Nintendo Switch 2: Unveiling the New Pocket Flagship

On January 16, 2025, Nintendo unveiled the much-anticipated trailer for their new console, the Switch 2, which was released without prior announcement on their YouTube channels. The gaming community had been buzzing with speculation about the release date, and it was NateTheHate who accurately predicted that the Switch 2 would be revealed on this date. If you haven't yet seen the trailer, you can watch it below:

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Size Design What's inside? Release Date Price What are we going to play? 0 0 Comment on this Size

The trailer showcases that the Switch 2 is larger than its predecessor in every dimension. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the control sticks have been upscaled. Although exact specifications remain under wraps, rumors suggest the console will measure 116 mm in height, 270 mm in width, and 14 mm in thickness. This makes the Switch 2 3.1 cm wider and 1.4 cm taller than the original Nintendo Switch. Additionally, it's rumored to feature an 8-inch screen, compared to the 7-inch display on the OLED model of the first Switch.

Image: x.com

Design

The design of the Switch 2 introduces magnetic Joy-Cons, which connect to the console via two recessed contacts in the body for portable mode. These contacts are secured within the console's frame, making them resistant to damage and ensuring the Joy-Cons do not detach accidentally. The SL and SR buttons have been enlarged and are now metallic, contributing to the magnetic attachment system. Although this design results in bezels on the sides of the screen, it promises a more secure grip.

The trailer also reveals that the Joy-Cons now "slide" to the sides after pressing a button, and the holder that transforms them into a full joystick has a flat upper grip. The Joy-Cons are inserted from the sides, unlike the top insertion in the original model. The buttons on the Joy-Cons have been slightly enlarged, and the sticks now use Hall effect sensors to prevent drift. However, the IR camera has been omitted, which may impact the backward compatibility of games like Ring Fit Adventure.

Image: youtube.com

Additionally, the top bezel of the Switch 2 features a microphone and a USB Type-C port, potentially allowing for direct use with wired joysticks and voice chat functionality in games. More details on these features are awaited.

Image: youtube.com

What's inside?

While we await the full reveal during the Nintendo Direct on April 2, speculation abounds regarding the Switch 2's internals. Rumors suggest the console's power will be comparable to that of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, with potential support for Quad HD resolution in docked mode.

According to insiders, the expected specifications for the Switch 2 include:

Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
RAM: 12 GB
Storage: 256 GB
Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
Screen: LCD, 8 inches

While an OLED version isn't expected at launch, these specs hint at the possibility of running AAA titles from previous years, including the much-anticipated port of Genshin Impact announced in 2020.

Image: youtube.com

Release Date

NateTheHate predicts that the Switch 2 will hit the market no earlier than May, with an official release date announcement expected at the Nintendo Direct in April. Speculation points to a June release, especially with the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience tour starting on April 4, allowing early hands-on experiences in various cities. Registration for this event is open on Nintendo's official website until January 26.

Image: nintendo.com

Here is the list of cities and dates where the console will be showcased:

New York — 04/04-06/04
Paris — 04/04-06/04
Los Angeles — 11/04-13/04
London — 11/04-13/04
Berlin — 25/04-27/04
Dallas — 25/04-27/04
Milan — 25/04-27/04
Toronto — 25/04-27/04
Tokyo — 26/04-27/04
Amsterdam — 09/05-11/05
Madrid — 09/05-11/05
Melbourne — 09/05-11/05
Seoul — 31/05-01/06
Hong Kong — To be announced
Taipei — To be announced

Price

While nothing is set in stone, fans are speculating that the Switch 2 might launch at a starting price of €399, with some hoping for a slightly lower price of around €349. It's best to keep expectations in check until the official announcement at the Nintendo Direct.

Image: stuff.tv

What are we going to play?

The announcement video highlighted Mario Kart 9 as the first exclusive title for the Switch 2, featuring online play for up to 24 players, new track types, and revamped item boxes that are now more visible with their yellow design.

Image: youtube.com

Further game announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct, but the community has been buzzing with speculation about potential titles for the Switch 2:

Some of the most exciting suggestions include:

Fallout 4
Red Dead Redemption 2
Tekken 8
Starfield
Diablo IV
Elden Ring
MySims Action Bundle
Halo: The Master Chief Collection
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
Final Fantasy VII Remake
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

This comprehensive overview covers all the current information on the Nintendo Switch 2. Stay tuned for more updates following the Nintendo Direct in April!