The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally been announced, following two years of speculation. In recent updates, Nintendo has confirmed a range of details regarding the console, which will be outlined in this article.
Release Date and Pricing
Scheduled for launch on June 5, 2025, Nintendo confirmed the release date during a dedicated Direct stream held on April 2, 2025. While the one-hour presentation did not disclose the price, subsequent press releases and the official website revealed that the console will retail for $449.99 in the United States, $629.99 in Canada, $699 in Australia, €469.99 in Europe, and £395.99 in the United Kingdom. A cheaper variant will be available in Japan for ¥49,980 (around $330), but it will be region-locked, with a region-free version offered through Nintendo’s online store.
Pre-orders commenced on April 9, though they faced delays in the U.S. and Canada due to potential tariffs, raising concerns over price hikes. Fortunately, Nintendo later confirmed that the hardware pricing would remain stable, although accessories did see a price increase.
Hardware Specifications
The Nintendo Switch 2 retains the hybrid format of its predecessor, powered by NVIDIA Tegra technology. It features a significantly larger screen with Full HD resolution, High Dynamic Range support, and a Variable Refresh Rate that peaks at 120 Hz, although it is uncertain if VRR is available during docked mode due to conflicting official information. Docked, the console supports 4K resolution at 60Hz and includes a cooling fan within the dock.
Additionally, the console supports NVIDIA DLSS Super Resolution technology, which enhances frame stability, and has limited ray tracing capabilities. The new Joy-Con 2 controllers have been redesigned for improved reliability, featuring magnetic attachment to the console and larger buttons for easier pressing. A notable new feature is the C button for Game Chat, allowing voice chats with up to 12 users. This functionality, available until March 31, 2026, will require an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription thereafter.
| Size | Approximately 116mm x 272mm x 13.9mm (with Joy-Con 2 attached) |
| Weight | Approximately 401g (with Joy-Con 2 attached: approx. 534g) |
| Screen | Capacitive touch screen / 7.9-inch wide colour gamut LCD / 1920×1080 resolution / HDR10 support / VRR up to 120 Hz |
| CPU/GPU | Custom processor made by NVIDIA |
| System Memory | 256 GB (UFS) |
| Communication Features | Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi 6) / Bluetooth / Wired LAN in TV mode |
| Video Output | Maximum resolution: 3840×2160, 60 fps / 120 fps at lower resolutions (via HDMI) |
| Audio Output | Supports linear PCM 5.1ch |
| Battery Life | Approximately 2 – 6.5 hours |
| Charging Time | About 3 hours while in sleep mode |
Nintendo Switch 2 Games
The console promises a robust lineup of third-party titles, a marked improvement over its predecessor. Major developers such as 2K, CAPCOM, and Ubisoft have announced games including:
- Arcade Archives 2 Ridge Racer
- Borderlands 4
- Cyberpunk 2027: Ultimate Edition
- Elden Ring Tarnished Edition
- Hitman: World of Assassination
- Mario Kart World
- Street Fighter 6
- Hades 2
- Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
Some titles will feature a dual pricing scheme, allowing existing Nintendo Switch owners to upgrade to a next-gen version for $10. This includes a selection of 12 titles branded as ‘Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games’.
Game Share Feature
Switch 2 introduces a Game Share feature enabling users to share compatible games with friends who don’t own the titles. Only a Switch 2 console can initiate sharing, but Switch 1 users can receive shared games. This feature is usable both locally and online via GameChat, for select titles.
| Game Title | Game Share with Switch 2 | Game Share with Switch 1 |
| Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition | Yes | No |
| Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain | Yes | Yes |
| Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury | Yes | Yes |
| Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker | Yes | Yes |
Backward Compatibility
The Switch 2 is backward compatible with many existing Nintendo Switch titles, excluding only Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit as of now. The official website provides a status guide for backward compatibility, and existing Joy-Con and Pro Controllers will also function with the new console.
First Impressions
Initial hands-on experiences indicate a positive reception, highlighting improved design and performance. Early feedback suggests that if players enjoyed the original Switch, they are likely to appreciate the enhancements found in the Switch 2, especially with its growing library of games.