Nintendo has officially confirmed the release date and price for its highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 during a live presentation on April 2, 2025. The new console will hit the shelves on June 5, 2025, with a retail price set at US$ 449.99 (approximately R$ 2,564). Alongside the standard model, a special bundle featuring the game Mario Kart World will be available for US$ 499.99.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is positioned as a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the original Switch, which has sold around 140 million units globally since its launch in 2017. The new console boasts a larger 7.9-inch LCD screen, improved graphics with 4K support in TV mode, and enhanced internal storage of 256 GB—eight times more than the original model.
During the Nintendo Direct presentation, several standout features of the Switch 2 were unveiled. Among them are the new Joy-Con 2 controllers, which now feature magnetic connections, a mouse function for compatible games, and a dedicated "C" button that activates the new GameChat feature. This feature allows for real-time voice and video communication during gameplay, requiring a separately sold camera. Initially, GameChat will be available for free, but it will later require a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online.
The new console maintains the hybrid design of its predecessor, allowing players to switch between handheld and docked modes. The LCD panel will deliver Full HD (1080p) resolution with HDR support and a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz, enhancing the gaming experience significantly. In docked mode, games will run at a maximum resolution of 4K at 120 frames per second.
In terms of connectivity, the Switch 2 will include two USB-C ports and will require microSD EX cards for memory expansion, as older microSD formats will not be compatible with the new device. This change is expected to streamline the storage capabilities for gamers looking to download and store multiple titles.
Among the confirmed launch titles for the Nintendo Switch 2 are highly anticipated games such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bonanza, alongside a mix of exclusive and multi-platform games. Other notable titles set for release include The Duskbloods, Pokémon Legends Z-A, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Cyberpunk 2077. Furthermore, classic GameCube titles will be accessible through the Nintendo Switch Online service, expanding the library available to players.
The Nintendo Switch 2's retrocompatibility feature allows users to play games from the original Switch, enabling a seamless transition for those looking to upgrade. This functionality will also include enhanced versions of select titles from the original console, ensuring that players can enjoy improved graphics and new gameplay modes.
As excitement builds for the new console, the pre-sale period is set to begin on April 9, 2025, in the United States. While the official launch in Brazil has yet to be confirmed, rumors suggest a simultaneous release or a close follow-up to the global launch date. This marks a significant shift from the original Switch's delayed entry into the Brazilian market, which occurred three years after the global release.
With its refined design and advanced features, the Nintendo Switch 2 aims to capture the interest of both returning fans and new players alike. The introduction of new functionalities such as GameChat and GameShare—allowing players to share games locally—highlights Nintendo's commitment to enhancing the social gaming experience. The company faces the challenge of maintaining the momentum of the original Switch's success while appealing to a broader audience in an increasingly competitive gaming landscape.
As the launch date approaches, Nintendo is expected to reveal more details about additional games and features during upcoming Nintendo Treehouse presentations scheduled for April 3 and 4, 2025. These events will offer further insights into the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2 and showcase the innovative experiences it promises to deliver.
