Nintendo has finally unveiled the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, set to revolutionize handheld gaming once again. With a powerful new chipset, improved battery life, and stunning display enhancements, the Switch 2 is shaping up to be a must-have console. Here’s everything you need to know about its release, specifications, pricing, and more.

Nintendo Switch 2: Official Announcement & Release Date

Nintendo officially announced the Switch 2 during their latest Nintendo Direct presentation. The console is set to launch on June 5, 2025, bringing major hardware and software upgrades to the beloved hybrid gaming system.

The Switch 2 boasts a range of impressive hardware improvements over its predecessor:

• Processor: Custom NVIDIA Tegra X2 chipset (Exact details TBA)

• Display: 7.9-inch OLED panel with 1080p resolution, HDR, and 120Hz refresh rate

• Docked Resolution: Up to 4K at 60 FPS with DLSS support

• Handheld Mode FPS: Up to 60 FPS for optimized games

• Battery Life: 6 to 10 hours, depending on game usage

• Storage: 256GB internal storage (expandable via microSD Express, though older MicroSD cards are not compatible)

• RAM: 12GB LPDDR5

• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E, and USB-C charging

• New Features: Detachable controllers with 'mouse' functionality, USB-C clip-on camera support, Haptic Feedback 2.0, Adjustable kickstand for better tabletop gaming

• Backward Compatibility: Supports digital and physical Nintendo Switch games with performance enhancements

• New Dock: Features 4K output, an internal cooling fan, and additional USB-A ports

The new 'mouse' functionality in the detachable controllers offers improved precision, though some early impressions suggest it may feel slightly clunky. This feature is expected to be particularly useful for strategy and FPS games.

A USB-C clip-on camera is also included, adding new possibilities for AR experiences and video chat.

Pricing & Pre-Orders

Nintendo is launching the Switch 2 in two editions:

• Base Version: $449.99 / £395.99 / AU$699

• Bundle Version (includes a digital copy of Mario Kart World): $499.99 / £429.99 / AU$769

Both versions will include an updated Joy-Con design with improved drift resistance, haptic feedback, and enhanced battery life.

Additionally, a new Switch 2 Welcome Tour digital game will be available at launch. This acts as an interactive manual to introduce players to the console’s new features but will be sold separately as a paid title.

Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will officially begin on April 9, 2025. Gamers can secure their console through Nintendo’s official store and major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and GameStop.

Due to high demand, Nintendo has already confirmed that only a limited number of units will be available during the first wave of pre-orders. Fans are encouraged to place their orders early to avoid missing out.

Ported & New Games

Nintendo has confirmed that multiple Switch 1 games will receive enhanced versions for the Switch 2. Additionally, several exclusive titles are in development:

• The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Time

• Super Mario Odyssey 2

• Metroid Prime 4

• Pokémon Legends: Z-A

• Mario Kart World

• Animal Crossing: New Horizons Deluxe

• Splatoon 4

Backward compatibility ensures that many existing Switch titles will run better on the new hardware, with higher frame rates and resolutions.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a powerhouse in the gaming industry, offering improved performance, better visuals, and a solid lineup of new games. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to release!