Nintendo Switch 2021: Price, Games & Features!

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Nintendo Switch 2021: Price, Games & Features!

Hey everyone! Let's dive into the world of the Nintendo Switch in 2021! This little console took the gaming world by storm, and for good reason. It's portable, it's versatile, and it's got a killer library of games. But before we get too deep, let's address the elephant in the room: the price. What did a Nintendo Switch cost in 2021? And more importantly, what did you get for your money? We will discuss the pricing, the games available, and a few of the cool features that made the Switch a must-have for gamers of all ages. So, buckle up, grab your Joy-Cons, and let's get started!

Unveiling the Nintendo Switch Price in 2021

Alright, first things first, what was the Nintendo Switch price in 2021? The standard model, the one that you probably picture when you think of the Switch, launched at around $299.99. This price point was a sweet spot, making it accessible to a wide audience. It wasn’t as budget-friendly as some handheld consoles, but it packed a whole lot more punch in terms of gameplay options and features. Remember, this price was for the base model, which included the console itself, the Joy-Con controllers (left and right), the Joy-Con grip (to combine them into a single controller), the dock (for connecting to your TV), and all the necessary cables. It was a complete package, ready to go right out of the box!

Now, prices can fluctuate slightly depending on where you bought it (different retailers might have different deals or promotions), and of course, taxes applied, but that $299.99 was the baseline.

But wait, there's more! Besides the standard model, there was also the Nintendo Switch OLED model released in October 2021. And with that, the price was a little different. The OLED model came in at around $349.99. The extra $50 got you a significantly upgraded screen – a vibrant 7-inch OLED display. This was a HUGE upgrade. Also, the OLED model featured an enhanced kickstand (that was much wider and more stable) and an improved dock with a built-in Ethernet port (for a more stable internet connection).

So, if you were in the market for a Nintendo Switch in 2021, you had two main choices, each with a different price point and different features. Whether you were after the original or the flashier OLED version, both options offered the signature Switch experience: the ability to play at home on your TV or on the go in handheld mode. This versatility was (and still is!) a huge selling point.

The Value Proposition: What Did You Get for Your Money?

Okay, so we know the prices, but was the Nintendo Switch a good value in 2021? Absolutely! For that $299.99 or $349.99, you were getting a console that could play a massive library of games. This included critically acclaimed titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and a ton more! The Switch also had a strong focus on multiplayer gaming, making it perfect for playing with friends and family. The Joy-Con controllers were designed to easily detach and be used by multiple players, making local multiplayer a breeze.

Furthermore, the Switch offered the flexibility of playing in three different modes: TV mode (connected to your TV), tabletop mode (using the kickstand), and handheld mode (playing directly on the console's screen). This versatility was a game-changer, giving players the freedom to play wherever and whenever they wanted. On top of that, Nintendo continued to support the Switch with software updates, new game releases, and services such as Nintendo Switch Online, which provides access to classic NES and SNES games, online multiplayer, and cloud saves.

In short, the Nintendo Switch in 2021 offered a fantastic value proposition: a versatile console, a great library of games, a focus on multiplayer, and continued support from Nintendo. Considering everything that was offered, the price tag was more than justified.

Exploring the Awesome Games on Nintendo Switch in 2021

One of the biggest factors in the Switch's success in 2021 was its incredible game library. The console boasted a diverse selection of titles, catering to all tastes and preferences. Whether you were a fan of action-adventure games, platformers, RPGs, or something else entirely, there was something for everyone on the Switch.

Big Titles of the Year

  • The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD: A remastered version of the beloved Wii game, offering updated visuals and controls. This was a fantastic way for players to experience a classic Zelda adventure on the Switch.
  • Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl: Remakes of the classic Pokémon Diamond and Pearl versions. These games brought players back to the Sinnoh region with updated graphics and features, and they were a hit with fans of the series.
  • Metroid Dread: This was a brand-new Metroid game and the first mainline entry in the series in nearly two decades, and it was a critical and commercial success. It delivered a thrilling and suspenseful experience, solidifying the Metroid series' place in the gaming world.
  • Mario Party Superstars: This game brought back classic boards and minigames from the Mario Party series, making it a perfect pick for multiplayer fun.
  • Animal Crossing: New Horizons: Though it was released earlier, in 2020, Animal Crossing: New Horizons continued to be massively popular throughout 2021. With seasonal updates and events, it kept players engaged and coming back for more.

Beyond the Blockbusters

Of course, the Switch's game library wasn’t just about the big-budget releases. There were also tons of indie games, offering unique and creative experiences. The Switch became a haven for indie developers, who took advantage of the console's portability and accessibility. Games like Hades, Stardew Valley, and Among Us were all huge hits on the Switch, proving that the console was a great platform for both AAA titles and smaller indie projects.

Continuously Growing Library

The Switch's game library was (and still is!) constantly evolving. Nintendo and third-party developers consistently released new games, ensuring that there was always something new to play. Nintendo also has a strong track record of supporting its consoles with new software, and new games, so the Switch had a solid foundation of excellent games and also constant updates to look forward to.

Nintendo Switch Features in 2021: What Made It Special?

Okay, so we've talked about the price and the games. But what about the features? What made the Nintendo Switch so special in 2021? What set it apart from other consoles? Let’s break it down:

The Joy-Cons and Versatility

The most distinctive feature of the Switch is, without a doubt, the Joy-Con controllers. These small, detachable controllers are the key to the Switch's versatility. They can be used in a variety of ways: attached to the console for handheld play, detached for tabletop mode, or attached to the Joy-Con grip for a more traditional controller feel. The Joy-Cons also offer unique features such as motion controls, HD rumble (for realistic vibrations), and an IR motion camera (on the right Joy-Con).

Hybrid Console Design

The Switch's hybrid design is what made it so unique. It’s a home console and a handheld device all rolled into one. This means you could start playing a game on your TV at home and then seamlessly switch to handheld mode to continue playing on the go. This flexibility was (and still is!) a huge selling point, and the ability to play anywhere. This hybrid design also appealed to a wide range of players.

Nintendo Switch Online Service

Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that offers a variety of benefits. This service included access to a library of classic NES and SNES games, online multiplayer, cloud saves (for backing up your game data), and exclusive offers. While the online service wasn't perfect, it added to the value proposition, providing additional content and features for players.

Parental Controls

Nintendo always focuses on family-friendly experiences, and the Switch offered comprehensive parental controls. Parents can set time limits, restrict the games their children can play, and monitor their child's activity.

The Overall Experience

All of these features combined to create a unique and enjoyable gaming experience. The Nintendo Switch wasn't just a console; it was a platform that offered something for everyone. Whether you were a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the Switch had something to offer. It was a console that was easy to pick up and play, and it offered a wide range of games and features to keep you entertained for hours on end.

Comparing Nintendo Switch Models in 2021

In 2021, buyers were essentially choosing between two models, the original Switch and the newer OLED model. Understanding the key differences is useful, even if you’re looking at used consoles.

The Original Nintendo Switch

The original Switch, as we know, retailed for around $299. It featured a 6.2-inch LCD screen, a standard dock, and the classic Joy-Con controllers. It was a great console, and it still holds up today! The original model was the go-to choice for many gamers because of its price point and its established game library.

Nintendo Switch OLED Model

The OLED model, launched in the latter half of 2021, upped the ante. It had a larger 7-inch OLED screen, which offered richer colors, deeper blacks, and a more vibrant picture. The OLED model also featured an improved kickstand, a more stable and wider design. The dock was also enhanced, with a built-in Ethernet port, providing a more stable internet connection for online play. The OLED model also included 64GB of internal storage, double the storage of the original model. All of these upgrades came at an increased price, with the OLED model selling for around $349.99.

Choosing the Right Model for You

Ultimately, the best choice depended on your priorities and budget. If you wanted the best possible screen quality and didn't mind spending a little extra, the OLED model was the way to go. If you were looking for a more affordable option, the original Switch was still an excellent choice, and it still offered the same versatile gaming experience. Both models offered access to the same game library, so you wouldn't miss out on any of the great titles. Keep in mind that both models can still be found in the used market. Knowing the differences can help you make an informed decision when buying.

Conclusion: The Nintendo Switch's Enduring Appeal

So, what was the Nintendo Switch price in 2021, and what did you get for your money? As we've seen, the Switch offered excellent value, whether you purchased the standard model for around $299.99 or the OLED model for around $349.99. With its versatile design, a stellar game library, and a range of features, the Nintendo Switch was a must-have console for gamers of all ages. Its hybrid nature, strong multiplayer capabilities, and continuing support from Nintendo made it a gaming platform that was (and still is!) incredibly popular. The Nintendo Switch remains a fantastic console, delivering a fun and engaging gaming experience, even years after its initial release. This is why it has endured as one of the best consoles of all time.