Everything We Know About the Nintendo Switch 2

Apr 3

On January 16, 2025, Nintendo finally pulled back the curtain on the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the iconic hybrid console. The reveal, delivered through an official trailer, confirmed many long-standing rumors while introducing exciting new features that promise to elevate the gaming experience.

Design and Specifications

The initial trailer showcased a sleek, evolved design that retains the hybrid essence of the original Switch—playable both as a handheld and docked console—but with noticeable upgrades like its 256GB internal storage. The Switch 2 boasts a larger 7.9-inch LCD display with a 1080p resolution, supporting HDR10 and a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals. When docked, it can output up to 4K (with HDR for TV mode), a significant leap from the original’s 1080p cap, hinting at a more powerful internal architecture, possibly driven by a custom Nvidia T239 processor.

The Joy-Con controllers, now magnetically attached rather than railed, feature a new “C” button, larger analog sticks, and an optical sensor that allows them to double as a mouse—a nod to potential PC game ports. A second USB-C port, an adjustable kickstand, and backwards compatibility with most Switch games further enhance its sleek appeal. Furthermore, Nintendo’s “GameChat” feature, tied to the “C” button, introduces VoIP and screen-sharing capabilities, requiring a Switch Online subscription

Pricing, Release Date, and Playable Titles

The presentation also revealed the console’s $449.99 price tag—$50 of which analysts attribute to tariffs on imported hardware—and a $499.99 bundle including the recently revealed Mario Kart World, a launch title set for June 5. This new Mario Kart game promises an expansive, interconnected world with innovative mechanics like rail-grinding and 24-player races.

Other launch titles include enhanced editions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, alongside Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, a digital exclusive to familiarize players with the system. In addition, third-party support shines with epic adventure titles like Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition and Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition slated for later in 2025.

The Nintendo Switch 2 will be dropping on June 5, 2025.