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 trailer, accurately predicted by NateTheHate, sent shockwaves through the gaming community. While release date rumors swirled 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 boasts a larger form factor than its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the thumbsticks are noticeably bigger. While precise dimensions aren't officially confirmed, insider reports suggest a height of 116mm, width of 270mm, and thickness of 14mm. This translates to a 3.1cm increase in width and 1.4cm in height compared to the standard Switch. An 8-inch screen is also rumored, a significant upgrade from the OLED Switch's 7-inch display.

Image: x.com

Design

The Joy-Cons undergo a significant redesign. They now feature magnetic attachments, secured by recessed contacts within the console's frame. This robust design prevents accidental detachment and accidental breakage. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, contributing to the magnetic connection strength. This magnetic system, however, necessitates screen bezels.

Image: youtube.com

The Joy-Con grip is also redesigned, with a flatter top and side insertion instead of the top insertion of previous models. The buttons are slightly larger, and rumors point to Hall effect sensors in the thumbsticks to mitigate drift issues. However, the IR camera is absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility with 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 capabilities.

Image: youtube.com

Internal Specifications

Official specs await the April 2nd Nintendo Direct, but leaks suggest a powerful console. Comparisons to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in terms of processing power are circulating, with potential for full Quad HD resolution in docked mode. Insider consensus points to the following:

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

Note that an OLED version is not expected at launch.

Image: youtube.com

Release Date

NateTheHate predicts a release no earlier than May, with a June launch being likely. The official date will be unveiled during the April Nintendo Direct. The "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" tour, starting April 4th, allows hands-on time with the console. Registration closes January 26th.

Image: nintendo.com

Here's a partial list of tour dates and locations:

• 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

Price

Pricing remains unconfirmed, with speculation ranging from €349 to €399. A definitive price will be revealed during the Nintendo Direct.

Image: stuff.tv

Game Lineup

Mario Kart 9, featuring 24-player online support and redesigned item boxes, is confirmed as a launch title. Further announcements are expected at the Nintendo Direct. However, fan speculation includes titles like Fallout 4, Red Dead Redemption 2, Tekken 8, and many more.

Image: youtube.com

Stay tuned for the April Nintendo Direct for official confirmations and further details on the Nintendo Switch 2.