New pocket flagship: Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2

The official Nintendo Switch 2 console trailer dropped unexpectedly on January 16, 2025, appearing without prior announcement on Nintendo's YouTube channels. While release date rumors had circulated for months, constantly shifting, NateTheHate accurately predicted the January 16th reveal. Haven't seen it yet? Check it out below!

Table of Contents

• Size
• Design
• What's Inside?
• Release Date
• Price
• What Are We Going To Play?

Size

The trailer clearly shows a larger console than its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the thumbsticks are noticeably bigger. While precise dimensions weren't given, insiders report a height of 116mm, width of 270mm, and thickness of 14mm. This translates to a 3.1cm increase in width and 1.4cm in height compared to the standard Nintendo Switch. An 8-inch screen diagonal is also rumored, a significant upgrade from the OLED model's 7-inch display.

Design

The Joy-Cons boast a new magnetic design, connecting via recessed contacts on the console. Insiders assure us this isn't as fragile as it sounds; the contacts are securely housed within the console's frame, making accidental detachment nearly impossible. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, providing the magnetic connection. NextHandheld claims the magnets are strong enough to prevent accidental disconnection during gameplay. This design, however, necessitates screen bezels on the sides.

The Joy-Con attachment mechanism has also been redesigned. They now slide into place from the sides, and the grip has a flatter upper section. The buttons themselves are slightly larger, and rumors suggest the thumbsticks will utilize Hall effect sensors to reduce drift. However, the IR camera appears to be absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.

A microphone and USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel. Their exact functionality remains unclear, but they may enable wired controller support and voice chat.

What's Inside?

Specific internal specs remain under wraps until the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, speculation points to performance comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, with potential for full Quad HD resolution in docked mode.

Based on insider information, the Switch 2 is expected to feature:

• Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
• RAM: 12 GB
• Storage: 256 GB
• Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
• Screen: LCD, 8 inches

While an OLED version isn't expected at launch, the specifications are promising, suggesting broad AAA game compatibility, potentially including titles like Genshin Impact.

Release Date

NateTheHate suggests a release no earlier than May. The official date will be revealed during the April Nintendo Direct, but a June release seems likely. This aligns with the "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour starting April 4th, allowing hands-on demos in various cities. Registration closes January 26th.

Tour Locations and Dates:

• 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 fan speculation ranging from €349 to €399. It's best to await the official Nintendo Direct announcement.

What Are We Going To Play?

Mario Kart 9 was showcased as a launch title, featuring online multiplayer for up to 24 players, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes.

Further game announcements are expected during 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.

Stay tuned for more news after the April Nintendo Direct!