The Nintendo Switch is the hottest console out right now. It’s also unlike any system Nintendo, Sony or Microsoft has ever made, meaning there’s a bit more than usual to wrap your head around once you get it in your hands.
The Switch is both a home console and a handheld gaming machine — you can dock it and enjoy some Super Mario Odyssey on your living room TV, or throw it in your bag and play Zelda on the go. There are a myriad of ways to use the system’s detachable Joy-Con controllers, which can be attached to the system for portable play, detached for Wii-style motion control gaming, or used individually as mini-controllers for multiplayer games.
While the Switch is pretty user friendly out of the box, there are a variety of tricks and hidden features you’ll need to know about in order to use Nintendo’s new console to its fullest potential. Whether you’re wondering how to transfer files, scan your amiibo or simply want to know what else the system can do, here’s our guide to making the most of your Nintendo Switch.
Looking to get up and running as quickly as possible? Here’s our quick-start guide.
Here’s how to get your Switch up and running on the big screen.
Fully powering off your Nintendo Switch isn’t quite as simple as you might think. Here’s how to do it.
We show you how to transfer your files, whether you’re moving from one Switch to another or using a microSD card.
From Joy-Cons to Pro Controllers, we cover the best ways to keep your Switch gamepads juiced up.
If you got your Switch for your little one, here’s how activate parental controls to keep the system safe for them.
Ready to start playing with pals? Here’s how to get them on your friends list.
Just made an awesome play in Splatoon 2? Here’s how to capture it and share it with the world.
MicroSD cards can boost your Switch’s storage capacity significantly. Here’s how to get one up and running.
Got a bunch of amiibo toys lying around? Here’s how to use them with your Switch for in-game bonuses.
Away from home? No problem. Here’s how to keep your Switch juiced up without a dock.
Curious how much time you’ve dumped into Mario or Zelda? Here’s how to easily check your playtime.
Here’s how to use Nintendo’s app for chatting with friends during multiplayer games.
If you’re looking to broadcast your Switch gameplay for all to see, here’s how to get a stream up and running.
Your Joy-Cons are good for more than just Switch; here’s how to use them as controllers for your PC or Mac.
Credit: Tom’s Guide