Nintendo Switch 2 Unveiled: Key Details and Questions Answered

After months of widespread leaks, Nintendo has officially introduced the Switch 2. The debut trailer provides a first glimpse at the console, confirming many rumors about the successor to the original Nintendo Switch.

While the trailer offers exciting hints, it remains brief, leaving several questions unanswered. When will the console launch? What’s the price point? Why isn’t every original Switch game supported? Below, we address the biggest questions about the new console as we await further details at the Nintendo Direct in April 2025.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

When Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Launch?

Speculation about the Switch 2’s 2025 release has been rampant. The trailer confirms a launch this year but offers no specific date. So, when can we expect the Switch 2 to hit shelves?

The original Switch debuted on March 3, 2017, following its October 2016 reveal. If Nintendo follows a similar timeline, the Switch 2 could launch around May or June 2025, aligning with recent rumors.

For now, we know the console won’t arrive before April 2025. Nintendo’s upcoming Direct livestream on April 2 will showcase more details, including launch game footage. Hands-on fan preview events are planned from April to early June, suggesting a release may follow their conclusion. A firm date will likely be confirmed during the April Direct.

How Much Will the Switch 2 Cost?

The Switch 2’s price remains a major mystery. Will it match the original Switch’s price, or should gamers expect a higher cost?

The original Switch launched at $300 in 2017, while the Switch OLED currently retails for $350. Given the Switch 2’s enhanced hardware, a price increase seems likely, with rumors pointing to a $400 price tag, comparable to the baseline OLED Steam Deck. Industry analysts consulted by IGN agree that $400 is a reasonable target.

The final price may hinge on the console’s hardware capabilities. Rumors suggest the Switch 2’s performance is comparable to the Xbox One X—a significant upgrade, but not cutting-edge for portable devices. Factors like whether it retains an OLED screen will also influence its cost compared to the original.

Which Games Will Launch With the Switch 2?

A console’s success often depends on its launch titles. The original Switch thrived with a strong lineup, including a groundbreaking open-world Legend of Zelda game, Mario Kart 8, and Super Mario Odyssey later that year.

Will the Switch 2 match this? The trailer teases only one new title, showing footage likely from Mario Kart 9. If Nintendo has new Zelda or Mario games planned for launch, they’re keeping quiet until April.

Rumors suggest a robust lineup of launch titles for the Switch 2, with stronger third-party support due to the console’s improved hardware, narrowing the gap with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox.

How Large Is the Switch 2?

The Switch 2 trailer reveals a more powerful and physically larger console. Both the console and Joy-Cons are taller (though their width seems unchanged), and the screen occupies more of the front panel, indicating a heftier device.

How big is it exactly? Based on the trailer, the Switch 2 appears roughly 15% larger than its predecessor. Does this affect comfort or usability? We’ll need more details in April to confirm.

What Screen Technology Does the Switch 2 Use?

The Switch OLED’s vibrant display and improved battery life set a high bar. Fans are eager to know if the Switch 2 will also feature an OLED screen.

It’s possible Nintendo might opt for an LED or LCD panel to reduce costs, but the trailer offers no clues about the display technology. We’ll likely learn more at the April Nintendo Direct.

Which Games Won’t Be Backwards Compatible?

Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will support most original Switch games, whether physical or digital, easing concerns about transitioning to the new console.

However, a trailer disclaimer notes that not all games will be compatible. Which titles will be excluded? Could games like Ring Fit Adventure or Nintendo LABO, which rely on specific Joy-Con features, be affected? Or are other hardware limitations at play? More details are needed.

Will Original Switch Games See Enhancements?

While most original Switch games will work on the Switch 2, will they benefit from the new hardware? Could we see improved framerates or enhanced graphics?

Graphically demanding titles like Tears of the Kingdom could thrive with more power. Will loading an old Switch cartridge suffice, or will players need to purchase remastered versions? If so, will these be paid downloads or entirely new releases? The cost of accessing enhanced versions, like a Tears of the Kingdom remaster, remains unclear.

What Are the New Joy-Con Features?

Rumors about upgraded Joy-Cons were confirmed in the trailer, which reveals an extra button and magnetic attachment instead of rails. The trailer also suggests the Joy-Con can function like a computer mouse, potentially enabling new gameplay styles.

How will these features be utilized? Could mouse-like controls enhance first-person shooters or strategy games? What does the new button do? Expect more clarity during the April Direct.

Mario Kart 9 - First Look

Has Joy-Con Drift Been Resolved?

The original Switch faced persistent Joy-Con drift issues, where joysticks registered unintended movement. Despite Nintendo’s repair efforts, the problem frustrated many users.

Have the new Joy-Cons addressed this? Will updated sensors and magnetic attachments eliminate drift? Nintendo may provide answers at the April Direct.

Are You Planning to Buy a Switch 2?

Yes, on launch day!No, I’m happy with my current setup.I’m waiting for more details on games and specs.

AnswerSee Results

For more on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore 30 details from the reveal trailer and what to expect from Nintendo in 2025.