Nintendo has officially opened pre-orders for its highly anticipated Switch 2 console, following a midnight Nintendo Direct event on April 2, 2025. The new console, which is set to launch on June 5, 2025, is priced at AU$699.95 for the standalone version and AU$769.95 for a bundle that includes the newly announced game, Mario Kart World.
The Nintendo Switch 2 represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, boasting a 7.9-inch 1080p resolution LCD display that supports a 120Hz refresh rate. When docked, the console can output games in stunning 4K resolution. Additionally, it comes equipped with 256GB of internal storage and will only support microSD Express cards for expandable storage, marking a departure from the previous model's compatibility with standard microSD cards.
During the Nintendo Direct event, several new games were showcased, including Mario Kart World, which allows players to explore a vast open world of race tracks. The game will be available for AU$80 on its own, making the bundle option a more economical choice for those eager to dive into the new content. Other titles announced include Donkey Kong Bananza and Kirby Air Riders, with many games priced around AU$70.
Notably, Nintendo is also introducing a new feature called GameChat, which will enable voice and video communication between players without the need for a headset. This feature will utilize a new C button on the Joy-Con controllers, which will also support mouse controls for a more interactive gaming experience.
As for the pre-order process, major Australian retailers such as JB Hi-Fi, EB Games, and The Gamesmen are currently accepting pre-orders for the Switch 2. Each retailer has set a limit of one unit per customer, and JB Hi-Fi requires full payment upfront, while EB Games allows customers to secure their console with a AU$50 deposit, with the remainder due on or before launch day.
The excitement surrounding the Switch 2 is palpable, especially considering the original Nintendo Switch has sold over 150 million units worldwide, making it the third-highest selling console in history. Given the strong demand anticipated for the new console, pre-ordering is highly recommended to avoid missing out.
In addition to its new features and games, the Switch 2 will also support a library of GameCube titles on Nintendo Switch Online, including classics like The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and F-Zero GX, both of which will receive graphical enhancements and online multiplayer capabilities.
As Nintendo continues to innovate, the Switch 2 appears to be a natural evolution of the original model rather than a complete overhaul. This approach aligns with Nintendo's history of introducing unique features that enhance gameplay while maintaining the core experiences that fans love.
With its blend of upgraded hardware, exciting new titles, and innovative features, the Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to capture the attention of gamers around the world. As the launch date approaches, enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to experience the next generation of Nintendo gaming.
