Will the Switch 2 be the best Nintendo console ever?

Eight years after the launch of the first Nintendo Switch, the successor is in the starting blocks. The Switch 2 was officially unveiled on January 16, 2025 and brings with it some exciting new features - including magnetic Joy-Cons, a larger display and rear compatibility with old Switch games. Nintendo plans to reveal all the crucial details in a special Nintendo Direct presentation on April 2. Until then, we'll answer the most important questions.

Nintendo is staying true to its hybrid philosophy. The Switch 2 will also be usable as both a handheld and a stationary console. The biggest design change is the new Joy-Cons, which no longer dock onto the device mechanically but magnetically. An additional USB-C port on the top makes it easier to charge and connect accessories, while an improved station allows for more flexible set-up angles.

Good news for nostalgics: Nintendo has confirmed that Switch games will also run on the new console. However, it is unclear whether all titles will be fully compatible.

There are no official specifications yet, but numerous leaks and analyst estimates paint a picture of the possible hardware:

Rumors are also circulating about a so-called "Nintendo DS mode", in which a second screen could be used. The new Joy-Cons are also said to not only be larger, but also offer an integrated mouse function - a potentially groundbreaking innovation for shooters or strategy games.

There is no question that the old Switch has long since reached its technical limits. Nintendo wants to eliminate this weak point with the new console. A patent that has emerged suggests that the Switch 2 will use advanced AI-supported upscaling to display games in a higher resolution. This feature could already be used in the first new games.

Nintendo is still keeping a low profile with announcements, but a new "Mario Kart" title is almost certain. A new "Mario" adventure and "Metroid Prime 4" could also be available at the console's launch. Third-party developers such as Ubisoft are also likely to make their new titles available on the Switch 2.

Some insiders are also assuming an improved version of existing Switch games, similar to the "Enhanced Editions" of the Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5. This could mean a graphical overhaul for titles such as "The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" or "Pokémon Crimson & Purple".

An exact release date remains open, but several reports suggest a market launch between April and June. Analysts expect a launch in the second quarter of 2025, which fits in with the planned launch events. Nintendo is organizing a worldwide roadshow where fans can test the Switch 2 in cities such as New York, Paris, Berlin and Tokyo.

More information about the Switch 2 will be announced in Paris and other cities in early April.

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There is no official price information yet, but experts assume an increase compared to the first Switch. The likely price range is between 400 and 500 francs. The reasons for this are rising production costs and more expensive components. If this price turns out to be true, the Switch 2 would compete with the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition in terms of price.

The original Nintendo Switch sold over 150 million units - a benchmark that is hard to beat. Nevertheless, Nintendo is expecting strong sales figures. According to estimates, between six and eight million units could be available at release to meet high demand. By comparison, the PlayStation 5 sold 4.5 million units in its first quarter, while the original Switch sold 2.7 million units in its first month.

Nintendo seems to be preparing for a strong launch. Analysts see great potential, as many fans are ready for an upgrade after eight years. The enhanced performance could also open up new target groups, such as developers who have previously relied on more powerful hardware.