Nintendo Switch 2 Leak Draws Ire from Former PR Managers

Former Nintendo of America employees shed light on the impact of recent Switch 2 leaks, highlighting significant internal disruption and a compromised element of surprise for fans.

Numerous leaks have surfaced, including purported release dates, game titles, console mockups, and even images of the motherboard and Joy-Cons. Nintendo has officially dismissed these as "unofficial."

In a YouTube video, ex-Nintendo PR managers Kit Ellis and Krysta Yang, leveraging their combined decade-plus of experience, discussed the likely internal fallout. Yang expressed strong belief in the company's considerable displeasure, describing the likely internal communications as intensely critical.

The pair emphasized the disruptive effect leaks have on staff, suggesting that ongoing investigations surrounding the Switch 2 are diverting resources and increasing stress levels, creating a highly pressured work environment. However, Ellis expressed confidence in Nintendo's investigative capabilities to ultimately uncover the source.

Genki Nintendo Switch Mockup Images from CES 2025

3 Images

The leaks have undeniably diminished the potential for a surprising reveal, impacting fan anticipation and the overall announcement strategy, according to both Ellis and Yang. They firmly dismissed speculation of internal leaks, emphasizing Nintendo's strong emphasis on the value of surprise and the unlikelihood of intentional leaks from within the company.

The extensive leaks are likely to prompt a reevaluation of Nintendo's product security protocols, especially given the eight-year gap since the original Switch launch in March 2017. This significant time lapse may necessitate adjustments to their hardware reveal processes.

What rumored Switch 2 feature are you most excited for?

4K upscalingLarger screenOptical sensor on JoyconMysterious "C" buttonFaster SD cardsMagnetic locking Joycon

While all information remains unofficial until Nintendo's formal announcement, the company has confirmed backward compatibility with original Switch games and integration with Nintendo Switch Online. A release is anticipated sometime after April 2025.