5 days ago
2
Nintendo has officially confirmed the highly-anticipated Switch 2. We don't know many specifics about the successor to the company's popular handheld console, but a two-minute first-look trailer on YouTube shows off quite a bit. Here's what we know so far.
What's new with the Switch 2?
We don't have specs for the new system yet, but just from the visuals in the teaser trailer, one thing is clear -- the Switch 2 is bigger.
As the video begins, two Joy-Cons break off the side of the original Switch and the display itself enlarges. A second USB port appears, as does a built-in kickstand, which now extends at a wider angle for more flexible viewing. The Joy-Cons then enlarge, showing buttons inside for use when playing with the controllers detached.
At this point, the Joy-Cons are shown being placed attachment-side down on a table and sliding around, seemingly indicating they might be able to be used as an optical mouse of sorts.
Also: Nintendo Switch 2 at CES 2025? Everything we know
While it might seem small, the addition of another USB-C port is significant because it means you can use more than one accessory at a time. With the original Switch, you had to spring for a third-party adapter. It's also likely the Switch 2 adopts actual USB-C standards, something the first version didn't do.
On the note of accessories, we don't know if the Switch 2 will support accessories from the original. If you're the type of person who has several extra controllers, this could be a big deal.
How much will the Switch 2 cost?
Nintendo hasn't released the price of its new console yet. For comparison, the original Switch debuted in March 2017 for $299. The higher-end Switch OLED model retailed for $349. With all the notable upgrades to the upcoming console, I'd expect the cost to be even higher.
What is the Switch 2 release date?
Nintendo didn't reveal an exact release date but did end the teaser video with a bold "2025," indicating the system will hit stores sometime this year.
What games will be available for the Switch 2 at launch?
The Switch 2 trailer showcased Mario Kart, meaning a new version of the iconic racing game is likely going to be a launch title. 2017's Mario Kart 8 Deluxe was the last entry in the franchise, so will this be Mario Kart 9?
Nintendo showed off new footage of Metroid Prime 4 at last summer's Direct, leading many fans to speculate it was running on the Switch 2, but experts think that was current hardware. It's still widely believed we'll see a Metroid game launch with the new Switch, though.
Also: I tried MSI's Windows PC handheld, and it features design improvements gamers actually want
While consoles these days are offering digital-only versions, the Switch 2 will still play both physical and digital games. The system does seem to be backward compatible with older games, at least to some degree, as a warning at the end of the video says. "Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2."
Nintendo says it will reveal more details on the Switch 2 at Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025. A hands-on experience for customers will be available in New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas in the days after.
English (US) ·