The Nintendo Switch 2: A Sneak Peek at the Next-Gen Console
On January 16th, 2025, Nintendo surprised the world with the unannounced release of the Switch 2's official trailer. While release date rumors had circulated for months, the sudden appearance of the trailer on Nintendo's YouTube channels took everyone by storm. Predictably, NateTheHate correctly anticipated the reveal date.
Haven't seen the trailer? Check it out below:
[Table of Contents]
- Size
- Design
- Internal Specifications
- Release Date
- Price
- Launch Titles
Size
The trailer clearly shows a larger console than its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the thumbsticks are noticeably bigger. While precise dimensions haven't been officially released, insiders suggest 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 Switch. An 8-inch screen is also rumored, a significant upgrade from the OLED Switch's 7-inch display.
Image: x.com
Design
The Joy-Cons feature a magnetic attachment system, secured by recessed contacts within the console body. Insiders assure us this design is robust and prevents accidental detachment. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, contributing to the magnetic connection strength. This design, however, necessitates bezels around the screen.
Image: youtube.com
The Joy-Con holder has also been redesigned, with flat grips and side-insertion of the controllers. The buttons are larger, and the thumbsticks are rumored to utilize Hall effect sensors to mitigate drift. Unfortunately, the IR camera appears to be absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.
A USB Type-C port and microphone are visible on the top bezel; their precise functions remain unconfirmed, but wired controller support and voice chat capabilities are plausible.
Image: youtube.com
Internal Specifications
Complete specifications will be revealed during the Nintendo Direct on April 2nd. However, leaks suggest performance comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, with potential support for Quad HD resolution in docked mode. Insiders generally agree on the following preliminary specifications:
- Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
- RAM: 12 GB
- Storage: 256 GB
- Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
- Screen: LCD, 8 inches
Note that, contrary to some expectations, an OLED model may not be available at launch.
Image: youtube.com
Release Date
NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May, with a June launch being the most likely scenario. The official date will be announced in April's Nintendo Direct. The "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour, starting April 4th, will allow hands-on demos in various cities (registration closes January 26th).
Image: nintendo.com
Tour Dates:
- 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.
Image: stuff.tv
Launch Titles
The trailer showcased Mario Kart 9 as a launch exclusive, featuring 24-player online support, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. However, fan speculation includes titles like Fallout 4, Red Dead Redemption 2, Tekken 8, and more.
Image: youtube.com
Stay tuned for more updates following the April Nintendo Direct!
