After months of rumors and speculation, Nintendo has finally revealed the Nintendo Switch Lite, a new version of the Switch designed to play games in handheld mode.
Due out on Sept. 20, the Nintendo Switch Lite will cost $199 and be available in three different colors: yellow, gray and turquoise.
“Adding Nintendo Switch Lite to the lineup gives gamers more color and price point options,” said Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser in a press release. “Now consumers can choose the system that best suits how they like to play their favorite Nintendo Switch games.”
As the name suggests, the Switch Lite is smaller than the original iteration, featuring a 5.5-inch touch display, compared to the 6.2-inch one of its predecessor. In addition, it has a genuine D-Pad and marginally improved battery life.
However, these advantages come at a price: the hardware is designed exclusively for handheld play.
For example, it doesn’t have detachable Joy-Cons, so you can’t instantaneously play local multiplayer. Furthermore, it lacks HD rumble and IR sensors, causing compatibility issues with games like Pokémon Let’s Go and 1-2 Switch. And most importantly (and probably most obvious), it can’t connect to your television.
Beyond that, though, both systems are functionally the same, featuring the same 720p resolution, ability to use the same accessories, as well as support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC, and built-in gyro controls.
To reiterate, the Nintendo Switch Lite is due out on Sept. 20 — the same day as Link’s Awakening. There will also be special versions released in celebration of Pokémon Sword and Pokémon Shield.
Check out the announcement trailer below:
https://youtu.be/jZOPC6J4fAA
