Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date and Price Prediction

The official Nintendo 2 Announcement has finally happened. What is known from the announcement trailer of the new portable console?

While pre-announcement leaks were mostly accurate, this video marks the first official confirmation from Nintendo about the Switch 2, giving us our first look at the next-gen console.

In this article, we’ve gathered all the key details about the Switch 2 revealed in Nintendo’s announcement and tried to predict the price and release window of the new handheld console.

Pre-announcement Leaks

Before the Nintendo Switch 2 was announced, rumors ran wild. At CES 2025, accessory maker Genki added to the buzz with a mockup, claiming it was based on a real console.

Genki’s bold statements attracted media attention until Nintendo’s lawyers visited their booth, refuting any connection to the mockup. Nintendo’s official response clarified that these leaks and images were not authentic, fueling further curiosity about what the Switch 2 might bring to the table.

However, holding Genki accountable wouldn't have been possible, as there has never been any official collaboration between accessory manufacturers and the console developer. In other words, no NDA was signed, which means there is no legal liability.

SWITCH 2 Video Announcement

On January 16, 2025, Nintendo released the debut trailer for the Switch 2. The video showcased its larger display, ergonomic design, and innovative magnetic Joy-Con controllers, also improved performance, and a host of new features.

This trailer set the stage for a dedicated Nintendo Direct event on April 2, where more in-depth details are expected to be revealed.

Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date

While Nintendo has yet to confirm a specific release date, industry insiders speculate a May or June 2025 launch. This timing aligns with Nintendo’s strategy to reinvigorate the gaming market in the summer months.

The company’s recent announcements and pre-launch events suggest they aim to ensure a smooth rollout with ample production capacity.

SWITCH 2 Price Prediction

According to data analysis from IGN, the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to be priced around $400. This marks an increase from the original Switch’s $300 launch price but reflects the advancements in technology and design.

Analysts also predict that flagship games for the console may retail for $70, following trends set by other major gaming companies.

Switch 2 Review

The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces a magnetic snap-on system for the Joy-Con controllers, replacing the original rail connections for easier attachment. This change improves usability for both handheld and docked modes.

The Joy-Con now features new sensors that allow them to function as a mouse, though the full extent of this feature is still unclear. The right Joy-Con has a new, unmarked square button, with its purpose yet to be revealed. The Switch 2 also adds two USB-C ports, one at the top and one at the bottom, improving connectivity compared to the original Switch, which only had one.

Nintendo Experience Events

Fans eager to try out the Switch 2 won’t have to wait long. Starting April 4, Nintendo’s “Experience” events will be held in cities worldwide, including New York, Paris, and Tokyo.

These events will provide hands-on opportunities to explore the console’s features and play demo versions of upcoming games. Tickets can be secured through a free lottery system for registered Nintendo Account holders.

• New York, USA: April 4-6, 2025, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
• Paris, France: April 10-12, 2025, at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
• Tokyo, Japan: April 18-20, 2025, at Tokyo Big Sight
• Sydney, Australia: April 26-28, 2025, at the International Convention Centre Sydney

Each event will feature demo stations, developer Q&A panels, and exclusive merchandise. Registration opens on January 17, 2025, on the official Nintendo website.

Games for Switch 2

The Switch 2 is backward compatible, playing both physical and digital Switch games, along with exclusive titles, though some Switch games may have limited compatibility.

The Nintendo Switch 2 will feature exclusive titles such as a new Mario Kart and a 3D Mario adventure. Backward compatibility ensures We can continue enjoying our library of Switch games, though some older titles may have limited functionality.

Nintendo’s partnership with Microsoft could also bring games like Halo: The Master Chief Collection to the platform, alongside new third-party releases.

Summary

Nintendo's new overarching account system aims to simplify transitions to future consoles, which means you don't need to create a new account to move from Orginal Nintendo Switch to Switch 2.

Doug Bowser from Nintendo highlights the role of maintaining seamless communication and support between players and developers during platform shifts.