Last week, we finally got hard details on the launch of Nintendo’s newest game console, the Nintendo Switch. And while some of its new titles and features are generating excited buzz, the $299 base price of the console and included accessories isn’t going over so well.

The Switch comes with a docking station, two Joy-Con controllers, and a Joy-Con Grip to make a more traditional controller. (Nintendo Photo)

This week, our GearedUp gadget show, hosted by Todd Bishop and Andru Edwards, takes a look at the tech behind the Switch, including the gadget-packed “Joy-Cons” that are used to play games and control the console. They include impressive haptic technology that can simulate ice cubes falling into a glass, among other things.

The Switch can also be removed from the dock and the Joy-Cons latched on to the side for on-the-go gaming. (Nintendo Photo)

GearLive’s Andru Edwards says the Joy-Cons and the console’s convenience are its main attractions. The Switchis really a tablet, which can be docked to play in big-screen mode on a TV or removed from the dock for on-the-go gaming.

But taking full advantage of all the Switch’s features becomes costly. Although the base console starts at $299 —in the ballpark of competitors like the Xbox One and Playstation 4 — you’ll have to pay a lot more if you want to play some MarioKart with a few friends. Add-ons like extra Joy-Cons, Joy-Con Grips and, of course, all the games can start to add up.

And although the games that have already been announced have been getting a good reception — including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Mario Odyssey — there is skepticism about Nintendo’s ability to work with third-party game makers after its previous console, the Wii U, fell flat when it came to third party games.

Andru says the console’s success will come down to the quality of its games, and how people respond to its mode-switching features.

Watch Andru and Todd debate the Switch’s pros and cons in the behind the scenes video above, listen to the podcast above or download the podcast as an MP3 here. 

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