New pocket flagship: Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2

The official Nintendo Switch 2 console trailer dropped unexpectedly on January 16th, 2025, appearing without prior announcement on Nintendo's YouTube channels. 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 translates to a 3.1cm wider and 1.4cm taller console than the standard Nintendo Switch. An 8-inch screen diagonal is also rumored, compared to the 7-inch screen on the OLED Switch.

Design

The Joy-Cons sport a new magnetic design, connecting to the console via recessed contacts. Insiders assure us this isn't as fragile as it sounds; the contacts are securely enclosed, preventing accidental breakage. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, providing the magnetic connection. According to NextHandheld, the magnets are strong enough to prevent accidental detachment.

The Joy-Con holder has also been redesigned. The grips are now flatter, and the Joy-Cons insert from the sides instead of the top. The buttons are slightly larger, and rumors suggest Hall effect sensors in the thumbsticks will reduce drift. However, the IR camera appears to be absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility with games like Ring Fit Adventure.

A microphone and USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel. Their functionality remains unclear, but wired joystick support and voice chat are possibilities.

What's Inside?

Full specifications await the April 2nd Nintendo Direct, but rumors suggest the Switch 2 will be comparable in power to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Docked mode may support either 4K or full Quad HD resolution.

Insider-predicted specifications:

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

While an OLED version isn't expected at launch, the specs are promising. Many AAA titles from previous years are anticipated, including a potential port of Genshin Impact.

Release Date

NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May. The official date will be revealed during the April Nintendo Direct, but a June release seems likely. This aligns with the "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour starting April 4th, offering hands-on opportunities. Registration closes January 26th.

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, though some suggest a lower €349 price point. It's best to wait for the Nintendo Direct for confirmation.

What Are We Going to Play?

Mario Kart 9 was showcased as a launch exclusive, featuring online play for up to 24 players, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct.

User-speculated titles:

• 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 following the April Nintendo Direct!