Everything You Know About Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo has always managed to make a name for itself with its consoles that have revolutionized the gaming world. After the success of the Nintendo Switch, which reached 146 million sales, all eyes are now on the Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo has officially announced its next-generation console, and it is said that this console will appeal to both existing Switch users and new players. So, what do we know about the Nintendo Switch 2 so far? Here are all the details.
Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date
Nintendo announced in a short promotional video that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be released in 2025. However, an exact release date has not yet been announced. According to some sources, the console is expected to be released in the summer of 2025. This estimate seems to be in line with Nintendo’s previous console launches. For example, the original Switch was introduced in October 2016 and released in March 2017.
On the other hand, reliable sources such as Nikkei suggest that Nintendo is targeting spring 2025 to avoid hardware shortages and launch with a strong game list. Both the exact release date and other details of the console are expected to be announced during the Nintendo Direct event to be held in April.
Nintendo Switch 2 Price
Nintendo has not yet announced a price for its new console. However, considering the market conditions, the Nintendo Switch 2 is likely to be more expensive than the current Switch models. The original Switch was released in 2017 with a price tag of $299, and that price has not changed since then.
The new console is expected to be priced between $349 and $399. This price seems reasonable considering the console’s more powerful hardware and new features. However, Nintendo has to maintain its affordable pricing policy as a family-friendly brand. Higher prices could cause the console to be compared to its PC-based competitors and alienate its traditional user base.
Nintendo Switch 2 Games
Nintendo showed a Mario Kart game exclusive to the new console in its promotional video. However, no details were given about the game. Apart from that, no official statement was made about the launch games of the Nintendo Switch 2. Still, some predictions and leaks show that we will encounter a strong game catalog during the launch.
Mario Kart 9: The new game of the Mario Kart series is one of the most anticipated games of the Switch 2. The scenes shown in the promotional video suggest that the game may have an open-world style design.
A New 3D Super Mario Game: After Super Mario Odyssey, which was released in 2017, it is time to meet a new game of the series.
Metroid Prime 4: This game developed for the Switch can be released on both the Switch and the Switch 2 as a cross-generation production.
Pokémon Legends: Z-A: New Pokémon games are also expected to have an important place in the launch of the Switch 2.
In addition, popular games from third-party developers may also be included in the Switch 2. It is said that games such as Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Red Dead Redemption 2 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 will be adapted to the new console.
Nintendo Switch 2 Backward Compatibility
Nintendo has confirmed that the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature backwards compatibility. This means that existing Switch games will be playable on the new console. Both physical cartridges and digital games will work on the Switch 2. However, Nintendo noted that some games may not be fully compatible.
Backwards compatibility will make it easier for players to switch to the new console without losing their existing game libraries. The Nintendo Switch Online subscription will also continue on the Switch 2, and the retro game catalog will be accessible on the console.
New Features of the Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 is coming with a bunch of new features. The console’s design is a hybrid structure, similar to the original Switch. The Joy-Con controllers will still be removable, but this time they are equipped with more advanced technology. Hall-effect joysticks will provide more durable and precise control.
The new console will have a larger screen than the previous model. According to reports, the screen size will be 8 inches. However, it is stated that it will use an LCD screen instead of an OLED to reduce costs. In addition, the console will feature a new USB-C port on the top. This will allow the console to be charged in table mode or to connect new accessories.
As for the hardware power of the console, the Nintendo Switch 2 is said to have a performance between the PlayStation 4 and the Xbox One. It is also said to offer more advanced graphics with features such as Nvidia’s DLSS technology and ray tracing. It is also expected to support 4K resolution when in docked mode.
What’s New in Nintendo Switch 2’s Joy-Con Design
The Nintendo Switch 2’s Joy-Con controllers will have a larger and more ergonomic design compared to the previous model. It is stated that the new controllers will be magnetically connected to the console, and this system will offer more durable use.
In addition, there are additional shoulder buttons and multiple new buttons on the sides of the Joy-Cons. The function of a mysterious button on the right Joy-Con has not yet been revealed. Interestingly, some reports claim that the Joy-Cons will be equipped with optical sensors, allowing them to be used like a mouse. This feature could add a new dimension to the device’s modular structure and further expand the use of accessories.
The Function of Two USB-C Ports on the Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 will feature two USB-C ports, unlike its predecessor. The port on the bottom will be used for dock connection and charging, as in the previous model. However, the second USB-C port on the top may be designed to facilitate connecting new accessories or charging the device in portable mode.
This connection is said to be used for innovative add-ons such as external displays or glasses-style display accessories. Considering Nintendo’s creative accessories in the past, it is quite possible that this new port will serve different purposes.
Nintendo Switch 2’s Powerful Graphics Performance
The Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to see a significant leap in graphic performance. It is said that the console will use Nvidia’s T239 processor, which will be supported by advanced technologies such as ray tracing and DLSS. This means that the console will be able to offer graphics at the level of PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
The Nintendo Switch 2, which is expected to offer 4K resolution support in docked mode, can make it easier to adapt third-party games to the console. It may now be possible for games with high graphic requirements such as Elden Ring, Death Stranding and Madden NFL to come to the Switch 2. These developments will allow the Nintendo Switch 2 to offer an impressive gaming experience both in portable mode and when connected to a TV.
Is It Possible to Pre-Order the Nintendo Switch 2?
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are not currently open. However, it is estimated that pre-orders will be opened during the Nintendo Direct event in April. This date seems quite possible, as Nintendo has followed a similar path in previous console launches.
The Nintendo Switch 2 has managed to create excitement in the gaming world with its powerful hardware, backward compatibility support, and extensive game catalog. Offering great potential for both existing Switch users and new players, this console will be released in 2025.
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