked (current Switch)
Expansion (current Switch) / Portable (new Switch)
Docked (new Switch)

This performance parity is REALLY important if Nintendo want to continue building their third-party library with the current momentum they have with the Switch that we haven't seen on any other Nintendo console to date.

The Switch Light will launch in 2019. It will be smaller overall with a 5" screen, and the controls will be built in and not detachable. It will retail for $199.

Joy Cons and Pro controllers will be fully compatible via Bluetooth. Sold separately.

A new Mini Dock will be available to connect your Switch Light to a TV. The mini dock will be very small, meant for portability. It will be sold separately for $65.

The Switch Pro will be released in 2020. It will be an iterative upgrade, like a new iPhone. It will go head to head with the PS5 and Xbox Scarlet. It will retail for $399.

I'm not sure why Nintendo would make a "Switch Mini" and sell it for $200 when, thanks to the Switches becoming cheaper to manufacture over time, Nintendo could just sell a dockless Switch for $200 and still make money.
Plus, with Nintendo's push to get multiple consoles in each home and for casuals to buy the system with Animal Crossing and Pokemon coming out this year, it's important to get a SKU out that hits that magic $200 or under price point.

I have no idea if they're correct, but I'm hoping for but. I'd like to see the mini/Cheap version because I want more people to jump in the band wagon, but I really want a pro version with Bluetooth headphone support, a bigger battery, smaller screen bezzels, more RAM & a faster processor. I was going to buy the Smash Special edition and hand my current Switch to my kids, but then I heard the rumor about the Switch Pro and decided to wait for that one instead. I know it'll cost more, but I'll be happy to pay for it

In a world where the 2DS existed and undermined the main gimmick of the 3DS, it's hard to say for sure that Nintendo won't do something silly like making an Un-Switchable Switch version, but I really hope they don't, that'd be pointless.

And how would he know?

They won't squish on their newly happy Switch base by making a more powerful system that will have (pro) exclusive game, they learned that lesson hard on the New 3DS, it will alienate the existing users if they go that route. A faster system with better battery and able to always put out a static 1080p, yes that will happen for sure.

Here's my problem a lite would effective kill the Switch. Games and some retro games I own require detached Joy-Cons. So a lite is going backward not forward. Pro will probably rumor in 2020 but no release date. I suspect 2021 the most likely timeline. Thermal cooling in such small package will require alot of R&D before - should we get a nvidia 2000 series mobility family GPU.

I'd buy a Pro if it would let me have mirrored devices. I don't want to discard or sell my current console. I would leave the pro at the house, and take the regular one out and about.

@Jokerwolf they learned the opposite. N3DS and N2DS both sold handsomely. You, my friend, are suffering from a case of not knowing what you're talking about.

A Switch pro with more power and more space, and a bigger screen?if that happends day one buy from me.

I believe there is a revision on the drawing board, but I think it's too early to hear about...the first one is selling too well right now. Maybe if it doesn't meet it's sales goal for the fiscal year, but it's going to be so close that I think they will keep riding the train for now.

I have a hard time with the "lite" version, too. I don't think Nintendo can afford to sacrifice features with this one.

I think they will have a Switch 2.0 of sorts. Same features with more ram or a faster Tegra processor to keep pace for next gen. I wouldn't rule out some games not playing well or not compatible with the old Switch if it goes that far, though.

@Al_Godoy No, you clearly don't know that there were only about 4 games that required the power boost of the New 3DS and that aspect of it failed hard because consumers were rightly pissed that they could not play certain games on the older hardware. What I am saying is, if they make games that utilize the extra power and don't run on the older Switch units they will split the user base and people will be pissed and rightly so.

@BlueKnight07 If they do that then people will be up in arms, after the Wii U Nintendo cannot afford to screw it up so I doubt games will only run on a Revision. Expect them to possibly release a full new Switch generation for that.

No, detachable controllers are not happening. It's like taking out the touchscreen on one of the 3DS iterations. Not happening. It is crucial to a lot of games to have motion controls, and the whole concept of the "multiplayability" with the Switch is that you can share a controller. Not happening at all.

@Seacliff actually it does work that way. They shrink the screen and maybe drop it's resolution (smaller & cheaper), smaller screen means they can use a smaller battery (smaller & cheaper) they remove all the mechanical pieces that allow removable Joy cons (cheaper) & it no longer needs a Bluetooth chip to connect controllers (cheaper)

I know 'analysts' need to write stuff but I think a Lite model is pie-in-the-sky. Nintendo may redesign the Switch if they can reduce costs but I simply cannot see any reason why they would be looking at introducing a lower price SKU when the current model is (a) selling better than last year; and (b) hasn't had a price drop.

@Jokerwolf Xenoblade Chronicles 3D sold half a million copies which is still a decent number for that saga. Nintendo stated early on that they would still focus on games supported by the entire family, the N would just give a faster UI and a better online experience

The N3DS is a definitive example of exactly how they should go about releasing a "pro" Switch.

@Indielink Thanks man! Was always paranoid about that if my switch broke

@BusyTressa

I think no doubt about it there will be a NEW 3DS type update. What will you see on there? How about systems from their past like N64/DS/3DS/GCN games with an online membership and the updated model? Or just being able to get full 1080p/30-60 FPS on some of those titles that don't quite get there in docked mode. They had a ton of success with the jump to New 3DS and then didn't support it that much with NEW 3DS only games. I would bet they do it again but this time make it more worthwhile.

Crazy speculations imho. The motion controls are crucial to the switch, so the Patcher's lite version is no sense. Imho.

Anyway I would buy a pro version probably. If it's worth the money. I am completely satisfied with the standard.

Michael Patcher may be the worst video game insider/analyst ever. As soon as I see his name, I immediately disregard everything that comes after.

@Zuljaras
Why would exclusive games be a disaster?

With respect, that seems a poorly thought out conclusion.

Any exclusive games would only be exclusive because they cant run on the base model. Which means, they're games you wouldn't be getting anyways. Which means, there's no reason not to make a Pro model that can run a few extra games.

There's literally zero downside.

Really wish people would stop posting the mock-ups of a Switch with non-removable Joy-Cons. A system like that would go against the very brand that they’ve tried to establish - and they’ve learned their lesson from the Wii U.

The cheaper version will probably just use a Tegra with a smaller die, so that it can be passively cooled. Better battery life and cheaper to manufacture.

The more expensive version with have to feature something more compelling than simply a processor bump.

If they do come up with a mini I may be tempted for my kids but I would want a way to share the software I’ve already bought on my switch with them rather than buy yet again and we know Nintendo’s POV on that.

@apoqalypse You realize simply having non-removable controls built-in doesn't mean regular Joy Cons sold separately couldn't still connect. It would actually be quite smart for them to have a version like this available, especially since if the controls don't detach, there's no reason not to have a D-Pad. Plenty of people would buy it just for that alone.

@Al_Godoy I beg to differ, it had nothing good to offer as far as games and the ones they did release were still not that much greater than the base hardware provided. MS stayed away from releasing games for just the X Sony did the same with the Pro. None of them are stupid enough to split their user base trust me.

Put me down for 2 Switch Pro, Day 1!!

As long as all new software is compatible with the old and all new hardware can play the existing games I think it's fine whatever revisions they come up with.

@Jokerwolf
They won't squish on their newly happy Switch base by making a more powerful system that will have (pro) exclusive game, they learned that lesson hard on the New 3DS

1 The only thing they "learned" from New 3DS is that is sold exponentially more than the lite version 2DS. They "learned" consumers loved the crap out of it, and they'll be extremely eager to do the exact same thing with Switch

2 They're not crapping on anyone by having exclusive games on a more powerful system. If games are exclusive, it's for a reason: they cant run on the original model anyways. So nobody is missing out on anything. Those exclusive games were never going to be on the base model anyways. The only people who will get upset are a few immature people on the internet who lack critical thinking skills and dont understand the problem is actually just their own envy and jealously.

it will alienate the existing users if they go that route

No, it won't. Nobody would be "alienated" from a system that just happens to do a little more. It wouldn't be stealing games away from Switch owners. It would only be adding a few additional games as a bonus that the base model Switch could never run in the first place... meaning base model Switch owners are still getting 100% of what they would have gotten if Switch Pro didn't exist.

And Sony/MS didn't avoid exclusives because it would "split the base", they avoided them because there are no games that couldn't at least still run on the base models (which is the only REASON a game would need to be exclusive in the first place). If games existed that NEEDED the extra power to run, you best believe they'd put that game on the X1X and Pro as an exclusive quicker than you can grab your wallet. Better to have it on one model than have it on none. Same for Switch and Switch Pro. If a game cant run on the base model, its better to have it running on a Pro than running on neither.

I call zero chance on a "lite" version as Pachter predicts. Zero.

Apart from it no longer "switch"ing ... Too many games rely on different controller schemes, separate motion between controllers and so on.

Most importantly... Where is the cost reduction? You could remove the battery and charging systems in both controllers, and the controller detection switches... But what else? No value. Won't happen.

@JaxonH There won't be a pro anyways I don't know why we are arguing. It will be a revision that runs all current games a bit better and can hold a steady 1080 in handheld.

@Jokerwolf What you just described is a Pro version...

@Claytonbob You can share games. That's what the last OS update did. There are a handful of restrictions but you certainly can do it.

@Indielink kind of, but others are trying to suggestthat it would use its new power to play games that the old version of the system would not be able to play and that's not going to happen I don't care what anybody says. It is an extremely bad business decision to do that if they go that route and if we've learned anything from Sega and too many revisions to console systems nobody's going to do it.

@JaxonH Nah, Sony/Microsoft avoided exclusives for PS4 Pro/XB1X by doing the Hyrule Warriors Legends approach. While you can buy newer games on the less powerful hardware, you run the risk of it having horrible performance issues.

Switch Pro I could see happening after the N3DS' success.

A Switch lite sounds a little more farfetched but the 2DS was a thing.

@Grumblevolcano
Some of them might run with issues... but they all run, and only an extremely small percentage have what I’d call “horrible” performance. Every game can run on every model. There might be a performance disparity, but they all run. With Switch base model, on the other hand, it physically can not run a good number of games out there. Like... at all.

The big thing that kept exclusives at bay on New 3DS was ROI. By not selling to the majority, most projects just weren’t worth investing in. Which is why it was mostly smaller releases requiring less investment, like SNES VC, that saw exclusivity on the system.

I think Switch is hot enough though that, if they release early enough (before the end of 2019), they’ll be able to sell a sizeable portion of Pro units to make some exclusive titles worthwhile. Especially now that it’s vastly easier to port to than 3DS or Wii U ever was.

@Jokerwolf I could see Nintendo doing it. It didn't backfire for them with the New 3DS.

The Sega analogy is wrong because they put out several completely different systems with totally different hardware. A Switch Pro would still be a Switch at its core so if it gets a handful of third parties that wouldn't have otherwise happened then that isn't necessarily a bad thing

@Indielink It would be smarter to just wait 2 more years then move on to the Switch 2 and cut in half way through the next generation.

I just want a switch sold without the dock for a reasonable price. That means if the dock is $80 I want at least $60 off the purchase price.

Reducing the bezels would be nice too.

@StevenG the technology is also there to have a better battery in the same space which is something they need to address going forward, though if they jump over to a pascal chip then I guess it's a non-issue they can use the same battery and get about 40% more life out of it.

@leo13 If you've played Hyrule Warriors or BOTW in portable mode, then you would know the text for a lot of these games are already so small. Shrinking the screen would make some games illegible.

And a game's Resolution is code handled on the software side, you can't cleanly cut down a game's resolution without seeing plenty of visual artifacts.

Nope.

Not before 2020.

Bank on it.

This is very bad news about two more ver. of console ehh. we need one only one. If they want new ver, ok then Nintendo Switch 2 with better hardware and software, thats all.

Don't think I'd be bothered with either anyway - am not paying for another console. I rarely even use my Switch as a handheld apart from for indie games. The screen on the console doesn't do games like Breath of the Wild justice, it looks way better on the big screen and much more comfortable with the pro controller.

This is interesting, Nintendo has been slow to iterate its home consoles, and quick with (some of) it’s portables. Since the switch is both i am curious as to which way they go. Both Sony and Microsoft have launched “pro” and “slim” models either simultaneously or within a year of each other.

So none of this is based on fact, just people guessing.

To add on to #63 if this actually happened, it would be the first time Nintendo released two handheld revisions/consoles in the same year since 1998 when both the Game Boy Light and Game Boy Color were both released.

I could see a pro dock. Otherwise, Nintendo will save a Pro model for when Microsoft and Sony make their move to better keep up with something relatively close in power as far as handhelds go.

@JaxonH There is a downside because if I'm not mistaken the New 3DS only games drew criticism and didn't sell as well as Nintendo had hoped. Sony and Microsoft even proved this point further by selling a ton of 4K models sans exclusives.

I'd be down for a smaller Switch that's more focused on portable play, as that currently represents 70-80% of my gaming time. Keep the TV component, though, I do enjoy being able to spend the odd weekend playing a gorgeous game on the big screen.

@thatawesomedude It sends the wrong message in terms of marketing, shows uncertainty about the concept and it just dilutes the brand. I do not see it happening at all. A Pro version, like suggested, is a far better decision by the company.

Of course it all would depend on what the upgrade would give you with a more powerful Switch but I'm all in on it. I've absolutely loved my Switch far more than I ever thought I would and can't wait to get if I'm lucky a second Zelda game and if really lucky HD ports of the 3DS OoT and Majora's Mask. Nintendo hands down has the best first party franchises to offer it's just a question of will they continue to actually dust them off?

Any hypothetical "Switch Pro" wouldn't need a performance upgrade at all, as such. A 1080p screen that runs at current docked performance in handheld mode seems like the logical step forward, and will not, in any way, split the market. Nintendo could also include a toggle that allows the "Switch Pro" to run at the regular Switch's handheld performance when undocked to further conserve battery life when on the go (as the "Switch Pro" will require a more powerful battery).

That, and a more child-friendly Switch would be great for families, especially as the Switch, in its current form, is too fragile and expensive for children to use as a portable device.

@NIN10DOXD
By whom, exactly? This is the Internet, there’s always somebody criticizing something. You could have mother Theresa donating her house to the homeless, and some people would criticize it.

By and large, as a general rule, people were extremely happy to see the New 3DS add games to the library the base model was incapable of running, like Xenoblade and SNES VC. I’m not sure what Nintendo “hoped” for, because they never announced any sales targets, but Xenoblade sold over 500k as a New 3DS exclusive selling to a far smaller install base, and as a port, compared to the 1 million on Wii which sold to over 100 million gamers. I’d say if anything, it exceeded expectations. New 3DS also released well into its 4th year on the market, and even with a beefier chip, still wasn’t even remotely powerful enough to get console ports. As a result, the added power didn’t really bring many exclusives from 3rd parties.

By releasing even a year sooner, they’ll get much greater buy-in, and with potential exclusive games the added power would bring, since Switch is close to being able to run soooo many games, there will be a lot more value to Switch Pro than New 3DS could have ever dared to dream of having.

@hihelloitsme there is no logical reason it could not dock as normal probably about 5mins of programming to make the attached joy cons irrelevant while docked a kid friendly switch is destined I'm sorry to say.

I'd personally buy a Switch Pro, if it had improved performance. But only if it doesn't split the userbase, and is purely for things like load times, frames, and consistent 1080p, rather than variable resolution, like with Splatoon 2.

This would be similar to how the Xbox and PS4 revisions were mostly for allowing better performance, while not splitting the library up.

You have to think something is coming since its been a while for a revised system. Nintendo are kings of revised systems. I would think we will hear something between now and E3.

These are the facts it does not matter if the revise it or not because if Metroid Prime 4 does not come out in 2019 the world will end

@Silly_G not enough to get me to shell out another $399

I suspect when it arrives it will just be a series of refinements - a new chip (maybe Tegra X3 or a custom one?), better battery life, better screen, that sort of thing. Christmas 2020 or Spring 2021. Full compatibility with the original Switch (which will drop in price) on all games but better performance on the newer model. Like the difference between playing the same game on Xbox One S and X. At least I hope that's what it is. 2019 feels too soon to me, especially for anything that might have exclusive games on it that the 'standard' Switch couldn't play.

I do like that old rumour/wish - the idea of an enhanced dock being released at some point, one with separate processing power in it so games run better in docked/TV mode than handheld. Rather that than two separate consoles that each play different games, anyway.

Honestly, I'd be happy with a few design modifications. Every Nintendo console/handheld in this century has initially had a weird design aspect that leads people to wonder, "...WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT?!"

Example:

Putting both the Power button and the cartridge slot on the bottom side of the 3DS LL/XL...right where people rest their pinky fingers to support the console's weight.

WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT?! It makes random game ejection and power-off screens exponentially more likely.

The Switch has a puzzling issue, as well - why would you put the MicroSD card slot underneath the kickstand...without a cover to protect it?

Kids aren't careful, as a general rule, and it's SUPER easy to accidentally trigger the eject mechanism, which automatically turns off the system.

Saving the game data ON the system is...not a great system.

So, yeah - some improvements would be nice.

@MetaRyan They already do this in Japan.
Though it's closer to $230, I believe.

@foodmetaphors HDMI cable and the dock are not expensive to manufacture. The dock is nothing more than a USB-C to HDMI extender surrounded in plastic.

You are also only looking at very basic parts of the Switch's hardware. From what I know about the Switch's current hardware:
-The circuit board's vertical length is reached both ends of the system, meaning it will need to be repurposed and resized. This WILL need to be smaller, and it WILL be more expensive doing so.
-The current fan is 1/6th of the hardware. This fan WILL need to be smaller WHILE being just as, if not more, powerful. Meaning it will be a more expensive fan.
-The Switch's battery takes over 1/3rd of the consoles space. This WILL need to be smaller, while still being able to hold a reasonable amount of energy. At the very least, it's not going to be cheaper.

And that's only the cost problem. I already said in other posts the issues regarding a smaller screen and the removal of Joycons.

Nintendo’s gonna do what Nintendo’s gonna do. Trying to make predictions is a pointless endeavour.

I decided to wait for the new revision to buy a switch when the Wall Street Journal article came out indicating there'd be one in 2019. I know a lot of people who are waiting for the revision too.

As someone who feels the library is lacking (and the announced games don't change that), I'd be disappointed if I bought the current model and didn't get much use of it, then a better model came out.

If Nintendo announced an unexpected new game that I really had to play, I might change my mind... I remember the N64 / Gamecube generation when Nintendo's biggest games weren't always routine entries into established series.

Until then I'll keep buying and playing the heavily discounted Wii and Wii U games I never finished that Nintendo keeps porting to the Switch.

I'd definitely buy a Switch lite; I'd treat it as a Vita 2.0.

I think both are quite possible. But Nintendo isn't exactly known for for following industry norms.

@derty speculation?

@IceEarthGuard zero likes

The problem i have with a Pro Switch is it needs to be a proper mid gen upgrade which all current games can benefit from, not just new ones. Not like the new 3DS which was almost pointless.

@tangram I believe a switch pro would lessen 3rd party support. They already have one x and pro to worry about as well as base consoles. A whole other mid gen machine would just be annoying

@Heavyarms55 : Since Iwata-san's death, I feel like Nintendo has been quite receptive to industry norms, unfortunately.

i like the idea of a lite version that may fit better in my pocket, but this trend on mid generation "pro" consoles is getting dumb.

@Snakesglowcaps I was just joking heheh, so do I have 5+ dislikes?

Is it because people thought I believe that it would be a thing? Well I guess it does sound like it in the comment XD.

I’ve analysed the analysts analysis, and both are wrong. Nothing happening this year, unless Nintendo are stupid ... and they’re not.

Christ, this is the New 3DS all over again.

Nintendo can't wait for everyone to upgrade or downgrade their Switch because currently Switch is hackable.

A Pro version with OLED screen, more internal storage and longer battery life will be very enticing.

I'd be okay with an upgrade. Pass down my old Switch to my nephew.

@MysticX

But with the 2DS, the name is clear.

What do you call a handheld-only Switch? Nintendo Downgrade?

@Silly_G I wouldn't say that following norms is entirely unfortunate. If Nintendo followed some norms more, it'd be great. The Switch would have bluetooth headphone support, proper online voice chat, messaging, folders, and the like.

But I would agree if Nintendo followed the norms like micro transactions, rampant overpriced DLC, loot boxes, etc... That would be very unfortunate.

@Pete41608 A handheld-only Switch can be called anything because if it doesn't switch between TV and handheld it's not a Switch.

That makes it a DS replacement

Anyone else find the the term "Switch Pro" crap?

They tested the water with the new 3DS and didn't follow through with it, plus they would have seen the sales of enhanced Xboxes and PS4s and seen that all it does is appease a small corner of the market. The only people they'll sell these units to are people that frequent sites like this.

Any revisions will be based around battery life, storage, build and display. They're not going to buckle and beef it up because third parties can't shoehorn their PS4 games onto the system or to shut up people who cry when they watch Digital Foundry vids.

But yeah, power.

@Roam85 That was after a price cut onm 3DS a few months after launch. This will be over 2 years later. XD

Built in joy cons might be a stretch as it would rule out Mario party, Labo, just dance and so on. Now a switch with 3ds support I may consider

Considering that some games need joycons, i doubt there will be a "uni-body" switch. Remember the PSVita TV? Good chunk of games was off-limits.

I could go for a "pro" version if it supports 4K HDR and with a little bit more internal storage space.

Also liked those lite mock-ups with different colors covering the entirety of the system. Instead of the ever present black screen portion.

If they release a Switch Lite with permanently attached Joy Con I'm 100% sure that you will be able to connect regular Joy Con to play Mario Party and it will also be able to dock.

Bluetooth chips are not expensive (in the current hardware it is integrated into the Wifi chip) and the ability to output video via USB C is likely a standard feature of the Tegra SoC.

Call the lite one "Switch Off"
and the pro "Switch On"

@Mayor_Haggar There is nothing to address, that is just the media amplifying rare cases. Click bait articles and rival companies paying bad reporters.

As someone who plays handheld mode 99% of the time id love a revision with a better battery.
Like how you could change the Wii U game pad to have a double life battery.

@MetaRyan This is exactly what I was thinking. Why make a lite version with non detachable controllers? This would compromise a lot of functionality. Just sell the current model without the dock. Table top mode would still be possible.

They're already selling the dock separately, but I can imagine more families wanting multiple switches with only one dock than vice versa.

As you say, I'm sure they could price it at, or close to, $200 and still make a profit.

If there is a revised model, for god's sake Nintendo please improve the wifi! I often have trouble connecting even when I'm just 5 or 6 feet from the router. It rarely is able to connect when docked and my dock is only about 20 feet from the router, with no walls or anything in the way.

@apoqalypse By that logic, Nintendo shouldn't have released a 3DS without 3D, yet they did. Nintendo has already demonstrated they indeed WOULD do this-- it's all about targeting the entry-level base with a cheaper more kid-friendly option. And this case makes even more sense than with the 2DS because it could easily be upgradable by simply buying separate Joy Cons and a dock. You can't upgrade a 2DS to 3D without buying a new system. Whereas you easily could be able to get the standard functions on a Switch Lite by additional purchases.

@JaxonH Are you an investor or something? You seem like you’d be at a meeting vying for this. Lol A lot of families don’t have the money to upgrade a system less than five years later and many people were upset by the new 3DS titles as far as I’m aware. Sony and Microsoft have already proved that you can make games forward and backwards compatible at multiple resolutions. If you think the gap would need to be that big that it’s not possible it’s probably not going to run on a Switch-like system that doesn’t overheat or have a lower battery life without making it even less portable than it already is. That might even be generous. If they could do it, the cost would probably be higher than Nintendo would want to ask. If we get a Switch Pro it would probably keep a steady 1080p and 60fps handheld, but then many would consider that not great enough to warrant exclusives. With the amount of success, the Switch has as Nintendo’s main system, they aren’t going to create ill will and hurt sales especially when they have so many base models in the wild.

@NIN10DOXD
Many families don’t have the money to upgrade

That’s life, some people can and some people can’t, but I don’t see what that has to do with anything. The only people who got upset was one or two immature kids on the Internet that were letting their own envy and jealousy do the talking. Tens of millions of people bought the system and thus liked it.

I can PROMISE you right now, a Switch Pro isn’t gonna be 1080p, absolutely positively certain on that. The extra power would not be enough to jump to 1080p on a portable battery without all of the extra power going towards that one single thing. Which is a completely utterly pointless thing to do because the game is already look insanely crisp at 720p.

And Nintendo isn’t going to be “creating exclusives”. There is no game they NEED the extra power to run. Third parties are the ones who will be putting games exclusively on the Switch.

While I don't see a Switch Lite happening until the 3DS is 100% dead, which I'm not convinced will be this year, a bare-bones version with controls built-it for the entry-level buyer is definitely something they would do (but not having it still connect to a TV is not; if that analyst wasn't kidding about that part, he's an idiot), and anyone who thinks otherwise is probably forgetting about what they already with the 2DS.

If they were to make a "Pro" version with enhanced processing power for enhanced games, I wouldn't be too worried about having to buy it for exclusives. While they'd likely have a few exclusive games requiring the enhancements, they'd most likely also offer a dongle for the current model that would plug into the dock's rear USB (3.0). The downside would be the exclusives would only be possible in docked mode, whereas the new model could likely play them in portable as well.

They said the same about the Wii U

Switch Lite? Yes please

Switch lite is a good shout. I know too many people that simple can't afford a switch and they sell so well that the price just doesn't budge.

@JaxonH I’m just saying that if I were in their shoes, I’d want all the software to be able to reach the most people. The New 3DS was a little later and the 3DS started off slow, the Switch however is arguably at its peak. A model with any titles not available for the base model just doesn’t seem like it would keep the momentum rather than hurt it. If it’s times right I guess, but the Pro and X have spoiled people with games that work on the base model as well. If you know it won’t be a major jump if hardly at all, why you need games exclusive to it? That just makes it seem more like a scam than an upgrade to average consumers who might not have as much knowledge regarding game development and see both listed as supporting 720p in handheld.

Michael Pachter is a joke...no nintendo wont release one without removable joycons as that would make at least one of nintendos OWN games not work...Mario Party this is about the dumbest thing he has ever said..

@Zuljaras maybe the pro version will be able to emulate N64 games . I can't play earthbound on my old 3ds cause its new 3ds exclusive.

@BusyTressa theres no way a lite version is coming they would just cut the price of the current model...no removable controllers means its not a switch its a 3ds without 3d and second screen. the pro version is more likely as people want better graphics nobody is asking for a system without removable joycons. i see nintendo just dropping system to 250$ at e3 and if a pro version comes out holiday youll see another 50$ off most likely for the base unit...

@MadJay1664 never see a switch lite they would just drop the price of the switch. do what i did if you dont care about docking or need a second one i bought it on ebay for 166$ no dock then bought a 40$ insignia dock(ceritified to work after 5.0) from bestbuy.. i needed a second system for my wife.

@NIN10DOXD
Oh I agree. They absolutely want the software to reach as many people as possible. If there’s any chance a game can run on both models you can believe they’ll make it so

But the fact is some games simple cannot run on the base model. Resident Evil 2 Remake is a good example. It’s just not possible to run on Switch. But with a Switch Pro... The impossible becomes possible. And it would be foolish to say “nah, we don’t want the game on Switch Pro, since the base model can’t run it”. What’s the point of more power if you’re not gaining anything from it. The biggest thing to be gained, is games that couldn’t previously run, if such games exist. And because Switch is a portable device and thus much weaker than power consoles, many such games exist.

It’s basically 2 choices.

1 Switch owners get 500 games, Switch Pro owners get 500 games

2 Switch owners get 500 games, Switch Pro owners get 550 games.

There is only benefit to be had, no disadvantage. You keep talking about “people upset”. But that’s a ludicrous assertion because there’s literally nothing to be upset about. Switch base model owners aren’t having any games taken away from them. And there’s no reason on this planet to withhold additional games that could run on a Pro model, just because a few people have an adolescent mindset where they get jealous of Switch Pro owners for getting games they don’t get. That’s just too dang bad. They don’t get them because the system physically cannot run them. That’s life, get over it. There’s plenty of games other systems get that Switch owners don’t because it can’t run them. That’s just the way it is. But Switch Pro getting a few extra games isn’t hurting anyone who owns a base model. And the vast majority of consumers are not going to be upset because it’s a completely irrational, immature and baseless emotional response. If a few people do get upset, then be upset I guess. You can’t stop people from irrational thinking. It’s like somebody getting upset because the sky is blue. Oh well, be upset then.

Fairly obvious since it was released there'd be a fixed handheld. Whether there's a TV only version, I'd be surprised. More likely is an update with better battery, screen and kickstand, and more storage.

@Roam85 I'd like that, that was a beautiful way to show some appreciation. That, and a little while later they offered a free download of a full game (from a great selection of quality games) if you registered a certain amount of them. I still have Donkey Kong Country Returns on my 3DS because of that (the only one I didn't already purchase by that time, because I had it on the Wii). So they basically mailed me to tell me I could go ahead and download DKCR for nada. A little later still, I could buy an ambassador New 3DS before it was available in stores, I don't really recall if that had anything to do with the Ambassador's Program.

@Frenean the problem is if nintendo do the same thing that they did with New 3DS and made exclusive games for the upgraded version. If they follow the same approach as Microsoft on xbox one x I don't see a problem though.

I'd like to think what we have now is the pro model, but something like the lite model shown in the images or rumored sounds more likely, especially with a new Pokemon coming out, and Nintendo wanting to eventually move on from 3DS/2DS and encourage younger audiences to adopt Switch.

Removing the ability to detach joycons is probably not gonna happen, as many games use them that way.

Like others said cickbait here it comes. They can rumor all they want a portable lite will on confuse the market and spit hairs. The Pro that would be something different if it could run Witcher III then it would be something but all this is purely speculations and nothing to backup the claims.

I'm interested, especially if they make some improvements. Still, this is just a rumor, so have some salt ready. A Lite or a Pro would be handy for me since my Switch recently blew out the right speaker. (I suspect Freedom Planet's loud volume was the cause.)

The only time Nintendo has released two different hardware revisions in the same year was in 2014/2015, when they launched the New 3DS and New 3DS XL together. The New 3DS XL was basically just a larger version of the New 3DS.

Nintendo will absolutely not launch both the Switch Slim and Switch Pro in 2019, unless (for some reason) the Switch Pro and Switch Slim are the same thing. It's either one or the other (or none at all).

Not too familiar with this Pachter fella, but it seems the consensus here is that he has an abnormally high number of wrong opinions.

Why are folk listening to him?

@AstralOrange64 so a weaker system. If you improve the battery life you have to decrease the power consumption, meaning decrease the quality of the system.

Or use a processor that is more power efficient but with the same specs. And that is a real problem

So a Switch Lite would remove the two USPs that make the Switch special - ability to dock and the joy cons... this seems pointless and reductive!

I’d like to see a Switch Pro with larger screen, 1080p and better battery life but same dimensions so joycons and accessories are compatible!

The original switch should remind in production but reduced in price.

@Roam85 No. You got to play your Switch for years. The Ambassador program was because the price dropped weeks after release of the 3ds.

@Gregory123 if by weeks you mean about a year that people with 3DS systems were able to play their 3ds games the whole time. Sure.

I don’t know why you’d want to deny such an easy consumer incentive as emulation, but it’s a weird want you have.

Where is this WSJ article they speak of? I cant find it anywhere. And call me whatever you want bit I just dont see a switch Pro happening. Maybe in like the next 3 to 5 years but no time soon. Super skeptical about that.

Nintendo's FCC filing for the Switch Lite is interesting, especially the internal pictures. https://electric.garden/BKEHDH002?fccid