Nintendo Switch 2: 9 Burning Questions About the New Console

After months of hushed anticipation, the Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been unveiled! Nintendo's official trailer confirms many of the previously leaked details surrounding this highly anticipated successor. However, the brief glimpse leaves many questions unanswered. When exactly will it launch? What will it cost? And will it truly offer backwards compatibility with every original Switch game? Let's delve into the biggest mysteries surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2, as we eagerly await the next Nintendo Direct in April 2025.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?

Speculation about the Switch 2's 2025 release date abounds. While the trailer doesn't offer a specific date, confirming only a launch sometime this year, we can draw some educated guesses. The original Switch launched March 3, 2017, following an October 2016 reveal. If Nintendo follows a similar timeline, a May or June 2025 release seems plausible, aligning with recent rumors.

Currently, we know the release will be after April 2025. A Nintendo Direct livestream on April 2nd promises further details, including footage of launch titles. Planned hands-on preview events running from April to early June suggest a post-event release is likely. However, a firm release date will probably remain elusive until the April Direct.

What Is the Price of the Switch 2?

Pricing remains a significant unknown. Will it mirror the original Switch's $300 price point, or will gamers face a price increase? The current Switch OLED model costs $350, suggesting a $50-$100 increase for the upgraded Switch 2 is possible. Rumors point towards a $400 price tag, potentially positioning it competitively with the Steam Deck. Industry analysts largely concur that $400 represents a strategic price point.

The final price may depend on the console's hardware specifications. Rumors suggest a performance level comparable to the Xbox One X – a substantial upgrade, but not cutting-edge portable technology. The Switch 2's processing power and screen technology (OLED or otherwise) will be key factors in determining the final price.

What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?

A console's launch lineup is crucial. The original Switch's success was partly due to its impressive launch titles. Will the Switch 2 follow suit? The trailer hints at only one new game – what appears to be Mario Kart 9. Any new Zelda or Mario titles remain under wraps until April.

A list of rumored Switch 2 launch titles exists. Increased third-party support is anticipated, given the reduced performance gap between Nintendo's console and its competitors (PlayStation 5 and Xbox).

The trailer reveals a larger console and Joy-Cons. Both are taller (width seemingly unchanged), with a larger screen dominating the front. This suggests a more substantial device than its predecessor.

Based on the trailer, a 15% increase in size is estimated. Whether this impacts comfort and usability remains to be seen, with further details expected in April.

What Type of Screen Does It Have?

The Switch OLED's superior screen and battery life proved a significant upgrade. Will the Switch 2 utilize OLED technology again, or will cost-cutting measures lead to an LED or LCD screen? The trailer provides no clues, leaving this question for the next Nintendo Direct.

Nintendo confirmed backwards compatibility with most original Switch games, easing concerns. However, not all titles will be compatible. Will this affect games requiring specific Joy-Con functionality (like Ring Fit Adventure or Nintendo LABO), or are there other undisclosed hardware limitations?

Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?

While backwards compatibility is welcome, the performance of original Switch games on the Switch 2 remains unclear. Will the upgraded hardware boost framerates and graphics? Given the graphical demands of titles like Tears of the Kingdom, some form of enhancement seems likely. Whether this involves simple upgrades or requires purchasing remastered versions (via paid downloads or entirely new releases) remains unanswered.

What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?

Rumors of upgraded Joy-Cons are confirmed. The trailer shows an extra button and magnetic attachment, replacing the rail system. The trailer also suggests mouse-like functionality. The April Direct should showcase how these features will enhance gameplay.

Mario Kart 9 - First Look

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Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?

Joy-Con drift plagued the original Switch. Will the Switch 2 address this issue? Will new joystick sensors and magnetic attachments eliminate drift? Hopefully, Nintendo will address this at the April Direct.

For more on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the 30 details uncovered in the reveal trailer and anticipate Nintendo's 2025 plans.