After months of speculation and leaks, the Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been officially unveiled by Nintendo through an exciting trailer. This reveal confirms many of the rumors that had been circulating about the successor to the original Nintendo Switch. However, the trailer was disappointingly brief, leaving many questions unanswered. We'll explore the most pressing inquiries about the new console as we anticipate the next Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2025.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?
The exact release date for the Nintendo Switch 2 remains a mystery, although we know it will launch sometime in 2025. Given the original Switch's launch on March 3, 2017, after its reveal in October 2016, speculation suggests the Switch 2 might hit the market around May or June 2025. This aligns with recent rumors. We can be certain it won't be released before April 2025, as Nintendo has planned a Direct livestream on April 2 to provide more details and showcase launch games. Additionally, Nintendo will host hands-on fan preview events from April to early June, hinting at a possible release post these events.
What Is the Price of the Switch 2?
The price of the Nintendo Switch 2 is currently a significant unknown. The original Switch launched at $300, while the Switch OLED model is priced at $350. Given the enhanced hardware in the Switch 2, rumors indicate a potential launch price of $400, which would align it with the baseline OLED Steam Deck. Industry analysts agree that $400 could be the ideal price point for this new console. The final cost may depend on the specifics of the hardware, such as whether it retains the OLED screen technology.
What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?
The success of a new console often hinges on its launch titles. The original Switch was a hit thanks to games like "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" and "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe." The Switch 2 trailer teases Mario Kart 9, suggesting it might be a key launch title. While Nintendo has kept other potential launch games under wraps, there's a buzz about a strong lineup of third-party support due to the Switch 2's more competitive hardware specifications.
What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?
The Switch 2 appears to be larger than its predecessor, with both the console and Joy-Cons being taller, and the screen taking up more of the front panel. Preliminary estimates suggest the Switch 2 might be around 15% larger than the original Switch. This size increase could impact the overall user experience and comfort, details we'll learn more about in April.
What Type of Screen Does It Have?
The Switch OLED model improved upon the original with a brighter and more vibrant screen, and better battery life. It's uncertain whether the Switch 2 will continue using an OLED display or opt for a less costly LED or LCD panel. The trailer offers no clues on this front, so we'll have to wait until the April Nintendo Direct for clarification.
Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?
Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will be backwards-compatible with most original Switch games, both physical and digital. However, not all games will be supported. The trailer hints at certain games not being compatible, possibly due to hardware requirements or other limitations. We await more details on which specific titles won't make the transition.
Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?
While most original Switch games will be playable on the Switch 2, it's unclear whether they'll be enhanced to take advantage of the new hardware. Will the Switch 2 offer better frame rates or graphics for these games? And if enhancements are available, will they come at an additional cost, or be automatically applied when playing on the new console?
What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?
The Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers are set to feature an extra button and attach magnetically rather than via rails. Additionally, the trailer suggests the Joy-Con can be used like a computer mouse, opening up new gameplay possibilities. We look forward to learning how these features will be utilized in new games, which will be a focal point at the April Direct event.
Mario Kart 9 - First Look
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Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?
Joy-Con drift was a persistent issue with the original Switch. Nintendo addressed it with repair and replacement programs, but many hope the Switch 2's new Joy-Con design, including new joystick sensors and magnetic attachments, will eliminate this problem. We'll see if Nintendo tackles this concern during the April Direct event.
For more insights on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore 30 details we discovered in the reveal trailer, and stay updated on what to expect from Nintendo in 2025.
