Nintendo Switch 2 has officially arrived, sort of. Eight years after Nintendo gave the world, what would eventually turn out to be its second highest-selling video game system (behind only the Nintendo DS), Nintendo has finally announced the sequel in a video published on YouTube on Thursday.
It’s a teaser, without any specs or availability details, but it shows off the handheld console from almost every perceivable angle—hoping it would be enough for fans for now. (It’s way more footage than what Rockstar has given for the GTA 6 anyway.)
While details are still emerging, here’s a quick 8-point breakdown of everything we know so far about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2:
- Nintendo Switch 2 release date and price: Nintendo has confirmed a 2025 release for the Switch 2, with a more specific launch date to be revealed later, possibly on April 2. Pricing remains a big mystery, but given the improvements and backwards compatibility, it’s likely to be priced higher than the original Switch’s $300 (roughly Rs 26,000) launch price.
- Familiar design, enhanced features: The Switch 2 retains the core hybrid design of its predecessor, which allows for both handheld and docked play. However, it sports a larger screen (possibly OLED), redesigned Joy-Con controllers, a sturdier U-shaped kickstand, and an additional USB-C port.
- Upgraded Joy-Cons: The Joy-Cons have received a significant refresh. They now feature what appears to be a more convenient stick-on attachment (instead of sliding on and off), larger SL and SR buttons, and a mysterious new button beneath the Home button. The video hints at possible mouse-like ability for the controllers as well.
- Backwards compatibility: One of the biggest announcements is backwards compatibility with existing Switch games, both physical and digital. While Nintendo notes that some titles may have limited compatibility, this is a huge win for gamers with extensive Switch libraries.
- Technical specifications: Nintendo remains tight-lipped about the Switch 2’s internal hardware. However, rumours suggest a significant upgrade from the original Switch’s Nvidia Tegra X1 processor. Expect improvements in processing power, graphics, and battery life.
- Nintendo Switch Online integration: The Switch 2 will continue to support Nintendo Switch Online, allowing players to access online multiplayer, cloud saves, and an expansive catalogue of classic games. What’s interesting if Nintendo is planning any new features or subscription tiers alongside the new console.
- Hands-on events: Nintendo is offering fans a chance to experience the Switch 2 firsthand at events in New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas in April 2025. Registration for these events opens on January 17, 2025, on Nintendo’s website.
- Nintendo Switch 2 India launch: Nintendo doesn’t officially sell its products in India and so, chances of the Switch 2 coming here are very slim. We’ll keep you posted if things change. Much like the original, Nintendo Switch Lite, and OLED models, you’ll probably be able to but y the Switch 2, too, through third-party retail like Amazon and others.
