The Nintendo Switch 2 will officially launch on June 5th, but it's already facing criticism even before hitting stores. The new generation of Nintendo's handheld console will lack compatibility with popular video streaming apps, including Crunchyroll, Hulu, and others that worked on the previous model.
- Death Stranding 2 to be revealed in June
- New leak suggests Barbeloth will be playable in Genshin Impact
The absence was confirmed by the company itself, which highlighted the limitations on an official page about backward compatibility. This indicates a step backward in a basic feature present in other modern consoles.
Switch 2 retains older games but excludes video apps like Crunchyroll
Despite offering support for most games from the original Nintendo Switch, the new model excludes video-on-demand platforms. Crunchyroll, one of the few apps officially available in Brazil, is among those that will cease to function at launch.
Nintendo has not explained the reason for the restrictions, but has stated that developers can release updated versions for the new system. Meanwhile, the absence directly affects users who also use the console as a multimedia device.
Nintendo maintained compatibility with games but removed video apps
Nintendo designed the Switch 2 to run almost all games from the previous generation. According to the company, the 122 internally developed games work perfectly on the new model. In addition, most of the more than 15,000 third-party titles will also be compatible.
However, compatibility does not extend to media apps that were available on the original Switch's eShop. The company has created a special section on its website to inform users which apps will not work on the new console. The list includes Crunchyroll, Hulu, ABEMA, and Niconico.
In addition to video apps, another program that will stop working is the InkyPen, used for reading manga and comics. Nintendo has also ruled out the use of the Labo VR Kit, a cardboard accessory that does not adapt to the new Switch 2 format.
Streaming on consoles is a trend, but Nintendo is taking a different path
Platforms like PlayStation and Xbox offer native support for various streaming services, including Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus. This allows the consoles to also function as entertainment centers.
The original Nintendo Switch already had limitations in this aspect with a reduced catalog of available apps. The new model, instead of expanding this access, opted to further limit functionality, which generated frustration among users who were expecting an upgrade in media support as well.
For now, Nintendo hasn't confirmed whether there will be updated versions of the apps for the new console. Developers like Crunchyroll haven't officially commented on creating a compatible version yet.
The launch is highly anticipated, but restrictions could impact sales
Industry experts expect the Nintendo Switch 2 to become one of the biggest video game releases in recent years. The success of the first version, which sold over 125 million units, creates high expectations for the new generation.
Even so, the absence of basic features can impact public perception, especially among casual users. For many, the console serves as their primary entertainment device, and the lack of access to popular services can be a negative factor.
