Nintendo Wii or Switch

[Ken_Code]

My two little boys had their first console experience this week, playing Sports and Mario Kart on the Wii at a relative’s house, which they loved.

I quite like the idea of getting a console like this for them, and am wondering whether it makes sense to buy them a Wii, or if the Switch offers all the same stuff (especially the motion-sensitive controllers for the sports and steering) or if that’s not really what it’s about. The eldest is six, and the idea is to allow them the odd hour to play together.

There also seems to be more than one version of the Switch, so if anyone could explain how that works too I’d appreciate it.

[Mr E]

The Wii is obsolete (although a brilliant machine)

Switch is current - but I’d expect a replacement to be announced in the next 12 months or so.
Controllers are motion sensitive in a similar way to the Wii.

Essentially 3 versions;

https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Hardware/Nintendo-S...

Switch lite which is a pure handhold - doesn’t connect to the telly, controllers don’t detach, single player only.
Switch full. Connects to telly, controllers come off to be used separately and as motion controllers (like the Wii)
Switch full OLED. As above but nicer screen.

I’d suggest you want one that connects to the telly with detachable controllers.

[Ken_Code]

Thanks.

Do I then need to buy physical copies of the games, or are they downloaded?

[Shaoxter]

Ken_Code said:

Thanks.

Do I then need to buy physical copies of the games, or are they downloaded?

Up to you, physical games have plenty of resale value but not as convenient. If it's something you'll keep then I'd get a digital version.

[Mr E]

Ken_Code said:

Thanks.

Do I then need to buy physical copies of the games, or are they downloaded?

Both possible to suit your preference. Budget for a decent sized SD card.
There’s also an online play membership cost thing (that gets you a load of retro systems under emulation if that’s your thing)

[Mr E]

I note there’s a bundle that comes with Switch Sports.

If you’re buying as a gift, unbox it, set it up and download the game/updates before wrapping it.

Nothing more disappointing than opening the exiting toy and then waiting until you can play with it

[Ken_Code]

Mr E said:

I note there’s a bundle that comes with Switch Sports.

If you’re buying as a gift, unbox it, set it up and download the game/updates before wrapping it.

Nothing more disappointing than opening the exiting toy and then waiting until you can play with it

Thanks, that’s good to know.

[mike9009]

If you are not price sensitive get the switch. We have had both over the years. Loads more content at the moment on the switch....... It is easier to setup (no silly bar balanced on top of telly), higher resolution.

The detachable controllers are more small hand focussed.

The transportable nature means my kids play with it on journeys, if we are feeling generous. Or even watch YouTube.......

Their peers can play with them on line. Minecraft is a particular favourite.

Edited by mike9009 on Saturday 1st June 11:39

[paulrockliffe]

When I looked a couple of years ago we ended getting an X-Box instead, what tipped it for me was that the Switch didnt/doesn't have apps for watching stuff, which seems a bit of an oversight. They were going to need another mobile device, which does games too, so figured it was better to have the console instead of the switch.

[119]

N64 for the win.

[Baldchap]

[redacted]

[Mr E]

[redacted]

[Defcon5]

Switch is a great first console, some games (Mario deluxe and Mario kart off the top of my head) have settings that essentially play the game for you (auto steering and auto acceleration etc) that mean younger siblings can ‘play’ without it turning into a scrap after 5 mins.

My eldest has had his switch for 5 years (10 now) and whilst he has a PS5, the switch still gets used which is a strong testament.

[nuyorican]

[redacted]

[Mr E]

What inputs does your tv have? Just HDMI or is there an adapter for composite video?

[Defcon5]

Scart to HDMI adapter?

[nuyorican]

Thanks guys. Not at home so can’t check.

It’s a Samsung Frame 32”. Will check later.

Might just buy a Switch though if the classics are emulated. Will have to check Resident Evil 4 and DOOM are included.

[Mr E]

nuyorican said:

Will have to check Resident Evil 4 and DOOM are included.

They are not

[nuyorican]

Mr E said:

They are not

Oh. Better dig out the Wii too.

[Mr E]

nuyorican said:

Oh. Better dig out the Wii too.

Sold mine for a pittance years ago.

I built a rasp pi that emulated everything to snes a couple of years back. I reckon a Pi 5 could do a Wii as well, but the controllers are tricky