Is the Zelda OLED Switch Worth It? A Comprehensive Guide
The question on every Nintendo fan’s mind: Is the Zelda OLED Switch, specifically the Tears of the Kingdom Edition, worth the investment? The short answer is: it depends on your current situation and priorities. If you’re a die-hard Zelda fan, haven’t yet purchased a Switch, or predominantly play in handheld mode, then the answer leans heavily towards yes. However, if you already own a Switch and mainly play on your TV, the upgrade may not be as critical. Let’s delve into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Hype: The Zelda OLED Switch
The Nintendo Switch OLED model is a step up from the original Switch in several significant ways. Its most prominent feature is the 7-inch OLED screen, which delivers vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and improved contrast compared to the standard LCD screen of the base Switch. This results in a vastly superior handheld gaming experience, particularly for visually rich games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
The Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Edition adds to this by incorporating unique artwork inspired by the game, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item. It’s also a limited edition, meaning it’s likely to sell out quickly and become harder to find over time. However, it’s important to note that this special edition does not include the actual Tears of the Kingdom game.
Key Differences and Improvements
The OLED model offers more than just a better screen. It includes:
- Enhanced Handheld Experience: The OLED screen makes a massive difference in color vibrancy and clarity, enhancing the visual experience of every game.
- Wider Adjustable Stand: Allows for more flexible viewing angles in tabletop mode.
- 64GB Internal Storage: Double the storage of the original Switch model, which is helpful considering the large game sizes.
- Improved Audio: Offers enhanced audio through the handheld speakers.
- Wired LAN Port: Included on the dock, this provides a more stable internet connection for online play.
Considerations Before Buying
While the OLED Switch has many benefits, some factors might make it less appealing:
- Same Internal Performance: The OLED model does not offer any improvements in processing power or RAM. The frame rates and overall performance of games remain the same as on the original Switch.
- No Change in TV Mode: While the dock has a LAN port, the TV output remains at 1080p. The visual quality is not upgraded in docked mode.
- Price: The OLED model is more expensive than the standard Switch, and the Zelda special edition is even pricier due to its limited availability.
Playing Tears of the Kingdom on the OLED Switch
Tears of the Kingdom is a visually stunning game, and it benefits significantly from the OLED screen’s enhanced display capabilities. The vibrant colors and richer blacks bring the world of Hyrule to life in a way that isn’t possible on the standard Switch screen. For players who enjoy handheld gaming, this is a substantial upgrade.
While there are reports that the game features slightly better draw distances in comparison to Breath of the Wild, this is not exclusive to the OLED model. So, while the OLED screen significantly enhances the visual clarity, it doesn’t impact overall in-game performance or graphic improvements.
Is it a Must-Have?
If you’re considering purchasing a Switch to play Tears of the Kingdom, the OLED model is the best choice for a premium experience, especially if handheld play is a priority. If you already own a Switch and primarily use the console in docked mode, the benefits of the OLED screen are less noticeable. However, if you value the handheld experience, the upgrade to the OLED model is a worthy investment.
The Rumored Switch 2
The elephant in the room is the rumored Nintendo Switch 2. Speculations and reports suggest that it could launch in the second half of 2024. Some rumors indicate that the next generation system may even feature an enhanced version of Tears of the Kingdom, offering improved frame rates and visual quality.
This raises a critical question: Should you hold off on buying an OLED Switch in anticipation of the Switch 2? If you can wait, and are eager for the best possible performance for future titles, then waiting is an option. However, the Switch 2 is still unconfirmed, and its price point and specific features remain unknown. So, if you want to enjoy games now, the current OLED model remains a solid option.
The Timing Factor
The OLED Zelda Switch is a collector’s item and may become even more valuable and difficult to find once the Switch 2 is announced or released. If you are a serious Zelda fan who wants to enjoy Tears of the Kingdom on the best available system now, then acquiring the OLED Zelda Switch is advisable.
Conclusion: To Buy or Not to Buy?
The Zelda OLED Switch is a premium console that provides the best handheld gaming experience on the Switch platform, especially for visually stunning games like Tears of the Kingdom. Its striking design and limited availability also make it highly desirable for collectors. While it doesn’t enhance in-game performance, the enhanced screen and portability improvements are significant if you appreciate handheld gaming.
If you are considering buying a Switch now, the OLED model is the best choice. If you already own a Switch, and if handheld mode is your preferred way of playing, it is still a worthy upgrade. However, if you are primarily a TV player and are willing to wait, the rumored Switch 2 may provide a bigger leap in performance.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Zelda OLED Switch hinges on your personal preferences, gaming habits, budget, and whether or not you can wait for the potential next-gen Switch model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Zelda OLED Switch a limited edition?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch OLED “Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Edition” is a limited edition console, making it a highly sought-after item for collectors.
2. Does the Zelda OLED Switch come with the Tears of the Kingdom game?
No, the Zelda OLED Switch does not include the Tears of the Kingdom game. The console and the game are sold separately.
3. Does the OLED Switch perform better than the original Switch?
No, the OLED Switch has the same internal performance capabilities as the original Switch. The main differences are the improved OLED screen and some design changes. Performance and power both remain the same.
4. How long does the OLED Switch battery last?
The battery life of the Nintendo Switch – OLED Model is approximately 4.5 to 9 hours, depending on the game and usage conditions.
5. Does the OLED Switch improve TV picture quality?
No, the OLED Switch offers no improvements in TV mode picture quality. It outputs at the same 1080p resolution as the original Switch. The new dock does include a wired LAN port.
6. Is the OLED screen really that much better?
Yes, the OLED screen is significantly better than the original Switch’s LCD screen, offering more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast.
7. Is it worth upgrading from an original Switch to an OLED Switch?
Yes, it is worth it if you value the handheld experience. The OLED screen is a substantial upgrade, making games look more vivid and detailed.
8. Will the OLED Switch sell out?
The Zelda OLED Switch, being a limited edition, is expected to sell out quickly. We recommend purchasing one as soon as possible if you desire one.
9. Will Tears of the Kingdom run better on the OLED model?
Tears of the Kingdom will not perform better on the OLED Switch, as it shares the same hardware. However, the OLED screen will make the game look significantly better in handheld mode.
10. How long will a Nintendo Switch last?
A Nintendo Switch, whether OLED or standard, is expected to last 6-10 years with proper care.
11. Is it safe to buy a Switch in 2023?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to buy a Switch in 2023. Nintendo is not discontinuing the current generation of Switch any time soon.
12. Is it necessary to play Breath of the Wild before Tears of the Kingdom?
While it’s not necessary to play Breath of the Wild before Tears of the Kingdom, it is recommended for a better understanding of the story and lore.
13. Will the OLED Switch degrade over time?
Like all OLED screens, the organic material in the OLED screen will degrade slightly over time, though this is usually after many years of use.
14. What are the differences between the standard OLED Switch and the Zelda OLED Switch?
The standard OLED Switch and the Zelda OLED Switch are functionally identical, except for the special design and artwork on the Zelda edition.
15. Is there going to be a Switch 2?
There are credible rumors that Nintendo’s next-generation console, often referred to as the Switch 2, may launch in the second half of 2024. However, no official announcement has been made.