Console Titles Become Even More Accessible with the Nintendo Switch Lite

The Nintendo Switch Lite handheld console was released today, September 20th, two months after the original announcement made on July 10th 2019. With a naming scheme that echoes the candy-colored DS Lite, the Switch Lite streamlines the original console with a compact design made for portable handheld play.

Simultaneous to the release, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Adventure gets an HD remake for the Switch and Switch Lite.

Also launching today, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Adventure joins the robust lineup of games that can be played on any Nintendo Switch family system. In this reimagining of one of the most beloved games in the Legend of Zelda series, Link has washed ashore on a mysterious island, filled with strange and colorful inhabitants. To return home, Link must explore a reimagined Koholint Island that’s been faithfully rebuilt in a new art style. Along the way, he will battle enemies and conquer numerous dungeons riddled with tricks, traps and enemies, including some from the Super Mario series.

With the original being an OG Game Boy title, the shift back to handheld gaming is very exciting. Predictions for portability were made in a previous article upon announcement.

For what's likely the first time ever, Nintendo allows direct comparison of the three Switch versions on their site. Three versions being the Switch HAC-001, Switch HAC-001(-01), and Switch Lite HDH-001. The only difference between the first two-- which both refer to the original docked Nintendo Switch-- is in the battery life.

Most notable is the size difference. At 8.8 inches long, it's slimmer and more compact than the docked version.  

The directional buttons were also replaced with a D-pad, making the whole control scheme quite streamlined. It still isn't as narrow as any DS models, but will certainly be a more small-hands friendly console than the original Switch with its interlocking parts.

The biggest change, of course, is in the lack of versatility. Where the Switch gained widespread appeal as a hybrid system, the Switch Lite commits completely to handheld mode. Luckily, nearly all Switch games are designed for play in handheld mode, and games can be paused at any time by going to the system Home menu.

The titles that won't work with handheld mode are few:

• Nintendo Labo 
• 1-2 Switch 
• Super Mario Party
• Any of the Just Dance! games

And even then, these games become compatible with a charger grip and pair of Joy-cons.

Removal of Docking Capability

The handheld-only nature of the Switch Lite opens exciting new avenues for portable gaming. While mobile app titles tend to fall into repetitive game design, products like the Switch and Apple Arcade make traditional titles more convenient for playing in quick bursts. 

Depending on how the Switch Lite does and what titles are played on respective versions of the Switch, we may begin to see more hybrid game design meant for a versatile system. The Switch arguably already has an extensive lineup of  mobile-friendly games, especially if you're open to Virtual Console classic titles and software that can only be downloaded from the Nintendo eshop.

Still, Switch games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Fire Emblem: Three Houses are most enjoyable when played in long sessions on a TV. Immersive games are diminished by convenience and interruption, while mobile games are built around busy lives. But for those without the time, space or hardware for an extensive gaming setup, the Switch Lite opens up the console experience to new players.