The official Nintendo Switch 2 console trailer dropped unexpectedly on January 16th, 2025, a surprise release without prior announcement. While release date rumors had circulated for months, constantly shifting, NateTheHate accurately predicted the January 16th reveal. Haven't seen it yet? Check it out below!
Table of Contents
- Size
- Design
- What's Inside?
- Release Date
- Price
- What Are We Going to Play?
Size
The trailer clearly shows a larger console than its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the thumbsticks are noticeably bigger. While precise dimensions weren't given, insiders report a height of 116mm, width of 270mm, and thickness of 14mm. This is 3.1cm wider and 1.4cm taller than the standard Nintendo Switch. Rumors point to an 8-inch screen, compared to the 7-inch OLED model.
Design
The Joy-Cons feature a magnetic connection, secured by recessed contacts in the console body. Insiders assure us this is a robust design, resistant to accidental disconnection. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, providing the magnetic connection. This design necessitates screen bezels.
The Joy-Con holder has been redesigned, with flat upper grips and side insertion. The buttons are larger, and the thumbsticks reportedly use Hall effect sensors to reduce drift. However, the IR camera is absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility with games like Ring Fit Adventure.
A microphone and USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel, potentially enabling wired joystick support and voice chat.
What's Inside?
Full specifications are pending the April 2nd Nintendo Direct, but rumors suggest performance comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, with potential for full Quad HD resolution in docked mode.
Insider-reported specifications:
- Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
- RAM: 12 GB
- Storage: 256 GB
- Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
- Screen: LCD, 8 inches
Note that an OLED version is not expected at launch. The rumored specs suggest compatibility with many AAA titles, including potentially Genshin Impact.
Release Date
NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May. The official date will be announced in April's Nintendo Direct, but June is a likely timeframe. The "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour begins April 4th, offering hands-on opportunities. Registration is open until January 26th on the official Nintendo website.
Tour Dates:
- 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
Speculation points to a starting price of €399, possibly lower at €349. Confirmation awaits the Nintendo Direct.
What Are We Going to Play?
Mario Kart 9 was showcased as a launch exclusive, featuring 24-player online support, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes.
Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. User speculation includes:
- 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
Stay tuned for more news after the April Nintendo Direct!
