Nintendo Introduces Switch 2: Date, Features, Games, and More
The eagerly awaited next-gen Nintendo console is now officially announced. During the recent Nintendo Direct livestream, the company unveiled an extensive array of information about the Nintendo Switch 2, covering its release date, hardware specifications, new functionalities, and a sprawling selection of games.
Here’s all you need to know regarding the Nintendo Switch 2.
📅 Release Date
Save the date: the Nintendo Switch 2 will hit the shelves on June 5, 2025.
💰 Price
The standard model of the Nintendo Switch 2 will be priced at $450 in the United States. A launch bundle that includes the console and a game will also be offered—more details on that game below.
📱 Hardware & Specs
Nintendo is elevating its hardware capabilities with the Switch 2. Notable improvements consist of:
– A 7.9-inch bright LCD display featuring HDR support
– 120Hz refresh rate for more fluid gameplay
– Double the pixel density in comparison to the first Switch
– 256GB of internal memory—eight times that of the original
– Built-in noise-canceling mic
– Integrated stand for tabletop use
– Dual USB-C ports (top and bottom)
– 4K output capability when docked
– Newly designed red game cards with quicker read speeds
– Only compatible with microSD Express cards for expanded storage
Data migration from the original Switch to the Switch 2 will be facilitated through Nintendo’s system transfer functionality. Some pre-existing physical and digital Switch games will also be playable.
🎮 GameChat: Integrated Voice and Video Chat
A key new feature is GameChat, Nintendo’s native voice and video chat system. Gamers can communicate with friends during gameplay, with video streams shown in boxes below the gameplay screen. GameChat additionally supports screen sharing, enabling users to display their gameplay in real time—even if their friends are engaged in different games.
GameChat will be free until March 2026, after which a Nintendo Switch Online subscription will be necessary.
📷 Switch 2 Camera
Accompanying the console is the Switch 2 Camera, which enhances GameChat with video functionality. It also integrates within gameplay, allowing for voice and motion-based controls in compatible titles.
🎮 Joy-Con 2 and Pro Controller
The Joy-Con controllers have undergone a redesign:
– New “C” button on the right Joy-Con for accessing GameChat
– Enlarged SL/SR buttons and control sticks
– Magnetic connection to the console
– Mouse-like functionality for select games
A new Pro Controller is also forthcoming, featuring:
– A C button
– Programmable GR/GL buttons on the back
– Built-in audio jack
🕹️ GameShare
Nintendo has launched GameShare, a new local multiplayer feature. With GameShare, up to four players on the same network can engage in a compatible game together—even if only one player owns the title.
🎮 First-Party Games
Nintendo displayed an impressive collection of games for the Switch 2, highlighted by:
Mario Kart World
The premier launch title, Mario Kart World, stands as the most ambitious installment in the series to date:
– 24-player races
– New features such as rail grinding and wall bouncing
– Dynamic weather
– Open-world exploration with a free roam mode
– Photo mode
– Knockout Tour mode featuring checkpoint races
This game will be included with the Switch 2 at launch.
Other First-Party Titles
– Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment – Featuring Princess Zelda
– Kirby AirRiders – A sequel to Kirby AirRide
– Drag x Drive – A basketball game styled like Rocket League
– Donkey Kong Bananza – A new Donkey Kong adventure
– Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour – A digital launch title aimed at familiarizing players with the console
🎮 Switch 2 Edition Games
Nintendo is re-launching enhanced versions of popular Switch games branded as “Switch 2 Editions.” These titles include:
– Super Mario Party Jamboree Switch 2 Edition – New modes such as Mario Party Mode, Bowser Live, and Carnival Coaster, with camera and motion support
– The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild & Tears of the Kingdom – Featuring “Zelda Notes,” a companion app that offers maps, voice navigation, and content sharing
– Kirby and The Forgotten Land
– Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
– Pokémon Legends: Arceus
Players who already possess the original versions will be able to buy discounted upgrade editions.
🌐 Nintendo Switch Online
Nintendo Switch Online will be fully compatible with Switch 2, granting access to classic NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.
A new premium tier, the Plus Expansion Pack, will be exclusive to Switch 2 and include:
– Titles from Nintendo 64, GameCube, and SEGA Genesis
– Confirmed games: The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Soulcalibur 2, F-Z