Nintendo Switch Pro Will Have 4K? Here's Our Wish-List!

Nintendo Switch Pro Will Have 4K? Here's Our Wish-List!

Thursday 27th August 2020, 06:26 | written by: Gabriel Sciberras

It's safe to say that Nintendo hit a home run with their Nintendo Switch console, one desperately needed following the failure of the Wii U, and I'm sure many of our readers own a version of the console which has helped so many get by in this lockdown. Now, leaks have it that a new version is on the way next year, and many have a 'Pro' version coming out - here's what I think should be included to deserve a 'Pro' tag. 

Let's start off by saying this was expected. Nintendo has a history of releasing multiple versions of the same console, especially the portable Nintendo DS which has gone through multiple renditions of XL, Lite, 3D and 2D. Up until now, the Switch has had the original version, a second one with improved battery and the Nintendo Switch Lite. This new Pro Switch model was first rumoured back in 2019. 

Secondly, before moving on to the list, I'd like to tackle the term 'Pro'. More often than not, the term is thrown around as a marketing stunt across the technology industry - laptops, PCs, peripherals and so much more. For a console, I'd like to think that 'Pro' targets serious gamers, invested in competition and esports too.

As an example, the most popular esport title on the Switch would have to be Super Smash Bros. The console needs to be able to support longer and more intense game sessions as well as possible. 

Without further delay, here's what I think should be added: 

  • A better display - releasing with a 1280 by 720 screen on launch was somewhat understandable for casual gaming. However, I'd expect at least a 1920 by 1080 display to hide those pixels and make for a better gaming experience. 4K here is definitely out of the question and not necessary for a device of this size. 
  • A larger battery - to support a more demanding screen, a larger battery will probably have to come with it to make the on-screen time roughly equivalent 
  • More powerful internals - apart from a battery, perhaps a slight spec up could help with improved performance to support the better display. Of course, optimization is still the name of the game with this console. 
  • Bluetooth headphone support - it's mind-boggling that the Switch still isn't directly compatible with bluetooth audio devices in 2020 without the use of a dongle. I'm hoping this gets fixed too. 

  • Changed button layout - 'Pro' devices prioritise single player and not multiplayer. For this reason, I think it might be worth changing the button layout for a more ergonomic experience. Many have complained about the poor ergonomics of the device due to the focus on symmetrical Joy-Cons. Personally, I think the Joy-Cons should either be changed or removed to maximize ergonomics. 
  • Improved integrated memory - in an age of downloadable games, a 64GB SSD just won't cut it. 
  • Fresh colours - grey and red/blue have gotten old. The Nintendo Switch definitely needs an overhaul and some new colours to give it a spicey look. 

Continuing on my point with changing the button layout, I don't think Nintendo will do it for the simple fact that they'd like to conserve Pro Controller sales. Otherwise, many have hoped for a 4K output dock. In my opinion, I don't think the Switch games are optimized for 4K performance, and if so, the current dock isn't. 

Do I own a Switch myself? No, is the short and painful answer. As a Nintendo DS fan, my heart yearns for the console but as a student, I find the console too expensive - especially with the non-depreciating price of games. I've seen many reviews and videos on the console, which is why I'm aware of its flaws. 

Will all of these wishes be ticked off? Possibly, but which each one, a price jump is expected. Many have the upgraded version filing at an added $100 over the original, touching the $400 mark. The community wants a no-compromises version of the Switch - let's see if Nintendo delivers. 

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below! 

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