Nintendo officially announces the Switch 2: Discover all the games and accessories that come with it

After years of rumours, Nintendo is finally unveiling its highly anticipated next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2. Scheduled for release on 5 June 2025, the Switch 2 promises to push the boundaries of hybrid gaming with improved hardware, software innovations and an ambitious range of games at launch. The Switch 2 will still be based on the original Switch, a console that has sold more than 150 million units since its launch in 2017.

Hardware and features: a step forward in hybrid gaming

The Switch 2 is equipped with a 7.9-inch HDR-compatible 1080p LCD screen, a significant advance on the 6.2-inch screen of the original model. Connected to the docking station, it can display up to 4K resolution with variable refresh rate (VRR). This is the kind of functionality you'd find in a crypto casino, for example. Indeed, to offer the best possible experience to their players, this type of online casino has excellent graphics properties.

In addition, the Switch 2 features a customised Nvidia processor, 256GB of internal storage and enhanced wireless and Bluetooth functionality.

The new Joy-Con 2 magnetic controllers are a major plus. They engage with stronger magnets and offer improved ergonomics. Interestingly, they also act as a mouse for some games. This is good news if you like titles like Civilization VII and Drag x Drive.

Another notable feature is the new 'C' button, which activates GameChat, Nintendo's social network for voice chat, screen sharing and group play. GameChat will be free until March 2026, after which it will be integrated into the Nintendo Switch Online service.

Prices and pre-orders

The Switch 2 Standard Edition will retail for $450 USD. Gamers will be able to opt for a $500 bundle that includes a digital copy of Mario Kart World. It has to be said that this is the console's star game. In fact, it sells for $80 on its own. Although more expensive than its predecessor, which launched at $300 in 2017, Nintendo maintains that this price increase is justified by the integration of next-generation technologies and a more powerful chipset. According to Toyo Securities analyst Hideki Yasuda, the new Nvidia chipset alone could cost almost double that of the original Switch.

This special Nvidia processor is different from the one found in crypto mining machines. That's a good thing, because as prices have risen, so has the popularity of investing. Miners are now buying chips compatible with their mining devices en masse, creating shortages.

In each Switch 2 box, you'll find the console itself, two redesigned Joy-Con 2 controllers, a handle and wrist straps, the new dock, an ultra-fast HDMI cable, a USB-C charging cable and a mains adapter. The new game cartridges are still coated with a bitter substance to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets.

Backwards compatibility and GameShare

Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will be compatible with both physical and digital games from the original Switch, although some titles, such as Fall Guys and Rocket League, may experience compatibility issues. Older controllers, including the original Joy-Con and Pro controllers, will also work on the new console.

A new GameShare system will also be launched. This should allow gamers to lend digital games to other members of their Nintendo family group via Virtual Game Cards. This is a major move towards flexible game ownership and sharing within the Nintendo ecosystem.

What games will come with Switch 2?

Nintendo is preparing for a successful launch. Games confirmed for Switch 2 on day one include Mario Kart World, Final Fantasy VII Remake: Intergrade, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Split Fiction, Hogwarts Legacy and Street Fighter 6: Years 1-2 Fighter Edition.

A number of classic games such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will benefit from an enhanced Switch 2 version, with improved performance and HDR support.

Nintendo has also confirmed that the highly anticipated Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will be released sometime in 2025, with Donkey Kong Bananza, Drag x Drive and Kirby Air Riders joining the list within months of launch. In addition, GameCube titles are making a comeback via Switch Online + Expansion Pass, which will see the return of The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker and F-Zero GX.

Accessories and add-ons

Nintendo will also be offering a range of accessories, including a $50 Switch 2 camera for integrated video gaming, a new Pro Controller for $80 and a full dock for $110. Joy-Con charging cradle and replacement controllers will also be available to purchase separately.

With an expanded library of games, groundbreaking hardware innovations and a renewed focus on social features, the Switch 2 looks set to extend Nintendo's reign in the hybrid console market.