When it comes to party games, Overcooked 2 and its original sit among the cream of the crop, with the sequel made even better thanks to the power of the Nintendo Switch 2.
Originally released back in 2018 on all major platforms, including the original Nintendo Switch, Overcooked 2 suffered from some noticeable performance issues. With its release on the Nintendo Switch 2, Overcooked 2 now matches the quality of its other platform releases, giving players one of the best party games to play without compromise.
For the uninitiated, Overcooked 2 took the foundation of what made the original game so great, added online multiplayer, dynamic stages, snappier controls and more overall content to sink their knives into. With its arrival on the Nintendo Switch 2, Overcooked 2 runs at a consistent 60fps, even when things get hectic.
Graphically, Overcooked 2 features cute but well-realized 3D graphics that the original Switch struggled to keep up with. The bump to 60fps also comes with a smoother overall experience, with no judder or sudden drops, making the often tense game that much easier to enjoy. Now, I say easier, but let’s be honest, if you’ve played either the original or Overcooked 2‘s prior releases, you’ll know how crazy things can get.
Things start off simple in Overcooked 2, with players tasked with preparing easy recipes, which typically involve cutting one or two ingredients, serving them on a dish, and then promptly sending it off on the conveyor belt to the customer. Of course, the levels in Overcooked 2 get tougher as the challenge level gets cranked up.
Soon, dishes require multiple ingredients, while plates become low, necessitating a designated dishwasher, which can disrupt the workflow. Meanwhile, the levels themselves feature increasingly complicated hazards, such as incoming pedestrians, precarious platforming on hot air balloons, or simply unwieldy levels that place key areas, such as cooking pots, away from cutting boards and other vital locations.
In other words, planning, or at the very least, having a good sense of communication between players, is key when playing Overcooked 2, as things can quickly get out of hand with dishes piling up. Overcooked 2 is best played with 2-3 players, although the game also offers solo play and supports up to 4 players in total. However, the more players, the crazier the game can get, making the 2-3 mark the sweet spot. Playing alone is also possible; however, the game will force you to switch between characters, which can feel a little clunky and, truth be told, a little sad.
“Overcooked 2 runs at a consistent 60fps, even when things get hectic.”
Thankfully, Overcooked 2 does support online multiplayer for its versus and arcade modes. Due to the age of the title, however, I was unable ever to find other players when I tried connecting online. In reality, Overcooked 2 is best played via couch co-op, which elevates the chaotic nature of working in a busy kitchen into a fun and over-the-top party experience worth playing.
With the power of the Nintendo Switch 2, Overcooked 2 now feels like the perfect secret ingredient in the Nintendo Switch 2’s library of fun games made for all ages. With detachable Joy-Cons, the Switch 2 Pro controller, on top of all the numerous third-party controller options, Overcooked 2 is the perfect party game for large households looking for a staple game night choice.
And for those just looking for a fun co-op experience to play with family or friends, Overcooked 2 features a fairly lengthy campaign, full of bonus levels, secrets and unlockables to strive for, which make it worthwhile even without party night in mind. Although ultimately Overcooked 2 on the Nintendo Switch is a re-release of an older title, I wish the game had some form of cross-platform play, which would improve online play.
“Overcooked 2 now feels like the perfect secret ingredient in the Nintendo Switch 2’s library of fun games made for all ages.”
Finally, in terms of new content, Overcooked 2 features camera play, which is always a fun novelty, game-share capabilities, and a new exclusive character, which helps make this release feel distinct. In truth, simply having the better framerate is enough to warrant a second look for those who may only stick to Nintendo consoles, as Overcooked 2 is a must for party game fans.
When it comes down to it, Overcooked 2 is an essential party game, now made worthwhile on the Nintendo Switch 2 with a version of the game that matches the quality of its other releases on more powerful hardware. If you’ve never experienced the popular party game, Overcooked 2 is an essential must-play for co-op gamers and those looking for a sure-fire party hit.
