Nintendo Switch 2: Everything we know so far
Amy Flower
STACK Senior Editor
New console releases are exciting, and when it’s the successor to one of the most popular ever it’s even more cause for keenness. Here’s everything that we know so far about the upcoming release of the Nintendo Switch 2.
What is it?
Nintendo Switch 2. That’s its official name, too. It’s set to be very similar to the first-generation Nintendo Switch functionally, with a hybrid console with a handheld unit featuring removable Joy-Cons that can be docked for play on a TV.
Release date?
2025. That’s all that has been officially confirmed so far.
How much will it cost?
That’s another wait-and-see currently. However, in a recent investor Q+A session, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa advised that Switch 2 will launch at “affordable prices customers expect”.
What’s new?
The most obvious thing about the new Nintendo Switch 2 is that it has a larger screen, so it’s bigger overall. There are no Nintendo Switch 2 specs - such as HDR support, variable refresh rate, resolution, or screen type (LCD or OLED) that have been confirmed so far.
On the back of the unit there’s a larger, adjustable height kickstand, which looks a lot sturdier and stabler than that of the first-generation Switch, and the Nitnendo Switch OLED model.
There will be new Joy-Con controllers, with more subtle blue and red/orange highlights in rings around the thumbsticks, and on the sides. There’s one extra square button the righthand unit that is currently a mystery.
Functionality-wise, what we’ve seen so far – basically the video above - seems to indicate that the Joy-Cons may have the ability to act in mouse-like ways.
The Joy-Cons are also colour-coded with the main screen unit and appear to snap on magnetically rather than sliding on like the first-generation Switch. They appear to lock in place, with a small trigger button either side to release them.
As well as a USB-C port on the bottom, there’ll also be one upon the top of the Switch 2. It’ll be handy for charging as you play, but it could also have alternate uses.
Another physical change is that the dock has rounded-off top corners.
What about games?
While no Switch 2 games have been officially announced by Nintendo as yet, the first-look trailer that we’ve seen features an impressive looking Mario Kart, so it’s a safe bet that we’ll be racing around in a whole new game, hopefully at launch but, like everything else, that can’t be confirmed at this time.
Otherwise, Switch 2 is set to be backwards compatible with original Switch games, both on cartridge and via download, so you'll be able to keep at least some of your current game library. It should be noted that Nintendo have shared the disclaimer: “Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2.”
When will we find out more?
A Nintendo Direct presentation, which will be watchable on Nintendo's YouTube channel, is scheduled for midnight (AEDT time) on April 2 and promises us “a closer look at Nintendo Switch 2". We may also get to know more about the Switch 2’s pre-order date. So, get ready for a late night!
Meanwhile, Nintendo is holding hands-on Nintendo Switch 2 Experience sessions – now booked out – in early May, so stay tuned for our thoughts as soon as we get our eager paws on one!
While the countdown for the Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order is on, the fun doesn't have to stop! Check out JB's Nintendo Switch collection and jump into epic gameplay today!
^Discounts apply to previous ticketed/advertised price prior to the discount offer. As we negotiate, products will likely have been sold below ticketed/advertised price prior to the discount offer. Prices may differ at airport stores.
