Nintendo has officially unveiled the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 during a special Direct presentation on April 2, 2025. Set to launch in the United States on June 5, 2025, the new console is packed with exciting features and a robust lineup of games, including fan favorites like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bonanza.
The Nintendo Switch 2 promises a leap in technology with its new Joy-Cons, which can function as a mouse for select titles. Additionally, the console will include a built-in microphone, activated by the "C" button, designed for the new GameChat feature. This allows players to communicate seamlessly during gameplay.
One of the standout features of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its capability to support 4K gaming at up to 120 frames per second when docked. The console will come with 256 GB of internal storage, significantly more than its predecessor, which players can further expand using microSD Express (XC) cards.
During the presentation, Nintendo detailed several new gameplay features, including the ability to stream games and the introduction of GameShare. This feature allows up to four players to enjoy a game together using only one copy, reminiscent of the sharing capabilities from the Nintendo 3DS era.
Upgrades for existing titles have also been announced, with popular games such as Mario Party Jamboree and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild receiving enhancements for the new console. These upgrades will provide improved graphics and gameplay experiences, enticing players to revisit their favorite games.
Another highlight from the presentation was Mario Kart World, which will focus on a more social experience, enabling players to race or explore an expansive open-world map featuring beloved characters. Donkey Kong Bonanza, the first new game starring the iconic character in over a decade, will also introduce open-world gameplay and boss battles, along with nods to classic titles from the Super Nintendo era.
Nintendo has also promised major upcoming titles such as Kirby Air Riders, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, and The DuskBloods, a new project from FromSoftware. Each of these games is expected to leverage the Switch 2's advanced capabilities to deliver unique gaming experiences.
The Nintendo Switch Online service will also see enhancements, with GameCube games being added at launch. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, Soul Calibur II, and F-Zero GX will be available, with improved graphics and resolution.
As for pricing, the Nintendo Switch 2 will retail for $449.99 for the base model and $499.99 for a promotional bundle that includes Mario Kart World. In Brazil, the console is expected to cost between R$ 3,600 and R$ 4,000, with an anticipated launch in the same week as the U.S. release. Romina Whitlock, marketing director for Nintendo Latin America, stated that the console will likely be available in Brazil by June 8, 2025.
However, the pricing of games is set to see a significant increase compared to the previous generation. Digital versions are expected to reach $80, while physical copies could cost up to $90, depending on the title. For instance, Mario Kart World is already listed at $80 digitally and $90 physically, while Donkey Kong Bonanza will be priced at $70. This pricing strategy mirrors the increases seen with the launch of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, where game prices jumped from $60 to $70.
Despite the higher costs, Nintendo's decision to raise prices is likely influenced by the increasing expenses associated with game development. As games demand more resources and technology, the justification for higher prices becomes clearer. Consumers have shown some resistance to price hikes in the past, particularly when the average game price rose to $70, but many eventually adapted to the new norm.
Looking ahead, the Nintendo Switch 2's launch is shaping up to be a significant moment in the gaming industry, with its advanced features and a diverse library of games. As the release date approaches, gamers around the world are eagerly anticipating the chance to experience the next generation of Nintendo's beloved console.
With the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo seems poised to capture the hearts of both new players and longtime fans alike, offering a blend of nostalgia and innovation that could redefine gaming experiences for years to come.
