After months of speculation, the gaming world has finally been introduced to the Nintendo Switch 2. The first official trailer from Nintendo has confirmed several leaks and rumors about the much-anticipated successor to the original Nintendo Switch. However, the brief footage has left us with more questions than answers. As we eagerly await the next Nintendo Direct in April 2025, let's dive into the key questions surrounding the new console.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?
The trailer didn't shed new light on the release date, only confirming that the Switch 2 will be available sometime in 2025. Speculation suggests a launch around May or June 2025, aligning with rumors and the original Switch's release pattern. Nintendo has scheduled a Direct livestream on April 2, 2025, where more details about the console and its launch games will be revealed. Additionally, hands-on fan preview events are planned from April to early June, hinting at a potential release shortly after those events conclude.
What Is the Price of the Switch 2?
The price remains a significant mystery. The original Switch launched at $300, while the Switch OLED model is priced at $350. Given the rumored upgrades in hardware, the Switch 2 might see a price increase to around $400, which aligns with industry analysts' predictions and places it competitively with other gaming devices like the OLED Steam Deck. The final price will likely depend on the specifics of the hardware, such as whether it retains the OLED screen.
What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?
A console's success often hinges on its launch titles. The original Switch hit the ground running with a robust lineup, including a new Legend of Zelda game and Mario Kart 8. The Switch 2 trailer teases what appears to be Mario Kart 9, but details on other launch titles remain scarce. Rumors suggest a strong third-party support, promising a diverse game library at launch.
What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?
The Switch 2 appears larger than its predecessor, with the console and Joy-Cons being taller and the screen taking up more of the front. Estimates suggest it's about 15% larger than the original. This increase in size could impact the overall gaming experience and comfort, though exact dimensions and their effects are yet to be fully disclosed.
What Type of Screen Does It Have?
The Switch OLED model significantly improved upon the original with its vibrant display and better battery life. It remains to be seen whether the Switch 2 will continue using OLED technology or opt for a more cost-effective LED or LCD screen. The trailer doesn't provide a clear answer, leaving fans to wait for the April Direct for more details.
Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?
Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 will be backwards-compatible with most original Switch games, easing concerns for current Switch owners. However, the trailer includes a disclaimer that not all games will be compatible. The exact games that won't work on the new system, possibly due to hardware limitations or unique Joy-Con requirements, remain unspecified.
Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?
While it's reassuring that most original Switch games will work on the new console, the question remains how these games will perform on the Switch 2. Will there be graphical enhancements or improved framerates? Whether these upgrades will come as standard or require additional purchases, such as remastered versions, is still up in the air.
What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?
The trailer confirms new Joy-Con features, including an additional button and magnetic attachment to the console. Additionally, the Joy-Con can reportedly be used like a computer mouse, potentially revolutionizing gameplay for certain genres. How these new features will be utilized in games is a topic for the upcoming Direct event.
Mario Kart 9 - First Look
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Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?
Joy-Con drift was a persistent issue with the original Switch. Nintendo actively offered repair and replacement solutions, but it was still a significant annoyance. With the new Joy-Con's design changes, including magnetic attachments and new joystick sensors, there's hope that this issue has been resolved. We'll need to wait for the Direct event to see if Nintendo addresses this concern.
AnswerSee ResultsFor more on the Nintendo Switch 2, check out 30 details we found in the reveal trailer, and see what to expect from Nintendo in 2025.
