The Nintendo Switch 2: A Sneak Peek at the Next-Gen Console
The surprise January 16th, 2025 YouTube reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2 trailer sent shockwaves through the gaming community. While release date rumors had circulated for months, the announcement itself was completely unexpected, accurately predicted only by NateTheHate. If you missed it, check out the trailer below:
[Table of Contents]
- Size
- Design
- Internal Specifications
- Release Date
- Price
- Game Lineup
Size
The trailer clearly showcases a larger console than its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the thumbsticks are noticeably bigger. While precise dimensions remain unconfirmed, insider reports suggest a height of 116 mm, width of 270 mm, and thickness of 14 mm. This translates to a 3.1 cm increase in width and 1.4 cm in height compared to the standard Nintendo Switch. An 8-inch screen is also rumored, a significant upgrade from the OLED Switch's 7-inch display.
Image: x.com
Design
The Joy-Cons feature a magnetic connection secured by recessed contacts within the console body. Insiders assure us this design is robust and prevents accidental detachment or easy breakage. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, contributing to the magnetic functionality. This design, however, necessitates screen bezels.
Image: youtube.com
The Joy-Con holder has also been redesigned, with a flatter grip and side-insertion instead of top-insertion. The buttons are larger, and the thumbsticks are rumored to utilize Hall effect sensors, mitigating joystick drift. However, the IR camera is absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.
A microphone and USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel, suggesting potential support for wired controllers and voice chat.
Image: youtube.com
Internal Specifications
Full specifications are anticipated at the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, leaks suggest the Switch 2 will rival the processing power of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, potentially supporting Quad HD resolution in docked mode.
Image: youtube.com
Predicted Specifications:
- Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
- RAM: 12 GB
- Storage: 256 GB
- Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
- Screen: LCD, 8 inches
Release Date
NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May, with a June launch being likely. The official date will be announced in April. The "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour, starting April 4th, will allow hands-on demos in select cities (registration closes January 26th).
Image: nintendo.com
Tour Dates & Locations:
- 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. Official confirmation is pending the Nintendo Direct.
Image: stuff.tv
Game Lineup
Mario Kart 9, featuring 24-player online support and redesigned item boxes, was highlighted in the trailer. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. However, fan speculation includes titles like Fallout 4, Red Dead Redemption 2, Tekken 8, Starfield, Diablo IV, Elden Ring, MySims Action Bundle, Halo: The Master Chief Collection, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, Final Fantasy VII Remake, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.
Image: youtube.com
Stay tuned for more updates following the April Nintendo Direct!