Thinking about making the Switch? A parent’s guide to the Nintendo Switch 2
The original Nintendo Switch, released in 2017, revolutionized gaming by offering a true hybrid experience, allowing players to enjoy a full home-console experience anytime, anywhere.
The Switch features a 6.2-inch LCD touchscreen with 720p resolution in handheld mode and supports up to 1080p when docked. In addition, it benefited from having several strong first-party (video games developed by a company that also owns the system) franchises like The Legend of Zelda, Mario Kart, Pokémon, and Splatoon, alongside its growing third-party developers and indie game scene.
Fast forward to the newly released Nintendo Switch 2, and every aspect of the console has been upgraded while retaining the familiar design that fans love. The new model has a larger display and significantly enhanced graphics, powered by an NVIDIA chip that delivers up to ten times the performance of the original.
Gameplay is noticeably smoother, and the ergonomic Joy-Cons (the primary controllers for the Switch 2) feature larger buttons and joysticks, offering improved comfort during extended play sessions. Additionally, the new dock supports 4K output when connected to a compatible TV, making the Switch 2 a powerhouse for handheld and home gaming. But as with any device, parents are asking the question: Is this safe for my kids or teens?
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about the Switch 2’s communication features, parental controls, and how it stacks up against other gaming systems in the market.
1. GameChat enables a new way to connect
One of the newest features on Nintendo Switch 2 is GameChat. This built-in voice and video chat system lets players talk to each other while gaming—no extra apps or devices needed.
How it works: Whether you’re in TV mode, tabletop mode, or handheld mode, chat instantly with the C button located on the Joy-Con 2 controller without pausing the action in your game.
Why it matters: While it’s a fun way for friends to stay connected, in some games, this feature opens the door for strangers to directly video call other players. That’s where parental controls come in.
Caveat: GameChat is included with any Nintendo Switch Online membership. But until March 31, 2026, it’s available for all users, even without a subscription.
2. Nintendo Parental Controls: Your digital toolkit for safety
Nintendo has made it easier than ever to manage your child’s gaming experience on the Switch 2 with the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app, available for free download on iOS and Android devices.
Key features:
Time limits—Set daily time limits for games and schedule bedtimes
Restrict communication—Limit in-game chat and social media posting globally or on a per-game basis for users under the age of 16
Block Games – Restrict purchases and games from being played if not age-appropriate
Monitor activity—Track which games are being played and for how long with a detailed monthly report
PIN protection – A PIN is used to bypass or adjust restrictions
While other consoles offer parental control features, the Nintendo Switch 2 stands out with its dedicated smartphone app and control over GameChat. Each time your kid attempts to initiate a video call, you’ll receive a notification on your phone. Once you approve it, the call will begin. You can also view a detailed history of your kid’s GameChat activity, including call logs, and add notes next to people your kid chats with to help identify who they are.
3. Stay in the know of ESRB ratings
The ESRB, or the Entertainment Software Rating Board, is a nonprofit organization that assigns age and content ratings to video games and apps in the United States.
Every video game comes with an ESRB rating on the box. Here is a quick guide to know if a game is age-appropriate:
Rating Meaning Examples
E (Everyone) Suitable for all ages Mario Kart World
E10+ Ages 10 and up Pokémon Legends Z-A
T (Teen) Ages 13 and up Bravely Default II
M (Mature) Ages 17 and up Cyberpunk 2077
Before purchasing games on your kid’s device, always check the rating and read the content descriptors (like “Violence” and “Online Interactions”). These ratings are designed to help consumers, and parents in particular, make decisions on what games are appropriate for different age groups.
Now you're playing together, anytime, anywhere
The Nintendo Switch 2 is packed with fun content, but like any connected device, it’s safest when parents stay informed and involved in what their kids are playing.
With the Switch 2’s Parental Control features, you can set healthy boundaries to ensure your kids have parameters while gaming. Engaging with your kids in a non-judgmental way helps you stay informed about what games they are enjoying and opens the doors to meaningful conversations at home.
