A Reader’s Reflection on the Evolution of Portable Gaming
The concept of portable gaming has undergone significant changes over the years, and for many enthusiasts, it's a topic that sparks both excitement and frustration. One reader shared their experience with the latest iteration of Nintendo's console, the Switch 2, while expressing a desire for a more compact design.
The first console this reader ever owned was the Game Boy Color, around 1998. Even though it was considered old technology at the time, the quality of its games made up for any technological shortcomings. This early experience laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for video games. The reader prides themselves on being impartial when it comes to different companies and formats, but they admit to having a particular fondness for Nintendo and portable consoles. As a result, they were thrilled with the Switch and immediately purchased the Switch 2.
So far, the reader hasn't played much of Donkey Kong Bananza, but what they have experienced is promising. They also enjoy Mario Kart World, and while they would have liked to see more game announcements at launch, they understand that game development takes time and consider the current lineup a solid start.
Despite their enthusiasm for the Switch 2, the reader has one major issue: its size. The console features a 7.9-inch screen and measures 27.2 cm × 11.6 cm. For comparison, the smallest portable console they own is the Game Boy Micro, which is significantly smaller at 10.1 cm by 5 cm. Even the original DS, which was bulky in its time, measured 14.9 cm x 8.5 cm when closed. These devices were designed to be carried easily in a pocket or handbag, making them truly portable.
The Switch 2, however, is not as convenient. The reader tried to fit it into their girlfriend’s handbag, but it didn’t work out, even when placed in its carry case. There’s no way to comfortably put the Switch 2 in the pocket of any coat or trousers they own. This issue isn’t just about the size; it’s about the practicality of using a portable console.
While the reader acknowledges that the Switch 2 is powerful and offers a large screen, they believe it represents a shift away from the core idea of a portable console. It’s part of a broader trend where modern portables are not actually portable. The same issue applies to other devices like the PlayStation Portal, which, although useful, is awkward in size. Even the Xbox Ally, which the reader hasn’t personally used, appears to be large and bulky.
The reader feels that the benefits of a portable console—its ability to be carried around easily—have been lost. If they want to take the Switch 2 anywhere, they essentially need to bring a bag along, regardless of their destination. This is a problem that extends beyond the Switch 2, as the Switch Lite, while smaller than the original Switch, was still larger than previous handheld consoles.
The reader’s perspective doesn’t necessarily reflect the views of GameCentral or rasa lagu. However, they encourage others to share their own experiences through reader features. Submissions of 500 to 600 words can be sent to gamecentral@rasa lagu.co.uk or via the Submit Stuff page, with the possibility of being published in an upcoming weekend edition.
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