Nintendo Switch 2: 9 Burning Questions About the New Console

What’s the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?

While the Nintendo Switch 2 trailer offers tantalizing glimpses, a precise release date remains elusive. Rumors and industry speculation suggest a possible launch sometime between May and June 2025. Nintendo’s April 2025 Direct livestream, along with pre-launch fan preview events, is likely to provide a firmer release date. The original Switch’s release schedule (October reveal, March launch) doesn’t offer a definitive pattern, but the timeline could loosely mirror this.

What Is the Price of the Switch 2?

Pricing remains a key unknown. The original Switch launched at $300, and the current Switch OLED model costs $350. Given the expected upgrades and potential increase in raw power, analysts generally predict a price tag around $400. This would align the Switch 2 with similar portable gaming devices, such as the Steam Deck. Ultimately, the specific price will likely depend on the extent of the hardware upgrade and features, offering more insight.

What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?

Launch titles are crucial for a console’s success. While the trailer hinted at a potential Mario Kart 9, and other rumored games, specifics are still shrouded in secrecy. Fans anticipate a strong roster, potentially including a new Zelda game or a new Mario title. The increasing gap in technical power between Nintendo’s console and other leading systems implies a higher likelihood of strong third-party support, unlike previous generations.

What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?

The Switch 2 appears larger than its predecessor. The console and Joy-Cons are noticeably taller, and the screen area is more prominent. The estimated increase in size is approximately 15%. The practical implications of this size increase – such as comfort and ease of use – need further clarification before final judgment.

What Type of Screen Does It Have?

Whether the Switch 2 will retain an OLED display or revert to an LED/LCD panel is uncertain. The original Switch’s transition from standard LCD to OLED in the OLED model shows Nintendo’s willingness to upgrade screen technology. However, the decision could also be driven by cost considerations, impacting final pricing. Only future announcements can confirm the precise screen technology.

Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?

While most original Switch games are expected to be compatible, not all will be. There could be limitations on titles that require specific hardware components or functionality exclusive to the original Switch, such as certain controllers or accessories. Details about potential compatibility limitations will become apparent closer to the launch date.

Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?

The Switch 2’s enhanced hardware has potential implications for older Switch games. Whether older games will receive performance improvements (e.g., increased frame rates or enhanced graphics) is uncertain. The approach to upgrading games might involve paid updates or entirely new versions. Game updates will likely be addressed more explicitly in Nintendo’s Direct event.

What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?

The Switch 2 Joy-Cons are expected to feature a new button and magnetic attachment. Rumors suggest the Joy-Cons will also mimic a mouse, offering more nuanced controls for various game genres, including potential first-person or strategy titles. Details about how these functions will be utilized in gameplay will be crucial for evaluating their impact.

Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?

A major concern for original Switch owners, Joy-Con drift has been a persistent issue. Optimistically, the new Switch 2 Joy-Cons are expected to address the issue through improved joystick mechanisms or design. If implemented correctly, this could greatly improve player experience and eliminate a common point of concern for Switch users.

Are you planning on getting a Switch 2?

(Please find the poll included in the original article.)