Players who want to get their hands on the upcoming Nintendo Switch Lite can now preorder their units on Amazon.
The new handheld version of the popular Nintendo Switch game console retails at a lower price point than the original unit at $199. It's slated for release on Friday, Sept. 20.
Meet The New Nintendo Switch Lite
According to the Amazon listing, the new console will be available in three different colors: turquoise, gray, and yellow.
It's a smaller, lighter update to the Switch system that's designed for gaming on-the-go with a sleek and compact unibody that comes with built-in controllers and +Control Pad.
The Lite can be used to play any game with a handheld mode, including fan favorites Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and more.
How It Compares To The Nintendo Switch
As a less expensive version of the original Nintendo Switch, the Switch Lite enters the market as a more streamlined version. Since it is specifically designed for portable gaming, the Lite sports a slightly smaller screen at 5.5 inches and a lighter weight.
"The two systems will complement each other and co-exist in the marketplace," Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser explained to The Verge about the Switch Lite and original.
Players who want to make the switch to Lite will find the layout is mostly unchanged, although the new system is fitted with a d-pad and comes without the kickstand at the back. Even the display specs are kept at 720p.
According to Nintendo, the Lite has the same performance capability as the original along with a slightly better battery life. It can also be used with the other Switch accessories, such as the Joy-Con controllers, the Switch Pro controller, and the Poké Ball Plus.
Of course, the more affordable version of the Switch also comes with a number of limitations. The Lite is a portable-only device with no option to connect to a television. The Verge noted that there are a few minor compatibility issues that arise due to the lack of detachable controllers, HD rumble, and IR sensors. Some games are incompatible with portable mode.
Bowser said that Nintendo's Switch Lite came into fruition after the team's observations of how players typically use their game consoles.
"We have the ability to track how people play games and play our titles, so I would say that it's really an option that offers more choices to people," he concluded.
