New pocket flagship: Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2

The official Nintendo Switch 2 console trailer dropped unexpectedly on January 16, 2025, appearing without prior announcement on Nintendo's YouTube channels. While release date rumors had circulated for months, constantly shifting, NateTheHate accurately predicted the January 16th reveal. Haven't seen it yet? Check it out below:

Table of Contents

• Size
• Design
• What's Inside?
• Release Date
• Price
• What Are We Going to Play?

Size

The trailer clearly shows a larger console than its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the thumbsticks are noticeably bigger. While precise dimensions weren't given, insiders report a height of 116mm, width of 270mm, and thickness of 14mm. This translates to a 3.1cm increase in width and 1.4cm in height compared to the standard Switch. An 8-inch screen diagonal is also rumored (compared to the OLED Switch's 7-inch screen).

Design

The Joy-Cons boast a new magnetic design, attaching via recessed contacts on the console. Insiders assure us this is robust; the contacts are well-protected, making accidental detachment unlikely. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, providing the magnetic connection. NextHandheld claims the magnets are strong enough to prevent accidental dislodging during gameplay. This design necessitates bezels around the screen.

The Joy-Con holder has also been redesigned. The top grips are now flat, and the Joy-Cons insert from the sides instead of the top. The buttons themselves are larger, and rumors suggest Hall effect sensors in the sticks to reduce drift. However, the IR camera appears absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.

A microphone and USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel. Their exact functionality remains unclear, but wired joystick support and voice chat are possibilities.

What's Inside?

Full specifications await the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, speculation points to performance comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Docked mode may support at least Quad HD resolution, if not 4K.

Insider speculation suggests:

• Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
• RAM: 12 GB
• Storage: 256 GB
• Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
• Screen: LCD, 8 inches

While an OLED version isn't expected at launch, the specs are promising. Many AAA titles from previous years are anticipated, including potentially *Genshin Impact*.

Release Date

NateTheHate suggests a release no earlier than May. The official date will be revealed at the April Nintendo Direct, but a June release seems likely. This aligns with the "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour starting April 4th, offering hands-on opportunities. Registration is open until January 26th on the official Nintendo website.

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. Fan speculation ranges from €349 to €399. It's best to await the Nintendo Direct for official pricing.

What Are We Going to Play?

The trailer showcased *Mario Kart 9* as a launch exclusive, featuring online play for up to 24 players, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes.

Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. However, fan speculation includes:

• Fallout 4
• Red Dead Redemption 2
• Tekken 8
• Starfield
• Diablo IV
• Elden Ring
• MySims Action Bundle
• Halo: The Master Chief Collection
• Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
• Final Fantasy VII Remake
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
• The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Stay tuned for more updates after the April Nintendo Direct!