Nintendo Switch 2: 9 Burning Questions About the New Console

After months of hushed anticipation, the Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been unveiled! Nintendo's official trailer confirms many previously leaked details about the successor to the original Switch. While the trailer offered a tantalizing glimpse, many questions remain. When exactly will it launch? What's the price? And will it play every original Switch game? Let's delve into the biggest unanswered questions as we eagerly await the next Nintendo Direct in April 2025.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?

Speculation abounds regarding the Switch 2's 2025 release. The trailer only confirms a launch sometime this year, leaving the exact date a mystery. The original Switch launched March 3, 2017, following an October 2016 reveal. If Nintendo follows a similar pattern, a May or June 2025 release seems plausible, aligning with recent rumors.

Currently, we know a pre-April 2025 release is unlikely. Nintendo's April 2nd Direct livestream promises more details and gameplay footage of launch titles. Furthermore, planned hands-on preview events running from April to early June suggest a post-event release. However, a definitive date likely won't arrive until the April Direct.

What Is the Price of the Switch 2?

Pricing remains a significant unknown. Will it match the original Switch's $300 price point, or will gamers face a price increase? The Switch OLED currently sits at $350, suggesting a $400 price point for the Switch 2 is likely, mirroring the baseline OLED Steam Deck. This aligns with several industry analysts' predictions.

Ultimately, the price will depend on the console's hardware. Rumors suggest it's comparable to the Xbox One X—a significant upgrade, but not cutting-edge. The Switch 2's processing power and screen technology (OLED, LED, or LCD) will heavily influence the final price.

What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?

A console's launch lineup is crucial. The original Switch boasted a strong launch, including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Will the Switch 2 follow suit? The trailer hints at only one title: what appears to be Mario Kart 9. Any new Zelda or Mario titles remain undisclosed until April.

Numerous games are rumored for the Switch 2 launch, suggesting increased third-party support compared to the original Switch. The reduced technical gap between Nintendo's console and competitors like PlayStation 5 and Xbox likely contributes to this.

The trailer reveals a larger console and Joy-Cons than its predecessor, with a larger screen dominating the front. While precise dimensions are unknown, estimates suggest a 15% increase in size compared to the original Switch. The impact of this size increase on comfort and handling remains to be seen.

What Type of Screen Does It Have?

The Switch OLED's superior screen significantly improved the original Switch. Will the Switch 2 utilize OLED technology again, or will Nintendo opt for LED or LCD to control costs? The trailer offers no clues, leaving this question for the April Direct.

Nintendo confirmed backwards compatibility with most original Switch games, easing concerns. However, not all titles will be supported. The reasons for incompatibility remain unclear, potentially relating to controller requirements (like Ring Fit Adventure) or other hardware limitations.

Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?

While backwards compatibility is welcome, the performance of original Switch games on the Switch 2 is uncertain. Will the upgraded hardware boost framerates and graphics? The possibility of enhanced versions exists, but whether these will be free updates or paid remasters remains unknown.

What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?

The trailer confirms upgraded Joy-Cons with an extra button and magnetic attachment. Rumors of mouse-like functionality also appear confirmed, promising new gameplay possibilities. The April Direct will likely showcase these features and their impact on game design.

Mario Kart 9 - First Look

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Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?

Joy-Con drift plagued the original Switch. The hope is that the Switch 2's new Joy-Cons address this issue. Whether improved sensors and magnetic attachments eliminate drift remains to be seen, with the April Direct potentially offering clarity.

For more on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the 30 details uncovered in the reveal trailer and anticipate Nintendo's 2025 plans.