TOKYO: The wait is almost over. Nintendo is preparing to fully reveal its next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2, in a special online presentation streaming today, April 2nd.
Fans have been eagerly anticipating this moment since Nintendo confirmed the new system would launch sometime in 2025, over eight years after the original Switch.
Today’s Nintendo Direct is expected to finally answer crucial questions about the console, including its price, exact release date, and how pre-orders will work. There’s also a good chance we’ll get a glimpse of some exciting new games that will be available on the system.
The initial teaser earlier this year gave us a first look at the Switch 2, showing that it retains a similar hybrid design to its predecessor. However, the new console appears to feature a larger screen, utilises a magnetic system for attaching the Joy-Cons, and boasts a more streamlined overall look.
Nintendo has also confirmed that the Switch 2 will be backwards compatible, meaning you’ll be able to play your existing library of Switch games on the new hardware.
Today’s Nintendo Direct is scheduled to be quite substantial, running for approximately 60 minutes – longer than many of Nintendo’s recent online events that focused solely on game announcements. Adding to the excitement, Nintendo will also be releasing gameplay videos on April 4th and 5th, providing a closer look at what the new console can do.
Leading up to the January reveal, rumours had been swirling, and it turned out the speculation about an announcement around that time was accurate. Nintendo has stuck with the core concept of a portable console with detachable controllers that can also be docked for playing on a TV. However, there are some notable differences.
One of the most apparent differences is the way the Joy-Cons attach. Instead of sliding into place, they now seem to connect magnetically, although there’s a small connector likely for charging. It’s still unclear whether the older Joy-Cons designed for the original Switch will be compatible with the new system.
Another welcome addition is a second USB-C port on the top of the console. This should make it much more convenient to connect accessories while the Switch 2 is docked. Filings suggest that both USB-C ports can be used for charging, which is a useful improvement.
It’s also good news that Nintendo has kept the headphone jack. Hopefully, they will also include Bluetooth headphone support right from the start this time, a feature that took several years to arrive on the original Switch.
The kickstand is also getting an upgrade. Similar to the Switch OLED, it now runs along the entire back of the console. However, the teaser trailer suggests this new kickstand will be fully adjustable, allowing players to find the perfect viewing angle.
Despite the information we’ve gathered so far, there are still many unknowns. We’re still waiting for details on the console’s internal specifications, the type of display it will use, battery life, the user interface, and the lineup of games that will be available at launch. Hopefully, today’s Nintendo Direct will shed light on all of these crucial aspects.
While Nintendo has officially stated that the Switch 2 will be released in 2025, the exact timing remains a mystery. It’s highly unlikely the console will launch before today’s dedicated presentation.
Accessory maker Genki, who had previously leaked information before the January announcement, suggested an April release. Other reports and analysts have pointed towards a June release window. Regardless of the exact month, we should finally get a definitive release date during the Nintendo Direct happening later today.
Read next: Samsung delays Galaxy S25 Edge launch, but not due to quality issues