Nintendo has officially announced the release of its next-generation gaming console, the Nintendo Switch 2, set to hit the market on June 5, 2025. The suggested retail price for the Japanese domestic model is 49,980 yen (including tax), while a multi-language version will be available for 69,980 yen.
First unveiled through a video presentation on the company’s official channel, Nintendo Direct, the Switch 2 is positioned as the successor to the original Nintendo Switch, which debuted in March 2017. This new console promises to enhance the gaming experience with a host of upgraded features while maintaining the dual functionality of its predecessor: playable in both docked mode for television use and portable mode.
One of the standout features of the Switch 2 is its impressive 7.9-inch LCD display, which supports a resolution of 1080p, HDR capabilities, and a variable refresh rate of up to 120 frames per second. This represents a significant upgrade from the original Switch, doubling the pixel count and providing a much clearer and more vibrant visual experience. When connected to a dock, the Switch 2 can even output in 4K resolution, appealing to gamers who seek high-definition graphics.
The console's Joy-Con controllers have also received a makeover. They are now magnetic and feature larger analog sticks that can function similarly to a mouse, enhancing precision in gameplay. Additionally, a new "C button" allows users to access voice chat features, enabling communication with other players while gaming. This is complemented by improved speakers and a built-in microphone, designed to facilitate seamless voice interactions.
Storage has been significantly upgraded as well, with the Switch 2 offering 256GB of internal memory, a notable increase from the original model. For those needing more space, the console supports additional storage via microSD Express cards, which promise faster read and write speeds compared to standard microSD cards. However, it is important to note that the Switch 2 will only be compatible with microSD Express cards, marking a departure from the original Switch’s card compatibility.
In terms of game support, the Switch 2 is set to launch with a strong lineup of titles. Notable games such as "Elden Ring," "Splatoon Fiction," "Hogwarts Legacy," and the new edition of "Mario Kart World" will be available, ensuring that players have plenty of options from day one. Nintendo has also confirmed that existing Switch game software will be playable on the new console, allowing gamers to transition smoothly without losing access to their favorite titles.
As of December 2024, the original Nintendo Switch had sold over 105 million units worldwide, making it one of the most successful gaming consoles of all time. Nintendo's success with the Switch has greatly impacted its financial performance, with consolidated sales increasing from 504.4 billion yen in the fiscal year ending March 2016 to an impressive 1.6718 trillion yen in March 2024. However, the company anticipates a decline in sales for the fiscal year ending March 2025, projecting a 29% drop to 1.19 trillion yen due to slowing Switch sales.
Nintendo is clearly banking on the Switch 2 to sustain its growth trajectory. The new console's features, combined with its robust game lineup and backward compatibility, aim to capture both existing fans and new players alike. The company is also exploring additional revenue streams outside of gaming, such as co-producing a film featuring popular characters from its franchises.
In the lead-up to the launch, Nintendo plans to hold demo events worldwide for selected winners of a lottery, offering fans a chance to experience the Switch 2 firsthand before its official release. With its innovative features and impressive specifications, the Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to make a significant impact in the gaming market when it launches this summer.
Overall, the anticipation surrounding the Switch 2 reflects not only the legacy of the original Switch but also the excitement for what this next-generation console will bring to the gaming community. As gamers eagerly await its arrival, the success of the Switch 2 will likely play a crucial role in shaping Nintendo’s future.
