Nintendo Switch 2: Unveiling the New Pocket Flagship

The official trailer for the Nintendo Switch 2 was unveiled on January 16, 2025, taking the gaming community by surprise. Without any prior announcement, videos showcasing the new form factor of the console suddenly appeared on Nintendo's YouTube channels. Despite the unexpected reveal, rumors about the release date had been swirling for months, with varying predictions. It was NateTheHate who accurately predicted the reveal date, announcing that the Switch 2 would be shown on January 16.

If you haven't seen the trailer yet, check it out below:

Table of Contents

• Size
• Design
• What's Inside?
• Release Date
• Price
• What Are We Going to Play?

Size

From the video, it's evident that the new Nintendo Switch 2 will be larger in every aspect compared to its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the control sticks have all been slightly upsized. Although exact specifications haven't been officially disclosed, insiders suggest the Switch 2 will measure 116 mm in height, 270 mm in width, and 14 mm in thickness. This makes it 3.1 cm wider and 1.4 cm taller than the original Switch. Additionally, there are whispers of an 8-inch screen, larger than the 7-inch OLED screen on the first Switch.

Image: x.com

Design

The video presentation highlights a new design for the Joy-Cons, which now feature a magnetic connection. They attach to the console in portable mode via two recessed contacts within the body, ensuring a secure and durable fit. The SL and SR buttons have become larger and metallic, aiding in the magnetic connection. NextHandheld assures that the magnets are strong enough to prevent accidental detachment, eliminating any gameplay disruptions. However, this design choice does result in side bezels on the screen.

The Joy-Cons now "slide" to the side when a button is pressed, and the holder that transforms them into a full joystick has been modified. The grips are now flat on the top, and the Joy-Cons are inserted from the sides rather than the top. Minor changes also include slightly larger buttons on the Joy-Cons. It's rumored that the sticks will use Hall effect sensors to minimize drift issues, but the IR camera has been removed, potentially affecting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.

Image: youtube.com

Additionally, a microphone and a USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel of the console. While their specific functions are not yet known, it's speculated they could support wired joysticks and enable in-game voice chat.

Image: youtube.com

What's Inside?

Detailed specifications for the Switch 2 will be revealed at the Nintendo Direct on April 2. However, based on insider information, the console is expected to have performance comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. There's also speculation about support for full Quad HD resolution in docked mode.

Insiders have shared the following speculated specifications:

• Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
• RAM: 12 GB
• Storage: 256 GB
• Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
• Screen: LCD, 8 inches

It's rumored that the console will launch with an LCD screen rather than the anticipated OLED. Despite this, the specs are promising, and it's expected to run many AAA titles from previous years, including potentially Genshin Impact.

Image: youtube.com

Release Date

NateTheHate suggests that the Switch 2 won't be released before May, with the official date to be announced at the Nintendo Direct in April. It's predicted that the console might hit the market in June. Starting April 4, the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience tour will allow early hands-on trials, with registration open on the official Nintendo website until January 26.

The tour will visit the following cities on these dates:

• New York — April 4-6
• Paris — April 4-6
• Los Angeles — April 11-13
• London — April 11-13
• Berlin — April 25-27
• Dallas — April 25-27
• Milan — April 25-27
• Toronto — April 25-27
• Tokyo — April 26-27
• Amsterdam — May 9-11
• Madrid — May 9-11
• Melbourne — May 9-11
• Seoul — May 31-June 1
• Hong Kong — To be announced
• Taipei — To be announced

Image: nintendo.com

Price

The price of the Nintendo Switch 2 remains unconfirmed. Speculation suggests a starting price around €399, though some believe it could be slightly lower at €349. It's advisable to wait for the official announcement at the Nintendo Direct before setting any expectations.

Image: stuff.tv

What Are We Going to Play?

The announcement video showcased the first exclusive game for the Switch 2, Mario Kart 9, which will support online play for up to 24 players, feature new types of tracks, and introduce more noticeable yellow item boxes.

Image: youtube.com

Further game announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. Meanwhile, fans are speculating about other titles that might come to the Switch 2, including:

• Fallout 4
• Red Dead Redemption 2
• Tekken 8
• Starfield
• Diablo IV
• Elden Ring
• MySims Action Bundle
• Halo: The Master Chief Collection
• Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
• Final Fantasy VII Remake
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
• The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

This is the latest information on the Nintendo Switch 2. Stay tuned for more updates following the Nintendo Direct in April!