Nintendo Switch Sports Resort Review: Classic Sports and Wuhu Island Reimagined

Nintendo Switch Sports Resort brings the series’ iconic motion-fueled gameplay to the Switch 2 with polished visuals, a couple of new sports, and the triumphant return of fan-favorites like golf and bowling. Instead of reinventing the wheel, this tropical-themed entry builds on the groundwork laid by 2022’s Switch Sports. Out of the 12 total activities in Switch Sports Resort, seven are directly from its predecessor. While Miis make a return, so do Nintendo’s more modern and detailed Sportsmates avatars. Furthermore, earning outfits and in-game items is now accessible through both single-player and local multiplayer modes.

Seeing Wuhu Island with New Eyes

Although Switch Sports on the original console was a massive visual leap, taking in the revamped Wuhu Island on the Switch 2 in crisp 4K at a steady 60 fps is an entirely different level of impressive. From vibrant scenery down to crisp menus, character models feature smoother edges, and courses look remarkably clean thanks to enhanced anti-aliasing. Even as a veteran player, the meticulous attention to detail makes the experience feel brand new.

Exploring by Air, Land, and Sea

Traversal on Wuhu Island has been significantly expanded. You can fly a prop plane to shoot down balloons and collect landmark photographs by holding a single Joy-Con 2 flat. Alternatively, power through the water on a jet ski using two Joy-Con 2 controllers as handlebars, or hit the streets on a skateboard using mouse mode. These varied methods offer a refreshing break from traditional competitive matches.

Sharper Slices and Tighter Controls

Switch Sports Resort truly showcases what the new Joy-Con 2 controllers can achieve. Enhanced motion tracking makes every activity significantly more responsive. Whether you are executing quick wrist flicks in Table Tennis or timing swings on the golf course, the improved accuracy ensures that your movements translate seamlessly on-screen.

Chasing the Island Crown

Addressing previous criticisms regarding a lack of single-player incentive, Switch Sports Resort introduces the Island Crown mode. Players can progress through a robust single-player campaign across nine different sports, facing 20 CPU opponents and ultimately challenging legendary Island Champions like Matt.

Local Parties and Global Lobbies

Local couch co-op supports up to four players on a single console using either Joy-Con 2 controllers or original Switch Joy-Cons. Meanwhile, online multiplayer offers seamless lobbies for up to 16 players in modes like Knockout Bowling and competitive Golf, keeping the competitive spirit alive globally.