Nintendo Unveils Next-Gen Handheld: Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2: A Sneak Peek

The surprise January 16th, 2025 YouTube reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2's new form factor sent shockwaves through the gaming community. While release date rumors had circulated for months, NateTheHate's accurate prediction of the reveal date added to the excitement. If you missed the trailer, check it out below:

[Table of Contents]

• Size
• Design
• Internal Specs
• Release Date
• Price
• Game Lineup

Size

The trailer clearly showcases 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 116 mm, width of 270 mm, and thickness of 14 mm. This translates to a 3.1 cm increase in width and 1.4 cm in height compared to the standard Switch. An 8-inch screen is also rumored, surpassing the OLED Switch's 7-inch display.

Image: x.com

Design

The Joy-Cons now boast a magnetic connection, secured by recessed contacts within the console body. Insiders assure us this design is robust, preventing accidental detachment and accidental damage. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, contributing to the magnetic hold. This design, however, necessitates screen bezels.

Image: youtube.com

The Joy-Con holder has been redesigned, with flat grips and side insertion. The buttons themselves are larger, and rumors point to Hall effect sensors in the thumbsticks, mitigating joystick drift. However, the IR camera is absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.

A USB Type-C port and microphone are visible on the top bezel, hinting at potential wired controller support and voice chat capabilities.

Image: youtube.com

Internal Specs

Details remain scarce until the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, speculation suggests performance comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, with potential for Quad HD resolution in docked mode. Insiders predict the following specifications:

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

The absence of an OLED model at launch is unexpected, but the overall specs are promising. Many AAA titles from previous years are anticipated, with even the possibility of Genshin Impact.

Image: youtube.com

Release Date

NateTheHate suggests a May release at the earliest, with June being a more likely timeframe. The official date awaits the April Nintendo Direct. The "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour, starting April 4th, allows hands-on previews. Registration closes January 26th.

Image: nintendo.com

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 centers around a €399 starting price, with some suggesting a lower €349. Confirmation awaits the Nintendo Direct.

Image: stuff.tv

Game Lineup

Mario Kart 9, featuring 24-player online support, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes, was showcased as a launch exclusive. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. However, fan 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 updates following the April Nintendo Direct!

Image: youtube.com