After years of speculation, leaks, and mounting anticipation, Nintendo has finally unveiled the successor to its best-selling console: the Nintendo Switch 2. Announced via a brief yet tantalizing promotional video, the Switch 2 promises to build on its predecessor’s hybrid design while offering enhanced features and performance.
Watch the Nintendo Switch 2 Reveal Video
Key Features and Design
Staying true to its roots, the Nintendo Switch 2 retains its hybrid functionality, allowing players to seamlessly transition between handheld mode and docked play on a TV. However, the new console brings several significant upgrades:
- Larger Display with Slimmer Bezels: The console's display is visibly larger, boasting thinner bezels for a more immersive handheld gaming experience.
- Upgraded Joy-Cons: Joy-Con controllers have been redesigned to include magnetic connections and increased size for improved ergonomics. Notably, these controllers can also double as a mouse for enhanced functionality.
- U-Shaped Kickstand: A sturdier, more versatile kickstand is now part of the design.
- Additional Ports and Buttons: The inclusion of a second USB-C port and a mysterious new button on the right Joy-Con raises questions about potential new features.
Backward Compatibility and Game Library
The Nintendo Switch 2 is backward compatible with both physical and digital games from the original Switch library. However, Nintendo has cautioned that "certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2." Additionally, the console will feature its own exclusive game library, with Mario Kart 9 being the first confirmed title.
Release Date and Price
While Nintendo confirmed a 2025 release window, the exact date remains under wraps. Speculation about the console's price suggests it may fall between $399 and $449, given the original Switch’s launch price of $259 and the current Switch OLED’s price of $349. However, Nintendo has yet to confirm any pricing details, leaving fans to eagerly await further updates.
Nintendo Direct and Hands-On Events
Nintendo has promised a dedicated Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025, where more details about the Switch 2’s features, games, and pricing will be unveiled. Additionally, fans will have the chance to try the console during Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events, scheduled in cities across the globe:
North America
- New York: April 4–6, 2025
- Los Angeles: April 11–13, 2025
- Dallas & Toronto: April 25–27, 2025
Europe
- Paris: April 4–6, 2025
- London: April 11–13, 2025
- Milan & Berlin: April 25–27, 2025
- Madrid & Amsterdam: May 9–11, 2025
Oceania
- Melbourne: May 10–11, 2025
Asia
- Tokyo: April 26–27, 2025
- Seoul: May 31–June 1, 2025
- Hong Kong and Taipei: Dates TBA
A Nintendo Account will be required to participate in these events.
What’s Next for Nintendo Switch 2?
The teaser video and accompanying details have left fans buzzing with excitement—and plenty of questions. Will we see the return of beloved franchises like The Legend of Zelda, Super Smash Bros., and Donkey Kong? Could entirely new IPs make their debut? And how will the enhanced graphics and performance attract AAA third-party developers?
As Nintendo gears up to reveal more in the coming months, one thing is clear: the Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a worthy successor to its iconic predecessor.
Stay tuned for updates as we learn more about the Nintendo Switch 2, including its full game lineup, price, and final release date.