New pocket flagship: Exploring the Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2: A Sneak Peek

The surprise reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2 on January 16th, 2025, via unexpected YouTube uploads, sent shockwaves through the gaming community. While release date rumors had circulated for months, NateTheHate's accurate prediction of the reveal date added to the excitement. See the official trailer below:

[Table of Contents]

• Size
• Design
• Internal Specifications
• Release Date
• Price
• Launch Titles

Size

The trailer clearly showcases a larger console than its predecessor. The screen, Joy-Cons, and even the thumbsticks are noticeably bigger. While precise dimensions haven't been officially released, insiders report a height of 116mm, width of 270mm, and thickness of 14mm. This represents a 3.1cm increase in width and 1.4cm in height compared to the standard Switch. An 8-inch screen is also rumored, surpassing the 7-inch OLED Switch.

Image: x.com

Design

The Joy-Cons feature a magnetic attachment system, secured by recessed contacts within the console body. Insiders assure us this design is robust and prevents accidental detachment. The SL and SR buttons are larger and metallic, contributing to the magnetic connection strength. This design necessitates screen bezels.

Image: youtube.com

The Joy-Con holder has also been redesigned, with a flatter grip and side-insertion of the controllers. The buttons are slightly larger, and the thumbsticks are rumored to utilize Hall effect sensors, mitigating joystick drift. However, the IR camera appears absent, potentially impacting backward compatibility for games like Ring Fit Adventure.

Image: youtube.com

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

Internal Specifications

Full specifications will be unveiled during the Nintendo Direct on April 2nd. However, leaks suggest the Switch 2 will boast power comparable to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, potentially supporting Quad HD resolution in docked mode. Insiders point to these potential specs:

• 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 unexpected, but the overall specs are promising. Many AAA titles from previous years, including potentially Genshin Impact, are anticipated.

Image: youtube.com

Release Date

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

Image: nintendo.com

Tour Dates:

• 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

Speculation centers around a €399 starting price, with some suggesting a lower €349. Confirmation awaits the Nintendo Direct.

Image: stuff.tv

Launch Titles

Mario Kart 9, featuring 24-player online support, new tracks, and redesigned item boxes, has been confirmed as a launch exclusive.

Image: youtube.com

Further announcements are expected during the Nintendo Direct. Fan speculation includes titles like Fallout 4, Red Dead Redemption 2, and more. Stay tuned for more updates after the April Nintendo Direct!