The wait is almost over. After years of speculation, leaks, and eager anticipation, Nintendo has officially confirmed the Nintendo Switch 2 is on the horizon. With a special Nintendo Direct event set for April 2, 2025, the gaming world is buzzing with excitement. But what do we actually know so far? This guide covers all the key details, including the release date, design, features, specs, and more.
Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date: When Is It Coming?
While Nintendo has not confirmed an exact release date, we know the Switch 2 will launch in 2025.
A trusted accessories manufacturer, Genki, has suggested the release could be as early as April, while other reports indicate a June launch window. Given that Nintendo is hosting a worldwide hands-on tour starting April 4, a summer release seems highly likely.
Expect full confirmation during the April 2 Nintendo Direct, where Nintendo will likely announce the exact date.
What’s New? Nintendo Switch 2 Features and Upgrades
The Nintendo Switch 2 retains the hybrid design of the original but introduces several key enhancements:
- Larger Display – The new console is expected to feature a bigger screen, possibly 8 inches, improving handheld gaming.
- Magnetic Joy-Cons – Unlike the original sliding rail system, the new controllers attach magnetically for a seamless connection.
- Dual USB-C Ports – A long-requested feature, the addition of a second USB-C port makes charging and accessory use more convenient.
- Improved Kickstand – The new adjustable stand spans the width of the console, providing better stability and flexibility.
- Backward Compatibility – Nintendo has confirmed that Switch games will work on the Switch 2, but some titles may not be fully compatible.
- Potential Optical Sensors – Rumors suggest that the Joy-Cons could feature optical sensors, allowing them to function like a mouse for certain games.
Nintendo Switch 2 Specs: What’s Under the Hood?
While Nintendo has yet to reveal full technical specifications, leaks and reports indicate the Switch 2 will be significantly more powerful than its predecessor.
Expected Nintendo Switch 2 specs include:
- Processor – Likely powered by an NVIDIA Tegra239 SoC, featuring an eight-core Cortex-A78AE CPU.
- RAM – Expected to come with 8GB or 12GB of RAM, a massive upgrade over the original’s 4GB.
- Storage – 64GB of internal storage, though a higher-capacity version is possible.
- Display – Most reports suggest a 1080p LCD for handheld mode, with 4K output when docked, possibly using DLSS upscaling.
- MicroSD Express Support – Faster load times may be possible with support for high-speed MicroSD Express cards.
Nintendo Switch 2 Games: What Can We Expect?
A new Mario Kart game has been teased, marking the first mainline entry since Mario Kart 8 Deluxe became one of the best-selling games of all time.
Additionally, Metroid Prime 4, which has been in development for years, could launch as a cross-gen title, similar to how The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was released on both the Wii U and the Switch.
Other possibilities include:
- A new 3D Mario game, as it has been years since Super Mario Odyssey.
- Ubisoft titles, as the publisher has consistently supported the Switch.
- A quirky, unexpected first-party game to showcase unique hardware features.
Expect Nintendo to reveal the full launch lineup on April 2.
Where Can You Try the Nintendo Switch 2?
Nintendo is hosting hands-on events worldwide, starting on April 4 in New York and Paris. The tour includes stops in Los Angeles, London, Milan, Berlin, and Tokyo, allowing fans to experience the Switch 2 before its official release.
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
Asia & Oceania
- Tokyo: April 26-27, 2025
- Seoul: May 31-June 1, 2025
- Melbourne: May 10-11, 2025
Fans must register in advance through their Nintendo Account, with randomly selected participants receiving free tickets.
How Much Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Cost?
The original Switch launched at $300, but rumors suggest the Switch 2 could cost $400 or more.
Given the advanced hardware and increased production costs, a higher price point seems likely, putting it closer to the Steam Deck or PlayStation 5 Digital Edition.
Expect an official price announcement during the April 2 Nintendo Direct.
Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Still Be Weird?
Nintendo is known for its quirky innovations, and the Switch 2 may continue that tradition.
- Mysterious New Button – A new button on the right Joy-Con has sparked speculation. Could it be a voice chat button, a streaming shortcut, or something else entirely?
- Reversible Joy-Cons – A patent suggests the controllers could be swapped to either side, which may provide ergonomic customization.
- “Mouse” Functionality – The optical sensor on the Joy-Cons could enable them to work like a mouse, potentially paving the way for a modern Mario Paint revival.
Is It Worth Upgrading to the Nintendo Switch 2?
With better graphics, more power, and exciting new features, the Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a must-have console.
If you’re a fan of Nintendo’s exclusives, backward compatibility ensures your existing library carries over. However, if you primarily play on PC or PlayStation, it may depend on the launch lineup.
One thing is certain: April 2 will bring more answers, and by then, the next generation of Nintendo gaming will be just around the corner.
Sources:
- Nintendo Official Announcement (January 16, 2025)
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