New pocket flagship: Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2: A Sneak Peek

The surprise January 16th, 2025 YouTube reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2 trailer, accurately predicted by NateTheHate, left gamers buzzing. While release date rumors swirled, the official announcement was a welcome shock. Let's dive into what we know so far:

Table of Contents

• Size
• Design
• Internal Specs
• Release Date
• Price
• Launch Titles

Size

The Switch 2 is noticeably larger than its predecessor. While precise dimensions weren't given, insiders report a height of 116mm, width of 270mm, and thickness of 14mm – significantly bigger than the original Switch. An 8-inch screen is rumored, compared to the OLED Switch's 7-inch display.

Image: x.com

Design

The Joy-Cons sport a magnetic attachment system, secured by recessed contacts within the console body. Insiders assure us this is robust and prevents accidental detachment. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, contributing to the magnetic connection. This design necessitates screen bezels.

Image: youtube.com

The Joy-Con grip has been redesigned, with a flatter top and side-insertion. Larger buttons and Hall effect sensors in the joysticks aim to eliminate 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 and voice chat functionality.

Image: youtube.com

Internal Specs

Details remain scarce until the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, speculation points to PlayStation 4/Xbox One comparable power, with potential for Quad HD resolution in docked mode. Insiders suggest:

• Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
• RAM: 12 GB
• Storage: 256 GB
• Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
• Screen: LCD, 8 inches (no OLED at launch)

Image: youtube.com

Release Date

NateTheHate predicts a May release at the earliest, with a June release more likely. The official date will be revealed in April. A "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour, starting April 4th, allows hands-on demos in various cities (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

Pricing remains unconfirmed, with speculation ranging from €349 to €399. Awaiting the Nintendo Direct is advised.

Image: stuff.tv

Launch Titles

The trailer showcased Mario Kart 9 as a launch exclusive, featuring 24-player online support, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. Speculated titles include Fallout 4, Red Dead Redemption 2, and more.

Image: youtube.com

Stay tuned for the April Nintendo Direct for official confirmation on release date, pricing, and a full game lineup!