Nintendo has officially unveiled the Switch 2, revealing a wealth of new information about the console. We’ll be covering its hardware specifications, game lineup, innovative features, release date, and much more. Let’s dive right in!
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View Urgent ForecastPRICE AND RELEASE DATE
Upfront, let’s discuss the release date and price of the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2: The new console is scheduled to launch on June 5 worldwide. In the United States, it will retail for $449.99, while a package that includes a digital code for Mario Kart World will be available for $499.99. In the UK, it will cost £395.99, and in Japan, it will sell for ¥49,980. The EU price is set at €469.99, and a slightly cheaper Japanese-exclusive version of the console will also be available for approximately ¥429,990.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX?
Instead of delving into complexities right away, let’s focus on the essentials: What does the given price cover? Essentially, you’ll find a Switch 2 console, two Joy-Con 2 controllers, a dock, and a Joy-Con 2 Grip in the package. Additionally, an ultra-fast HDMI cable, a USB-C charging cable, an AC adapter, and more Joy-Con 2 controllers are included.
Oh, and speaking of the Joy-Con 2 controllers…
JOY-CON 2
In its second iteration, the Nintendo Switch 2 is maintaining the basic design of its predecessor but enhancing several aspects. This means that the Joy-Con controllers will witness notable upgrades too. Known as the Joy-Con 2 by Nintendo, these new controllers are expected to offer more functionality compared to the original Switch’s Joy-Cons. One key improvement is the ability to place them flat on a surface and use them like a computer mouse. This feature was previously hinted at in the Switch 2’s announcement trailer and was later leaked, but Nintendo has now officially confirmed it.
One significant upgrade with the Joy-Con 2 controllers is the introduction of the ‘C’ button, linked to the innovative GameChat feature. This feature enables you to immediately engage in a chat with up to twelve other players. By default, voice communication is used, but for those with a Switch 2 camera accessory, video chats are also an option. Furthermore, GameChat allows you to share your gameplay with everyone in your group, even if you’re all playing different games. During its early access period, which spans from June 5, 2023, to March 31, 2026, this feature will be free for everyone. Afterward, it will only be accessible to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.
GAMESHARE
One of the exciting additions to Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 console is a new feature called “GameShare.” Essentially, this allows you to lend games you own to others, enabling multiplayer even if they don’t own the game themselves. However, it’s important to note that this functionality will only be available for certain, compatible titles. Surprisingly, owners of the original Switch can also benefit from shared games, provided the sharing happens locally. In addition, the GameChat feature will be integrated into the Switch 2-to-Switch 2 game sharing process.
To date, Nintendo has only verified a limited number of games that will incorporate GameShare functionality. These include titles such as Super Mario Odyssey, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury, Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, Super Mario Party Jamboree, Big Brain Academy: Brain vs Brain, and Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics.
HARDWARE DETAILS
In essence, what we’ve gathered about the Switch 2 is that it represents an upgrade in terms of hardware, offering more power. It boasts a 7.9-inch LCD screen capable of 1080p resolution, and it supports High Dynamic Range (HDR), 120 frames per second (FPS), and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). In the docked state, it offers 4K support for compatible games. The tablet’s rear stand has been enlarged and reinforced for stability, and it comes with 256 GB of internal storage. Moreover, 3D audio functionality is confirmed. Notably, there’s an extra USB-C port on the top of the tablet, enabling charging during tabletop mode play. Additionally, the dock will incorporate an internal fan to prevent overheating during console mode play.
Regarding the Joy-Con 2 controllers, beyond their mouse capabilities (already covered), these controllers will have enlarged SL and SR buttons for single player mode. Additionally, both analog sticks will be larger as well. To note, as previously confirmed, these Joy-Con controllers now adhere to the console using magnets.
BACKWARD COMPATIBILITY
The first Nintendo Switch offers an exceptional and extensive collection of diverse games, making it one of the most impressive game libraries among all consoles. Therefore, the ability for Nintendo Switch 2 to play games from the original Switch (backward compatibility) is crucial, as we cannot emphasize enough its significance. Previously confirmed, Nintendo has now disclosed additional details, such as the possibility that enhanced features will automatically be applied to Switch 1 titles played on the Switch 2 at various times. For example, some games might load quicker due to the console’s improved hardware. Furthermore, Nintendo has confirmed that GameChat will work with all games, whether they are native Switch 2 games or Switch 1 titles being emulated through backward compatibility.
GAME CARDS, EXTERNAL STORAGE, AND SYSTEM TRANSFER
Details regarding the data management and physical media handling aspects of the new Switch 2 have been disclosed. Regarding the use of physical media, it appears that the console will continue using cartridges similar to its predecessor. Notably, these cartridges will maintain the same size and shape as the original Switch, but they’ll now come in a red color. This change in color scheme will also be reflected on the physical game boxes.
In contrast to the previous model, the new Switch 2 won’t accept standard microSD cards; instead, it requires microSD Express Cards for enhanced memory, streaming, and loading capabilities. Nintendo has additionally confirmed that users with an original Switch can conveniently transfer all their data to a Switch 2 using a System Transfer feature.
SWITCH 2 GAME PRICES
As a gamer, I’ve got some thoughts on the rumored pricing of games for the Switch 2. Now, the console itself seems fairly budget-friendly, but the prices of some games are expected to take a steep jump. Nintendo has hinted that first-party games could cost as much as $80 on the Switch 2. But let me clarify, not every game will be this pricey. For instance, “Donkey Kong Bananza” is slated for $70, while I hope they’ll still release some $60 titles from time to time, depending on their status. However, the big-ticket items are likely to be priced at a hefty $80. This is more expensive than what we’ve grown accustomed to for AAA games on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. For example, “Mario Kart World” will retail for $80.
NINTENDO SWITCH 2 EDITION TITLES
As an excited fan, I’m thrilled to share that most games from the original Nintendo Switch will play seamlessly on the new Nintendo Switch 2 thanks to built-in backward compatibility. Plus, you might notice a few small improvements along the way. Interestingly, some carefully chosen games will receive more significant enhancements, labeled as Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. These are special versions of popular Switch 1 titles that will offer exclusive upgrades tailored just for the Switch 2, at an additional cost.
Multiple Switch 2 Edition titles have been confirmed, including:
* Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, offering playable options at either 4K/60 FPS or 1080p/120 FPS, with enhanced resolutions, faster load times, HDR support, and more.
* Pokemon Legends: Z-A, featuring improved frame rates and resolution.
* The Legend of Zelda games, Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, both offering HDR support, faster load times, improved frame rates and resolution, and a new app called Zelda Notes.
* Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World, featuring a new story mode (Star-Crossed World) and performance and visual enhancements.
* Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV, adding new modes with support for Joy-Con 2 mouse functionalities, the Switch 2 camera and microphone, GameShare, and several technical enhancements.
In simple terms, you’ll have the option to buy the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition separately, but if you currently possess the game on the original Nintendo Switch, you can opt to pay for an update to the Switch 2 version instead.
BATTERY LIFE AND CHARGING TIME
When it comes to portable devices like the upcoming Switch 2, one of the most common questions is about battery life. For the Switch 2, Nintendo has shared that its battery life ranges from around two to six and a half hours, depending on how you’re using it. Interestingly, charging this device to full capacity (in sleep mode) takes approximately three hours, on average.
GAME-KEY CARDS
Are you annoyed when physical game editions just come as empty boxes with download codes? Nintendo has proposed an unusual alternative for their Switch 2 games. Instead of traditional cartridges, these games will come in the form of physical game cards. These cards won’t contain the game or any data themselves, but rather serve as a key to download the game you’ve purchased. This means you’ll need an internet connection to get the game onto your console. Once downloaded, you can play the game offline, but surprisingly, you’ll still need to insert the game card to actually launch the game you’ve just downloaded.
UI
As a dedicated Nintendo gamer, I’ve caught glimpses of the user interface (UI) for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, and it seems remarkably similar to its predecessor. To be honest, it’s almost identical. There are minor tweaks here and there, but they’re mostly inconsequential. The UI retains the familiar light and dark themes we saw on the original Switch, giving us a sense of continuity. However, whether Nintendo has any exciting new features up its sleeve or if we’ll just get a couple more theme options, only time will tell.
GAMES
As an enthusiastic supporter, I can’t help but ponder about what makes any gaming console truly remarkable – it’s the games! Now, while Nintendo hasn’t disclosed the entire catalog of games destined to grace the Switch 2 in its initial years, they’ve certainly given us a sneak peek. The lineup includes both exclusive masterpieces and games that will also be available on other platforms.
As a passionate gamer, I can’t help but get excited about the upcoming lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2! Games like Reanimal, Split Fiction, Star Wars Outlaws, Elden Ring, Hogwarts Legacy, Hollow Knight: Silksong, Cyberpunk 2077, Wild Hearts, Street Fighter 6, Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Borderlands 4, NBA 2K, WWE 2K, Civilization 7, EA Sports FC, Madden NFL, Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster, Deltarune, Fortnite, Hades 2, Hitman: World of Assassination, Project 007, Marvel Cosmic Invasion, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, Sonic X Shadow Generations, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, and many more are all set to grace its screen. This is truly a dream come true for gaming enthusiasts like myself!
Indeed, much like any Nintendo console, you can anticipate a variety of exclusive games that have been confirmed. These range from titles such as “Mario Kart: World”, “Donkey Kong Bananza” – a 3D platformer, “Kirby’s Air Riders”, led by Masahiro Sakurai, “The Dustbloods”, a collaboration between FromSoftware and Hidetaka Miyazaki, “Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut”, “Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment”, “Drag x Drive” and the “Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour”. A number of Nintendo Switch 1 exclusives will also be available on the new console simultaneously, including “Metroid Prime 4: Beyond”, “Pokemon Legends: Z-A” and “Professor Layton and the New World of Steam”.
GAMECUBE TITLES
With the arrival of the Switch 2, Nintendo introduces another significant upgrade – Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers will now have access to GameCube games as part of the expanding library of classic titles on this next-gen console. Already confirmed are some popular titles such as The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi’s Mansion, F-Zero GX, Soulcalibur 2, Pokemon Colosseum, Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, and Super Mario Strikers, along with others.
PRE-ORDERS
In about two months, the release of Switch 2 is approaching, and its pre-orders will start soon on April 9. These pre-orders can be made through multiple retailers, and Nintendo themselves will take pre-orders as well. You can express your interest now, but keep in mind that… there’s a catch: only those who have registered their interest will receive an email notification when pre-orders become available.
NINTENDO STORE ORDERS
Interested parties with Nintendo Accounts based in the U.S. and Canada have the chance to express their pre-order intentions for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. However, it’s important to note that this opportunity is currently exclusive to these regions. As for purchases, Nintendo will send out emails inviting those who registered their interest first. Notably, priority will be given to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers who have had an active subscription for a minimum of 12 months and have clocked at least 50 hours of gameplay. This preference is based on the first-come-first-served policy.
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2025-04-08 05:42