New Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date, Specs, Rumours & Wishlist

Since the launch of the Nintendo Switch in 2017, fans have been eagerly anticipating the release of the next version of the console, whether it’s the Switch 2, New Nintendo Switch, Switch Pro, or something else entirely. The latest news suggests that the Switch successor will be backwards compatible.

The Switch has already seen several updates, including a version with improved battery life, the portable-only Switch Lite, and the Switch (OLED) with an upgraded display. The OLED version was thought to be a 4K-capable Switch Pro, but that turned out not to be the case. However, reports indicate that another Switch model is in the works.

Here’s what we know so far and our expectations for the features Nintendo might include in the new console.

When will the Nintendo Switch 2 be released?

Rumors about the Nintendo Switch 2 have been circulating since the original Switch’s launch, making it difficult to trust specific release dates. However, Nintendo has stated that the announcement will happen by the end of this fiscal year, meaning we may have to wait until the end of March 2025 for details and even longer for the console to hit shelves.

Initial speculation suggested an announcement by the end of October, but that did not materialize. Instead, Nintendo confirmed that the new console would be backwards compatible with existing Switch games. There are expectations of the console being unveiled in 2024, but Nintendo has only mentioned that further information will be announced at a later date.

Previous release date rumors

In May 2023, Nintendo warned investors of a slowdown in Switch hardware sales and stated no plans for new hardware in the upcoming financial year. Bloomberg and other sources hinted at a September 2024 release, but reports in early 2024 suggested a delay to the first half of 2025 for better launch titles. Mass production is expected to start by September, aligning with a mid-2025 release.

Nintendo has acknowledged the development of new hardware, with President Shuntaro Furukawa mentioning a smooth transition to the new hardware in a shareholder meeting. The official word on the launch of the Switch’s successor is ’20XX’, indicating a broad timeline for release.

How much will the new Nintendo Switch cost?

While the exact price of the Switch 2 is uncertain, it is likely to be more expensive than existing models due to potential upgrades like 4K support or enhanced graphics. Analysts suggest a price under $499, which would still undercut some competitors in the handheld market.

Speculation points to a significant price increase, but the new features could justify the cost. The final pricing will likely depend on the console’s specifications and target audience.

What will the 4K Switch be called?

The naming of the new Switch model is a topic of interest among fans. Possible names include Switch Pro, Switch 4K, New Nintendo Switch, or even Switch 2. Nintendo’s history of unique naming conventions leaves room for speculation, with some suggesting a departure from the Switch branding altogether.

Rumors and leaks hint at potential names, but nothing has been confirmed by Nintendo. A recent survey listing ‘Switch Attach’ raises questions about the final name of the console, but it’s best to wait for official confirmation.

What will the Switch Pro’s specs be?

Details about the next Switch’s specifications are scarce, but rumors suggest enhancements like more computing power and 4K graphics. Reports from Bloomberg and other sources indicate that game developers have been asked to prepare for 4K-ready games on the new console.

Leaked information points to the use of Nvidia’s DLSS technology for 4K support, along with references to a new Nvidia chip and potential improvements in display quality and battery life. The console is expected to feature an 8-inch LCD display and may support advanced gaming features like ray-tracing.

While official statements deny specific features, the presence of a Realtek chip in the new dock hints at 4K support, suggesting that Nintendo is preparing for future hardware upgrades.

What games could be on the Nintendo Switch 2?

Potential game releases for the Switch 2 include a new Animal Crossing title with a cityscape setting, a larger 3D Mario game, and possible ports of popular titles like Final Fantasy 14 and Hi-Fi Rush. These games could showcase the console’s capabilities and attract a diverse audience.

While specifics are uncertain, rumors and industry insights suggest exciting possibilities for upcoming game releases on the Switch 2.

What we want to see from the Nintendo Switch 2

Anticipation for the Nintendo Switch 2 brings expectations for improvements over the current model. Key areas for enhancement include:

Higher resolution display & 4K output

Upgrading the display to 1080p and enabling 4K output for TV play would enhance the visual experience and align with current industry standards.

Better battery life

Extended battery life, faster charging capabilities, and optimized power management would improve the console’s portability and user experience.

Larger on-device storage

Increased internal storage capacity would allow for more games to be stored without the need for additional memory cards, enhancing convenience for users.

Improved power

Enhanced graphical capabilities and processing power would enable smoother gameplay and faster load times, attracting a wider range of game developers and titles to the platform.

5G networking

Integration of 5G support would revolutionize online gaming on the Switch, offering seamless connectivity and new possibilities for multiplayer experiences.

While these features are speculative, they represent the potential for significant advancements in the Nintendo Switch 2, making it a highly anticipated console in the gaming community.