Nintendo Switch 2: 9 Burning Questions About the New Console

After months of whispers and leaks, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here! Nintendo's official trailer confirmed many of the circulating rumors surrounding the successor to the original Switch. While the trailer offered a tantalizing glimpse, many questions remain unanswered. Let's delve into the biggest mysteries surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2, with anticipation building towards the April 2025 Nintendo Direct.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?

Speculation abounds regarding the Switch 2's 2025 release. The trailer only confirms a launch sometime this year, leaving the exact date a mystery. Following the original Switch's release timeline (October 2016 reveal, March 3, 2017 launch), a May or June 2025 release seems plausible, aligning with recent rumors. However, we know it won't launch before April 2025, with a Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2nd promising further details and gameplay footage. Pre-launch hands-on events running from April to early June also suggest a post-event release. A definitive date will likely emerge during the April Direct.

What Is the Price of the Switch 2?

The price remains a significant unknown. Will it mirror the original Switch's $300 price point, or will we see a price increase reflecting the upgraded hardware? Considering the Switch OLED's $350 price tag, a $50-$100 increase to $400 seems likely, potentially positioning it competitively with the Steam Deck. Industry analysts largely agree that $400 represents a sweet spot. Ultimately, the final price will depend on the console's internal specifications and features, such as the screen technology (more on that later).

What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?

A strong launch lineup is crucial. The original Switch boasted a stellar launch title selection. Will the Switch 2 follow suit? The trailer hints at only one launch title – what appears to be Mario Kart 9. The existence of any new Zelda or Mario launch titles remains undisclosed until April. Numerous games are rumored for launch, suggesting potential third-party support exceeding that of the original Switch, likely due to reduced performance gaps between Nintendo's console and its competitors.

What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?

The trailer clearly shows a larger console and Joy-Cons compared to its predecessor, with a larger screen dominating the front. While an exact size remains unconfirmed, estimates suggest a roughly 15% increase in size compared to the original Switch. The impact of this size increase on ergonomics and overall user experience remains to be seen.

What Type of Screen Does It Have?

The Switch OLED's superior OLED screen significantly improved the original model. Will the Switch 2 follow suit, or will cost-cutting measures lead to an LED or LCD screen? The trailer offers no clues, leaving this question for the April Nintendo Direct.

Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?

Nintendo confirmed backwards compatibility with most original Switch games, easing concerns. However, not all games will be compatible. The specifics of which games are excluded remain unclear, potentially due to hardware limitations or reliance on specific original Joy-Con features (e.g., Ring Fit Adventure, Nintendo LABO).

Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?

While backwards compatibility is welcome, the performance of original Switch games on the Switch 2 is uncertain. Will the upgraded hardware lead to improved framerates and graphics? Will this be automatic, or will users need to purchase upgraded or remastered versions? The financial implications for players wanting enhanced versions of titles like Tears of the Kingdom are yet to be determined.

What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?

Rumors of upgraded Joy-Cons were confirmed. The trailer showcases an extra button and magnetic attachment, alongside the intriguing possibility of mouse-like functionality. The full implications of these new features, especially the mouse functionality for genres like first-person shooters, remain unknown, with further details expected in April.

Mario Kart 9 - First Look

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Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?

The infamous Joy-Con drift plagued the original Switch. Will the Switch 2 address this issue? The new Joy-Cons' improved sensors and magnetic attachment offer hope, but confirmation awaits the April Direct.

For more on the Nintendo Switch 2, explore the 30 details uncovered in the reveal trailer and anticipate Nintendo's 2025 plans.