After what feels like forever (seriously, were the rumours ever going to stop?), Nintendo has finally confirmed the Nintendo Switch 2. Yes, it’s real. Yes, it’s happening. And yes, our wallets are already sobbing quietly in the corner.
The big reveal happened in a short but sweet video this morning, where Nintendo gave us a glimpse at their shiny new hybrid console. Like the OG Switch, it’s both a home and handheld gaming system. But this isn’t just a glow-up. It’s packing some serious power under the hood. Let’s break it down.
What’s New with the Switch 2?
While the trailer didn’t go into the specifics, it’s clear the Switch 2 is all about refining what made the original console such a hit. Think beefier specs, better graphics, and, fingers crossed, joy-cons that don’t drift into another dimension after three weeks of Mario Kart rage.
Speaking of Mario Kart, we got a tantalising teaser of a new game in the franchise. Nintendo didn’t spill too many beans about it yet, but seeing those iconic red shells on the Switch 2’s new hardware? Chef’s kiss.
Why Now?
The original Switch has had a remarkably long run. Eight years and counting! That’s practically ancient in gaming years. But credit where credit’s due: the Switch has aged like fine wine, with regular game releases keeping it alive and kicking.
Still, fans (including us) have been chomping at the bit for something new, especially as other consoles flex their 4K muscles. Nintendo’s been smart about this transition, keeping the Switch thriving with remasters and collabs while secretly working on its next big thing. Sneaky, but we respect it.
When Can You Get Your Hands on It?
Nintendo’s being coy about a specific release date, only confirming “2025” for now. But if history is anything to go by, they might follow the original Switch’s March launch strategy, giving everyone plenty of time to snag the console before the holiday rush.
Our end-of-year budgets are going to be stretched enough without Nintendo dropping a shiny new toy on us during peak present-buying chaos.
What’s Next?
Nintendo has promised a detailed look into the Switch 2 during a dedicated Nintendo Direct on April 2nd. That’s when we’ll (hopefully) get all the tasty details about launch titles, pricing, and whether or not our current Switch library will carry over. They’ve confirmed partial backward compatibility, but not all titles will be included.
Final Thoughts
So, are we hyped? Absolutely. If the Switch 2 can build on the OG’s legacy while fixing its flaws, it could be another home run for Nintendo.
For now, we’ll be dissecting every frame of that trailer and dreaming about what’s to come. What do you think? Let us know @UnrulyFolk on Threads, Instagram or Bluesky!