Everything You Need to Know About the Switch 2

About the reveal

The Switch 2 was revealed by Shinya Takahashi, General Manager of Nintendo's Entertainment Planning & Development division, and Yoshiaki Koizumi, a prominent producer at Nintendo. Together, they presented all the new features of the second Switch console and the upcoming games for the Switch 2 - both key elements that will influence gamers’ decision to buy a Switch 2.

What’s new about the Switch 2?

Based on all the information we have about the Switch 2, here's an overview of what's new in this console.

• Screen and display – The Nintendo Switch 2 features a larger screen for handheld use, namely a 7.9-inch display with a resolution of 1080p and a refresh rate of 120Hz. This ensures sharp and smooth image rendering. Some games can be played at 120fps. The handheld unit is as thick as its predecessor.
• Performance – The Switch 2 has a custom Nvidia processor that offers better graphics performance and faster loading times, resulting in an even smoother gameplay experience.
• Controllers – The Joy-Con controllers have been revamped for the Switch 2. They are larger, and this Switch allows them to be attached to both sides of the handheld console using strong magnets. The SL and SR buttons and joysticks are also larger. Additionally, the Joy-Cons can be used as a mouse, making gameplay even more dynamic.
• Dock – The dock includes a built-in cooling fan to maintain optimal performance while in TV mode.
• Video output – The Nintendo Switch 2 supports 4K HDR output when connected to a compatible TV.
• Audio and microphone – The speakers and microphone feature noise-cancelling for clear voice audio, among others. The Switch 2 also includes enhanced surround sound.
• Storage capacity – With 256 GB of internal storage, the Switch 2 offers significantly more space for games and apps. You can also expand this new console’s memory with a microSD Express card.
• Battery life – The Switch 2 has a larger battery, and its usage time varies between 2 to 6.5 hours depending on how intensively you use the console in handheld mode.
• Back stand – The stand on the back of the Switch 2 is sturdier and offers more freedom of use compared to its predecessor. This is handy when gaming in handheld mode with detached Joy-Cons.
• USB outputs – The Switch 2 has a USB port on both the top and back of the console, giving you more options for, for example, charging while gaming.

New functionalities

The Nintendo Switch 2 also introduces two new features: GameChat and the Switch 2 Camera.

• GameChat – With the new C-button on the right Joy-Con, you can easily communicate with friends through the brand-new GameChat feature. This feature will be free until 31 March 2026. After that, a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required to use it.
• Switch 2 Camera – A camera you can purchase separately for your Switch 2 that allows your face to appear in-game while playing, making the gaming experience more personal and immersive.

Nintendo Switch VS. Switch 2

We’ve compared the main differences between the Nintendo Switch and the Switch 2 for you:

Announced Switch 2 games

During the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2, many games were announced, including upgraded versions of Switch games, remakes, and titles exclusive to the Switch 2. It was also confirmed that you won’t need to throw out or replace your existing Switch games—all Switch titles are playable on the Switch 2, sometimes even in enhanced format. Switch 2 game cases will be red. Here are some of the most notable announced titles:

• Mario Kart World (available at launch) – Mario Kart, Switch 2 style. This game is not just a racer; you can explore massive open worlds. There’s even a Free Roam mode where you can go your own way while others race. The Knockout Tour, a battle royale-style mode, was also introduced.
• Donkey Kong Bananza (17 July 2025) – A new Donkey Kong adventure shortly after the Switch 2 launch. Explore and fight in a brand-new 3D game world with Donkey Kong.
• Super Mario Party: Jamboree (24 July 2025) – An expanded version of Super Mario Party Jamboree, using the new Joy-Con mouse controls as well as the camera and voice recognition.
• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment (Winter 2025) – A prequel to the successful Tears of the Kingdom.
• Metroid Prime 4: Beyond (TBA) – The successor to Metroid Prime 4 playable on the Switch 2. This title uses the new mouse controls and features two graphics modes: Quality Mode (4K/60fps/HDR) and Performance Mode (1080p/120fps/HDR).
• Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition (TBA) – Elden Ring like you’ve never seen it before, with new content and features.

Other upcoming games for the Switch 2

These games will also be released for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the near future:

GameCube games coming to Switch 2

With a Nintendo Switch Online subscription -available in our webshop- you’ll be able to play GameCube games exclusively on your Switch 2. A special GameCube controller for Switch 2 will also be released.

Pre-orders, release date, and price

The Nintendo Switch 2 is available for pre-order from 8 April 2025. Release date: 5 June 2025

Switch 2 console pricing

Two versions of the Switch 2 will be available at launch:

• Switch 2 console (no game): €469.99
• Switch 2 console + Mario Kart World: €509.99

Switch 2 game pricing

Games will be slightly more expensive than for the first Switch console:

• Standard Switch 2 games: €69.99
• Premium titles (e.g., Mario Kart World): €79.99
• Smaller or digital-only titles: €49.99

Keep an eye on our news page for more updates on the Nintendo Switch 2!