The Nintendo Switch’s hybrid design is a game changer, literally and figuratively, letting you play in handheld or docked mode. Now, gaming and Nintendo users are waiting for its successor – the Nintendo Switch 2. Promising improved graphics, increased performance and exciting new features, here’s everything we know to date!
Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date and Price
Expected Launch Timeline
Though Nintendo has yet to make any mention of an official release date, insiders in the industry believe that the Nintendo Switch 2 release date is set at sometime in 2025. With the original Switch having launched back in 2017, an upgrade was much overdue.
How Will Pricing Work around?
The original Switch debuted at $299, and the OLED model sold for $349. We anticipate Switch 2 prices of $399 to $499, with enhancements that come with hardware. Nintendo will presumably want to benefit from having a cheaper alternative to PlayStation and Xbox consoles.
Nintendo Switch 2 Looks and Build Quality
Possible Design Changes
Ever since leaks have hinted at a more premium finish and slightly larger form factor, better ergonomics with a smaller bezel around the screen, ngut the live images of the device have leaked.
Improvements Over the Original Switch
- Improved kickstand for tabletop mode
- Durable Joy-Con Controllers to combat the drift issues
- Speedier power delivery over USB-C charging
Nintendo Switch 2 Alleged Display & Graphics
Identical upgrades in screen size and resolution
The Nintendo Switch 2’s display is said to be bigger with an 8-inch screen size and improved resolution.
OLED vs. LCD: What to Expect?
Since the Switch OLED model brought improved colours and contrast, it would be fair to assume that the company will use an OLED screen for the Switch 2 as well.
Improved Graphics and Ray Tracing*
And with next-gen consoles vying for ray tracing, it is possible that we will get a custom built Nvidia GPU inside the Switch 2 with the ability to support DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) for enhanced graphics.
Nintendo Switch 2 Design & Features
Improvements to the CPU and GPU
A custom Nvidia Tegra chipset with performance leaps beyond the Switch will power the Switch 2, according to rumors.
RAM and Storage Capacity
RAM should be at least 8GB while the internal storage should be 128GB, and expandable via SD card.
Battery Life Enhancements
Power efficiency improvements could also bring the Switch 2 up to 6-10 hours on a single charge.
Nintendo Switch 2 is likely to be backward compatible.
Playing Old Nintendo Switch Games
Fans hope for them to be fully backward compatible, allowing players to bring over their libraries of existing video games.
Digital Library Transition
Nintendo will probably allow you to transfer digital games through Nintendo eShop so you can get access to games you previously purchased.
Exclusive Nintendo Switch 2 Games & Support from Third-Party Developers
New Game Lineup
Nintendo is expected to release flagship games alongside the Switch 2, such as a new Zelda, Mario, and Pokémon.
Enhanced Third-Party Developer Support
This may entice even more AAA developers to make their games available on Switch 2 thanks to better hardware.
Controllers & Accessories for Nintendo Switch 2
New Joy-Con Features
- Generally improved longevity to solve Joy-Con drift issues
- Localized haptic feedback for a deeper, more immersive experience
Pro Controller Improvements
Look for a new Nintendo Pro Controller with improved battery life and possibly adaptive triggers.
Online Services & Multiplayer Features For Nintendo Switch 2
Improvements to Nintendo Switch Onlin
An all-in-one online service boasting better matchmaking, voice chat, and cloud saves.
The Potential of Cross-Platform and Cloud Gaming
Nintendo could also embrace streaming for select titles in a Game Pass-like fashion as cloud gaming has gained some traction.
Nintendo Switch 2 vs PlayStation & Xbox – How It Compares
PS5 and Xbox Series X Performance Comparison
The Switch 2 doesn’t fight with raw power — it’s about portability, new features, and exclusives.
Nintendo Switch 2 — Unique Officials Points
- Hybrid console design
- Exclusive first-party games
- Cheap option as higher-end consoles
Nintendo Switch 2 VR & AR Features
Possibility of Virtual Reality Support
There have been murmurs of possible VR compatibility, likely via a specific headset.
Possibilities with Augmented Reality Based Gaming
Given that AR is currently all the rage, the Switch 2 could also throw in AR camera tech for tablet-style interactivity.
Nintendo Switch 2 Storage and Expandability
Internal Storage Capacity
A base configuration of 128GB storage is still expected, compared to 32GB in the original.
Options for SD Card and Cloud Storage
Switch 2 SD Card & Cloud Storage Support Still Likely
Nintendo Switch 2 Life & Charging
Expected Battery Improvements
A more power-efficient chipset should also help the battery last for 8+ hours.
Key Features: Fast Charging and Wireless Charging
Whether that leads to fast charging over USB-C or support for wireless charging is another matter entirely.
Buying Guide: Should Upgrading to Nintendo Switch 2?
Who Should Think About the Upgrade?
For those who love the latest in technology, superior graphics and exclusive games, the Switch 2 is a no-brainer.
Pros and Cons of Switching
Pros:
- Improved Graphics and Performance
- More immersive gameplay
- Improved controllers and hardware noreferrer
Cons:
- Higher price tag
- Possibility of incomplete backwards compatibility
Nintendo Switch 2: Final Thoughts
With the Nintendo Switch 2, the next step of this hybrid console may be an exciting evolution. With better graphics, better battery life, better performance — it’s sure to be a hit with gamers. If true, it means exciting new prospects for Switch fans!
FAQs
Q1: Is Nintendo Switch 2 a 4K game?
It hasn’t been confirmed yet, but leaks have indicated the upscaling to 4K when docked will be made possible by Nvidia’s DLSS technology.
Q2: Will old Joy-Cons now work with Switch 2?
It’s likely Nintendo will offer backward compatibility with existing Joy-Cons, although enhanced durability could make an upgrade worth it.
Q3: What should be the Nintendo Switch 2 price in terms of range?
Its estimates range from $399-$499 depending on the model/features.
Q4: My digital games: Will they transfer over to the Nintendo Switch 2?
Assuming Nintendo uses account-based purchases, people will need to be able to transfer their digital game libraries.
Q5: When is the Switch 2 being officially announced by Nintendo?
We’re likely to see an official reveal by Nintendo in late 2024 or early 2025, with a potential launch in mid-to-late 2025.
