April 2, 2025 – Nintendo has officially pulled back the curtain on its highly anticipated next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2, announcing a global launch date of June 5, 2025. The reveal came during a 60-minute Nintendo Direct presentation streamed at 6 a.m. PDT, where the company showcased the new system, its innovative features, and a lineup of launch titles that promise to redefine gaming on the go. With the original Switch recently becoming the second best-selling gaming hardware in U.S. history surpassing the PlayStation 2 in November 2024, the Switch 2 arrives at a pivotal moment for Nintendo and its fans.
Switch 2 Features and Design
The Nintendo Switch 2 builds on the hybrid legacy of its predecessor, blending handheld and docked gaming with fresh innovations. One of the standout upgrades is the introduction of magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers, a significant evolution from the original Switch’s slide-in mechanism. These new controllers attach and detach with ease, offering a seamless experience for players switching between modes. The Joy-Con 2 also introduces a new “C” button, enabling a GameChat feature that lets players voice chat, share screens, and even video chat with friends using a new Nintendo Switch 2 camera accessory (sold separately). This USB-C compatible camera marks Nintendo’s first official camera integration for the Switch line, bringing a social dimension to gaming that fans have long requested.
The Switch 2 also boasts a larger, more vibrant display and enhanced processing power, promising sharper visuals and smoother performance. However, there’s a catch for longtime Switch owners: standard SD cards won’t be compatible with the new system. Nintendo has ensured a smooth transition by including a data transfer feature to move save data and games from the original Switch to the Switch 2.
Launch Titles and the Mario Kart World Bundle
Nintendo revealed that the Switch 2 will launch with a slate of exclusive titles, headlined by Mario Kart World, an open-world racing game that lets players zip across diverse terrains like grassy plains, bustling cities, and fiery volcanoes. The game takes full advantage of the Switch 2’s new features, including the magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers and the GameChat system, allowing players to connect with friends in real-time as they race or explore.
For those eager to dive in, Nintendo is offering a Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle at launch for $500, while the standalone console will retail for $449.99—a notable jump from the original Switch’s $299 price tag. First-party Switch 2 games, including Mario Kart World, will be priced at $69, aligning with industry standards set by competitors like Sony and Microsoft, who have already adopted this pricing for their current-gen titles.
Preorders and Market Context
Fans won’t have to wait long to secure their Switch 2, as preorders open on April 9, 2025. However, those purchasing directly from the My Nintendo Store will need an invite to preorder, with priority given to players who have been subscribed to Nintendo Switch Online for at least 12 months and have logged 50+ hours of gameplay on the original Switch as of April 2, 2025. This move seems designed to reward loyal fans, though it’s unclear if third-party retailers like Amazon or Best Buy will have similar restrictions.
The Switch 2 launch comes at a critical juncture for Nintendo. Sales data from November 2024 showed a 3% drop in original Switch sales, while the PlayStation 5 led the market in both units sold and revenue. With the console market shifting, the Switch 2’s arrival feels perfectly timed to reinvigorate Nintendo’s momentum and capture the attention of gamers worldwide.
Accessories and Compatibility
Nintendo also confirmed that the Switch 2 will support existing peripherals, including the original Switch Joy-Con controllers and the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, which can be connected wirelessly. A new Switch 2 Pro Controller is in the works, expected to retail for $69, though it will be sold separately at launch. The optional Joy-Con 2 Wheel accessory, designed to enhance the racing experience in games like Mario Kart World, will also be available separately, allowing players to “wheely feel like they’re driving” with motion controls.
What’s Next for Nintendo?
The Switch 2’s launch is poised to be a defining moment for Nintendo, blending the company’s signature charm with modern innovations like video chat and magnetic controllers. Social media reactions to the announcement have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans on X expressing excitement over the June 5 release date and the promise of new games like Mario Kart World. As one user put it, “WE WILL BE THERE DAY 1,” echoing the sentiment of many eager to get their hands on the new system.
With preorders just around the corner and a summer launch on the horizon, the Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a game changer literally and figuratively. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the Switch. There are many families eager to get their hands on the Switch two with the next Mario Party so they can seamlessly destroy each other(in the video game) and have awkward dinners afterwards. The next Legend of Zelda game will also bring on existing fans to want to by this console since it will be released on the SWITCH 2.
