Nintendo unveiled the first details about the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 in a video released Thursday on the Nintendo of America YouTube channel. The video highlighted design enhancements and new features of the next-generation console.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is noticeably larger than its predecessor, with an 8.4-inch OLED display as rumored. The thinner bezels give it a sleek, modern appearance, while the updated Joy-Cons are slightly larger for improved ergonomics.
The new Joy-Cons attach magnetically and feature added functionality, including a new button next to the home button on the right Joy-Con and extra rear triggers near the L/R buttons. Similar to the original Switch, a controller grip allows the Joy-Cons to be combined for a traditional gamepad experience.
The console maintains a familiar layout with power and volume buttons on the top left, cooling vents in the center, a headphone jack, and an additional USB-C port on the right. The bottom retains its USB-C connector. A redesigned U-shaped kickstand on the back offers more versatile positioning compared to the original.
The video also revealed a newly designed dock for the Switch 2 and confirmed the development of a new Mario Kart game, speculated to be Mario Kart 9. Fans have eagerly awaited a new entry since the release of Mario Kart 8 in 2014.
Nintendo also announced that the Switch 2 will support exclusive titles while maintaining compatibility with most physical and digital Nintendo Switch games, though some older titles may face compatibility issues. Nintendo Switch Online subscribers will be able to continue using the service on the new console.
Availability -
Nintendo will unveil more details about the Nintendo Switch 2 during a special Direct event scheduled for April 2, 2025. The exact timing of the event will be shared at a later date.
Additionally, Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events will be held in various cities worldwide, offering fans an opportunity to get hands-on with the new console. The schedule is as follows:
North America -
- New York: April 4–6, 2025
- Los Angeles: April 11–13, 2025
- Dallas: April 25–27, 2025
- Toronto: April 25–27, 2025
Europe -
- Paris: April 4–6, 2025
- London: April 11–13, 2025
- Milan: April 25–27, 2025
- Berlin: April 25–27, 2025
- Madrid: May 9–11, 2025
- Amsterdam: May 9–11, 2025
Oceania -
- Melbourne: May 10–11, 2025
Asia -
- Tokyo (Makuhari): April 26–27, 2025
- Seoul: May 31–June 1, 2025
- Hong Kong: Date to be announced
- Taipei: Date to be announced
