Goofy multiplayer game 1-2-Switch makes the most of Switch's unique controllers
Every Nintendo system needs a multiplayer party game, and 1-2-Switch looks the Switch's Wii Sports equivalent.
1-2-Switch draws on the unique capabilities of the new JoyCon controllers, and does not actually require a screen to play - the controllers themselves indicate when you're meant to take action.
One example shown was a quick-draw game that can be played one on one, with an emphasis on trying to guess your opponent's moves from their eyes. Hopefully you're good at poker.
It's basically a party game, according to Nintendo, and a list of features was released by the company shortly after its Switch presentation ended.
- Face-to-Face Play – Look at your friends rather than the screen as you compete in a new style of video game party full of fast and fun face-to-face games. Stare down your opponent in a wild-west duel, mimic your opponent’s poses in a copycat dance-off, or rally for victory in a heated table tennis face-off.
- Anywhere with anyone – Bring fun and surprise to barbecues, house parties, or wherever you travel by using the built-in stand of the Nintendo Switch system. The Nintendo Switch system comes bundled with a pair of Joy-Con controllers, allowing the party to start with just one system and the game for instant multiplayer fun.
- Intuitive and simple controls using Joy-Con features – Simple rules make it easy for anyone to play and fun for everyone to watch. Each player holds a single Joy-Con, and different games use different controller features, such as motion control, HD rumble, or the IR Motion Camera.
1-2-Switch will launch on March 3, as a Switch launch title. It seems well positioned to prove a favourite with casual and family gamers, which could make it the equivalent of Wii Fit - a killer mainstream app.
Fingers crossed, eh? A gazillion console sales wouldn't hurt anyone right now.