New pocket flagship: Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2

The official Nintendo Switch 2 console trailer dropped unexpectedly on January 16th, 2025, appearing without prior announcement on Nintendo's YouTube channels. While release date rumors had circulated for months, constantly shifting, NateTheHate accurately predicted the January 16th reveal. Haven't seen it yet? Watch below!

Table of Contents

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

Size

The trailer clearly showcases a larger console than its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the thumbsticks are noticeably bigger. While precise dimensions weren't given, insiders report a height of 116mm, width of 270mm, and thickness of 14mm. This translates to a 3.1cm increase in width and 1.4cm in height compared to the standard Nintendo Switch. An 8-inch screen is also rumored, compared to the 7-inch OLED model.

Design

The Joy-Cons sport a new magnetic design, connecting via recessed contacts on the console in handheld mode. Insiders assure us this is robust; the contacts are fully enclosed, preventing accidental breakage or easy removal. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, providing the magnetic connection. NextHandheld claims the magnets are strong enough to prevent accidental detachment. This design, however, necessitates bezels around the screen.

The Joy-Con holder has also been redesigned; the Joy-Cons now slide in from the sides instead of the top. The buttons are slightly larger, and rumors suggest Hall effect sensors in the thumbsticks to mitigate drift. However, the IR camera appears absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.

A microphone and USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel; their functions remain unconfirmed, but wired joystick support and voice chat are possibilities.

What's Inside?

Full specifications will be revealed during the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, leaks suggest the Switch 2's power will rival the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, potentially supporting Quad HD resolution in docked mode.

Insider Speculation:

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

Note that an OLED model isn't expected at launch.

Release Date

NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May, with an official announcement at the April Nintendo Direct. A June release is likely, given the "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour starting April 4th, allowing hands-on demos. Registration is open until January 26th on Nintendo's website.

Tour Dates & Locations:

• New York — 04/04-06/04
• Paris — 04/04-06/04
• Los Angeles — 11/04-13/04
• London — 11/04-13/04
• Berlin — 25/04-27/04
• Dallas — 25/04-27/04
• Milan — 25/04-27/04
• Toronto — 25/04-27/04
• Tokyo — 26/04-27/04
• Amsterdam — 09/05-11/05
• Madrid — 09/05-11/05
• Melbourne — 09/05-11/05
• Seoul — 31/05-01/06
• Hong Kong — To be announced
• Taipei — To be announced

Price

Speculation points to a starting price of €399, possibly lower at €349. Confirmation awaits the Nintendo Direct.

What Are We Going to Play?

Mario Kart 9 was showcased as a launch exclusive, featuring online play for up to 24 players, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. However, fan speculation includes:

• 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

Stay tuned for more news after the April Nintendo Direct!