After years of speculation, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally becoming a reality. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, here’s everything we know so far about the most anticipated handheld-console hybrid in gaming.
Pre-orders began across most major regions on April 5, 2025, and excitement is building fast. However, Nintendo has faced criticism for its pricing strategy. The Switch 2 launches at $449.99, making it approximately 50% more expensive than the original Switch at launch. Additionally, early listings suggest Switch 2 game prices may be up to 33% higher, raising concerns among budget-conscious gamers.
Despite this, the system’s powerful hardware, 4K support, enhanced Joy-Con 2 controllers, and backward compatibility with existing Switch games are helping to justify the price for many.
Full Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| SoC | Custom NVIDIA Tegra T239 “Drake” |
| CPU | Octa-core ARM Cortex-A78C @ 998 MHz (docked), 1101 MHz (undocked) |
| GPU | 1536 Ampere-based CUDA cores — 3.09 TFLOPS (docked), 1.72 TFLOPS (undocked) |
| Memory | 12 GB LPDDR5X — 102 GB/s (docked), 68 GB/s (undocked) |
| Storage | 256 GB UFS 3.1 + microSD Express up to 2 TB |
| Display | 7.9” LCD, 1080p @ 120Hz, HDR10, VRR, 279 ppi |
| Dock Output | Up to 1440p @ 120Hz or 4K @ 60Hz via HDMI 2.1 |
| Audio | Stereo (2.0 ch) undocked, 5.1 ch docked, 3D audio effects |
| Input Options | Joy-Con, Joy-Con 2, Pro Controller, Switch 2 Pro Controller, Touchscreen, Mic w/ noise canceling |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, 3.5mm jack, 2× USB-C |
| Dock Ports | 2× USB 2.0, 1× Ethernet, 1× HDMI 2.1 |
| Battery | 5,220 mAh Li-ion, 2–6.5 hour battery life |
What Makes Switch 2 Special?
1. Next-Gen Visuals
With DLSS support and rumored 4K upscaling while docked, expect sharper visuals and smoother gameplay—even on older titles.
2. Backward Compatibility
This is huge: you’ll be able to play your existing Switch library—digitally or via cartridge—on the new console.
3. Faster Load Times & Better Battery
Early developer kits hint at SSD-like performance and optimized power management, giving you more playtime on the go.
Launch Titles
Here’s what will launch with the Switch 2:
- Arcade Archives 2 Ridge Racer
- Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster
- Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
- Deltarune
- Fast Fusion
- Fortnite
- Hitman World of Assassination – Signature Edition
- Hogwarts Legacy
- Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
- Mario Kart World
- Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
- Nobunaga’s Ambition Awakening Complete Edition
- Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S
- Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
- Sid Meier’s Civilization VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition
- Sonic x Shadow Generations
- Split Fiction
- Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Fighters Edition
- Suikoden I&II HD Remaster for Nintendo Switch 2
- Survival Kids
- Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut
In addition to these 23 titles, Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members will also have access to select GameCube games as part of the Nintendo Classics service. The first three are F-Zero GX, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and Soulcalibur II.
Should You Wait for It?
If you’re considering buying a Nintendo Switch right now—hold off unless you find a deep discount. The Switch 2 will offer:
- A much better long-term investment
- Massive performance leap
- A bigger game library (thanks to backward compatibility)
Confirmed Release Date & Price
| Region | Price |
|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 US | $449.99 |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | A$699 |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | CA$629.99 |
| 🇪🇺 Europe | €469.99 |
| 🇬🇧 UK | £395.99 |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | ¥49,980 |
Release Date: June 5, 2025
Game Media: Switch 2 game cards, digital downloads, backward-compatible with Switch 1 cards
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a worthy successor to one of the best-selling consoles of all time. Whether you’re excited about the performance boost, the stunning 4K support while docked, or the return of iconic titles like Zelda, Mario Kart, and Metroid, 2025 could be a landmark year for Nintendo. With upgraded internals like the custom Nvidia Tegra T239 chip, 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, and a 7.9-inch HDR10 display, the Switch 2 bridges the gap between portability and high-performance gaming like never before. Enhanced audio, new Joy-Con 2 controllers, and a strong third-party launch lineup add even more to look forward to. Despite some concerns over the higher price point and game costs, the demand is already proving strong. Pre-orders are selling out, and fans worldwide are counting down to June 5, 2025, when the Switch 2 officially hits the shelves. Whether you’re upgrading from the original or jumping into the Nintendo ecosystem for the first time, the Switch 2 promises a next-gen gaming experience without sacrificing the hybrid charm that made the original console a global phenomenon.