The Deteriorating Condition of My Nintendo Switch: A Personal Account
An Unsettling Discovery
Recently, I noticed a concerning issue with my Nintendo Switch: a noticeable gap has formed where the vent grill used to be.This problem has been developing over the past eighteen months, leading me to contemplate whether it’s time for a replacement console. What are your thoughts on this situation?
A Self-Inflicted Wound?
Reflecting on the timeline, I suspect that this gaping hole is largely due to my own actions. It all began in February 2018 when I decided to customize my console by swapping out it’s original back cover for a striking translucent red version purchased from Amazon.At the time of modification, the vent was entirely intact. However, shortly after making this change, I discovered that one of the four crossbars on the grill had broken off unexpectedly. To clarify, there was no accidental drop or mishandling involved—at least none that I can recall. The piece simply fractured and fell away while everything else continued functioning normally; games played well and docking remained unaffected.
Common Issues Among users
I’m not alone in facing this dilemma; other users have reported similar issues with their vents cracking as well. Some attribute these fractures to temperature fluctuations causing plastic components to expand and contract excessively. Others suggest that carrying the Switch in oversized pockets may contribute to such damage.Personally, I believe my predicament arises from both heat variations and pressure exerted by the third-party cover installed.
Ongoing Decline
The gradual decline of my device has persisted as then. Here’s an image of my switch from June earlier this year:
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And here’s how it looks now:
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It’s worth mentioning that I’ve reverted back to using the original back cover; though, it too is begining to warp over time.Additionally, I’ve misplaced a small screw during this process.
Time for an Upgrade?
Now I’m left pondering whether it’s prudent to replace my launch model with one of Nintendo’s newer versions. since I primarily use mine docked at home, enhanced battery life offered by newer models isn’t notably compelling enough for me to make an immediate switch (pun intended). While my current unit still operates adequately despite its visible wear and tear, each time I undock it feels like I’m further diminishing its lifespan.
Should I invest in a new model while keeping this one as an emergency backup? Alternatively, could there be someone among friends who would feel pleasant enough tackling a complete shell replacement? Or should I adopt a more experimental approach—waiting patiently until more pieces break off while still being able to enjoy gaming? After all—science!