Anyone lucky enough to grab a Nintendo Switch 2 is likely eager to get started playing the new system as quickly as possible. To help make sure the process goes smoothly, we've put together a guide for setting up your Switch 2 that will help you walk through the process, and tell you everything you need. I'll also quickly go over some tips based on some issues that I or other Screen Rant writers have run into with our consoles.

The process may take a few minutes, and could be impacted by your internet speed. There are also a few items you'll want to collect before getting started, just so you don't have to keep starting and stopping the process to go grab something. I'll go over everything you'll want on hand when you start setting up your Switch 2, and some troubleshooting should you encounter any issues.

What You'll Need To Set Up Your Switch 2

You'll Need Some Other Items To Get Started

Aside from the contents of your Switch 2 box, there are a few other things you'll want to have handy when you start setting your console up. You'll want to either know your Wi-Fi , or have access to it before you get started. If you're using a micro SD card for extra storage, you'll want that during the set-up process too. You'll also want a device that can scan QR codes, preferably one logged into your Nintendo already, to help streamline the process. Otherwise, make sure you know your Nintendo log-in information.

If you're transferring data from a Switch to your Switch 2, make sure you have it nearby, charged, and that it has the new update. You'll also want at least one Switch charger, which could just be the one that comes with the Switch 2. Once you have everything listed here, you are ready to get started with setting up your Switch 2.

How To Set Up Your Switch 2

To get started, take your Switch 2 out of the box and attach the Joy-Con 2 controllers to it. It should have a charge already, but you'll still want to plug it into its A/C adapter, as certain steps in this process require it to be plugged in. Once you turn the system on, the menus will walk you through preliminary steps like choosing a language and connecting to your Wi-Fi network.

How To Transfer Data From Your Switch

If you're transferring data from a Switch, you'll need to have it close by. You'll also be told to insert your micro SD card before starting the process if you have one. When prompted by the Switch 2, head to the settings menu on your original Switch and choose the System option. Scroll down until you see the option to transfer data to a Switch 2. You'll need to to your Nintendo console at this point, which can be done by scanning a QR code on your Switch 2 and entering your log-in data on your device.

During the data transfer, both systems will ask you to plug them in. If you don't have your Switch charger handy, that's okay, you only need one. Simply advance to the step past where it says to plug in the system on one of your consoles, then switch the charging cable over to the other one to get past its prompt. Once you've started the process, it won't stop just because one of the consoles comes unplugged, so you don't really need two chargers if both have full batteries. That said, keep both plugged in if one might die.

Exploring Switch 2's Play Styles

After transferring your data from your Switch, you'll be asked to try out the different ways a Switch 2 can be played. This includes testing the stand, pulling off the Joy-Cons, and connecting to your TV. If you're not near your TV (I set my console up in bed after picking it up at midnight), you can opt to skip this step and continue setting up your console. If you are setting up your dock, you'll want to start by removing the back and connecting your A/C adapter and HDMI cable to the dock.

I've seen some concerns from players online about how to access the HDMI and A/C ports on the Switch 2 dock without harming the system. The back comes off easily, so long as you pull from the grove on the top back of the system, near the rounded cap. Don't try pulling from the bottom where you see the "HDMI" label. Once the back is open and your cables are attached, make sure they are running down through the slot on the bottom before reattaching the to the back so you don't pinch them.

Initially, my Switch 2 dock didn't seem to be working. It wouldn't charge my console, and it wouldn't connect to my TV. I took it out of the surge protector I had it in and plugged it directly into the wall and it started working. I've noticed a few other people having issues connecting their docks, so make sure your dock is getting power when trying to connect. A small light will go on at the bottom left side of the dock if it's receiving power.

Finishing Steps

After either setting up your dock, or skipping that step, you'll finish the setup menu and be prompted to click the home button to get started. If you did a data transfer from your old Switch console, you'll see that your old installed games are now being ed to your Switch 2. If you don't want them all installed right away, you can cancel this by selecting the game and deleting the data.

Anyone with just the base console is done with the setup at this point. However, if you have the Mario Kart World bundle, and want to your game, head to the Nintendo Store. Opening this up will prompt you to sign in to your Nintendo again, so make sure you still have your QR reading device handy. Make sure to check the " Me" box so you don't have to sign in every time you want to visit the store.

Once you're signed in, head to the "Enter Code" option and enter the game code for Mario Kart World that came in the box with your console. If you bought extra controllers, and want to connect them, you can do that by clicking the controller icon on the main menu. Once you're done with these steps, you're ready to start playing your Switch 2. Have fun!