Former Xbox executive criticizes Nintendo Switch 2 price, launch titles, and graphics

Current Xbox representatives might refrain from attacking their rivals too harshly. However, a former Microsoft executive, Mike Ybarra, isn't holding back. More recently, he served as President of Blizzard Entertainment before becoming the PrizePicks CEO. After the April 2nd Direct, Ybarra poked fun at the Nintendo Switch 2 price, launch titles, and performance.

Some readers were surprised when Ybarra's first reaction on X was, "Hard pass for me on Switch 2." Ybarra explained that he wasn't excited by any Switch 2 games shown during the Direct. He also objected to the enhanced performance promised on Nintendo's new console. Responding to news of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom running at 4K 60fps on the system, Ybarra said, "It looks like a game from 2000."

The Nintendo Switch 2 price has been a popular subject of debate. Its $450 price tag was slightly higher than some expectations. Also, physical Switch 2 launch titles, like Mario Kart World, will cost as much as $90 in some regions. Ybarra doesn't see enough value or innovation in the handheld or its features. Another example is Nintendo's GameChat, which may not seem revolutionary, given that Xbox offered party chat in 2008.

Ybarra's loyalties aren't so clear after he departed Microsoft and Blizzard. Still, with Xbox hardware sales struggling, it may seem strange for any former Xbox supporter to attack Nintendo. On the other hand, Microsoft has not finished developing or promoting new consoles. Project Kennan is an upcoming Asus-made handheld that may introduce a full-screen Xbox UI.

The Nintendo Switch 2 price could allow Microsoft to market a similarly priced alternative with advantages. While Switch 2 games are pricey, Xbox Game Pass provides day-one releases for a reasonable monthly fee. Nevertheless, the Kennan will lack legendary IPs like Mario and Zelda. Also, it remains unclear how well Microsoft can overcome the clunkiness of a Windows-based console.