Nintendo Switch Models Released In 2021: A Detailed Look

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Nintendo Switch Models Released in 2021: A Detailed Look

The Nintendo Switch has been a massive hit since its initial release, and Nintendo has continued to innovate and expand the Switch family with new models and versions. If you're wondering what Nintendo Switch models came out in 2021, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll dive deep into the specific Nintendo Switch model that launched in 2021, exploring its features, improvements, and why it made waves in the gaming community. Let's get started, gamers!

Nintendo Switch OLED Model: The Highlight of 2021

The star of 2021 for Nintendo Switch was undoubtedly the Nintendo Switch OLED model. Announced in July 2021 and released on October 8, 2021, this version brought some significant upgrades to the original Switch, enhancing the overall gaming experience. The most notable change, as the name suggests, is the vibrant OLED screen. The original Switch had an LCD screen, but the OLED model features a 7-inch OLED display that offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and a higher contrast ratio. This makes games look absolutely stunning, whether you're playing in handheld mode or docked.

Beyond the screen, the Nintendo Switch OLED model includes a few other enhancements. It comes with 64GB of internal storage, double the 32GB found in the original Switch, providing more space for downloaded games, screenshots, and videos. The audio has also been improved with enhanced speakers, delivering clearer and more immersive sound. Another significant upgrade is the wide, adjustable stand, which is much sturdier and more versatile than the flimsy kickstand on the original Switch. This makes tabletop mode much more enjoyable, especially for multiplayer gaming on the go.

Furthermore, the dock that comes with the OLED model has a built-in wired LAN port, allowing for a more stable and reliable internet connection when playing in docked mode. This is a welcome addition for gamers who prefer a wired connection over Wi-Fi, especially for online multiplayer games that require low latency. The Joy-Cons remain the same as those on the original Switch, so you can use your existing controllers with the new model.

The Nintendo Switch OLED model was designed to provide a premium gaming experience, and it largely succeeds in that goal. The improved screen, enhanced audio, larger storage, and better stand all contribute to a more enjoyable and immersive gaming experience. Whether you're a longtime Switch owner looking to upgrade or a new gamer jumping into the Nintendo ecosystem, the OLED model is definitely worth considering.

Why the OLED Model Made a Splash

The release of the Nintendo Switch OLED model was met with considerable excitement and anticipation. The gaming community had been clamoring for an upgraded Switch for quite some time, and the OLED model delivered on many of the requested features. The vibrant OLED screen was a major selling point, as it significantly improved the visual quality of games. Colors popped, blacks were deeper, and the overall image was much more vibrant and engaging. This made games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, and Metroid Dread look better than ever before.

The increased internal storage was also a welcome addition. With 64GB of storage, gamers had more room to download and store their favorite games without having to constantly worry about running out of space. The enhanced audio was another improvement that added to the immersive experience. Games sounded clearer and more dynamic, making everything from subtle background music to explosive sound effects more impactful.

The wider, adjustable stand was a small but significant improvement. The original Switch's kickstand was often criticized for being flimsy and unstable, but the OLED model's stand provided a much more secure and versatile way to prop up the console in tabletop mode. This made it easier to play multiplayer games on the go, whether you were on a train, in a car, or at a friend's house.

Finally, the inclusion of a wired LAN port on the dock was a boon for online gamers. A wired connection provides a more stable and reliable internet connection than Wi-Fi, which is essential for competitive multiplayer games. This ensured that players could enjoy smooth, lag-free online gaming experiences.

Overall, the Nintendo Switch OLED model was a significant upgrade over the original Switch, and it addressed many of the concerns and requests of the gaming community. Its release in 2021 was a major event in the gaming world, and it helped to solidify the Switch's position as one of the most popular and versatile gaming consoles on the market.

Other Nintendo Switch Activity in 2021

While the Nintendo Switch OLED model was the main hardware release of 2021, Nintendo also kept busy with a steady stream of game releases, software updates, and other activities to keep the Switch ecosystem vibrant and engaging. Let's take a look at some of the other notable events and releases from 2021.

Game Releases

2021 was a fantastic year for Nintendo Switch game releases, with a diverse lineup of titles that catered to a wide range of tastes. Some of the standout games from 2021 include:

  • Metroid Dread: This highly anticipated sequel to the Metroid series was a critical and commercial success, praised for its tight gameplay, stunning visuals, and atmospheric world. It was a must-have for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
  • Monster Hunter Rise: This action RPG brought the thrill of monster hunting to the Switch, with a vast open world, challenging quests, and addictive gameplay. It was a major hit with fans of the Monster Hunter series.
  • New Pokémon Snap: This relaxing photography game allowed players to explore the world of Pokémon in a whole new way, taking pictures of their favorite creatures in their natural habitats. It was a charming and delightful experience for Pokémon fans of all ages.
  • Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury: This enhanced version of the Wii U game included the original Super Mario 3D World as well as a brand new adventure called Bowser's Fury. It was a fantastic package that offered hours of fun for Mario fans.
  • The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD: This HD remaster of the Wii game brought The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword to a new audience, with improved graphics, smoother controls, and other enhancements. It was a welcome addition to the Switch's library of Zelda games.

Software Updates

Nintendo also released several software updates for the Nintendo Switch in 2021, adding new features, improving performance, and fixing bugs. These updates helped to enhance the overall user experience and keep the Switch running smoothly. Some of the notable software updates from 2021 include:

  • Bluetooth Audio Support: One of the most requested features for the Switch was Bluetooth audio support, and Nintendo finally delivered in 2021. This allowed players to connect their favorite Bluetooth headphones and speakers to the Switch, making it easier to enjoy games on the go.
  • Improved System Stability: Nintendo regularly releases updates to improve the stability of the Switch's system software, and 2021 was no exception. These updates helped to prevent crashes, freezes, and other issues that could disrupt gameplay.
  • UI Enhancements: Nintendo also made some minor tweaks and improvements to the Switch's user interface in 2021, making it easier to navigate and use.

Other Activities

In addition to game releases and software updates, Nintendo also engaged in a variety of other activities in 2021 to promote the Nintendo Switch and its games. These included:

  • Online Events: Nintendo hosted several online events in 2021, such as Nintendo Direct presentations, to announce new games, updates, and other news. These events were a great way to keep fans informed and excited about the Switch.
  • Sales and Promotions: Nintendo regularly offered sales and promotions on Switch games and hardware in 2021, making it more affordable for gamers to buy their favorite titles and consoles.
  • Partnerships and Collaborations: Nintendo also partnered with other companies and organizations in 2021 to promote the Switch and its games. These partnerships helped to reach new audiences and expand the Switch's reach.

Conclusion

So, to answer the question, the main Nintendo Switch model that came out in 2021 was the Nintendo Switch OLED model. This version brought significant upgrades to the original Switch, including a vibrant OLED screen, increased internal storage, enhanced audio, a wider adjustable stand, and a built-in wired LAN port on the dock. It was a major release that enhanced the overall gaming experience and solidified the Switch's position as one of the most popular gaming consoles on the market.

In addition to the OLED model, Nintendo also had a busy year in 2021 with a steady stream of game releases, software updates, and other activities to keep the Switch ecosystem vibrant and engaging. From blockbuster games like Metroid Dread and Monster Hunter Rise to long-awaited features like Bluetooth audio support, 2021 was a great year for Nintendo Switch fans. Whether you're a longtime Switch owner or a new gamer, there's always something to look forward to in the world of Nintendo.