The Nintendo Switch 2: A Deep Dive into the Upcoming Console
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 confirmed a new console era. Let's explore 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 remain unconfirmed, insider reports suggest a height of 116 mm, width of 270 mm, and thickness of 14 mm. This represents a 3.1 cm increase in width and 1.4 cm in height compared to the standard Switch. An 8-inch screen is also rumored, a significant upgrade from the OLED Switch's 7-inch display.
Image: x.com
Design
The Joy-Cons undergo a major transformation. They now feature magnetic attachments, secured by recessed contacts within the console body. Insiders assure us that this design is robust and prevents accidental detachment. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, contributing to the magnetic connection strength. This magnetic design, however, necessitates screen bezels.
Image: youtube.com
The Joy-Con holder has been redesigned, with a flatter grip and side insertion instead of the top insertion of previous models. The buttons themselves are larger, and rumors point to Hall effect sensors in the thumbsticks, mitigating joystick drift. Sadly, the IR camera appears absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.
Image: youtube.com
A microphone and a USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel, suggesting potential support for wired controllers and voice chat.
Internal Specifications
Details are scarce, but the April 2nd Nintendo Direct promises full specifications. However, speculation suggests performance comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and potentially full Quad HD resolution in docked mode, if not 4K.
Image: youtube.com
Insider consensus points to the following:
- Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
- RAM: 12 GB
- Storage: 256 GB
- Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
- Screen: LCD, 8 inches
Notably, an OLED model doesn't seem to be launching initially.
Release Date
NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May, with a June launch being likely. The official date awaits the April Nintendo Direct. The "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour, starting April 4th, will allow hands-on demos. Registration closes January 26th.
Image: nintendo.com
Here's the current tour schedule:
- 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. Awaiting official confirmation is advised.
Image: stuff.tv
Game Lineup
Mario Kart 9, featuring 24-player online support and redesigned item boxes, is confirmed as a launch title. The April Nintendo Direct will unveil further details, but fan 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 latest updates!
