Nintendo Switch 2021: Models & Key Features

Hey gaming enthusiasts! Let's dive into the world of Nintendo Switch and explore what happened in 2021. If you're wondering what Nintendo Switch models came out in 2021, you're in the right place. 2021 was a significant year for the Switch, with some exciting additions and developments that kept gamers hooked. We'll explore the hardware releases, key features, and overall impact on the gaming community. Get ready to level up your knowledge!

The Nintendo Switch OLED: The New Kid on the Block

So, what Nintendo Switch came out in 2021 that really grabbed everyone's attention? The Nintendo Switch OLED Model was the star of the show! Released in October 2021, this new version brought some awesome upgrades to the table, making the gaming experience even better. The OLED model wasn't a completely new console, but rather an enhanced version of the original Switch. This means it still played all the same games, but with some serious visual and functional improvements. For those who enjoy gaming on the go or in handheld mode, the OLED model was a significant step up.

The most obvious upgrade was, of course, the OLED screen. OLED stands for Organic Light-Emitting Diode, and this technology offers a much better picture compared to the original Switch's LCD screen. The colors are more vibrant, the blacks are deeper, and the contrast is much higher. This makes games look fantastic, especially in darker environments or scenes with lots of color. Playing games like Metroid Dread or The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild on the OLED screen was a treat for the eyes. The details in the environments popped more, making the overall experience more immersive. The size of the screen is still the same, at 7 inches, but the quality is markedly improved.

Besides the screen, the OLED model also came with a few other notable enhancements. The most important is the kickstand. The original Switch had a flimsy kickstand that was often criticized for being unstable. The OLED model's kickstand is much wider and more robust, providing a more stable base for playing in tabletop mode. This was a welcome change for anyone who frequently used this mode. Another great improvement is the internal storage. The OLED model doubled the internal storage to 64GB, which is very helpful because Switch games can take up quite a bit of space, especially with all the digital downloads. Even with the expanded storage, the console still supports microSD cards, so you can expand the storage even further. This is great for anyone who wants to have a large library of games available without swapping cartridges all the time.

Additionally, the dock that comes with the OLED model has a built-in Ethernet port. This provides a more stable and reliable internet connection when playing online games while docked. This can reduce lag and improve the overall online gaming experience. The speakers of the OLED model also received an upgrade, providing improved audio quality. While the improvements aren't game-changing, the audio is clearer and louder, making games more engaging, especially when you can't use headphones. The OLED model was a substantial upgrade, making the Switch experience even more enjoyable for both new and existing players.

Not Just a New Model: 2021's Gaming Lineup

While the OLED model was the headline grabber, 2021 also saw a fantastic lineup of games for the Nintendo Switch. This is one of the important questions we should ask ourselves because the best console is nothing without great games. Nintendo always delivers, and 2021 was no exception. Several high-profile titles and indie gems alike were launched, keeping the Switch at the forefront of the gaming conversation.

• Metroid Dread: This was a big one for long-time Nintendo fans. Metroid Dread was the first original 2D Metroid game in nearly two decades. It received critical acclaim for its atmosphere, gameplay, and how it delivered a classic Metroid experience. The game's gorgeous visuals and challenging gameplay were perfectly suited to the Switch's capabilities, whether you're playing on the TV or on the go.
• The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD: This was a remastered version of the Wii classic, optimized for the Switch. It brought the beloved Zelda adventure to a new audience. The HD upgrade significantly improved the visuals, making the game look better than ever. The motion controls could be adapted for those who loved the original Wii experience or can be played with the standard controller.
• Mario Party Superstars: Nintendo keeps its party gaming titles fresh, Mario Party Superstars brought back classic boards and minigames from the Mario Party series. This was a perfect game for playing with friends and family, and the Switch's portability made it easy to take the party with you. The game offered hours of fun and nostalgia.
• Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl: These were remakes of the Pokémon Diamond and Pearl versions for the Nintendo DS. They were visually updated and tweaked for a new generation of trainers. These remakes allowed both veterans and newcomers to experience the Sinnoh region in a fresh and exciting way.

Besides these big titles, there were plenty of smaller indie games and other experiences that came out in 2021, and this diversity contributed to the Switch's success and ability to cater to a broad range of gamers. This wide selection of games was a massive draw for the Switch, and it helped solidify the console's position as a must-have for any gamer.

The Impact of 2021 on the Nintendo Switch

Looking back, 2021 was a pivotal year for the Nintendo Switch. The release of the OLED model significantly improved the hardware and gave players even more reasons to dive in. The enhancements made the handheld experience even more enjoyable, and the improved dock and storage were valuable upgrades. The continued support of the games provided by Nintendo, plus third-party developers, made the console even better. What Nintendo Switch came out in 2021 is easily answered with the OLED, but the impact of that release, combined with the fantastic game lineup, was huge.

The success of the Nintendo Switch in 2021 showed the console's ability to evolve and stay relevant in a competitive market. It catered to a wide range of players. The Switch provided a combination of innovative hardware and a library of games. It continues to be a go-to choice for gamers of all ages and preferences.

The Future of the Nintendo Switch

Looking beyond 2021, the Nintendo Switch's popularity continues to be strong. Nintendo has demonstrated its commitment to the platform by releasing new games, updates, and more. Even though there is a successor on the horizon, the Switch remains a powerhouse.

Nintendo is always working to improve the Switch ecosystem. The commitment to delivering high-quality games and the innovative approach to the hardware ensures the Switch will be a relevant platform for the foreseeable future. The future of gaming on the Switch looks bright!

So, if you were wondering what Nintendo Switch came out in 2021, the answer is the OLED model, and it was a great addition to the console's family. With a fantastic array of games, 2021 was a great year for Switch gamers! Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the Nintendo world, 2021 was a year that made you love the Switch even more. Happy gaming, everyone!