After months of anticipation and speculation, the Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been unveiled, confirming many of the leaks that circulated about the successor to the original Nintendo Switch. The reveal trailer, though brief, provided our first official glimpse into what the future of gaming with Nintendo looks like.
However, the trailer left us with more questions than answers. Key details such as the exact release date, pricing, and the full scope of backward compatibility remain undisclosed. Let's delve into the major questions surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 as we await further details at the next Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2025.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
28 Images
What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?
Speculation abounds about the Nintendo Switch 2's launch in 2025, but the trailer didn't provide any new information on this front. It simply reaffirmed that the console will be available sometime this year. Given the original Switch's launch pattern, a release around May or June 2025 seems plausible, aligning with recent rumors. We'll get more clarity at the Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025, which will also feature footage of launch games and details on fan preview events running from April to early June. A firm release date might be announced then.
What Is the Price of the Switch 2?
The price of the Nintendo Switch 2 remains a significant mystery. The original Switch launched at $300, with the OLED model later priced at $350. Given the upgraded hardware of the Switch 2, a price increase seems likely. Rumors suggest a launch price of $400, which analysts believe could be the sweet spot, aligning it with competitors like the OLED Steam Deck. The final price will likely depend on the hardware's sophistication, including whether it retains the OLED screen.
What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?
A console's success often hinges on its launch titles. The original Switch hit the ground running with a strong lineup, including a new Legend of Zelda and Mario Kart 8. The Switch 2 trailer teased what appears to be Mario Kart 9, but details on other launch titles remain under wraps. We anticipate a robust list of games, bolstered by third-party support, given the Switch 2's expected technical parity with current-gen consoles.
What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?
The Switch 2 is not only more powerful but also physically larger than its predecessor, with taller Joy-Cons and a larger screen. Estimates from the trailer suggest it could be around 15% larger than the original Switch. This size increase could impact portability and comfort, details we'll learn more about at the upcoming Nintendo Direct.
What Type of Screen Does It Have?
The original Switch's OLED model was a significant upgrade, offering better visuals and battery life. Whether the Switch 2 will continue using OLED technology or opt for a more cost-effective LED or LCD panel is still unknown. The trailer didn't provide any clues, leaving us to await the April Direct for more information.
Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?
Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 will be backward-compatible with most original Switch games, easing concerns for current owners. However, the trailer noted that not all games will be compatible. The specifics of which games won't work, possibly those requiring unique Joy-Con features like Ring Fit Adventure or Nintendo LABO, are still unclear.
Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?
While most original Switch games will run on the Switch 2, the question remains whether they'll be enhanced to take advantage of the new hardware. Will there be improved graphics or frame rates, or will players need to purchase remastered versions? This is another detail we're eager to learn more about at the upcoming Nintendo Direct.
What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?
The Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers have been upgraded with an extra button and magnetic attachment, as confirmed by the trailer. Rumors of a mouse-like functionality for new gameplay possibilities were also validated. We look forward to seeing how these features will be utilized in new games at the April Direct.
Mario Kart 9 - First Look
25 Images
Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?
The issue of Joy-Con drift plagued many original Switch owners, despite Nintendo's efforts to repair and replace affected units. With the Switch 2, there's hope that new joystick sensors and magnetic attachments will resolve this problem. We'll find out if Nintendo has indeed addressed this at the April Direct.
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.
