I have to agree. I couldn't read the whole article. I think the message is interesting but it seems like half of every paragraph is just flowery language.
If it was actually pocketable I would have bought a second switch for on the go. But it's not small enough for that, and it drops functionality from the slightly larger model. If either changed I think it would have sold better.
I think not being dockable killed it for most people, that and it not being a pocket system. I think if either of those changes the for the better it would sell well. If it doesn't fit in my pocket I might as well get the big one that docks so I can play on the TV when I'm in the mood.
I have a feeling that a Switch 2 Lite is on the horizon, Nintendo loves a console variant. Not that the S1 lite is pocketable, but maybe they will shrink it more this time.
I went down a somewhat similar path, only for me it was GBA and emulation on my Steam Deck that really made me realize I missed having pocket games that are real games and not mobile bullshit. I modded my old GBA with a modern screen and battery and it's been my goto device for portable games.
The OG DS dropped as I was graduating highschool and going into college, and the 3DS completely passed me by. I keep thinking about getting a used one but their prices are still a little high for me.
I actually have it on gog, but I've had a few issues running it on Linux. I haven't tried it a while, and I didn't troubleshoot much at all. I should give it another try.
ARM = Acorn Risc Machine