Following slightly more than eight years since their last major release, Nintendo is turning a page in the console industry with the introduction of the Nintendo Switch 2. The gaming company aims to replicate the triumphs of its versatile console. However, what fresh experiences does this new system from the makers of "Super Mario" bring to gamers?
Cost, Launch Time, and Inclusion Items
The release of the Nintendo Switch 2 in Germany is set for June 5th, priced at roughly 470 euros. Furthermore, the Japanese firm plans to offer a package deal including the title "Mario Kart World." This combo version will retail for about 510 euros. Customers can place their advance orders for both editions starting now.
As stated by Nintendo, the box contains the console itself along with a power adapter, a dock, an HDMI cable, and a USB-C charging cord. Additionally, you'll find corresponding "Joy-Con 2" controllers (one L and one R), a controller holder, and wrist straps inside. However, the "Mario Kart World" edition won’t come with a tangible version of the game; instead, it provides a download code for it.
In an overview trailer and on its official site, Nintendo demonstrates what players can anticipate from the hybrid console. Similar to its 2017 predecessor, owners of the Switch 2 have the option to dock it for use with a television or enjoy gaming on-the-go in portable mode.
Updated Display and Enhanced Efficiency
In terms of design, the console closely mirrors theSwitch. Nonetheless, as stated byNintendo themselves,they have equippedthe Switch 2 with substantial processing capabilities beneathits exteriorand enhanced the display quality. Specifically, theSwitch 2 features anLCD screen sizedat 7.9 inches which can rendergamesin handheldmode at afull HDresolutionof1080p. Additionally,the displaycan supportup to120framespersecond andaHDR functionforimprovedcolorcontrast.When comparedto theoriginal Switch,it boastsa larger screensize of6.2 inches.
When plugged into a television via the mentioned docking station, games can appear in resolutions as high as 4K, provided they have such support. Nonetheless, this comes with a cap of 60 frames per second for the frame rate.
Nintendo calls it the "subsequent advancement" of the Switch. This updated system comes with 256GB of internal storage designed primarily for downloading games. While Nintendo hasn’t disclosed precise information regarding the integrated parts, they assert in an official statement “considerably enhanced CPU and GPU performance relative to the original Nintendo Switch.” These improvements are expected to result in quicker load times and richer graphical detail.
Controlling the Mouse with Updated Joy-Cons
The "Joy-Cons 2," which come with the Switch 2, do not slide into the sides like before; instead, they are secured using magnets. This change is intended to eliminate "Joy-Con drift." On the originalSwitch model, issues arose where the analog sticks could fail to accurately send inputs or would move spontaneously without user interaction. During an interview with "Nintendo Life," Nate Bihldorff from Nintendo of America stated that these updated Joy-Cons were completely overhauled during development. Their objective is to provide consumers with “the best possible experience,” particularly when it comes to enhancing their longevity and reliability.
The updated Joy-Cons can function similarly to a computer mouse. As stated by Nintendo, this mouse mode is designed to operate on various surfaces including tables and even your pants, for instance. This novel control scheme will be implemented in titles such as the forthcoming "Metroid Prime 4: Beyond," scheduled for release in 2025, along with the upcoming wheelchair basketball game "Drag x Drive."
Nintendo emphasizes the new C-button found on the right controller. By pressing this button, players can engage in voice chat during gameplay. This service, known as "GameChat," is available at no cost up until March 31, 2026. Following that date, using such features will necessitate a subscription for online services. Additionally, video chatting is supported; however, it demands an extra purchase of a separate external camera.
Returning to the Racetrack with "Mario Kart World"
On the day of the console’s release on June 5th, Nintendo will be providing direct access to titles from two of its flagship franchises. Alongside the previously referenced “Mario Kart World,” included either as part of the bundle or for separate purchase, gamers get back into racing mode. This latest installment in the beloved franchise follows up after “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe”—a game that has shifted more than 67 million units since launching with the original Switch system. The upcoming title seeks to expand further on what made this enduring favorite so successful.
On launch day, updated editions of the adventure titles "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild" and "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" will drop as well. These revamped Switch game releases will feature enhanced visuals and quicker load times, along with additional improvements.
Nintendo has revealed that more titles will become available on the release date of the updated hybrid console—this includes adaptations of the science-fiction action game "Cyberpunk 2077" as well as the Harry Potter-themed exploration game "Hogwarts Legacy." The new entry in the Donkey Kong series titled "Banana Bash," set for release on July 17th, follows afterward. In 2025, developer FromSoftware plans to introduce both the high-fantasy world explorer "Elden Ring" onto the upcoming Switch model and another project named "Duskbloods" sometime next year. Additionally, games compatible with the current Nintendo Switch system will remain accessible on its replacement device.