The successor to the Nintendo Switch, currently referred to as the Switch 2, is expected to launch in early 2025. Although Nintendo has yet to make an official announcement, rumors suggest a reveal in January, with a possible release in March. The new console will retain its hybrid nature, featuring a larger 8-inch 1080p LCD screen, capable of 4K output when docked. Along with this, it is expected to include Nvidia's DLSS upscaling technology and substantial upgrades in hardware, including 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. These improvements should deliver faster performance and a more seamless gaming experience.
One of the key changes is a redesign of the Joy-Cons. Moving away from the current rail-based connection system, the Switch 2 will use magnetic attachments, resulting in a sleeker and potentially more reliable design. Despite this, the Pro Controllers will remain compatible, so existing accessories will still work with the new system. Backward compatibility has also been confirmed, meaning your existing Switch games will remain playable on the Switch 2. The transition will be made even smoother with the help of Nintendo Accounts, ensuring easy migration of saved data and purchases.
In addition to hardware upgrades, the Switch 2 will have an exciting lineup of new software. Games like My Time at Evershine are already in development, and rumors suggest we may see new Mario and Zelda titles as well. The estimated price for the new console is expected to be around $400, slightly higher than the current OLED model, reflecting the enhanced performance and features.
Nintendo appears to be taking steps to ensure a smooth launch, with reports indicating the company is preparing for sufficient stock levels to meet demand. As the release date nears, anticipation continues to build, and the Switch 2 is shaping up to be a worthy successor to one of the most successful gaming consoles of all time.