Nintendo Switch 2: 9 Key Questions Answered

After months of anticipation and leaks, the Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been officially unveiled. Nintendo released a trailer that not only confirms many of the rumors but also gives us our first glimpse of the successor to the beloved original Nintendo Switch. However, the trailer was brief, leaving many questions unanswered about the new console. As we eagerly await the next Nintendo Direct in April 2025, let's delve into the most pressing questions about the Nintendo Switch 2.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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What's the Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date?

Speculation abounds regarding the release date of the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025. The trailer didn't shed new light on this, merely confirming that the console will launch sometime this year. The original Switch debuted on March 3, 2017, following its reveal in October 2016. If Nintendo sticks to a similar schedule, we might see the Switch 2 hit the market around May or June 2025, aligning with recent rumors. We know for certain that the console won't launch before April 2025, as Nintendo has planned a Direct livestream on April 2 to provide more details and showcase launch games. Additionally, hands-on fan preview events are scheduled from April to early June, suggesting a release might follow these events. We'll likely get a firm release date during the April Direct.

What Is the Price of the Switch 2?

The price of the Nintendo Switch 2 remains a significant mystery. The original Switch launched at $300, while the Switch OLED model is priced at $350. Given the Switch 2's enhanced hardware, a price increase seems likely. Rumors suggest a launch price of $400, which aligns with the baseline OLED Steam Deck. Industry analysts agree that $400 could be the sweet spot for the new console. The final price will depend on the hardware's sophistication, rumored to be comparable to the Xbox One X, and whether it retains the OLED screen.

What New Games Will the Switch 2 Launch With?

The success of a new console often hinges on its launch titles. The original Switch launched with a stellar lineup, including a new Legend of Zelda game and Mario Kart 8. The Switch 2 trailer teases what appears to be Mario Kart 9, but other launch titles remain under wraps. We're expecting a robust list of games rumored to launch with the Switch 2, with increased third-party support due to the console's improved technical capabilities.

What Is the Switch 2’s Exact Size?

The Switch 2 trailer reveals that the new console is not only more powerful but also larger than its predecessor. The console and Joy-Cons are taller, and the screen is bigger, occupying more of the front. Estimates suggest the Switch 2 is about 15% larger than the original. This size increase raises questions about comfort and handling, which we'll learn more about in April.

What Type of Screen Does It Have?

The original Switch's OLED model was a significant upgrade, offering brighter and more vibrant visuals with improved battery life. Fans are eager to know if the Switch 2 will continue using OLED technology or opt for a more cost-effective LED or LCD screen. The trailer doesn't provide this information, so we'll have to wait for the April Nintendo Direct for clarification.

Which Games Aren’t Backwards Compatible?

Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will be backwards-compatible with most original Switch games, easing concerns about transitioning to the new console. However, the trailer notes that not all games will be compatible. It's unclear which games won't work, possibly those requiring specific hardware like the original Joy-Con controllers.

Will Original Switch Games Be Enhanced?

While most original Switch games will work on the Switch 2, the question remains whether they'll be enhanced to take advantage of the new hardware. Games like Tears of the Kingdom could benefit from improved performance. Will these enhancements be automatic, or will players need to purchase remastered versions? We'll need more details from Nintendo on this.

What New Functions Does the Joy-Con Have?

The Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers feature upgrades, including an extra button and magnetic attachment instead of rails. The trailer also hints at a mouse-like functionality, which could enhance gameplay in genres like first-person shooters and strategy games. We're eager to see how these features will be utilized in new games, which will likely be a focus at the April Direct.

Mario Kart 9 - First Look

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Will Joy-Con Drift Be Fixed?

Joy-Con drift was a persistent issue with the original Switch, despite Nintendo's efforts to address it. With the Switch 2, we hope for a solution to this problem. The new Joy-Cons' design, including new joystick sensors and magnetic attachments, might resolve this issue. We'll find out more at the April Direct.