Nintendo Switch 2 Leak Shocks Former PR Managers

Former Nintendo of America employees shed light on the impact of recent Switch 2 leaks, highlighting significant internal disruption and the compromised element of surprise for fans. Leaks have revealed purported release dates, upcoming games, and even device mockups, including images of the motherboard and Joy-Cons. Nintendo has officially dismissed these as "unofficial."

In a YouTube video, ex-Nintendo PR managers Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, leveraging their combined decade-plus of experience, discussed the likely internal fallout. Yang described the company's reaction as "extremely upset," emphasizing the intense internal response to such breaches.

The pair detailed the stressful impact of leak investigations on staff, adding to the already intense pressure of a console launch. Yang characterized the current internal environment as "highly chaotic" and a "pressure cooker." Ellis, however, expressed confidence in Nintendo's investigative capabilities, stating they would ultimately uncover the source.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

3 Images

The leaks have undeniably diminished the element of surprise surrounding the official announcement, impacting fan anticipation, according to both Ellis and Yang. They firmly dismissed speculation of internal leaks, emphasizing Nintendo's commitment to surprise and the extensive internal training on this matter.

Ellis highlighted the significant disruption to the company's efforts to announce and launch the new console, a process already inherently challenging. He suggested that Nintendo will likely reassess its product security protocols, given the eight-year gap since the original Switch launch in March 2017. This extended timeframe may necessitate adjustments to their hardware reveal processes.

What rumored Switch 2 feature are you most excited for?

4K upscalingLarger screenOptical sensor on JoyconMysterious "C" buttonFaster SD cardsMagnetic locking Joycon

While all information remains unofficial until Nintendo's formal announcement, the company has confirmed backward compatibility with original Switch games and integration with Nintendo Switch Online. Furthermore, a launch within the current fiscal year is unlikely, suggesting an April 2025 release at the earliest. An official announcement is expected in the first quarter of 2024.