The New Nintendo Switch 2: What's New and What's Next?

The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here, and it's packed with upgrades that gamers have been waiting for. The console will hit stores on June 5, 2025, and it's priced at $450. Pre-orders start on April 9, so mark your calendars. The new Switch 2 has a larger 7. 9-inch display with a 1080p resolution, up from the 6. 2-inch 720p screen on the old model. It also runs at up to 120fps, making gameplay smoother than ever. The display is an LCD, not OLED, but it supports HDR, which is a plus. The new Joy-Con controllers have some notable improvements. They attach magnetically and feature larger SL and SR buttons, as well as bigger sticks. Each Joy-Con can even function as a mouse for compatible games. The built-in stand looks sleeker, and there are two USB-C ports for added convenience. The console also boasts 3D audio with compatible headphones and better speakers. Storage has been bumped up to 256GB, a significant upgrade from the original 32GB. The dock supports up to 4K output with compatible games and includes a built-in fan to keep things cool. Battery life is a bit of a letdown. Nintendo claims it ranges from 2 to 6. 5 hours, depending on the game, which is similar to the original Switch. The Switch 2 uses faster game cards and requires microSD Express cards for extra storage, so don't expect your old microSD cards to work. A new Pro controller is also available, featuring a C button for GameChat and customizable GL and GR buttons on the back.

One of the standout features is the new GameChat, which allows voice and video chat. You can chat with friends while playing, even when the console is docked. This feature requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, but it's free until March 31, 2026. The Switch 2 also includes a camera for video chatting, adding a social element to gaming. Mario Kart fans will be thrilled to know that Mario Kart World is coming out on the same day as the Switch 2. This new installment features larger courses, open-world elements, and weather changes. It's a significant update from the last Mario Kart game, which came out in 2014. The Grand Prix will have 24 competitors in one race, making it more competitive than ever. The Switch 2 will also host a variety of other games, including Eldin Ring: Tarnished Edition, Hades II, Street Fighter 6, and more. Nintendo is even bringing back classic consoles with the GameCube, which will be available through the Switch Online service. Games like The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker and F-Zero GX will run at higher resolutions, enhancing the gaming experience. Nintendo is also releasing "Switch 2 edition" games, which offer improved resolutions, frame rates, and new features. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will get these upgrades, along with a companion smartphone app. Kirby and the Forgotten Land is also getting a Switch 2 edition with an additional world to explore.

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