Nintendo Switch 2: 9 Burning Questions About the New Console

After months of hushed anticipation, the Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been unveiled! Nintendo's official trailer confirms many of the previously leaked details surrounding this highly anticipated successor. However, the brief glimpse leaves many questions unanswered. When exactly will it launch? What's the price? And will it truly offer backwards compatibility with every original Switch game? Let's delve into the biggest unknowns as we eagerly await the next Nintendo Direct in April 2025.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

28 Images

What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?

Speculation abounds regarding the Switch 2's 2025 release. While the trailer confirms a launch sometime this year, the precise date remains elusive. The original Switch launched March 3, 2017, following an October 2016 reveal. If Nintendo follows a similar timeline, a May or June 2025 release seems plausible, aligning with recent rumors.

Currently, we know the release will be after April 2025. A Nintendo Direct livestream on April 2nd promises further details and gameplay footage of launch titles. Pre-release hands-on events are scheduled from April to early June, suggesting a post-event launch. However, a definitive release date likely awaits the April Direct.

What Is the Price of the Switch 2?

Pricing remains a significant mystery. Will it mirror the original Switch's $300 price point, or will gamers face a price increase? The Switch OLED currently sits at $350, suggesting a potential $50-$100 increase for the upgraded Switch 2. Rumors point to a $400 price tag, comparable to the baseline OLED Steam Deck. Industry analysts largely concur that $400 represents a strategic sweet spot.

The final price hinges on the console's hardware advancements. Rumors suggest parity with the Xbox One X—a substantial upgrade, but not cutting-edge portable technology. The Switch 2's processing power and screen technology (OLED or otherwise) will ultimately determine its price.

What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?

A console's launch lineup is crucial. The original Switch's success stemmed partly from its impressive launch titles, including a new open-world Legend of Zelda game. Will the Switch 2 boast a similarly compelling lineup? The trailer hints at only one new game—what appears to be Mario Kart 9. Any further launch titles remain under wraps until April.

A list of rumored launch titles exists, suggesting increased third-party support, given the reduced performance gap between Nintendo's console and the PlayStation 5 and Xbox.

What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size? ----------------------------------

The trailer reveals a larger console and Joy-Cons than its predecessor. The screen appears larger and more prominent. While estimations suggest a 15% increase in size, precise dimensions remain unknown. The impact on ergonomics and ease of use is yet to be determined. More concrete details await the April announcement.

What Type of Screen Does It Have?

The Switch OLED's superior display improved the original Switch. Will the Switch 2 utilize OLED technology again, or will Nintendo opt for LED or LCD to reduce costs? The trailer offers no clues, leaving this question unanswered until the next Nintendo Direct.

Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible? ----------------------------------------

Nintendo confirmed backwards compatibility with most original Switch games, easing concerns. However, not all titles will be compatible. The reasons remain unclear, but could relate to specific controller requirements (e.g., Ring Fit Adventure) or other hardware limitations.

Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?

While backwards compatibility is positive, the performance of original Switch games on the Switch 2 is uncertain. Will framerates and graphics improve? Given the graphical demands of titles like Tears of the Kingdom, enhancements are likely, but the method (simple loading, paid upgrades, or entirely new releases) is yet to be revealed.

What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?

Rumors of upgraded Joy-Cons are confirmed. The trailer shows an extra button and magnetic attachment, possibly enabling mouse-like functionality. The implications for gameplay, especially in first-person shooters and strategy games, remain to be seen. The April Direct will likely showcase these new features.

Mario Kart 9 - First Look

25 Images

Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?

Joy-Con drift plagued the original Switch. Will the Switch 2 address this issue? Improved sensors and magnetic attachments may resolve the problem, but confirmation awaits the April Direct.

Are you planning on getting a Switch 2? ---------------------------------------

Yes, on day 1! Nope, I’m fine with my current setup.I'm waiting to find out more – games, specs, etc!