New pocket flagship: Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2

The official trailer for the Nintendo Switch 2 was released on January 16, 2025, taking the gaming world by surprise. Without any prior announcement, videos showcasing the new form factor of the console suddenly appeared on Nintendo's YouTube channels. While rumors about the release date had been swirling for some time, the exact date remained elusive until NateTheHate correctly predicted that the Switch 2 would be unveiled on January 16.

If you haven't yet seen the trailer, you can watch it below:

Table of Content ---

Size Design What's inside? Release Date Price What are we going to play? 0 0 Comment on this Size

From the video, it's evident that the Nintendo Switch 2 is larger in every dimension compared to its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the control sticks have all been upsized. While exact specifications remain under wraps, insiders suggest the following dimensions for the Switch 2: height — 116 mm, width — 270 mm, thickness — 14 mm. This makes it 3.1 cm wider and 1.4 cm taller than the original Switch. Additionally, rumors point to an 8-inch screen diagonal, compared to the 7-inch screen of the OLED version of the first Switch.

Image: x.com

Design

The video presentation introduces a new design for the Joy-Cons, which are now magnetic and connect to the console via two recessed contacts in the body. Insiders assure that these contacts are robust and well-protected within the console's frame, making it nearly impossible to damage them without harming the console itself.

The SL and SR buttons on the Switch 2 are larger and metallic, utilizing magnets to ensure the controllers stay securely attached. This design, however, results in bezels on the sides of the screen. The video also shows that the controllers can "slide" to the side after pressing a button, indicating a change in the holder design. The grips on the holder are now flat, and the Joy-Cons insert from the sides rather than the top.

Minor changes have also been made to the buttons on the Joy-Cons, which are now slightly larger. Rumors suggest the sticks will use Hall effect sensors to prevent drift, a common issue with the original Switch. However, the IR camera has been removed, which might affect backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.

Image: youtube.com

The top bezel of the console features a microphone and a USB Type-C port, hinting at potential uses such as direct connectivity with wired joysticks and in-game voice chat. More details on these features are expected soon.

Image: youtube.com

What's inside?

While we await the full specifications to be revealed at the Nintendo Direct on April 2, speculation abounds. Rumors suggest that the Switch 2's power will be comparable to that of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. In docked mode, it might support Quad HD resolution, if not 4K.

Image: youtube.com

Insiders agree on the following speculated specifications for the Switch 2:

Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239RAM: 12 GBStorage: 256 GBMemory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD ExpressScreen: LCD, 8 inchesAlthough an OLED version isn't expected at launch, the console's specs are promising. Many AAA titles from previous years are expected to be released for it, including a potential port of Genshin Impact, announced back in 2020.

Release Date

NateTheHate suggests that the console won't be released before May, with the official date to be announced at the Nintendo Direct in April. We predict a June release, especially since the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience tour starts on April 4, allowing early hands-on experiences. Registration for the tour is open on the official Nintendo website until January 26.

Image: nintendo.com

Here is the list of cities and dates where the console will be showcased:

New York — 04/04-06/04Paris — 04/04-06/04Los Angeles — 11/04-13/04London — 11/04-13/04Berlin — 25/04-27/04Dallas — 25/04-27/04Milan — 25/04-27/04Toronto — 25/04-27/04Tokyo — 26/04-27/04Amsterdam — 09/05-11/05Madrid — 09/05-11/05Melbourne — 09/05-11/05Seoul — 31/05-01/06Hong Kong — To be announcedTaipei — To be announcedPrice

While nothing is confirmed, fans speculate that the Switch 2 might start at €399, with some hoping for a slightly lower price of €349. It's best to keep expectations in check until the Nintendo Direct provides official pricing.

Image: stuff.tv

What are we going to play?

The announcement video showcased the first exclusive game for the Switch 2: Mario Kart 9. This title will support online play for up to 24 players, introduce new track types, and feature more noticeable yellow item boxes.

Image: youtube.com

More official announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct, but fans are already buzzing with speculation about potential titles for the Switch 2.

Here are some of the most exciting suggestions:

Fallout 4Red Dead Redemption 2Tekken 8StarfieldDiablo IVElden RingMySims Action BundleHalo: The Master Chief CollectionMicrosoft Flight Simulator 2024Final Fantasy VII RemakeFinal Fantasy VII RebirthThe Legend of Zelda: Twilight PrincessThis is all the current information on the Nintendo Switch 2. Stay tuned for more updates following the Nintendo Direct in April!