New pocket flagship: Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2: A Sneak Peek

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 significant upgrade. Let's delve into 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 haven't been officially released, insiders suggest a height of 116mm, width of 270mm, and thickness of 14mm—a considerable increase over the original Switch. An 8-inch screen is also rumored, compared to the 7-inch OLED model.

Image: x.com

Design

The Joy-Cons boast a magnetic attachment system, secured by recessed contacts within the console's frame. This robust design, according to insiders, prevents accidental detachment and accidental damage. The larger, metallic SL and SR buttons facilitate the magnetic connection. This design necessitates screen bezels.

Image: youtube.com

The Joy-Con holder has also been redesigned, with a flatter grip and side insertion. Larger buttons and Hall effect sensors in the thumbsticks aim to eliminate joystick drift. However, the IR camera's absence suggests potential backward compatibility issues for games like Ring Fit Adventure.

A USB Type-C port and microphone are visible on the top bezel, hinting at potential wired controller support and voice chat capabilities.

Image: youtube.com

Internal Specifications

Official specifications will be revealed at the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, leaks suggest a powerful console, potentially matching the processing power of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, with possible support for Quad HD resolution in docked mode.

Image: youtube.com

Current estimations point to:

• Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
• RAM: 12 GB
• Storage: 256 GB
• Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
• Screen: 8-inch LCD (no OLED at launch, reportedly)

Release Date

NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May, with a June launch being a strong possibility. The official date will be announced in April. The "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour, starting April 4th, will allow hands-on previews in select cities (registration closes January 26th).

Image: nintendo.com

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 — TBA
• Taipei — TBA

Price

Pricing remains unconfirmed, with speculation ranging from €349 to €399. Official pricing will be revealed at the Nintendo Direct.

Image: stuff.tv

Game Lineup

Mario Kart 9, featuring 24-player online support and redesigned item boxes, has been confirmed as a launch title. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. Speculated titles include 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, and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.

Image: youtube.com

Stay tuned for further updates following the April Nintendo Direct!