The Nintendo Switch was only announced yesterday, and we already have new details and clarifications, expanding on those we got yesterday, regarding the new hybrid console.
In an interview with IGN, Nintendo clarified that the tablet-like device is, in fact, the console itself. When the Nintendo Switch is docked, it transfers the image to the television or monitor. In addition to connecting the Switch to a TV, the dock also serves as a way to charge the console itself and provides two USB slots. In the same interview, it was established that the Switch will "Absolutely" have Amiibo support, for games that feature it.
"The dock is not the main console unit of Nintendo Switch. The main unit of Nintendo Switch is the unit that has the LCD screen, which the two Joy-Con controllers can be attached to and detached from. The main function of the Nintendo Switch Dock is to provide an output to the TV, as well as charging and providing power to the system." - Nintendo Interview with IGN
In an interview (translation by Perfectly Nintendo) that Famsitu had with Nintendo of Japan, Nintendo established that the Switch will have no backwards compatibility with physical Wii U discs and 3DS game cards. This does leave open the possibility that Wii U and 3DS games could be downloaded digitally in the future. Nintendo also did not comment on the possibility of supporting smartphone titles, instead opting to dodge the issue there.
Many fans watching the trailer were excited at one scene which appeared to show The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim being played on the Nintendo Switch. However, Bethesda has stated that it is not officially confirmed. Bethesda is listed as a development partner for the Nintendo Switch, and they also did not outright deny that Skyrim was coming to the Nintendo Switch. With many companies known to be working on games for the Nintendo Switch - including some who weren't shown in the trailer yesterday like Image & Form - there likely won't be a huge lack of announcements.
A lot of details are still under wraps, including battery life, whether or not the Switch has touch screen capabilities, and what will be included in the initial package. We do know, however, that we won't be hearing any more details from Nintendo regarding specifications, or games from them until 2017 at the earliest according to a Wall Street Journal Report. Specifications include whether or not the Nintendo Switch is region-free or not.
