The Nintendo Switch has a simple design that allows players to easily switch from a handheld portable mode to a permanent mode that is connected to a larger visual display unit such as a TV or monitor.
There are currently three Nintendo Switch systems: the traditional Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch OLED, and the Nintendo Switch Lite. All of these versions can be set up utilizing the same method.
How To Get Started With A Nintendo Switch
Setting up a Nintendo Switch without utilizing the provided dock only takes a few steps.
- Connect the USB-C plug from the Nintendo Switch AC adapter cable to the USB-C port located on the bottom of the console, then connect the other side of the cable to a wall outlet.
- Connect the Joy-Con controllers to the Nintendo Switch by sliding them into the slots located on the side of the console. Press "L" and "R" simultaneously.
- Turn on the console using the power button located at the top of the console.
- Follow the prompts displayed on the screen. The console will guide s as they input the appropriate language, region, time zone, internet connection data, icon information, nickname information, and s. Note that these settings, as well as others, can be configured later on.
Using the Nintendo Switch dock changes the setup just a bit.
- Connect the USB-C plug from the Nintendo Switch AC adapter cable to the USB-C port located on the back of the dock, then connect the other side of the cable to a wall outlet.
- Plug in one side of the HDMI cord to the back of the Nintendo Switch dock. Insert the other side of the cable into the back of a TV or monitor.
- Slide the Nintendo Switch into the dock after connecting the Joy-Cons to the system. Note that the Joy-Cons can be detached once they are connected.
- Turn on the console using the power button located at the top of the console.
- Follow the prompts displayed on the screen. The console will guide s as they input the appropriate information.
Nintendo Switch offers s the option to purchase a Nintendo Switch Online hip with or without the Expansion Pack. Note that both of these options are optional and are not required for basic gameplay. The traditional subscription allows players to access online gameplay, save backup data to the cloud, customize certain features, and access free games. The Expansion Pack offers even more free games for subscribers. Full details pertaining to subscription tiers and costs can be found on the official Nintendo website.
Additionally, players can digital copies of Switch games using the Nintendo website. Another method by which players can purchase digital copies is by accessing the eShop via the physical console. This can be achieved by clicking on the icon with an orange shopping bag located at the bottom of the Switch's home screen.
