Nintendo Switch 2 first wave of freebies available now

It’s finally here! Nintendo’s newest console has arrived, the Nintendo Switch 2.

Did you commit to standing in line for the midnight launch at your local store? Or perhaps you’re still awaiting an online delivery?

I know I fall into that latter category. I am listening for the doorbell as I type.

If the console is already in your hands, I’m going to hazard a guess that you’ve spent a fair few hours enjoying Mario Kart World, the long-awaited successor to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

I’ll admit, I’ve seen mixed reviews from players but it does seem that, on the whole, the game offers a fun time.

If you want to display your newfound adoration for the title, you can thanks to a new selection of Nintendo Switch Online profile icons.

The system hasn’t changed, so you’ll still need Platinum Points to redeem these but as a reminder, Platinum Points is Nintendo’s free currency.

Complete a few tasks and you’ll have more than enough points to treat yourself to a few free icons.

For example, playing a game trial rewards you with 100 Platinum Points, while simply visiting the NSO app once a week will bag you some too. You can back up save data for 30 points, or play an online title for 30 points.

It’s all very easy, with active ‘missions’ shown in the Nintendo Switch Online section of your Switch 2.

The Mario Kart World icons are arriving in seven waves with Wave One now available. It’ll remain available until 11 June.

You can grab icons featuring Bowser, Mario, Peach, a Goomba, Toadette, and a Lakitu.

Wave Two will bring Daisy amongst others on 11 June, with Rosalina and Baby Bowser arriving in Wave Three on 18 June.

Wave Four, arriving on 25 June, includes Wario and Shy Guy, with Wave 5 bringing Donkey Kong with it on 2 July.

Wave Six, coming on 9 July, includes King Boo and Birdo, while Wave Seven rounds us out with Yoshi and the Moo Moo Meadows cow.

Once a wave has disappeared, it’ll be gone for good with the new wave replacing it, so don’t miss out on securing the icon of your favourite character.

Moo Moo Meadows cow, you will be mine.