Since its release in 2017, Nintendo Switch has transformed the face of gaming creating a device offering portable and home gaming into single device. Fans have been eager to learn what new features and improvements it will bring in its next iteration, widely referred to as the Nintendo Switch 2.
This article does a deep dive into Nintendo Switch leaks including date of release, specifications, compatibility with games already out there, and many more things.
Keep reading, keep learning!
Nintendo Switch Leaks: Expected Date of Release
Nintendo has now finally confirmed that the Switch 2 is indeed a real thing, and hopes for an announcement somewhere in this fiscal year concluding March 31, 2025. Rumors first surfaced suggesting a late 2024 release; however, recent reports point to pushing the potential launch back to March 2025 in order to bolster the first-party lineup for a smooth launch.
This delay is also in an effort to avoid a shortage of supplies that has plagued other consoles released in the past years.
Related: Genshin Impact Switch release date and everything you should know about it
Can Switch 2 Play Existing Switch Games (Backward Compatibility)?
Can Switch 2 Play Existing Switch Games (Backward Compatibility)?
Yes, the Nintendo Switch 2 is backward compatible with all games already available on the Nintendo Switch. As stated by Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, it will be “backward compatible” with the games currently being played, so players can access them all for the new console as well.
However, there is no confirmation regarding existing accessories such as Joy-Con controllers’ compatibility with the Switch 2. This backward compatibility becomes more important for those who have invested in physical and digital titles for the original console.
There are also hints that the developers can re-optimize older titles for better performance on new hardware. This means that major, popular games will get an update or a remastered version, taking full advantage of the Switch 2’s capabilities.
Also read: How to get Netflix on Switch
Will Switch 2 Be a Hybrid Console Like the Original?
Will Switch 2 Be a Hybrid Console Like the Original?
Although there is no official confirmation, leaks suggest that the Nintendo Switch 2 will continue sporting the hybrid aspect with its predecessor. It will work both as a handheld and home console when docked. According to reports, the portable features on the new version will be similar to that of the first Switch.
Display:
However, it is anticipated that there will be some changes in design and display. The new console may come with an 8-inch LCD screen instead of the OLED display as it may help keep the price in check along with giving a bigger view than the older model’s 6.2 inches on screen. This seems to be in the direction of weighing between these two factors, performance and affordability.
Joy-Con Controllers:
Leaks also claim that Joy-Con controllers will receive major redesigns. Instead of attaching via rail systems, they could use magnetic connections, which are easy to use and may last longer. In any case, existing Joy-Con controllers are said to work with the new system.
Hardware Specifications
According to rumors, Nintendo Switch 2 hardware specifications will be much more impressive compared to its predecessor:
- Graphics Capabilities: It is expected to have graphics of the same quality as today’s generation devices including PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and including features such as ray tracing capability and support for with Unreal Engine 5.
- Increased RAM: Likely it would come with 12GB, which would make multitasking and performance much higher when it is rendering complex graphics.
- Storage Options: Presumably, it will launch with an option for 256GB of internal storage, paired with a cartridge slot to enable physical games.
These improvements and enhancements are aimed for better gaming, while maintaining all titles going currently.
Expected Games
So far, there has been no official announcement of known launch titles, but there are rife rumors of flagship games that could be ready when the Switch 2 launches. Among the hotly discussed ones are:
- New 3D Mario Game: For every new Nintendo launch, a new iteration of a new launch is expected; although there has been no announcement of New 3D Mario, its existence is one of the most anticipated ‘launch’ games.
- The Legend of Zelda: Because “Tears of the Kingdom” is so successful, everyone wants to see more of this series.
- Updated Versions of Games Already Released: Many existing titles may get updates that have been specifically designed with the Switch 2’s capabilities in mind.
Price Expectations
Although there is no official pricing announcement yet analysts predict the Nintendo Switch 2 will retail between $350 and $400. The sale price is based on the expectations of improvements over the base model and is expected to be on par with a competitive play within the market landscape. The original Switch retailed for $300, so this increase is in align with other traditional rises seen at new generations of consoles.
Conclusion
As the year drags to early 2025, excitement grows over what the new Nintendo Switch 2 will bring and introduce. Given that there is confirmed backward compatibility and this console will come with significant hardware upgrades, Nintendo seems to be ready to keep its heritage of being an innovator in gaming through following a hybrid design.
The delay related to announcements and releases has pushed this further, but it’s also reflective of their interest in maintaining a refined product to meet consumers’ demands. And so while we await further information from Nintendo, we all look forward to the exciting developments which will shape our future gaming experiences.
