After years of waiting, Nintendo officially revealed the Switch 2, revealing many new features, a June 5, 2025 release date, and a lineup of highly anticipated games. The console will launch at $450, with pre-orders beginning on April 9.
Hardware Specs
The Nintendo Switch 2 features a big display upgrade, incorporating a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with HDR support and a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a noticeably smoother visual experience. The redesigned Joy-Con controllers now utilize magnetic attachment and offer larger, more ergonomic SL and SR buttons. These controllers can function as a mouse in compatible games, introducing a novel gameplay mechanic.
The console includes a refined built-in stand, dual USB-C ports, and enhanced 3D audio via headphones and improved onboard speakers. Internal storage has been expanded to 256GB, and the dock supports 4K output, facilitated by an integrated cooling fan.
The Switch 2 employs faster proprietary game cards and requires microSD Express cards for expanded storage, offering improved read/write speeds. A new Pro Controller, featuring customizable back buttons, a dedicated GameChat button, and a headphone jack, will also be available.
Battery life is estimated between 2 and 6.5 hours, contingent on gameplay, and the system supports Wi-Fi 6 for faster online connectivity.
Integrated Communication and Sharing
The Switch 2 introduces advanced voice and video communication capabilities. The new C button on the Joy-Con controllers activates GameChat, enabling voice communication during gameplay, even when docked. Players can also share their game screens with friends, enhancing the connected gaming experience.
This functionality extends across different games, allowing for social interaction during independent play sessions. A dedicated Switch 2 camera supports video chat, displaying players on-screen during gameplay. These features require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, which is free until March 31, 2026.
“Mario Kart World” and Game Lineup Highlights
The highly anticipated Mario Kart World will launch alongside the Switch 2, showcasing significant advancements in the series.
The game features expansive, interconnected courses with dynamic weather and time-of-day changes, allowing players to explore off-course and engage in races with up to 24 competitors. Notable additions include skateboard-style grinds and wall jumps, adding new layers of gameplay.
Nintendo has revealed a diverse lineup of titles, including Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition, the innovative wheelchair sports game Drag x Drive utilizing the Joy-Con mouse functionality, Hades II, Street Fighter 6, Split Fiction, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4, Hitman: World of Assassination, and Daemon x Machina.
From Software’s The Duskbloods, a Switch 2 exclusive reminiscent of Bloodborne, is slated for 2026. Donkey Kong Bananza, a 3D platformer, will also be released. Nintendo is collaborating with Koei Tecmo Games on Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, scheduled for a winter release.
GameCube Library and Enhanced Editions
The Nintendo Switch Online service will expand to include GameCube titles, launching with The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and SOULCALIBUR II, all running at higher resolutions than their original releases.
Nintendo will also offer “Switch 2 editions” of select titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, with enhanced resolutions, frame rates, and companion smartphone app features.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land will receive an expanded world, while Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will offer both Switch and Switch 2 editions, with the latter supporting 4K at 60fps or 120fps at lower resolutions.
