Nintendo has officially unveiled the details of its highly anticipated Switch 2 console, set to revolutionize the gaming experience when it launches on June 5, 2025. The new console, which will retail for $449.99, promises significant upgrades over its predecessor, enhancing both hardware and software capabilities.
In a recent Nintendo Direct presentation, the company revealed not only the release date but also the innovative features that gamers can expect. Pre-orders for the Switch 2 will begin on April 9, 2025, in the United States and a day earlier in the UK, on April 8.
One of the standout features of the Switch 2 is its impressive 7.9-inch LCD display, boasting a full HD resolution of 1920x1080 and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. This is a significant upgrade from the original Switch's 6.2-inch 720p screen. Although it retains an LCD panel, the new console supports HDR, enhancing the visual experience for players.
Additionally, the Switch 2 will include 256GB of internal storage, a substantial increase from the original model's 32GB. This storage can be expanded using microSD Express cards, which are necessary for the new system, as standard microSD cards will not be compatible. The new console will also support Wi-Fi 6, ensuring faster and more reliable online connectivity.
In terms of design, the Switch 2 maintains the same thickness as its predecessor but is larger overall, measuring 271.8mm wide and 114.3mm tall, and weighing in at 399g. The console features a more robust kickstand, allowing for a greater range of motion, and includes two USB-C ports for added functionality.
One of the most exciting updates is the new Joy-Con controllers, now dubbed Joy-Con 2, which attach magnetically rather than through a rail system. This new design not only enhances durability but also features larger SL and SR buttons for improved comfort. The Joy-Con 2 can also be used as a mouse in compatible games, adding a new layer of interactivity.
Voice and video chat capabilities are also making their debut with the Switch 2. The new GameChat feature, activated by a dedicated C button on the Joy-Con 2, allows players to voice chat while gaming, even when the console is docked. Additionally, a new camera accessory will enable video chats, making it easier for players to connect with friends during gameplay.
Nintendo also announced a new title in the beloved Mario Kart series, titled "Mario Kart World," which is set to launch alongside the Switch 2. This new installment will feature 24 racers, the largest number in the series to date, and introduces an open-world environment that allows players to explore various regions while racing. The game promises to include innovative features such as skateboard-style grinds and wall jumps, enhancing the racing experience significantly.
Other exciting titles announced for the Switch 2 include "Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment," slated for a winter release in 2025, and "The Duskbloods," an exclusive title from FromSoftware expected in 2026. Additionally, fans can look forward to "Kirby Air Riders," a sequel to the popular 2003 game, and a new 3D platformer featuring Donkey Kong, titled "Donkey Kong Bananza," which will be released on July 17, 2025.
In a significant move, Nintendo is also expanding its Nintendo Switch Online service to include a library of classic GameCube titles. Initial offerings will include fan favorites such as "The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker," "F-Zero GX," and "SoulCalibur II," all playable at higher resolutions than their original releases.
For those who wish to enhance their gaming experience, the Switch 2 will also offer a range of accessories, including a new Pro Controller priced at $79.99, and various Joy-Con 2 accessories. The Joy-Con 2 will be available for $89.99, while the new camera will retail for $49.99. Additionally, a new dock set will be available for $109.99, allowing for improved connectivity and performance.
As for battery life, the Switch 2 is rated between 2 and 6.5 hours of gameplay, depending on the game being played. This is a slight improvement over the original model, which had a similar range. The console's battery capacity is set at 5220mAh, but specific figures on battery performance under various conditions remain to be fully tested.
As excitement builds for the Switch 2, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa expressed optimism about the new console, stating, "Nintendo Switch 2 is the next step in at-home gaming that can be taken on the go based on eight years of play and discovery that began with Nintendo Switch. With its new features that expand the possibilities of gaming experiences, I truly believe that Nintendo Switch 2 is a leap forward in our journey of putting smiles on the faces of everyone that Nintendo touches."
With the launch date fast approaching, gamers are eagerly anticipating the chance to experience the innovations that the Switch 2 promises to deliver. As pre-orders open, fans are encouraged to secure their consoles early to avoid missing out on what is shaping up to be one of the biggest gaming launches in recent memory.
