Nintendo has officially taken the wraps off its long-awaited Switch 2, delivering a first glimpse at the console that aims to continue the monumental legacy of the original Switch. The reveal video, posted on YouTube, showcases a sleek redesign, upgraded features, and backward compatibility, but leaves fans hungry for more details about price, launch titles, and a release date. A fuller breakdown of what’s to come is promised during a Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025.
This announcement marks the next step in Nintendo’s gaming revolution, nearly eight years after the original Switch became one of the best-selling consoles of all time. Fans worldwide are buzzing about what the Switch 2 will bring to the table—and what it means for the gaming landscape.
What’s New: Design, Joy-Cons, and Hardware Upgrades
The Switch 2 builds on the hybrid design of its predecessor but takes several big steps forward in terms of hardware and usability. The console itself is noticeably larger, with reports pointing to an 8-inch screen—up from the 6.2-inch original and 7-inch OLED models. However, rumors suggest the Switch 2 will use an LCD display rather than an OLED, potentially to maintain affordability.
The updated Joy-Con controllers have undergone significant changes. They’re now larger, with rounded edges for better comfort, and attach magnetically to the console—a welcome upgrade over the original rail-based system. A new feature has also been introduced: the Joy-Cons can double as a mouse, offering intriguing possibilities for gameplay and productivity.
One noticeable addition is a mysterious “C button” on the right Joy-Con, sparking speculation about its purpose. Leaks suggest it may enhance group chat or introduce new in-game functions, but Nintendo has yet to confirm these details.
The console retains its hybrid nature, functioning as both a handheld device and a dockable home console. The kickstand, a frequent point of criticism on the original Switch, has been redesigned for better stability.
Backward Compatibility and Game Teases
A major win for fans is the backward compatibility of the Switch 2. Both physical cartridges and digital games from the original Switch will work on the new system, although Nintendo has cautioned that not all older titles will be fully compatible.
The teaser video showcased what appears to be a new Mario Kart game, fueling rumors of the long-awaited Mario Kart 9. If confirmed, it would mark the first new entry in the series since 2014. Early glimpses suggest this game could support massive 24-person races, doubling the chaos of previous installments.
Other rumored titles for the Switch 2 include Final Fantasy VII Remake, Metroid Prime 4, and Pokemon Legends: Z-A, though none have been officially announced yet.
What’s Under the Hood? Rumored Specs
Nintendo has not disclosed official specs for the Switch 2, but leaks and patents suggest it will be a significant leap forward. The console is expected to feature 12 GB of RAM—triple that of the original Switch—and 256 GB of SSD storage, a massive upgrade from the previous 32 GB.
On the graphics front, reports indicate that Nintendo is partnering with NVIDIA to incorporate a custom processor with AI-powered DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) technology. This feature could allow the Switch 2 to render games in 4K resolution without requiring massive storage space, keeping it competitive with other next-gen consoles.
Nintendo Switch 2 Experience Events
To build hype, Nintendo has announced “Switch 2 Experience” events worldwide, where fans can try the console before its release. These free events, accessible with a Nintendo account, will take place in major cities across North America, Europe, and Asia.
North America
- New York: April 4-6
- Los Angeles: April 11-13
- Dallas: April 25-27
- Toronto: April 25-27
Europe
- Paris: April 4-6
- London: April 11-13
- Milan: April 25-27
- Berlin: April 25-27
- Madrid: May 9-11
APAC
- Tokyo: April 26-27
- Melbourne: May 10-11
- Seoul: May 31-June 1
What’s Missing: Price and Release Date
Nintendo remains tight-lipped about the Switch 2’s price and release date. Speculation suggests a summer or fall 2025 launch, following the conclusion of the in-person Experience events. Analysts predict a price point similar to the original Switch’s $299 or slightly higher, especially if the rumored hardware upgrades are confirmed.
** FAQs **
Q1: What are the key features of the Nintendo Switch 2?
A: The Switch 2 features a larger 8-inch display, redesigned magnetic Joy-Cons with mouse functionality, backward compatibility, and rumored 4K upscaling via DLSS technology.
Q2: Will the Nintendo Switch 2 support games from the original Switch?
A: Yes, the console supports backward compatibility for most physical and digital Switch games, though some titles may not be fully compatible.
Q3: When will the Nintendo Switch 2 be released?
A: Nintendo has not announced a release date but is expected to launch the Switch 2 after global Experience events, likely in mid-to-late 2025.
Q4: What games have been confirmed for the Nintendo Switch 2?
A: While no official lineup has been revealed, a new Mario Kart game was teased in the announcement video, and rumors suggest several major titles are in development.
Q5: How much will the Nintendo Switch 2 cost?
A: Pricing has not been disclosed, but analysts anticipate it will be around $299-$349, depending on hardware specifications.
