Nintendo Switch 2: 9 Key Questions Answered

After months of anticipation, the gaming community's worst-kept secret, the Nintendo Switch 2, has finally been unveiled. Nintendo released an official trailer that not only confirmed many of the rumors but also provided our first glimpse at the successor to the beloved original Nintendo Switch.

Unfortunately, the trailer was tantalizingly brief, leaving many questions unanswered. Key details such as the exact release date, pricing, and the extent of backwards compatibility with original Switch games remain shrouded in mystery. As we eagerly await the next Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2025, let's dive into the most pressing questions about this new console.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?

Speculation abounds about the Nintendo Switch 2's release date in 2025. The trailer offered no new insights, merely confirming that the console will be available at some point this year. If Nintendo follows the original Switch's timeline, which launched on March 3, 2017, after being revealed in October 2016, we might see the Switch 2 hitting stores around May or June 2025. This aligns with recent rumors. We know for certain that the console won't launch before April 2025, as Nintendo has planned a Direct livestream on April 2 to reveal more details, including launch game footage. Additionally, Nintendo will host fan preview events from April to early June, hinting at a release post these events. We'll likely get a firm release date during the April Direct.

What Is the Price of the Switch 2?

The price of the Nintendo Switch 2 remains a significant mystery. The original Switch launched at $300, while the Switch OLED model is priced at $350. Given the Switch 2's upgraded hardware, a price increase is expected. Rumors suggest a $400 launch price, aligning it with the baseline OLED Steam Deck. Industry analysts agree that $400 could be the sweet spot for this new console. The exact price may hinge on the new console's advanced hardware, rumored to be comparable to the Xbox One X, and whether it retains the OLED screen.

What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?

The success of a new console often depends on its launch lineup. The original Switch launched with a robust lineup, including a new Legend of Zelda game and Mario Kart 8, followed by Super Mario Odyssey later that year. The trailer for the Switch 2 teases one new game, likely Mario Kart 9. While other launch titles remain under wraps, there's speculation about a new Zelda or Mario game. A list of rumored launch games suggests strong third-party support, given the Switch 2's closer alignment with the technical capabilities of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox.

What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?

The Switch 2 trailer indicates that the new console is not only more powerful but also larger than its predecessor. Both the console and Joy-Cons appear taller, with a larger screen dominating the front. Estimates suggest the Switch 2 could be about 15% larger than the original. We'll need to wait until April for more precise details on how this size change affects the gaming experience.

What Type of Screen Does It Have?

The original Switch's OLED model was a significant upgrade. Will the Switch 2 continue this trend? The trailer provides no clues about the screen technology, leaving fans to wonder whether it will be OLED, LED, or LCD. This will be another key reveal at the April Nintendo Direct.

Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?

Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 will be backwards-compatible with most original Switch games, whether physical cartridges or digital downloads. However, the trailer includes a disclaimer that not all games will be compatible. This raises questions about which games might not work, possibly those requiring specific hardware like Ring Fit Adventure or Nintendo LABO.

Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?

While most original Switch games will work on the new console, how they will perform remains a mystery. Will the Switch 2's upgraded hardware enhance framerates and graphics? Games like Tears of the Kingdom could benefit significantly from more power. Whether these enhancements come automatically or require additional purchases, such as remastered versions, is yet to be determined.

What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?

The trailer confirmed rumors about the new Joy-Con's upgrades, including an extra button and magnetic attachment to the console. It also hinted at a mouse-like functionality, potentially revolutionizing gameplay for genres like first-person shooters and strategy games. How these features will be utilized will likely be a focal point at the April Direct.

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 was proactive with repairs and replacements, but it was still a significant concern. The Switch 2's new Joy-Cons, with updated joystick sensors and magnetic attachments, may address this issue. We'll look forward to learning more about this at the April Direct.