It’s finally here! After months of whispers and speculation, Nintendo has unveiled its newest console: the Nintendo Switch 2. While the name is understated, a closer look reveals a console brimming with fascinating details showcasing Nintendo’s evolution of its beloved hybrid system. We've broken down 30 key improvements and features from the reveal trailer.
Nintendo Switch 2 - A First Look
28 Images
01 - The Switch 2 retains a similar form factor to its predecessor, but with a noticeable increase in size. The main console unit and Joy-Cons are larger—approximately 15% bigger overall, by our estimation.
02 - The vibrant Joy-Con colors are gone, replaced by a sleek, dark grey finish across the entire console, lending it a more sophisticated, almost Steam Deck-like aesthetic.
03 - Color isn't entirely absent. A ring of color around each analog stick (matching the red and blue of the original Switch) and inner edges of the console and Joy-Cons provides a stylish accent and a color-coded docking system.
04 - The Joy-Con attachment method has changed. Instead of sliding rails, they now directly slot into the console, with a connector on the main unit engaging a port on the Joy-Con. Rumors suggest magnetic connection, similar to Apple's MagSafe.
05 - The rear of each Joy-Con features a new trigger mechanism for release. A squeeze releases a piston-like component, gently ejecting the controller.
06 - The classic button layout remains: offset analog sticks, directional pad, A, B, X, Y buttons, plus and minus buttons, and the capture and home buttons.
07 - A new, unlabeled button sits below the home button—its function remains a mystery.
08 - The L/R and ZL/ZR buttons are in their familiar positions, but the ZL/ZR triggers appear deeper and more rounded for improved comfort and ease of use.
09 - The analog sticks retain their low-profile design, but with a smaller inner ring and thicker rims for enhanced grip.
10 - The NFC Amiibo reader may be present but unseen, similar to the original Switch. However, the IR sensor from the original right Joy-Con seems absent.
11 - SL and SR buttons on the inner edges of each Joy-Con remain, allowing individual Joy-Con use. Significantly, these buttons are much larger.
12 - The four player LEDs are present, now located on the forward edge of the connector.
13 - Below the connector is the sync button; above it, a mysterious component.
14 - A small, clear lens above the connector suggests a possible laser sensor, potentially enabling mouse-like functionality. The trailer hints at this with wrist strap usage.
15 - Redesigned wrist straps return, matching the internal Joy-Con colors.
16 - The main console features a larger screen, though not quite edge-to-edge. The display technology remains unconfirmed.
17 - The top edge largely mirrors the original, with redesigned power and volume buttons, a headphone jack, and a three-vent ventilation grill.
18 - The Game Card slot remains on the top edge, suggesting backwards compatibility with existing cartridges.
19 - A new USB-C port on the top edge adds intrigue, potentially for peripherals.
20 - Downward-firing speakers replace the rear-facing speakers of the original Switch.
21 - A new, full-length kickstand with multiple locking angles replaces the original's smaller stand.
22 - Docking functionality remains, with a slightly redesigned dock featuring rounded corners and a prominent Switch 2 logo.
23 - A Joy-Con charging grip is also included, though its design appears largely unchanged.
24 - A new Mario Kart game is teased, featuring a 24-racer starting line.
25 - A new track, "Mario Bros. Circuit," is shown, hinting at a more open, varied gameplay experience.
26 - Ten characters are confirmed: Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Peach, Yoshi, Toad, Donkey Kong, Daisy, Rosalina, and Wario.
27 - Backwards compatibility is confirmed, though some games may be unsupported.
28 - A 2025 release window is announced.
29 - A Nintendo Direct on April 2nd will reveal further details.
30 - A global "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" hands-on tour will take place between April and June, with ticket registration opening January 17th.
These 30 details offer a glimpse into the Switch 2. Stay tuned for more updates!
