The Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to be a significant upgrade over its predecessor, offering enhanced performance, a larger display, and new features designed to elevate the gaming experience. Set to launch on June 5, 2025, at a suggested retail price of $449.99, the console aims to bridge the gap between handheld and home console gaming with its hybrid design.
One of the most notable improvements is the upgraded display. The Switch 2 boasts a 7.9-inch LCD screen with a 1080p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. This is a significant step up from the original Switch's 720p display, promising sharper visuals and smoother gameplay, especially in fast-paced action titles. The display also supports HDR, delivering vivid colors and improved contrast. When docked, the console can output up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, or up to 1440p at 120Hz, providing a stunning visual experience on compatible TVs.
Powering the Nintendo Switch 2 is a custom NVIDIA processor featuring an NVIDIA GPU with dedicated RT Cores and Tensor Cores. This new chip is expected to deliver a tenfold increase in graphics performance compared to the original Switch, enabling smoother gameplay, sharper visuals, and AI-driven enhancements like Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) for upscaling resolution without sacrificing image quality. The console also includes 256GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD Express cards, providing ample space for game downloads and other content.
The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces redesigned Joy-Con 2 controllers that attach magnetically to the console. These new controllers feature larger SL and SR buttons, making them more comfortable to use for multiplayer gaming. Additionally, each Joy-Con 2 can be used as a mouse in compatible games, offering a new level of control and precision. A new "C" button on the right Joy-Con 2 activates the Game Chat feature, an integrated voice chat system that allows players to communicate with friends while gaming. The Pro Controller for the Nintendo Switch 2 also includes the C button, as well as remappable GL/GR buttons and a standard audio jack.
Backwards compatibility is a key feature of the Nintendo Switch 2, allowing players to enjoy their existing library of physical and digital Switch games on the new console. Some games will even receive "Switch 2 Edition" upgrades, with improved resolutions, frame rates, and bonus content. Select Switch games can use the improved Switch 2 performance through either free or paid updates.
The launch lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2 includes a mix of new and enhanced titles. Mario Kart World is a flagship title launching alongside the console, featuring new gameplay modes and online features. Other notable launch games include Cyberpunk 2077, Fortnite, Hogwarts Legacy, and Street Fighter 6. First-party Nintendo titles such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A will also be available on Switch 2 as "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" titles, boasting graphical and performance enhancements.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be a compelling upgrade for existing Switch owners and an attractive option for new gamers. With its enhanced performance, improved display, and innovative features, the console promises to deliver a premium gaming experience in both handheld and home console modes. While the $449.99 price tag is higher than the original Switch, the improvements in hardware and features may justify the cost for many players.
