The Nintendo Switch 2: A Sneak Peek
The surprise January 16th, 2025 YouTube reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2 trailer, accurately predicted by NateTheHate, sent shockwaves through the gaming community. While release date rumors had circulated for months, the official unveiling finally confirmed its imminent arrival. Let's delve into what we know so far:
Table of Contents
- Size
- Design
- Internal Specifications
- Release Date
- Price
- Game Lineup
Size
The trailer clearly showcases a larger console than its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the thumbsticks are noticeably bigger. While precise dimensions haven't been officially released, insider reports suggest a height of 116 mm, width of 270 mm, and thickness of 14 mm – significantly larger than the original Switch. An 8-inch screen is also rumored, compared to the 7-inch OLED model.
Image: x.com
Design
The Joy-Cons boast a magnetic attachment system, secured by recessed contacts within the console body. This design, according to insiders, is surprisingly robust and prevents accidental detachment. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, contributing to the magnetic connection strength. This design, however, necessitates screen bezels.
Image: youtube.com
The Joy-Con grip has also been redesigned, with a flatter top and side insertion. The buttons themselves are larger, and the thumbsticks are rumored to utilize Hall effect sensors to mitigate joystick drift. However, the IR camera is absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for certain titles like Ring Fit Adventure. A microphone and USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel, hinting at potential wired controller and voice chat support.
Image: youtube.com
Internal Specifications
Details are scarce, with full specifications promised for the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, speculation points towards performance comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, potentially supporting Quad HD resolution in docked mode. Insider consensus leans towards:
- Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
- RAM: 12 GB
- Storage: 256 GB
- Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
- Screen: LCD, 8 inches (no OLED at launch)
Image: youtube.com
Release Date
NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May, with June being a likely candidate. The official date will be announced in April, but the "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour, starting April 4th, allows hands-on previews in select cities (registration closes January 26th).
Image: nintendo.com
Tour 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 speculation ranging from €349 to €399. It's best to await the official announcement.
Image: stuff.tv
What are we going to play?
Mario Kart 9, featuring 24-player online support and redesigned item boxes, was showcased as a launch title. Further game announcements are expected during the Nintendo Direct. Speculation includes titles like Fallout 4, Red Dead Redemption 2, and many more.
Image: youtube.com
Stay tuned for the April Nintendo Direct for the complete picture!