Nintendo Switch 2: Unveiling 9 Key Questions

After months of speculation, the Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been officially unveiled through a tantalizing trailer from Nintendo, confirming many of the rumors that had circulated about this successor to the beloved original Switch. While the brief footage has sparked excitement, it has left many key questions unanswered. As we eagerly await the next Nintendo Direct in April 2025, let's delve into the most pressing queries surrounding the new console.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?

The anticipation for the Nintendo Switch 2's release date is palpable. While the trailer confirmed a 2025 release, specifics remain elusive. The original Switch debuted on March 3, 2017, following an October 2016 reveal. If Nintendo follows a similar pattern, the Switch 2 might launch around May or June 2025, aligning with recent rumors. We're certain the console won't hit the market before April 2025, as Nintendo has scheduled a Direct livestream for April 2, promising more details and showcasing launch games. Additionally, Nintendo plans hands-on fan preview events from April to early June, suggesting a possible launch post-event. We'll likely get a firm release date during the April Direct.

What Is the Price of the Switch 2?

The price of the Nintendo Switch 2 remains a significant mystery. The original Switch launched at $300 in 2017, with the current Switch OLED model priced at $350. Given the Switch 2's enhanced hardware, it's reasonable to expect a price increase. Rumors suggest the Switch 2 could debut at $400, positioning it alongside the baseline OLED Steam Deck. Industry analysts largely agree that $400 represents a sweet spot for the new console. The final price will hinge on the hardware's sophistication, rumored to be comparable to the Xbox One X, and whether it features an OLED screen, details of which we'll learn in April.

What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?

A console's success often hinges on its launch lineup. The original Switch launched with a stellar array of titles, including the open-world Legend of Zelda game and Mario Kart 8, followed by Super Mario Odyssey. The Switch 2 trailer teases footage of what appears to be Mario Kart 9. While Nintendo keeps other launch titles under wraps, we anticipate a robust selection of games, including rumored titles from a comprehensive list. With the Switch 2's hardware closer to that of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox, we expect strong third-party support at launch.

What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?

The trailer revealed that the Nintendo Switch 2 is not only more powerful but also physically larger than its predecessor. Both the console and the Joy-Cons appear taller, with a larger screen dominating the front. We estimate the Switch 2 to be about 15% larger than the original. The impact on user experience and comfort will be clearer once we get more detailed information in April.

What Type of Screen Does It Have?

The original Switch's OLED model was a significant upgrade, offering brighter, more vibrant visuals and improved battery life. Speculation abounds on whether the Switch 2 will retain an OLED screen or opt for a more cost-effective LED or LCD panel. The trailer offers no clues, so we'll have to wait for the April Nintendo Direct for confirmation.

Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?

Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will be backwards-compatible with most original Switch games, a reassuring feature for fans. However, the trailer notes that not all games will be compatible. The specifics remain unclear, possibly involving games requiring the original Joy-Con's unique features like Ring Fit Adventure or Nintendo LABO. We'll learn more about these limitations in April.

Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?

While it's great that most original Switch games will run on the Switch 2, how they'll perform is another question. Will they run identically, or will Nintendo leverage the upgraded hardware to enhance frame rates and graphics? Given the demand for more powerful performance in games like Tears of the Kingdom, we expect some enhancements. Whether these come free or require purchasing remastered versions remains to be seen.

What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?

The Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers boast upgrades, including an additional button and magnetic attachment instead of rails. The trailer confirms rumors of Joy-Con functionality similar to a computer mouse, suggesting new gameplay possibilities. How these features will enhance gaming experiences, especially in genres like first-person shooters and strategy games, will be a highlight of the April Direct.

Mario Kart 9 - First Look

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Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?

The notorious Joy-Con drift issue plagued many original Switch owners, despite Nintendo's efforts to address it with repairs and replacements. With the Switch 2, fans hope for a solution. The new Joy-Con's design, including new joystick sensors and magnetic attachments, may resolve this issue. We'll find out if Nintendo has successfully tackled this problem during the April Direct.