Nintendo's April 2, 2025 Direct showcase revealed a wealth of information about the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, including its release date, features, and pricing details. Set to launch on June 5, 2025, the new console will retail for $450, with a bundle option that includes a digital copy of the newly announced Mario Kart World for $500.
The Switch 2 marks a significant evolution from its predecessor, arriving over eight years after the original Switch release. The design, first teased in January 2025, features a larger 7.9-inch display that boasts 1080p resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDR compatibility. When docked, the console can output up to 4K resolution at 120Hz, enhancing the gaming experience on larger screens.
One of the standout features of the Switch 2 is its redesigned Joy-Con controllers, which now attach magnetically to the console. These controllers come equipped with larger SL and SR buttons for improved comfort during multiplayer sessions, and they also feature enhanced analog sticks that resemble those found on PlayStation 5 and Xbox controllers. Additionally, the Joy-Cons are equipped with what Nintendo refers to as “HD Rumble 2,” a refined vibration technology that promises a more immersive gaming experience.
Each Joy-Con now includes an optical sensor, allowing it to function as a mouse, and a new C button dedicated to chat functionalities. This feature enables players to engage in voice chat while gaming, supported by a built-in microphone in the console. A camera accessory, sold separately for $50, can be connected via the USB-C port, allowing players to stream their faces during gameplay.
In terms of storage, the Switch 2 comes with a substantial 256GB of internal memory, a significant upgrade from the 64GB offered by the Switch OLED. The console supports faster and larger microSD cards, accommodating the growing size of modern games. Notably, it is also backwards compatible with most existing Switch titles, which Nintendo confirmed in November 2024. However, a few titles, such as Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit, will not be supported due to hardware limitations.
The launch lineup for the Switch 2 includes a variety of titles that are expected to appeal to a broad audience. Among the confirmed launch games are Arcade Archives 2 Ridge Racer, Cyberpunk 2077, Fortnite, Hitman: World of Assassination, Hogwarts Legacy, and the eagerly awaited Mario Kart World. This new entry in the Mario Kart franchise promises an open-world experience where players can explore different regions while racing.
Another exciting announcement was the introduction of new titles such as Legend of Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, which is set to release this winter, and Donkey Kong Bananza, arriving on July 17, 2025. Additionally, a new game from From Software, titled The DuskBloods, is scheduled for release in 2026, showcasing Nintendo's commitment to a diverse gaming library.
As part of its efforts to enhance the social gaming experience, Nintendo has introduced features that allow users to share gameplay screens with friends, even if they are playing different games. The new GameShare feature enables players to share a single game with up to three others, fostering a more collaborative gaming environment.
Battery life for the Switch 2 is estimated to range between 2 to 6.5 hours, similar to the original Switch's performance. Nintendo cautioned that actual battery life will depend on the games being played and usage conditions. Pre-orders for the Switch 2 will begin on April 9, 2025, with a worldwide roadshow planned to allow gamers to experience the console hands-on starting in New York and Paris from April 4-6.
In terms of pricing, the Switch 2 will be available for $450 in the United States, with international prices set at £395.99 in the UK, €469.99 in Europe, and 49,980 yen in Japan for a Japanese-language-only version. The multi-language version in Japan will retail at 69,980 yen. This pricing aligns with analysts' expectations, which had predicted a range between $400 and $500.
Overall, the Nintendo Switch 2 appears poised to make a significant impact in the gaming market with its innovative features, robust launch lineup, and commitment to backward compatibility. As fans eagerly await its release, the excitement surrounding the new console continues to build.
