Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, 2025

What the report says


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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 Official Release Date and Price Nintendo has officially confirmed the release of its next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2, which will launch on June 5, 2025.

The base model will retail for $449.99 in the United States and £396 in the UK. Pre-orders are scheduled to begin on April 9 in the U.S. and April 8 in the UK. However, recent tariff-related concerns may affect preorder availability in North America. Hardware Upgrades and Design Enhancements The Nintendo Switch 2 maintains the hybrid design of the original Switch, offering both handheld and docked modes. Despite being nearly identical in thickness to its predecessor, the Switch 2 comes with a larger 7.9-inch LCD screen capable of 1080p resolution and up to 120 frames per second in handheld mode.

When docked, the system supports 4K resolution at 60fps, and the upgraded dock includes a built-in fan for better thermal management. The console comes with 256GB of internal storage—a significant improvement over the original Switch—and supports additional storage through microSD Express cards. A new USB-C port on top has been added, in addition to the existing bottom port, allowing support for new peripherals like the Switch 2 Camera. Joy-Con 2 Controllers The Switch 2 introduces the Joy-Con 2 controllers, which attach magnetically to the console for increased stability in handheld mode. When detached, these controllers offer a unique mouse-style interface, allowing users to point and interact with the screen in a new way.

Key details

One of the major additions is the C button on the Joy-Con 2, which serves as the gateway to new software features such as GameChat. New Online Features: GameChat and Camera Nintendo is expanding its online capabilities with the launch of GameChat, a social feature that supports voice communication and screen sharing for up to 12 players. This feature leverages the console’s built-in microphone, meaning users won’t need external headsets. GameChat can be quickly activated using the new C button and integrates with the new Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, which launches on the same day.

Some games will even use the camera feed as part of gameplay. Launch Titles and Exclusive Games Nintendo announced an exciting lineup of games to accompany the Switch 2 launch. The most prominent is Mario Kart World, a new installment in the series featuring expansive tracks and multiplayer support. Another title, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, is a digital-only game that introduces users to the system’s features through interactive tutorials and minigames. More exclusives are scheduled throughout the year. Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer, will arrive on July 17. Looking ahead, FromSoftware will release The Duskbloods, a multiplayer experience coming in 2026, and Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is expected in late 2025.

Backward Compatibility and Upgrade Packs The Switch 2 retains support for most original Switch games, both physical and digital. However, some popular titles will include optional paid Upgrade Packs to take advantage of the new hardware’s capabilities. These upgrades are set to include visual improvements and new gameplay elements. Titles receiving upgrades include: Super Mario Party JamboreeKirby and the Forgotten LandThe Legend of Zelda: Breath of the WildThe Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Games that include these enhancements in a single purchase will be branded as Nintendo Switch 2 Editions. Dual-Platform Titles and Graphics Modes Some major titles will be released for both the original Switch and the Switch 2.

More from the announcement

Notably, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A will support both platforms. Metroid Prime 4 on Switch 2 will offer Quality and Performance modes, giving players the choice between higher resolution or smoother framerates—bringing Nintendo in line with modern console standards seen on PS5 and Xbox Series X. GameCube Classics Coming to Nintendo Switch Online The initial launch lineup includes: F-Zero GXThe Legend of Zelda: Wind WakerSoulcalibur 2 Nintendo promises more titles from the GameCube era will be added over time. Third-Party Support Nintendo also showcased extensive third-party support during its livestream.