New pocket flagship: Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2: A Sneak Peek

The surprise January 16th, 2025 YouTube reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2 console trailer, accurately predicted by NateTheHate, sent shockwaves through the gaming community. While release date rumors had circulated for months, the official announcement was a welcome surprise. Let's dive into the details gleaned from the trailer and subsequent leaks.

Table of Contents

• Size
• Design
• Internal Specifications
• Release Date
• Price
• Game Lineup

Size

The Switch 2 is noticeably larger than its predecessor in all dimensions. While precise measurements weren't provided, insiders suggest dimensions of 116mm (height), 270mm (width), and 14mm (thickness). This translates to a 3.1cm increase in width and 1.4cm in height compared to the standard Switch. An 8-inch screen is rumored, a significant upgrade from the OLED Switch's 7-inch display.

Image: x.com

Design

The Joy-Cons undergo a significant redesign, featuring magnetic attachments secured by recessed contacts within the console body. Insiders claim this robust design prevents accidental detachment and accidental damage. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, facilitating the magnetic connection. This design necessitates screen bezels, a trade-off for the improved controller integration.

Image: youtube.com

The Joy-Con grip is also redesigned, with a flatter top and side insertion of the controllers. Larger buttons and Hall effect sensors in the joysticks aim to address the notorious joystick drift issue. However, the IR camera is absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure. A microphone and USB Type-C port are visible on the top bezel, hinting at potential wired controller and voice chat functionality.

Image: youtube.com

Internal Specifications

While full specifications await the April 2nd Nintendo Direct, leaks suggest a powerful console. Comparisons to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in terms of processing power are circulating, along with potential support for Quad HD resolution in docked mode. The rumored specifications are:

• Processor: Custom Nvidia Tegra T239
• RAM: 12 GB
• Storage: 256 GB
• Memory Card Support: microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD Express
• Screen: LCD, 8 inches

The absence of an OLED model at launch is unexpected, but the overall specs are impressive, suggesting strong backward compatibility and the potential for AAA titles like Genshin Impact.

Image: youtube.com

Release Date

NateTheHate predicts a May release at the earliest, with June being a more likely timeframe. The official date will be revealed during the April Nintendo Direct. The "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour, starting April 4th, allows hands-on previews in select cities (registration closes January 26th).

Image: nintendo.com

Tour Dates:

• New York — 04/04-06/04
• Paris — 04/04-06/04
• Los Angeles — 11/04-13/04
• London — 11/04-13/04
• Berlin — 25/04-27/04
• Dallas — 25/04-27/04
• Milan — 25/04-27/04
• Toronto — 25/04-27/04
• Tokyo — 26/04-27/04
• Amsterdam — 09/05-11/05
• Madrid — 09/05-11/05
• Melbourne — 09/05-11/05
• Seoul — 31/05-01/06
• Hong Kong — TBA
• Taipei — TBA

Price

Pricing remains unconfirmed, with speculation ranging from €349 to €399. It's best to await the official announcement.

Image: stuff.tv

Game Lineup

Mario Kart 9, featuring 24-player online support and redesigned item boxes, was showcased as a launch title. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. Speculated titles include: Fallout 4, Red Dead Redemption 2, Tekken 8, Starfield, Diablo IV, Elden Ring, MySims Action Bundle, Halo: The Master Chief Collection, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, Final Fantasy VII Remake, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.

Image: youtube.com

Stay tuned for the April Nintendo Direct for official confirmation on release date, price, and the full game lineup.