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's new form factor, accurately predicted by NateTheHate, sent ripples through the gaming community. While release date rumors had circulated for months, the official trailer finally provided a glimpse into the upcoming console.

Image: x.com

Size and Design:

The Switch 2 is noticeably larger than its predecessor. Insiders suggest dimensions of 116mm (height), 270mm (width), and 14mm (thickness), boasting a rumored 8-inch screen (compared to the OLED Switch's 7-inch display). The Joy-Cons feature a magnetic attachment system secured by recessed contacts within the console frame, preventing accidental detachment and enhancing durability. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, facilitating the magnetic connection. This design necessitates screen bezels. The Joy-Con holders have also been redesigned, with a flatter grip and side-insertion. Larger buttons and Hall effect sensors in the joysticks aim to address joystick drift issues. However, the IR camera has been omitted, potentially impacting backward compatibility for certain titles like Ring Fit Adventure.

Image: youtube.com

A USB Type-C port and microphone are visible on the top bezel, hinting at potential wired controller support and voice chat capabilities.

Image: youtube.com

Internal Specifications (Speculation):

Complete specifications await the April 2nd Nintendo Direct. However, leaks suggest a powerful console, potentially matching the processing power of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, with possible support for Quad HD resolution in docked mode. Current speculation points to:

• 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 rumored, but the overall specs are promising. Anticipation is high for AAA ports, including the possibility of Genshin Impact.

Image: youtube.com

Release Date and Price:

NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May, with June being a likely candidate. The official date will be revealed during the April Nintendo Direct. A hands-on experience tour begins April 4th, allowing early access to the console (registration closes January 26th).

Image: nintendo.com

Tour locations and dates include:

• 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 — To be announced
• Taipei — To be announced

Pricing remains unconfirmed, with speculation ranging from €349 to €399.

Image: stuff.tv

Games:

Mario Kart 9, featuring 24-player online support, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes, is confirmed as a launch title. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct, but fan speculation includes titles like Fallout 4, Red Dead Redemption 2, and more.

Image: youtube.com

Stay tuned for the April Nintendo Direct for official updates!