Despite some factors that may give you pause, there are still reasons why buying a Nintendo Switch in 2023 could be a good choice. One of the main concerns is that the Switch has been available for some time now, and it’s possible that Nintendo has a new or updated version of the console in the works, or even a completely new generation console.

Nintendo has confirmed that they won’t release any new Switch console in this fiscal year, which means not until at least March 2024. Unless Nintendo surprises us with a sudden release, we shouldn’t expect a new console anytime soon. Therefore, it is still safe to buy a Switch this year.

However, there’s another reason to think twice about buying a new Switch, even after a new Nintendo Switch 2 is announced. When the Switch was released in 2017, its portability and handheld mode were revolutionary. But in 2023, we have alternatives like the Steam Deck, other portable PC competitors, and even PlayStation is entering the handheld console market. These options offer portable access to the latest AAA games and, in the case of the Steam Deck, access to a wide range of emulators to play classic games.

Ultimately, the decision to buy a Nintendo Switch in 2023 depends on whether you are primarily interested in playing Nintendo games. If titles like “Zelda” and “Elephant Mario” are high on your priority list, then the Switch is undoubtedly a console worth considering.