Nintendo Switch 2: What’s New? Price, Release Date, Specs & Design

Everything We Know About the Highly Anticipated Nintendo Switch 2

The gaming community is buzzing with excitement over the rumored Nintendo Switch 2. With numerous leaks and speculations circulating, fans are eager to see what improvements and upgrades Nintendo will introduce in this next-generation handheld console. In this article, we will explore all the latest rumors and leaks about the Nintendo Switch 2, including its release date, price, design, features, and performance.

Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date and Price

When Will Nintendo Switch 2 Be Released?

According to recent leaks and reports, the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to launch in early 2025. A report from Nikkei suggests that the console has been delayed from an initial 2024 release to March 2025. This delay is reportedly due to Nintendo’s efforts to ensure product quality and meet consumer demand upon release.

How Much Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Cost?

While Nintendo has yet to announce an official price, industry insiders predict the Nintendo Switch 2 will be priced between $399 and $499, depending on different model variations. This pricing strategy positions it competitively against high-end gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.

Nintendo Switch 2 Design and Hardware Upgrades

Enhanced Design and Bigger Size

Although Nintendo has not revealed any official images, accessory manufacturer dbrand has leaked a protective case design for the Switch 2, offering a glimpse of the possible form factor. The leaks suggest:

• A larger and taller console compared to the Switch OLED, measuring 27cm in width and 11.6cm in height (compared to 24cm x 10.2cm of the Switch OLED).
• Magnetic Joy-Cons with a detachable design using a new release button.
• A mystery “C” button located below the Home button, whose function remains unknown.

OLED 120Hz Display for Superior Visuals

It is rumored that the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature an 8-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring a smoother and more immersive gaming experience. However, conflicting reports indicate that Sharp is developing a new LCD panel for an unnamed gaming console, which could mean the Switch 2 may use LCD technology instead of OLED.

Nintendo Switch 2 Performance and Specifications

Powerful Processing with NVIDIA Tegra Chip

Leaks suggest that the Nintendo Switch 2 will continue using an NVIDIA Tegra processor, similar to its predecessor. While there were speculations about AMD entering the mix, it appears unlikely. Reports indicate:

• ARM Cortex-A78AE CPU with 8 cores
• 8GB or 12GB RAM
• 64GB or 256GB UFS 3.1 storage
• Possible secondary processing chip in the dock for 4K output

These upgrades will allow the Switch 2 to handle more demanding games and potentially support 4K resolution when docked.

Nintendo Switch 2 Features and Game Compatibility

New and Improved Joy-Cons

The new magnetic Joy-Cons are expected to be larger and include more buttons. Nintendo may also introduce drift-free analog sticks and improved ergonomics for enhanced comfort and precision in games like racing titles.

Better Battery Life and Wi-Fi Connectivity

Battery life has been a weakness in previous models, so fans are hoping for a longer-lasting battery. Additionally, enhanced Wi-Fi capabilities are expected to improve online gaming performance.

Exclusive Games and Third-Party Support

Leaks indicate that a new 3D Mario game will debut alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, developed using Unreal Engine 4. Other rumored titles include:

• Mario Kart X – the most expensive game Nintendo has ever developed.
• Final Fantasy 7 Remake, running at PS5-level quality.
• Bayonetta Trilogy, featuring enhanced graphics and HDR support.
• A possible Breath of the Wild remake showcased at Gamescom 2023.

Backward Compatibility for Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo has officially confirmed that Switch 2 will support backward compatibility, allowing players to enjoy their existing Switch game library. This is a crucial feature for long-time Switch owners who have invested heavily in digital and physical games.

Additionally, it remains to be seen if older Joy-Cons and accessories like Ring Fit Adventure will be compatible with the new console.

Final Thoughts on the Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a major upgrade in the world of handheld gaming. With a larger OLED display, improved performance, enhanced Joy-Cons, and a lineup of exciting games, it is poised to be a strong competitor in the next-generation console market.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the official release in March 2025!