As the gaming industry turns, so do console generations. The original Nintendo Switch, now over seven years old, is long overdue for a refresh, and rumors about the Nintendo Switch 2 are heating up. This new console, which might be the successor to Nintendo’s most successful hybrid platform, is expected to debut soon, potentially as early as this month.
Will Nintendo stick with the hybrid format that made the original Switch such a success, or could it deliver something entirely different? Speculations have ranged from names like “Super Switch” to the “New Nintendo Switch.” Some even joke about a potential “Switch U,” hinting at Nintendo’s unpredictable naming strategies. Regardless of the name, all signs suggest a major new console release is imminent.
When Could Nintendo Announce Switch 2?
Nintendo is famously secretive about its plans, following its own schedule rather than industry trends. However, speculation about a possible reveal this month is rampant. According to Engadget, insiders and industry experts have been buzzing about a September announcement. Kotaku hinted at a shuffling of Nintendo Direct events, leaving space for a major reveal later this month, just in time for Tokyo Game Show.
Prominent gaming analysts, such as Christopher Dring from GamesIndustry.biz, have also heard whispers about the new console’s reveal being slated for September. VGC’s Editor-in-chief, Andy Robinson, echoed similar reports but cautiously added that this is still speculation. Another strong indicator comes from MST Financial’s senior analyst, who noted an increase in production equipment spending by Nintendo’s assembler, Hosiden, which suggests that something big could be on the horizon.
Switch 2 Release Date – What’s the Latest?
While much remains uncertain, one detail is clear: Nintendo will announce the Nintendo Switch 2 before March 2025. This confirmation came directly from the company back in May. There is speculation about a March 2025 release, given that the original Switch launched in March 2017. However, some reports suggest that the actual release could be pushed to later in 2025, depending on when the official announcement occurs.
If we see a 2023 announcement, a March release seems likely. However, if Nintendo delays the reveal until 2024, the launch may be pushed further into 2025. History suggests Nintendo prefers to maintain a steady timeline between announcements and releases, much like the original Switch.
What About the Console’s Design?
Nintendo has a history of surprises when it comes to hardware. After the immense success of the Wii, the company followed up with the unexpected Wii U, before moving back to a more traditional design with the Switch. Given this track record, there’s always a chance Nintendo could unveil something wildly different from a traditional Switch sequel.
That said, industry insiders, who have reportedly seen early versions of the hardware, suggest that Nintendo may opt for a more traditional design this time around. While hybrid functionality has not been confirmed, it seems unlikely Nintendo would abandon the feature that helped turn the Switch into a global phenomenon. Rumors of a Mini-LED display also indicate a focus on preserving the portable and console hybrid nature of the device.
Backward Compatibility – Will It Support Switch Games?
One major concern for current Switch owners is whether the new console will support backward compatibility. The Switch boasts an enormous library, and it would be a disappointment if players couldn’t bring their current titles to the new system. Fortunately, multiple sources suggest that backward compatibility will indeed be a feature of the Switch 2. This is expected to apply to both physical cartridges and digital downloads.
Doug Bowser, President of Nintendo of America, hinted in a previous interview that backward compatibility is a priority for the company. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa also mentioned plans to streamline the transition between the Switch and its successor, signaling that Nintendo aims to maintain continuity between console generations.
The Specs: What We Know So Far
Speculation about the Switch 2’s hardware specs is widespread. While little has been confirmed, one thing is clear: the Switch 2 will be more powerful than its predecessor. According to a report from Engadget, the new console could feature an eight-core Cortex-A78AE processor, 8GB of RAM, and 64GB of internal eMMC storage.
Another rumor points to the inclusion of an NVIDIA-produced Tegra239 SoC, with support for NVIDIA’s DLSS (deep learning supersampling) technology. This feature could allow the Switch 2 to render games at a lower internal resolution while outputting a higher-quality image. DLSS would mark a significant upgrade, offering better performance and visuals compared to the original Switch’s hardware. There are still some uncertainties regarding whether newer DLSS features, like frame generation, will be included. However, the shift to DLSS is a major leap forward for Nintendo.
As for the display, rumors have ranged from an 8-inch LCD to a 7-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate. There’s even talk of Mini-LED or OLED models, although most analysts believe Nintendo will opt for a more affordable LCD screen at launch, with premium screen options possibly available later.
How Much Will It Cost?
Pricing is still a mystery, but we can make some educated guesses based on past Nintendo releases. The original Switch debuted at $300, as did the Wii U. Analysts are now suggesting that the Switch 2 could be priced higher, possibly around $400 or more. This would place it closer to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X in terms of pricing. Given rising hardware costs and inflation, a $400 price tag seems plausible.
Potential Launch Titles?
Nintendo has been tight-lipped about launch games for the Switch 2. While we don’t have any solid confirmations, it has been a while since a major 3D Mario title was released, making it a potential candidate for a launch title. Additionally, we can expect third-party developers like Ubisoft to be part of the launch lineup, along with more experimental titles like the original 1-2-Switch. As the countdown continues, all eyes are on Nintendo as we wait for more concrete details about the Switch 2. With rumors flying and industry insiders pointing to a September announcement, the wait might not be much longer.
