Nintendo Switch 2: Key Questions Answered

After months of whispers and leaks, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here! Nintendo's official trailer confirms many previously rumored details about the successor to the original Switch. While the trailer was brief, leaving many questions unanswered, we'll explore the biggest mysteries surrounding the new console as we eagerly await the next Nintendo Direct in April 2025.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?

Speculation abounds regarding the Switch 2's 2025 release. The trailer only confirms a launch sometime this year, offering no specific date. Considering the original Switch launched on March 3, 2017, after an October 2016 reveal, a similar timeframe could place the Switch 2 release around May or June 2025. This aligns with recent rumors.

However, a firm release date remains elusive. We know it won't launch before April 2025, following a Nintendo Direct on April 2nd promising further details and launch game footage. Pre-release hands-on events running from April to early June suggest a post-event launch is likely. Ultimately, the official date likely won't be revealed until the April Direct.

What Is the Price of the Switch 2?

The Switch 2's price remains a significant unknown. Will it mirror the original Switch's $300 price point, or will it see a price increase reflecting its upgraded hardware? The current $350 Switch OLED suggests a $50-$100 increase is plausible. Rumors point to a $400 price tag, comparable to the base-model OLED Steam Deck. Industry analysts largely agree that $400 represents a desirable price point. The final price, however, depends on the console's hardware specifications, including the screen technology (OLED or otherwise).

What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?

A compelling launch lineup is crucial. The original Switch's success was partly due to its strong launch titles. The Switch 2 trailer hints at only one new game: what appears to be Mario Kart 9. The existence of any new Zelda or Mario launch titles remains unconfirmed.

While details are scarce, a list of rumored launch titles exists, suggesting increased third-party support compared to the original Switch. The reduced hardware gap between Nintendo's console and its competitors (PlayStation 5 and Xbox) likely contributes to this increased support.

What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?

The trailer reveals a larger console and Joy-Cons than its predecessor. While precise dimensions are unavailable, estimates suggest a roughly 15% increase in size compared to the original Switch. The impact of this increased size on comfort and handling remains to be seen.

What Type of Screen Does It Have?

The Switch OLED's improved screen and battery life set a high bar. Whether the Switch 2 will utilize OLED, LED, or LCD technology remains unclear. The trailer provides no clues, leaving this question for the April Nintendo Direct.

Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?

Nintendo confirmed backwards compatibility with most original Switch games. However, the trailer also states that not all games will be compatible. The specific incompatible titles and the reasons for incompatibility remain unknown.

Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?

While backwards compatibility is confirmed, the performance of original Switch games on the Switch 2 is unclear. Will the upgraded hardware result in improved framerates and graphics? Whether this will involve simple compatibility or paid remastered versions also remains unanswered.

What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?

The trailer confirms upgraded Joy-Cons with an extra button and magnetic attachment, supporting previous rumors. The trailer also suggests mouse-like functionality. The practical applications of these new features, particularly the mouse functionality, and the extra button's purpose, are yet to be revealed.

Mario Kart 9 - First Look

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Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?

The infamous Joy-Con drift plagued the original Switch. Whether Nintendo has addressed this issue in the Switch 2's new Joy-Cons remains to be seen. The April Direct may shed light on this crucial point.

For 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.