11 quick tips to get you started with your new Nintendo Switch (NTDOY)

Nintendo Switch

The Nintendo Switch, the Japanese video game giant's latest console, is expected to be one of the most popular gifts of the holiday season.
Released in March 2017, the Switch is a hybrid console: It can be used as a handheld, or easily connected to a TV via a dock.
Like most modern video game consoles, the Switch also has a wide range of online and multimedia features.
Adults setting up parental controls for their children can use a separate app to monitor playtime and restrict inappropriate content.

The Nintendo Switch is the fastest selling video game console of this generation, having sold more than 8.7 million units since its launch in March 2017.

Plenty of people will be giving the console as a gift this season as well, and there are a few important things to keep in mind when first unboxing the new console. While the Switch does a good job of walking new players through the process of getting started, there are a couple of extra steps that could ultimately give you a better experience.

Here's what you need to know to get the most out of your Nintendo Switch, and fast:

Create a new profile for everyone who will use the Switch.

You'll create your first user as soon as you turn the Switch on.

If the console is being shared by family members or friend, though, its important to create a user for everyone who plans to play. Creating separate users will allow players to maintain separate save data for their games, making sure that no one accidentally erases anybody else's game.

The Switch will also ask users to link or create a free Nintendo account. Not every user needs their own Nintendo account — but you'll need one to buy games from the digital eShop. Users can have different Nintendo accounts on the same Switch to make their own separate purchases, if they so choose. Every user on the Switch will be able to play games that are installed under different accounts.

Learn how to connect Switch Joy-Cons and other controllers.

In addition to being a portable hybrid console, one of the Switch's most impressive features are its Joy-Con controllers. The Joy-Cons on the side of the Switch can be used as a pair, for a traditional gamepad experience, or on their lonesome as individual controllers. That means that you have two controllers, right out of the box — though they're a little small for most adult hands.

The Switch will also let other controllers, including more J0y-Cons or the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, connect via bluetooth or USB.

If you have trouble connecting your controllers, or want to separate your Joy-Cons, navigate to the Change Grip menu to see exactly which controller is assigned to which player. To get there, hit the Home button on the controller, and navigate below your library of games.

On the main menu, the Switch will also show you which controller is being used, and which way you should be holding your Joy Con, with an icon in the lower left-hand corner.

Some controllers and accessories that were originally designed for Nintendo's Wii U actually work with the Switch, like the "Pokken Tournament" controller and the GameCube controller adapter, which can be used to connect up to four controllers for "Super Smash Bros. Ultimate."

Make sure your system software is up to date.

Your system should prompt you to update as soon as you connect it to the internet. If your console isn't up to date, you'll lose access to important online features and game specific updates. Unfortunately, Nintendo's online services aren't the fastest and the updates need to be downloaded directly to the system. Expect it to get even slower than normal on Christmas morning, as every new Switch owner does the exact same thing.

See the rest of the story at Business Insider