Wolfenstein II Switch Review: Still Worth Playing?

Hey guys! Let's dive into Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus on the Nintendo Switch. This game originally hit the scene back in 2017, and it made waves with its intense storyline, crazy action, and, well, the fact that you're shooting Nazis in an alternate history America. Now, porting a game like this to the Switch? That's a challenge. We're going to break down what works, what doesn't, and whether it's worth your hard-earned cash. So, buckle up; it's time to get into it!

Story and Setting

Wolfenstein II's narrative is absolutely bonkers, and that’s a good thing. You're back as B.J. Blazkowicz, a.k.a. Terror-Billy, and this time, you're leading the resistance against the Nazi regime in the United States. The game doesn't shy away from heavy themes; it tackles racism, oppression, and the cost of freedom head-on. What makes it stand out is the over-the-top characters and the sheer audacity of the plot. You'll meet a colorful cast of rebels, each with their own motivations and backstories. The writing is surprisingly good, blending serious moments with dark humor. The alternate 1960s America is both terrifying and fascinating. Cities are under Nazi control, propaganda is everywhere, and the sense of dread is palpable. The developers really nailed the atmosphere, making you feel like you're fighting an uphill battle against overwhelming odds.

Gameplay

When it comes to gameplay, Wolfenstein II is a fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled shooter. You'll be dual-wielding weapons, blasting through hordes of Nazi soldiers, and using a variety of gadgets to gain an edge. The gunplay is tight and satisfying, with each weapon feeling unique and powerful. Whether you prefer shotguns, assault rifles, or grenade launchers, there's something for everyone. Stealth is also an option, allowing you to take out enemies silently and strategically. However, let's be real, most of the time, you'll be going in guns blazing. What sets Wolfenstein II apart is its level design. Each area is meticulously crafted, offering multiple paths and opportunities for creative takedowns. You'll be exploring everything from war-torn city streets to underground bunkers, each with its own set of challenges. The game also introduces new abilities and upgrades, allowing you to customize your playstyle. You can enhance your stealth skills, improve your weapon handling, or boost your health and armor. This adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, encouraging you to experiment and find what works best for you.

Graphics and Performance on Switch

Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room: how does Wolfenstein II look and run on the Switch? Porting a graphically intensive game like this to Nintendo's handheld console requires compromises, and they are noticeable. The resolution has been significantly reduced, resulting in a softer image. Textures are less detailed, and some visual effects have been toned down. However, the developers at Panic Button (who are wizards at Switch ports) have done an admirable job of optimizing the game. While it may not look as crisp as on other platforms, it's still impressive for what it is. The frame rate is generally stable, although it can dip during intense firefights. This can be distracting, but it doesn't ruin the overall experience. Considering the Switch's hardware limitations, the fact that Wolfenstein II is even playable is a testament to the skill of the developers. If you're willing to overlook some visual downgrades, you'll find a surprisingly enjoyable experience. Just don't expect it to look as good as it does on a high-end PC or console.

Control and User Interface

The control scheme in Wolfenstein II on the Switch is well-implemented. The Joy-Cons can feel a bit cramped at times, especially during long play sessions, but the game makes good use of the available buttons and sticks. Aiming can be a bit tricky, particularly with the Joy-Cons' smaller sticks, but you can adjust the sensitivity to find a comfortable setting. Motion controls are also included, allowing you to fine-tune your aim by tilting the console. This can be helpful for making precise shots, but it takes some getting used to. The user interface is clean and easy to navigate. Menus are well-organized, and important information is clearly displayed on the screen. However, the text can be a bit small in handheld mode, which can strain your eyes after a while. Overall, the controls and user interface are functional and responsive. While they may not be perfect, they get the job done without getting in the way of the gameplay.

Sound and Music

Wolfenstein II features a fantastic soundtrack that perfectly complements the on-screen action. The music is intense and bombastic, adding to the overall sense of urgency and excitement. Gunshots, explosions, and screams of Nazis fill the soundscape, creating a visceral and immersive experience. The voice acting is also top-notch, with each character delivering a memorable performance. B.J. Blazkowicz is brought to life by Brian Bloom, who perfectly captures the character's toughness and vulnerability. The sound design is excellent, with each weapon sounding distinct and powerful. Environmental sounds are also well-crafted, adding to the atmosphere of the game. Whether you're listening through headphones or speakers, Wolfenstein II sounds great on the Switch. The audio quality is surprisingly good, considering the console's limitations. So, crank up the volume and get ready to blast some Nazis!

Replay Value

Wolfenstein II offers a decent amount of replay value. The main campaign is fairly lengthy, clocking in at around 10-12 hours. However, there are plenty of reasons to come back for more. The game features a variety of difficulty levels, allowing you to tailor the challenge to your liking. Whether you're a seasoned FPS veteran or a newcomer to the genre, you can find a difficulty level that suits your skill level. There are also collectibles hidden throughout the game, encouraging you to explore every nook and cranny. Finding these collectibles unlocks additional content, such as concept art and character bios. The game also features side missions, which offer additional challenges and rewards. These missions add to the overall playtime and provide a break from the main story. While Wolfenstein II may not have the endless replayability of some other games, it offers enough content to keep you entertained for a while.

Final Verdict

So, should you buy Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus on the Nintendo Switch? If you're a fan of first-person shooters and don't mind some visual compromises, then absolutely. The game's intense storyline, fast-paced gameplay, and memorable characters make it a must-play. While the graphics may not be as good as on other platforms, the overall experience is still enjoyable. The fact that you can play this game on the go is a major plus. Whether you're commuting to work or traveling on a plane, you can always squeeze in some Nazi-blasting action. However, if you're a stickler for graphics and can't tolerate any visual downgrades, then you may want to consider playing Wolfenstein II on a different platform. But for everyone else, this is a solid port that's well worth your time and money. Panic Button has once again worked their magic, bringing a AAA experience to the Switch. Just be prepared for some intense action and a whole lot of Nazi-killing!

Pros

• Intense and engaging storyline
• Fast-paced and satisfying gameplay
• Memorable characters
• Excellent voice acting and sound design
• Portable Nazi-blasting action

Cons

• Visual downgrades compared to other platforms
• Frame rate dips during intense firefights
• Small text in handheld mode