The social aspect of connecting to play with others is a huge part of the gaming world, and the Nintendo Switch 2 is a surprisingly great console for this type of experience. Between the Switch 2’s portability as a handheld-home console hybrid and its GameShare ability that allows players to enjoy supported games with friends, even if they don’t own the game, Nintendo’s latest console is a must-have for social gamers. However, the Switch 2 has one feature that seems like it has been all but forgotten despite its potential to enhance co-op gaming experiences.
In an era where co-op games and online multiplayer have seen a massive resurgence, thanks to games like Split Fiction, Reanimal, and the recent relaunch of Overwatch, having a way to seamlessly connect with friends online is a necessity. The Switch 2 is also set to receive even more multiplayer experiences in the future, with the popular survival game Valheim announced to be coming to the console, as is the brand-new title Oribtals. Although Discord has been the go-to app for gamers to connect and chat with friends, the Switch 2’s GameChat might become the new place to hang out while gaming on the console.
Discord Announces Big Change Coming in March [UPDATE]
Discord announced a significant change that will affect all its users across the globe throughout March, and states the reasons behind its decision.
Nintendo Switch 2 GameChat Could Be a Great Discord Alternative
Initially revealed during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct in the lead-up to the console’s release last summer, GameChat was spotlighted as a major new feature separating the Switch 2 from its predecessor. The feature allows players to press the “C” button on their Joy-Con 2 controllers to access the app and connect with up to 12 friends for voice and video calls while gaming. While many Nintendo fans brushed this feature off as unnecessary in the age of Discord, the latest developments in Discord’s age verification controversy could make Nintendo Switch 2’s GameChat app incredibly relevant.
Nintendo Switch 2 owners will need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription and a compatible webcam to make full use of GameChat, and the company even released the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera as an accessory specifically designed for this app.
Who’s That Character?
Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.
Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.
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Why Some Gamers Are Ditching Discord in 2026
Discord has recently been in some hot water with users over the announcement that it will start requiring them to submit a photo ID or face scan to verify their age. Some Discord users will have their account set to teen by default, locking them out of access to certain channels until they can provide identification. Although Discord has walked back these requirements somewhat, clarifying that most users would not be affected, the damage has already been done to some extent, and users are already ditching the platform for Discord alternatives like TeamSpeak.
Switch 2 Owners Who Slept On GameChat at Launch May Want to Give it Another Look
In the wake of Discord’s age verification controversy, the Switch 2’s GameChat feature is suddenly looking a lot more appealing. While it may have been redundant because of Discord’s existence at the launch of the Switch 2 nearly a year ago, Nintendo fans looking for a Discord alternative already have a great option sitting right under their noses. GameChat doesn’t offer all the same features as Discord, as users cannot create and host channels with text chat. However, for audio and video calls with screen sharing capabilities, GameChat may be the next best thing for Discord users who regularly use these features.
Unlike Discord, GameChat also comes with some unique characteristics that serve to enhance certain Nintendo games. Super Mario Party Jamboree — Nintendo Switch 2 Edition utilizes the camera to put players’ faces directly into the game for certain mini-games, and Mario Kart World uses this feature to show which player is which racer. GameChat also allows users to use GameShare with compatible games if their friends online don’t own a particular title that they want to play together. While it’s not a perfect solution, Nintendo fans looking to jump ship from Discord should consider checking out GameChat.
