After months of whispers and speculation, the gaming community's worst-kept secret is out—Nintendo has officially unveiled the Nintendo Switch 2. A tantalizing trailer from Nintendo not only confirms the existence of this much-anticipated console but also validates many of the leaks that have been circulating about the successor to the original Nintendo Switch. However, the brief footage leaves many questions unanswered, fueling further excitement and curiosity about what's to come.
As we eagerly await more details at the next Nintendo Direct in April 2025, let's delve into the burning questions surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2. From its release date and pricing to the new features and game lineup, we're here to break down everything you need to know about Nintendo's latest offering.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
28 Images
What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?
Speculation abounds about when in 2025 the Nintendo Switch 2 will hit the shelves. While the trailer confirms a 2025 release, it leaves us guessing the exact date. The original Switch launched in March 2017, following its October 2016 reveal. If Nintendo follows a similar pattern, we might see the Switch 2 launch around May or June 2025, aligning with recent rumors. We know for certain that the console won't be available before April 2025, with a new Direct livestream scheduled for April 2. This event will shed more light on the console and showcase launch games. Additionally, Nintendo plans to host fan preview events from April to early June, suggesting a release soon after those events conclude. We'll likely get a firm release date during the April Direct.
What Is the Price of the Switch 2?
The price of the Nintendo Switch 2 remains a mystery, sparking much speculation. The original Switch debuted at $300 in 2017, while the Switch OLED model is priced at $350. Given the upgraded hardware in the Switch 2, a price increase seems likely. Rumors suggest a launch price of $400, positioning it competitively with the baseline OLED Steam Deck. Industry analysts largely agree that $400 is the sweet spot for this new console. The final price will hinge on the Switch 2's hardware capabilities, which are rumored to be on par with the Xbox One X. We'll learn more about the specifics at the April Direct.
What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?
A console's success often hinges on its launch titles. The original Switch dazzled with a lineup that included a new open-world Legend of Zelda game, Mario Kart 8, and later, Super Mario Odyssey. The Switch 2's trailer teases footage of what we assume is Mario Kart 9, but other launch titles remain a mystery. We're expecting a robust selection of third-party games, given the reduced technical gap between Nintendo's console and its competitors. A comprehensive list of rumored launch titles is available, but we'll have to wait until April for official confirmations.
What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?
The Switch 2 trailer reveals that the new console is not only more powerful but also physically larger than its predecessor. The console and Joy-Cons appear taller, with a larger screen that dominates the front of the unit. Estimates suggest the Switch 2 is about 15% larger than the original. This size increase raises questions about comfort and handling, which we hope to have answered at the April Direct.
What Type of Screen Does It Have?
The Switch OLED model significantly improved upon the original with its vibrant OLED display and better battery life. Fans are eager to know if the Switch 2 will continue this trend. While the trailer doesn't reveal the screen technology, it's possible Nintendo might opt for an LED or LCD panel to manage costs. We'll have to wait until the April Direct for confirmation on this front.
Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?
Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will be backwards-compatible with most original Switch games, easing concerns about transitioning to the new console. However, the trailer includes a disclaimer that not all games will be compatible. This raises questions about which titles might not make the jump, possibly due to hardware limitations or specific Joy-Con requirements. We'll need more details from Nintendo to understand the full scope of backwards compatibility.
Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?
While it's reassuring to know that most original Switch games will work on the Switch 2, the question remains: how will they perform? Will Nintendo leverage the new console's hardware to enhance framerates and graphics? Games like Tears of the Kingdom could benefit significantly from more power. Whether these enhancements will be automatic or require purchasing remastered versions remains to be seen. We'll look for answers at the April Direct.
What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?
The Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers come with exciting upgrades, as confirmed by the trailer. They feature an extra button and attach magnetically rather than via rails. Additionally, the Joy-Con can be manipulated like a computer mouse, opening up new gameplay possibilities. We're eager to see how these features will be utilized in new games, which should be a highlight of the April Direct.
Mario Kart 9 - First Look
25 Images
Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?
Joy-Con drift was a persistent issue with the original Switch, despite Nintendo's efforts to address it through repairs and replacements. With the Switch 2, we hope to see a solution to this problem. The new Joy-Cons' design, including new joystick sensors and magnetic attachments, might finally put an end to drift. We'll be looking for confirmation on this at the April Direct.
AnswerSee ResultsFor more on the Nintendo Switch 2, check out 30 details we found in the reveal trailer, and see what to expect from Nintendo in 2025.