Nintendo appears to be gearing up for the release of a successor to the Nintendo Switch this year. While the move might seem swift, the current device is already 7 years old, prompting Nintendo to consider it time for an upgrade. However, there seems to be a slight delay in the release of the new game console. Here’s a roundup of everything we’ve gleaned so far, largely from circulating rumors, about Nintendo’s forthcoming hybrid gaming gadget.
Name: Nintendo Switch 2
Although currently dubbed the Nintendo Switch 2, the chances of it retaining that name are slim. Nintendo tends to eschew mere numerical naming conventions for its devices or games. While it occasionally happens,
it’s generally preferable for a game console to sport a superlative in its name or at least make it clear that it represents something entirely novel,
ensuring parents can grasp what their children are requesting.
Display Quality
While initial expectations leaned toward the possibility of an OLED device, Nintendo doesn’t seem eager to immediately embrace that route. Nevertheless, hopes are high for Nintendo to opt for 4K output, delivering the vibrant colors and graphics envisioned by creators onto television screens. Additionally, there’s anticipation for an increase in the refresh rate from 60 Hz to 120 Hz.
Specifications
Given Nintendo’s track record, it’s improbable that they’ll reinvent the wheel regarding the processor. Although Nintendo doesn’t produce its own processors, it typically collaborates with Nvidia, a renowned and capable chipmaker that can handle Nintendo’s scale. Consequently, expectations are for a Tegra X2 chip, given that the current Switch houses a Tegra X1 chip. Leaked specifications suggest only a minor upgrade: an eight-core Cortex-A78AE processor, 10 streaming multiprocessors (SMs), 8GB of RAM, and a mere 64GB of storage.
Games
Naturally, new Mario games are expected, including a new 3D Mario game and the largest Mario Kart installment to date. Rumors also abound regarding a new version of Breath of the Wild, the popular Zelda game, making its way to Switch 2. Additionally, speculation surrounds the potential arrival of the Final Fantasy 7 remake and Bayonetta Trilogy on Switch 2.
Release Date of Switch 2?
Initially, there was speculation that it would be unveiled this year in June,
with a holiday season release. However, the latest rumors suggest a release window in the first few months of 2025, aligning with the original Switch’s March debut, which wouldn’t be unusual.
Price of Nintendo Switch 2
Pricing remains speculative, but considering the Nintendo Switch OLED is priced at 349 euros, expectations are for Nintendo to price Switch 2 somewhere between 349 and 399 euros. Nintendo typically avoids the higher price points set by Microsoft and Sony, prioritizing accessibility. Even in an era of rising costs, it’s anticipated that Nintendo will maintain this pricing strategy.