Nintendo has officially revealed the Nintendo Switch 2 during a Direct presentation held on Wednesday, offering fans an in-depth look at the upcoming console. Building on the foundation set by the original Switch, the Switch 2 introduces enhanced features and improved specifications. The new console will showcase a 7.9-inch LCD display with a resolution of 1080p and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. Furthermore, when docked, it can achieve resolutions of up to 4K. Notably, the Switch 2 will include redesigned magnetic Joy-Cons, which are capable of functioning as a mouse.
Pricing and Availability of Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 will retail for $449.99 (approximately Rs. 38,500) in the United States for the 256GB storage model. Additionally, the console will be offered in a bundle with an exciting new addition to the Mario Kart franchise, titled Mario Kart World. This bundle will be priced at $499.99 (around Rs. 42,725).
The launch date for the Nintendo Switch 2 is set for June 5, 2025, with pre-orders commencing on April 9, 2025, at participating retailers across North America. However, it is important to note that, similar to its predecessor, the Switch 2 is not slated for an official release in the Indian market. Import units may become available through online platforms like Amazon following the launch.
Specifications and Features of Nintendo Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 integrates robust new hardware and innovative Joy-Cons alongside advanced game communication systems that facilitate Discord-style voice and video chats during gameplay, along with features for screen and game sharing across Nintendo devices.
This latest model retains the same thickness as the previous version, measuring 13.9mm, while offering users a 7.9-inch 1080p display that supports HDR and gameplay at 120 frames per second. The device also enables up to 4K resolution in docked mode. The 256GB of internal storage can be extended with microSD Express cards, and the Switch 2 will support backward compatibility with both digital and physical titles from the original Nintendo Switch.
As previously speculated, the Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically to the console, and they introduce mouse control capabilities, allowing users to slide them on surfaces for input.
While exact performance details remain undisclosed, a press release has indicated that the Switch 2 offers substantial enhancements in CPU and GPU performance over the original Switch. This upgrade promises swifter processing speeds and a visually rich gaming experience, including detailed graphics and reduced loading times. The console will also incorporate 3D audio capabilities in handheld and tabletop modes.
The Nintendo Switch 2 features a dedicated ‘C’ button for GameChat
Photo Credit: Nintendo
The Switch 2 will also offer a variety of social features, accessible through a newly introduced dedicated ‘C’ button on the right Joy-Con. This feature, named GameChat, allows players to communicate with others online while gaming, similar to options available on platforms like Discord, PlayStation, and Xbox.
The console includes an adjustable stand positioned on the rear and features two USB Type-C ports—one located at the bottom and another at the top. The game card slot remains unchanged from the previous model.
Nintendo also teased a variety of first and third-party games that will be available for the Switch 2 at launch on June 5. Detailed announcements regarding these titles will be explored further in subsequent reports from the Nintendo Direct presentation.
