The long expected successor to the Nintendo Switch has officially been unveiled. Although not all details are available, here is what has been confirmed so far and what can be predicted.
Official Commencement and Structure
The first glimpse of the new console was shared with the public on January 16. The new gadget has preserved the hybrid functionality of its predecessor, meaning users can utilize the device in handheld mode and TV mode via dock, but with refinements such as slimmer form factor, larger screen, enhanced Joy-Cons with a magnetic attachment system, and sleeker overall appearance. Importantly, the device will be able to run previous Nintendo Switch games, which means it will have backward compatibility.
We will get and in-depth look at the features of the device during the next Nintendo Direct event on April 2 at 9 am ET, where the company is expected to discuss the rest of the features of the console.
Important Characteristics and Hardware Development
Updated Joy-Cons: It is expected that the controllers will attach magnetically rather than sliding onto rails, which will increase usability and durability.
Additional USB-C Port: A second USB-C port on the top of the device could possibly improve accessory support.
Refined Kickstand: Much like the Switch OLED, the kickstand is now fully adjustable and spans the width of the console.
Retained Headphone Jack: Nintendo still includes the standard 3.5mm headphone jack although the use of headphones with Bluetooth is still up for debate.
Backward Compatibility: Most, if not all, physical and digital Switch games will be compatible with the system, but limitations may still apply to certain games.
Technical Specification Rumors
No information regarding the hardware has been revealed yet, however, there are speculations the console will come with an eight-core Cortex-A78AE processor and have 8-12GB RAM as well as 64GB of internal storage. Moreover, there are rumors that the device will come with NVIDIA Tegra239 chipset, which is claimed to include DLSS upscaling technology for improved visual output.
Others assume the console will have an 8-inch display but there’s still no consensus whether it will be Mini LED, LCD, or OLED. It’s expected to have a resolution of 1080p while in handheld, and 4K when docked.
Release Date Speculations
Nintendo has not provided a release date, but sources associated with the industry claim it could be launched in 2025. Some sources mention a possible April or June release but further clarification is likely to emerge following the April 2 Nintendo Direct.
Face-To-Face Public Events
Nintendo opted for a public approach by organizing live events where players can get up close and personal with the console. Players in various regions of North America, Europe, Oceania, and Asia will get their chance starting on April 3-6 in New York and Paris. Interesred players can sign up to try their luck in winning a slot for these sessions.
Pricing
As always, there are no concrete assumptions yet, but multiple industry insiders expect it will be priced around 400 USD, a notable jump from the price of the original Switch which retailed for 300 USD at launch. The final price is to be revealed on the next briefing.
Feature Upgrades And Launch Games
In the revealing footage, a brand new title for Mario Kart was spotted alongside other games featured in the console’s launch trailer. Later Nintendo decided not to share the complete launch lineup and gamers are now left to wonder if new 3D Mario game will be alongside rumored Metroid Prime 4 spin-off, and other possible 3rd party titles. Further, turned Switch games may also be released to go along with the new advanced hardware.
Pending Clarifications and Upcoming Statements
The following questions still need to be asked:
- Duration of battery life and efficiency of charging
- Changes to the design of the user interface and the operating system
- Possibly new game mechanics
- Additional devices and controllers and their functionalities
Fans will get more insight into what the Nintendo Switch 2 has to offer during the April 2 Nintendo Direct session. Remember to look out for any further announcements regarding this because there is still more information to be provided.
