The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct unveiled a ton of news related to the highly anticipated console and its lineup of games, some of which could have the potential to shape a future esports scene.
From future esports titles to the impact of the Switch 2 hardware, here’s an esports perspective on Nintendo’s latest showcase.
Mario Kart: World Next In Line for Esports?
One of the biggest announcements during the Nintendo Direct 2 was a new installment in the Mario Kart series. Set to be the biggest one yet, Mario Kart: World could elevate the series’ esports scene.
With up to 24 player lobbies, tournaments could become bigger than before as more players participate. New enhanced mechanics, such as rail grinding and wall riding, could introduce a heightened skill ceiling to the game.
Mario Kart esports began in the early 2000s with grassroots tournaments and online competitions, evolving with the release of titles like Mario Kart: Tour. The modern-day esports scene mostly focuses on Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, featured in events such as Nintendo World Championships.
The likelihood of a Mario Kart: World esports scene, and in turn its success, will depend on both the popularity of the game and the extent to which Nintendo supports it. Nintendo has a history of shutting down independent tournaments that do not follow its esports guidelines.
Drag X Drive To Create Esports Scene With Mouse Feature
Its main appeal is the Joy-Con 2’s mouse feature. Dragging the controls across the table to influence movement opens the doors for a unique esports scene, bringing more accuracy and mechanical components to the Switch 2.
The esports scene is no stranger to unusual controls, such as Formula 1 sim racing, Just Dance and motion sensors and Beat Saber with VR headsets. However, in the current ecosystem, Drag X Drive would be unique due to its mouse Joy-Con 2 controls; a new skill to learn and master can be appealing to more competitive players.
New IPs introduced by Nintendo have created an esports scene in the past. Splatoon is a notable example, alongside more niche titles like ARMS, being featured in Nintendo’s official events.
Even if Drag X Drive does not prove to be a smash hit, it could serve as a proven concept that could open the doors to future or currently existing games to take advantage of the console’s highlight feature.
Will Street Fighter 6 Pros Swap to Nintendo Switch 2?
PlayStation 5 and PC are the most commonly used platforms in Street Fighter 6 due to their stability and higher frame rates. With the Nintendo Switch 2’s more advanced systems, we could see more tournaments organised for that console in the future.
Most professionals in the past have avoided using the Nintendo Switch due to its lacklustre hardware. Some professionals for other games have been suspended in the past over installing mods, trying to rectify some of the console’s internet-related shortcomings.
The system is capable of local wireless play, allowing for one-on-one matches. The version also boasts three different controller types for specific styles of play: classic, modern, and dynamic.
It still won’t be quite as powerful as its modern competition, especially PC. However, Nintendo has revealed that the console will support up to 120fps with a refresh rate of 120 Hz, and is Wi-Fi 6 compatible.
