Nintendo has officially announced the release date for its highly anticipated console, the Nintendo Switch 2, during the latest Nintendo Direct broadcast on April 2, 2025. The new device is set to hit the shelves on June 5, 2025, and fans are eagerly awaiting its arrival.
The Nintendo Switch 2 will be available through a lottery system at the My Nintendo Store, with pre-orders and lottery applications starting at various game stores and online retailers beginning April 24, 2025. This method aims to manage demand and prevent scalping, a common issue seen with popular gaming releases.
To qualify for the lottery sale at the My Nintendo Store, applicants must meet several specific conditions. Firstly, they must have logged over 50 hours of playtime on Nintendo Switch software as of February 28, 2025, excluding trial and free software. Additionally, applicants must have been subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online for at least one year at the time of application and maintain their subscription throughout the application process. For those on family plans, only the purchaser of the ticket will be eligible to meet these conditions. Furthermore, only users whose Nintendo Account's country or region is set to Japan may apply and purchase the console.
Details regarding the lottery application process will be released on the My Nintendo Store after noon on April 4, 2025, providing further guidance for eager fans.
In conjunction with the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo also unveiled a new game, "Mario Kart World," which will be available on the same day. This latest installment promises to deliver an exciting racing experience, featuring up to 24 players in chaotic races across a connected world. Players will traverse various landscapes, with each race linking seamlessly into the next, enhancing the thrill of competition.
One of the standout features of "Mario Kart World" is the introduction of a new mode called "Survival." This mode will challenge players to race non-stop across a vast environment, starting with 24 participants. Checkpoints will be in place, and players must maintain their ranking to avoid elimination. As the race progresses, only the top contenders will continue, adding a layer of strategy to the gameplay.
Another exciting aspect is the "Free Run" mode, allowing players to explore the expansive world freely between races. This feature encourages creativity and fun, enabling players to take photos and enjoy the scenery without the pressure of competition.
To further engage fans, Nintendo plans to host a "Mario Kart World Direct" on April 17, 2025, at 22:00 on its official YouTube channel. This presentation will offer more in-depth information about the game, including gameplay mechanics, character details, and other exciting features.
As for the Nintendo Switch 2, a special "Nintendo Switch 2 Mario Kart World Set" will also be released on June 5, 2025. This set includes the download version of the Nintendo Switch 2 along with "Mario Kart World," and it will be available for a limited time until the end of December 2025. The lottery sale for this set will also be managed by the My Nintendo Store.
With the gaming community buzzing with excitement, Nintendo's strategic approach to the release of the Switch 2 and its accompanying titles reflects the company's commitment to enhancing the player experience while tackling challenges like scalping. As fans prepare for the June launch, anticipation is building, and many are eager to see what new adventures await in the gaming world.
As the release date approaches, gamers are encouraged to stay tuned for updates and prepare for the lottery application process. Nintendo's innovative strategies and engaging content are sure to make the Switch 2 a standout success in the competitive gaming market.
