It’s finally here! After months of whispers and speculation, Nintendo has unveiled its next-generation console: the Nintendo Switch 2. While the name is understated, a closer look reveals a console brimming with fascinating improvements on its beloved predecessor. We've uncovered 30 key details from the reveal trailer, showcasing Nintendo's evolution of its hybrid console.
From redesigned Joy-Con features to a new button layout, let's dive into everything revealed about the Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
28 Images
01 - The Switch 2 retains a similar form factor to its predecessor, but with a noticeable increase in size. Both the console and the Joy-Con are larger, with an estimated overall size increase of around 15%.
02 - The vibrant Joy-Con colors are gone, replaced by a sleek, dark grey finish across the entire console, lending it a more sophisticated, almost Steam Deck-like aesthetic.
03 - While predominantly dark grey, the console incorporates subtle color accents. Rings of red and blue around the analogue sticks, and inner edges of the console and Joy-Con, provide a stylish visual touch and a color-coded docking system.
04 - The Joy-Con attachment mechanism has been redesigned. Instead of sliding rails, they now directly slot into the console, connecting via a protruding connector on the main unit. Unconfirmed reports suggest magnetic attachment, similar to Apple's MagSafe.
05 - Each Joy-Con features a new trigger system for release. A squeeze releases a piston-like mechanism, detaching the controller from the console.
06 - The classic button layout remains largely unchanged. Analogue sticks remain offset, with the left stick above the directional pad and the right stick below the A, B, X, and Y buttons. Plus and Minus buttons are at the top, with the capture and Home buttons at the bottom.
07 - A new, unlabeled button sits below the Home button, its function currently unknown.
08 - The L and R shoulder buttons and ZL and ZR triggers maintain their positions. The triggers appear deeper and more rounded, suggesting improved comfort and ease of use.
09 - The analogue sticks retain their low-profile design, but with a smaller inner ring and taller rims for improved grip and support.
10 - The NFC Amiibo interface is absent from the visible areas, though this doesn't confirm its removal. The IR sensor, however, seems to be missing.
11 - SL and SR buttons remain on the inner edges of each Joy-Con, allowing individual use. However, these buttons are significantly larger, likely improving usability.
12 - The player indicator LEDs are present, now located on the forward-facing edge of the connector.
13 - The Sync button remains below the Joy-Con connector.
14 - A small, clear lens above the connector might be a laser sensor, potentially enabling mouse-like functionality. The trailer hints at this with wrist-strap usage.
15 - Redesigned wrist straps are included, matching the Joy-Con's internal color accents.
16 - The main console features a larger screen than its predecessor, although not quite edge-to-edge. The display technology remains unconfirmed.
17 - The top edge retains the power and volume buttons, headphone jack, and a redesigned ventilation grill.
18 - The Game Card slot remains on the top edge, suggesting backward compatibility with existing game cartridges.
19 - A new USB-C port is located near the headphone jack, its purpose currently unknown.
20 - Downward-firing speakers replace the rear-facing speakers of the original Switch.
21 - The rear features a new, full-length kickstand with multiple adjustable angles.
22 - Docking functionality remains, with a redesigned dock featuring rounded corners and a prominent Switch 2 logo.
23 - A Joy-Con charging grip is also shown, seemingly similar in design to the original.
24 - The trailer showcases a new Mario Kart game, featuring a 24-racer starting line.
25 - A new track, "Mario Bros. Circuit," is revealed, suggesting a potentially more open and varied gameplay experience.
26 - Ten characters are confirmed: Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Peach, Yoshi, Toad, Donkey Kong, Daisy, Rosalina, and Wario.
27 - Backward compatibility is confirmed, although some games may not be supported, potentially those utilizing specific Joy-Con peripherals.
28 - A 2025 release window is announced.
29 - Further details will be revealed in an April 2nd Nintendo Direct.
30 - A worldwide "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" hands-on tour will take place between April and June, with ticket registration opening January 17th.
These 30 details paint a picture of a refined and enhanced gaming experience. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches!
