After months of anticipation, the Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been unveiled, confirming many of the rumors that had been circulating about the successor to the original Nintendo Switch. The official trailer provided a tantalizing glimpse into what's to come, but left us with many questions still unanswered. As we eagerly await the next Nintendo Direct in April 2025, let's delve into the key aspects of the new console.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
28 Images
What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?
The exact release date for the Nintendo Switch 2 remains a mystery, with the trailer only confirming a 2025 launch. Speculation suggests a release around May or June 2025, aligning with the original Switch's launch pattern. We'll have to wait until the Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025, for more precise details. Nintendo has also planned hands-on fan preview events from April to early June, hinting at a possible release shortly after these events conclude.
What Is the Price of the Switch 2?
The price of the Nintendo Switch 2 is a significant point of interest. The original Switch launched at $300, while the Switch OLED model is priced at $350. Given the enhanced hardware of the Switch 2, rumors suggest a launch price of $400, which aligns with the baseline OLED Steam Deck. Industry analysts believe this price point strikes a balance between the console's advanced features and affordability.
What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?
The success of a new console often hinges on its launch titles. The original Switch launched with a strong lineup, including a new Legend of Zelda game and Mario Kart 8. The Switch 2 trailer teases what appears to be Mario Kart 9, but other launch titles remain under wraps. We anticipate a robust selection of games, including third-party support, given the Switch 2's improved technical capabilities.
What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?
The Switch 2 trailer reveals that the new console is not only more powerful but also larger than its predecessor. Both the console and the Joy-Cons are taller, and the screen is larger, suggesting a more substantial piece of hardware. Estimates suggest the Switch 2 is about 15% larger than the original, but we'll need to wait for more details to understand the impact on user experience.
What Type of Screen Does It Have?
The original Switch's OLED model was a significant upgrade, offering brighter and more vibrant visuals. Whether the Switch 2 will continue using OLED technology or opt for a more cost-effective LED or LCD screen remains to be seen. The trailer provides no clues, so we'll have to wait for the April Nintendo Direct for more information.
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 notes that not all games will be compatible. It's unclear which titles won't work, possibly due to hardware limitations or specific controller requirements like those for Ring Fit Adventure or Nintendo LABO.
Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?
While most original Switch games will work on the Switch 2, the question remains whether they will be enhanced to take advantage of the new hardware. Will there be improved framerates or graphics? It's likely Nintendo has plans to offer upgraded versions of these games, but whether this will require a new purchase or be available through a simple update is yet to be determined.
What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?
The Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers come with notable upgrades, including an extra button and magnetic attachment instead of rails. The trailer also hints at a mouse-like functionality, which could open up new gameplay possibilities. We're eager to see how these features will be utilized in upcoming games, with more details expected at the April Direct event.
Mario Kart 9 - First Look
25 Images
Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?
Joy-Con drift was a persistent issue with the original Switch, but Nintendo addressed it with repair and replacement programs. The Switch 2's new joystick sensors and magnetic attachments may resolve this problem, but we'll need to wait for the April Direct to confirm whether drift is a thing of the past.
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.
