Next Nintendo Direct: Official Date and Global Release Times Revealed

Nintendo's Upcoming Direct: All About the Switch 2

Mark your calendars! Nintendo's next Direct, focusing on the highly anticipated Switch 2, is scheduled for April 2nd, 2025. Depending on your time zone, this may fall on April 3rd. This presentation, arriving two months later than the typical February Direct, promises crucial details about the new console. Here's the global broadcast schedule:

• Australia: 10:00 PM AWST (April 2)
• New Zealand: 3:00 AM NZDT (April 3)
• United States: 6:00 AM PT | 9:00 AM ET (April 2)
• United Kingdom: 3:00 PM BST | 2:00 PM GMT (April 2)
• Japan: 11:00 PM JST (April 2)
• Singapore: 10:00 PM SGT (April 2)
• Philippines: 10:00 PM PST (April 2)

Tune in live on Nintendo's official website and YouTube channel. A recording will be available later on YouTube for those who miss the live stream.

While Nintendo has briefly acknowledged the Switch 2's existence, concrete details remain scarce. Despite online speculation and leaks regarding specifications, official confirmation is eagerly awaited. The Direct is expected to address key features including graphics capabilities, battery life, controller design, and significant hardware upgrades. Pricing (rumored at $400) and the release date are also anticipated topics, potentially including the opening of pre-orders.

Beyond hardware, the Direct will likely showcase launch titles. A new Mario Kart game is the only confirmed title so far, slated for simultaneous release with the Switch 2.

What We Know So Far About the Switch 2

For those impatient for April's Direct, here's a summary of reliable leaks and official information:

Nintendo aims to prevent scalping and shortages by implementing robust countermeasures. Reportedly, the Switch 2's release has been pushed to 2025 to ensure sufficient supply. While the exact date remains unconfirmed, a June launch is speculated by some sources.

Beyond the Mario Kart title, potential launch games include a new 3D Super Mario game, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Third-party titles like Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth, Assassin's Creed Mirage and Shadows, and Red Dead Redemption 2 are also possibilities.

Backward compatibility with the Nintendo Switch is confirmed, with Nintendo Switch Online support. However, Nintendo cautions that some games may not be compatible.

New features include Joy-Cons with magnets and Hall-effect sticks, and a rumored mouse-like mode. The Switch 2 will also boast a larger form factor and a more robust U-shaped stand.

Don't miss this crucial Nintendo Direct! Add the date to your calendar and prepare for the official unveiling of the Switch 2.