The Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to launch on June 5, 2025, marking a significant upgrade to the original Nintendo Switch, which debuted in March 2017. After numerous rumors and much anticipation, Nintendo officially unveiled the Switch 2, revealing key specifications, design enhancements, and launch titles.
The Switch 2 will be available for $449.99. Nintendo is also offering a bundle including a digital copy of Mario Kart World for $499.99. While pre-orders were initially expected to begin on April 9, they were delayed due to tariff concerns and are now scheduled to commence on April 24.
The new console maintains the hybrid design of its predecessor, functioning both as a portable handheld device and a home console when docked. Key improvements include a larger 7.9-inch LCD screen with a 1080p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. When docked, the Switch 2 supports output up to 4K resolution at 60Hz, offering a substantial visual upgrade for TV gaming.
Under the hood, the Switch 2 is powered by a custom Nvidia Tegra T239 processor, codenamed "Drake." This chip features an octa-core ARM Cortex-A78C CPU and an Ampere GPU, supporting Nvidia's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology and ray tracing. The console also boasts 256GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD Express cards up to 2TB.
The Joy-Con controllers have been redesigned and are now known as Joy-Con 2 controllers. They attach magnetically to the console and include a new "C" button on the right controller, which enables a feature called GameChat for remote communication and screen sharing.
Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will be backward compatible with original Switch games, both physical and digital. Select older games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Kirby and the Forgotten Land will receive enhanced "Nintendo Switch 2 Edition" upgrades, featuring improved graphics and performance. At launch the console will also have GameCube support via the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack, and will initially offer F-Zero GX, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and Soul Calibur II.
The launch lineup includes Mario Kart World, which will be available as a bundle with the console or as a standalone purchase. Other exclusive titles, such as FromSoftware's The Duskbloods and Donkey Kong Bananza, are slated for release in 2026 and July 2025, respectively.
The Switch 2's dock has also been upgraded with a built-in ethernet connector and a cooling fan. The console includes two USB-C ports, a headphone jack, and supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity.
Nintendo is hosting a series of worldwide events from April through June 2025 to allow players to experience the Switch 2 before its official launch. These events include hands-on demos and presentations, providing an opportunity to test the console's new features and games.
