The Nintendo Switch has become about as difficult to find as toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Amazon’s stock is depleted. Prices for the video game console are surging on the secondary market.
It makes sense. Netflix, Hulu and Disney Plus can only hold attention for so long. And video games have never been so versatile, or appealed to such a range of ages.
Much like the Nintendo Switch itself, which can seamlessly “switch” from being played on televisions to a handheld experience, modern video game systems are more than they may appear.
In addition to the latest, three-dimensional, immersive game experiences, each video game system on the market has a robust library of older games you may remember from as far back as the 1980s.
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Physical copies of games are no longer needed – you can download nearly any game at any time, even when isolated. Monthly subscription programs even provide a wide library of games to play at a small price, just as streaming video services do with movies and TV episodes.
And mobile phones have introduced even cheaper and more accessible games to suit all ability levels.
Don’t be intimidated if you haven’t picked up a controller since college, and don’t worry about games being just for kids. Here’s what you need to know to ride out the coronavirus crisis doing more than just streaming television:
How to choose a video game console
When it comes to consoles, there are three main options for newcomers: the Sony PlayStation 4, the Microsoft Xbox One and the Nintendo Switch.
Those hoping to stay indoors can purchase these systems at online retailers like Amazon, GameStop or Best Buy, and games for these systems can be purchased digitally and downloaded directly to the console.
Each console has its share of strengths and weaknesses, including costs, technical capabilities, services and games exclusive to the system.
Though costly, a gaming console takes a lot of the hassle out of playing video games. These systems were specifically designed to run these games, so it’s unlikely you’ll run into the problem of a game not working.
The PlayStation 4 features a strong library of exclusive games, including “God of War” and “Marvel’s Spider-Man.” The base model sells for $299.99 at retail.
A PlayStation Plus subscription ($9.99 monthly or $59.99 annually) lets you play online with friends and other players, and get free games monthly, plus discounts on some games and cloud storage. PlayStation Now ($9.99 monthly) lets you play hundreds of PS4, PS3 and PS2 games.
The Xbox One S, the base model for the system, costs $249.99 without a disc drive or $299.99 with the disc drive. Xbox Game Pass, a subscription service ($9.99 monthly) gains players access to more than 100 digital games, including new titles like “Ori and the Will of the Wisps.” An Xbox Live subscription ($9.99 monthly separately, but just $5 additionally each month with Game Pass) lets you compete online in multiplayer games.
The Nintendo Switch is the most unique of the three systems. It can be connected to a TV or played as a handheld using its built-in screen. The original Switch costs $299.99, while the Switch Lite, a handheld only option, costs $199.99.
Fans of classic games should consider signing up for Nintendo Switch Online ($19.99 annually), a service for the console which provides access to more than 60 games from the NES and SNES.
It’s worth noting that Sony and Microsoft are expected to release successors to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One later this year. Though both consoles are near the end of their life cycles, newcomers can still enjoy a strong library of games and continued services on both platforms.
New and upcoming releases
If you’re looking for the latest, biggest games, March has been a good month for new releases, and more are scheduled for April.
Those looking for an escape amid the current hectic news cycle may consider trying “Animal Crossing: New Horizons.” Players are taken to a deserted island where they can slowly build a home and a community. This low-stakes all-ages Switch game is great for people who want something casual that they can pick up in their spare time. It sells for $59.99.
On the other end of the spectrum is “Doom Eternal,” a first-person shooting game that pits players against demons. This frenetic action game is best suited for older players – the game is rated Mature for players 17-up – and it is available on multiple systems. It costs $59.99.
Fans of role-playing games can look forward to two major titles in the coming weeks on the PlayStation 4. Players can expect to sink more than 100 hours into just one of these games.
“Persona 5 Royal,” to be released March 31, has players control the Phantom Thieves, a group of high school students with mysterious powers trying to change their society. The game costs $59.99.
And “Final Fantasy VII Remake,” set for release April 10 ($59.99), is a the first in a series of remake games based on the original 1997 game. Players take the role of Cloud Strife, a mercenary, fighting against Shinra, a mega-corporation that is killing the planet.
Horror aficionados can anticipate “Resident Evil 3,” a remake of the 1999 title to be released on April 3. Players must overcome hordes of zombies and Nemesis, a seemingly unkillable monster that stalks
The game will release on Windows PCs, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and it costs $59.99.
Gaming on the PC
Gaming with a PC can be a little tricky, as not every computer is capable of running graphics-intensive video games. Factors such as the age of your machine, its operating system and graphics card, as well as your internet speed could prevent some games from running optimally, or at all.
Make sure to research the capabilities of your computer before making a purchase.
Steam and Epic Games Store are two popular storefronts for computer games, each featuring a variety of mainstream titles and indie projects. Both stores run frequent sales, and the Epic Games Store regularly offers free games available to download for a limited time.
Another option for fans of smaller, independent games is itch.io. The website offers a plethora of games, many of which are free or fairly cheap when compared to mainstream titles.
“Kind Words” is one such project. Players are prompted to write anonymous letters about their problems, and other players can respond to with encouragement or advice. Of course, the player can also read other players’ letters and offer a comforting word in response. The game costs $4.99.
Smartphone and tablet gaming
Like PC games, it’s important to make sure your phone or tablet can run an application or game before making the purchase. While the latest models should be fine, older devices or budget phones and tablets might not work.
Whether you’re using the App Store on an iPhone or iPad, the Google Play Store on an Android device or some other storefront, you’re sure to find a wide range of free and paid game apps.
It’s important to remember that while it may be free to play certain games, many include options to spend real-world money inside the games. Parents, in particular, should be mindful of what “free” games their kids are playing.
For Apple users, an Apple Arcade subscription provides access to a wide selection of games for iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple TV. The subscription costs $4.99 per month.
One game on the service is “Sayonara Wild Hearts,” a pop music rhythm game where players traverse dreamlike levels.
Follow Geoffrey Wilson on Twitter: @GeoffWilson_
