It seems that some individuals have managed to get their hands on the Nintendo Switch 2 console ahead of its official release, despite Nintendo's efforts to keep it under wraps. However, these early units are currently unusable without a day-one patch, and a brief video showcasing the console was quickly taken down due to a copyright strike.
The video, originally posted by user Ali Almarzooqi on YouTube, lasted just eight seconds and was viewed by IGN before being removed. It appeared to show the unboxing of a Nintendo Switch 2, revealing the console wrapped in plastic inside the box. While the authenticity of the console remains unconfirmed, the rapid copyright claim by anti-piracy firm Web Capio suggests that it might be genuine. According to Almarzooqi, the console's functionality is locked until a system update on June 5th:
"Nintendo locked the switch 2 it needs update to function so I am waiting for June 5th to unlock it" https://t.co/vNT0AHHX3F pic.twitter.com/gNwJL8JhPT
— Wario64 (@Wario64) May 27, 2025
Further adding to the intrigue, popular deals poster Wario64 reported that another person had contacted him with photos of a Nintendo Switch 2 in their possession. This individual also encountered a message when attempting to play a Switch 1 game: "Please connect to the internet and update your system."
While these could be elaborate fakes, confirmation might come soon if either of the Switch 2 owners conducts a full unboxing or displays the system message prompting an update. Until then, these glimpses might be the only early looks we get at Nintendo's latest console.
Until the official launch on June 5th, we'll have to rely on the information provided directly by Nintendo to understand the full scope of the Nintendo Switch 2 experience. So far, we've had the chance to play Mario Kart World on the new system, and recent updates have included details about free performance upgrades for Switch 1 games, variable refresh rate support requirements, and specifics about GameChat, which will necessitate phone number verification. Despite pre-orders selling out rapidly last month, Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser has assured that there will be enough systems available to meet demand during the holiday season.
