Nintendo Switch 2: Leaked Images, Rumored Release Date, Specs, & More

After seven years since its debut and selling over 146 million units with more than a billion games sold, Nintendo is preparing to disclose details about its upcoming hardware. Here, we’ve collected all the information available regarding the possible successor to the Switch (tentatively named the Switch 2 or simply the next Nintendo console), along with speculations on what the future system from Nintendo might offer. There has been a flurry of news surrounding the upcoming Nintendo console recently, although an official announcement may not be imminent.

Recently, Nintendo has shared several updates, such as an alarm clock and a music application, yet no formal news regarding the Switch 2 has surfaced.

2025 got off to an exciting start for me as whispers of the Switch 2’s Joy-Cons circulated among fans. Pictures floating around online, allegedly showing the new controllers, hint at a design reminiscent of the original model, but there might be some hidden surprises in store. Additionally, speculations about how many units the Switch 2 could sell in its first year in the U.S. have started to surface as well.

A more recent assertion suggests that the upcoming Nintendo console will indeed bear the title “Switch 2.” Interestingly, a Chinese retailer has started selling protective screens and carrying cases for this supposed console, which could offer hints about the design and dimensions of the Switch 2. However, it’s important to note that these items might be entirely speculative or even counterfeit.

In this write-up, I delve into the possible design and speculations about the upcoming Switch 2, including its release date, price, launch titles, backward compatibility, and additional features. For ease of understanding, let’s call it the Switch 2, even though it’s likely that Nintendo will come up with a unique and original name for this console. We’ll see what the future holds!

For the moment, this is all the vital data we currently possess regarding the Switch 2. There are still many questions left unanswered about it.

Table of Contents [hide]

• Switch 2 leaked images
• Switch 2 Rumored Release Date
• Switch 2 Potential Specs
• Gen AI?
• Switch 2 Games and Backward Compatibility
• Switch 2 Price
• Switch 2 News

Switch 2 leaked images

In mid-September 2024, there was a significant update regarding the upcoming Switch 2. Anonymous photos claiming to be of the Nintendo Switch’s successor surfaced online, showing a design that doesn’t represent a drastic change from the existing Switch console. The pictures hint at several key upgrades: a larger eight-inch screen, Joy-Cons that utilize a magnetic connection, and a substantial hardware upgrade compared to the current version.

Initially, the photographs appeared on a popular Chinese social networking platform and were subsequently posted on Reddit. Although Nintendo has yet to issue a statement regarding them, a reliable source informed Video Games Chronicle (VGC) that the images from Reddit correspond with the anticipated design for the final version of the Switch 2, as described to partners by the company.

In November and early December 2024, leaked pictures of the rumored Switch 2 emerged, offering a closer look at the supposedly revamped and more comfortable Joy-Con controllers. The images suggest several upgrades over the current Joy-Cons, such as larger SL/SR buttons, a pedal back button, and a more rounded shape, among other enhancements.

In January 2025, fresh images allegedly depicting the Joy-Cons surfaced, and importantly, they seem to incorporate mouse capabilities as a key feature.

Switch 2 Rumored Release Date

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t predict with absolute certainty when Nintendo will launch their next gaming console. The Switch debuted in 2017, and traditionally, console generations last around 5-10 years. However, it’s essential to remember that the industry is dynamic and unpredictable, influenced by countless factors, so Nintendo might not adhere strictly to this timeline for their next hardware release.

Examples like the Wii and Wii U, which were released in November 2006 and 2012 respectively, don’t provide any clue about when the next Nintendo console might debut.

Initially, a press release from the latest collaboration between GameShark announced a release date for the Switch 2 in September 2024. However, it turned out to be false information. Later on, an analyst predicted that the Switch 2 would come out in 2024 and boast an 8-inch LCD screen; but alas, this didn’t materialize either.

In more conversational terms: A representative from peripheral company Genki, during a recent conversation at the Consumer Electronics Show, reportedly hinted that the release of the Nintendo Switch 2 might take place in April 2025. However, it’s important to note that this information is not yet verified.

According to Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, it’s possible for the announcement of the Switch 2 to occur within the ongoing fiscal year, which spans from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025. In other words, the official unveiling might take place at any moment now.

During a conference call regarding earnings, Furukawa hinted at what the potential next version of the Nintendo Switch could look like, emphasizing its evolution from the initial system. On numerous occasions during the presentation, Furukawa referred to the “follow-up to the Nintendo Switch,” indicating that the upcoming device will likely expand upon the base created by the original console.

In response to a question about the upcoming Nintendo device, Furukawa explained that they can’t reveal any further details at this moment. For today’s announcement, they chose to use the term ‘successor to Nintendo Switch,’ which means the next iteration in the series. They will share more information gradually as we get closer to its release, following their usual approach with new hardware announcements.

As reported by GI.biz’s Christopher Dring, no developer he has interacted with anticipates its release within the current fiscal year. In fact, they have been explicitly advised not to expect it during this period. Some of the individuals he spoke to are optimistic about its availability around April or May.

According to Eurogamer’s report, they support this claim, mentioning that the next Nintendo Switch console might not launch until as late as April 2025 at the earliest.

Amazon Games leader, Christoph Hartmann, has shared with IGN that they are indeed intending to create games suitable for the anticipated Switch 2 console. Excitedly, he looks forward to its eventual release. Yet, he acknowledges and respects Nintendo’s deliberate pace in ensuring a flawless debut.

He expressed that it would be more preferable for them to delay the release by a year to ensure perfection, rather than rushing it and dealing with subsequent criticisms. Given the exceptional performance of the Switch, he is willing to endure another year if necessary. Moreover, most developers not specifically dedicated to Nintendo are not solely focusing on Switch titles. They are part of a broader portfolio or platform mix, so patience is advised.

Lately, analyst David Gibson hypothesized that the next Nintendo Switch, referred to as Switch 2, could launch in March 2025. Gibson noted that one of Nintendo’s manufacturing partners, Hosiden, is investing significantly for an upcoming project. This heavy investment, according to Gibson, might hint towards the development of the Switch 2.

Switch 2 Potential Specs

One of the major questions regarding the upcoming Nintendo hardware remains its specific nature. Previous Nintendo employees speculate that it could share a similar design to the Switch and be functional both as a handheld device and when connected to a TV like the current model. However, Nintendo has been tight-lipped about any details concerning their next system, merely hinting at their intention to “delight and astonish” fans, leaving us with speculation and assumptions for the time being.

According to Digital Foundry, it’s possible that the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 might incorporate a custom version of Nvidia’s T239 processor. By creating a theoretical PC setup based on estimated specifications for the new console, they determined that it could potentially run Death Stranding smoothly at a resolution of 1080p with an average frame rate of about 35 frames per second.

Historically, Nintendo consoles have been less powerful compared to the most recent PlayStation and Xbox models, and this trend may continue with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. However, it’s uncertain what features the new console might possess, such as 4K capabilities or advanced graphics performance.

According to a recent report by Vandal (via VGC), it appears that the upcoming Switch 2 will revert back to using Joy-Con controllers, but these will now attach magnetically rather than via their traditional method. It’s currently uncertain whether your existing Joy-Cons would be compatible with the new system. The same report also suggests that the current Pro controller for Switch will work seamlessly with the Switch 2.

On the Broken Silicon podcast (through IGN), Moore’s Law Is Dead and The Phawx discussed that according to Moore’s Law Is Dead, the upcoming Switch 2 may run faster than anticipated in its docked mode. Conversely, it seems the undocked mode will operate at a significantly reduced clock speed. This strategy appears to be aimed at enhancing the battery life of the Switch 2 when used portably, compared to the original Switch.

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, sales of Switches skyrocketed; however, a worldwide semiconductor shortage posed fresh hurdles for Nintendo as they strived to keep up with demand. In contrast, Nintendo doesn’t expect issues related to semiconductors to arise when launching the Switch 2. Currently, Nintendo’s financial year sales projections do not account for any revenue from the Switch 2, but this could change in the future.

Gen AI?

The topic of Generative Artificial Intelligence, particularly in the realm of video games and technology at large, is generating a lot of conversation. However, it’s uncertain if Nintendo will incorporate GenAI into the Switch 2 and its associated games. Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa has hinted that they will carefully evaluate this possibility.

During a recent investor Q&A session, according to TweakTown’s translation, Furukawa stated that AI has long been utilized in video game creation, particularly for controlling non-player characters. However, the concept of genAI represents something new and distinct.

In the recent buzz, Generative AI has shown potential for creativity, but it’s crucial to remember its challenges with copyright matters. We, at our company, possess years of expertise in designing exceptional gaming experiences tailored to our customers. As we adapt swiftly to technological advancements, our aim is to preserve a distinctive value that transcends technology itself.

Switch 2 Games and Backward Compatibility

It’s generally anticipated that Nintendo will unveil a fresh Mario Kart game for its upcoming home gaming system – there aren’t many safer wagers in the gaming industry than this one. Rumors suggest that Mario Kart 9 could introduce a unique spin, and enthusiasts are on tenterhooks to find out what this novelty might entail. If a new Mario Kart title is under development, it appears logical for it to serve as a launch game for the upcoming console. However, reports from 2023 indicate that several developers already possess the next Nintendo console in their studios and are starting to create games for it; yet, no announcements or hints regarding any titles have been made thus far.

Fans are curious if the upcoming Nintendo console will play games from the current Switch model, and on November 6, Nintendo officially announced that the new console (presumably the Switch 2) will be compatible with older games. Additionally, Nintendo Switch Online service will function across both the original Switch and the upcoming console.

As a dedicated gamer, I’m thrilled to share some exciting news! During our recent gaming policy briefing, we confirmed that the software for Nintendo Switch will also work on the next-generation Nintendo console. That’s right, folks! Nintendo Switch Online will continue to be part of the experience on the new system as well. Stay tuned for more details about this upcoming console, including its compatibility with the current Nintendo Switch, which we’ll reveal at a future date. Can’t wait for the next level of gaming fun!

Stay tuned to TopMob for further updates on the upcoming Nintendo console, as we’ll be providing new information as it becomes available. We’ll keep you informed as the story develops!

Switch 2 Price

At this moment, we’re only speculating about the Switch 2 because it hasn’t been officially unveiled yet. However, a recent prediction suggests that the Switch 2 might retail for around $400 and its premium games could sell for approximately $70. It’s worth noting that the initial Switch was priced at $300, and its affordable cost likely contributed to its market success. As for the Switch 2, it’s unclear if Nintendo will release a single version or multiple editions with different price points; we’ll have to wait and see.

It’s not unexpected if the prediction comes true about the game costs reaching $70. This is because Nintendo has already priced Tears of the Kingdom at $70, which was a massive success. Although Nintendo stated that this was an exceptional case for Switch game prices, pricing Switch 2 games at $70 would align with the prices set by companies like Microsoft and Sony, as well as numerous third-party publishers, for their flagship titles.

Switch 2 News

In the past, each Nintendo console had its unique account system, requiring users to establish fresh accounts upon purchasing new devices. However, the introduction of a universal Nintendo Account streamlines this process, potentially making it less complicated when moving to future Nintendo consoles.

Nintendo’s Doug Bowser explained that this feature enables us to interact with our players during any shift to a different platform, aiming to facilitate a smoother and easier transition process for everyone involved.

He stated that our objective is to reduce or eliminate the usual drop in performance at the end of one cycle and the start of another. As for potential elements of the upcoming platform, I can’t comment, but the Nintendo Account serves as a solid foundation for maintaining communication as we proceed through the transition.

In simple terms from 2023, Nintendo’s CEO, Shuntaro Furukawa, announced that the upcoming Nintendo console would employ the same Nintendo Account system as the Switch. Therefore, it’s not really surprising to hear Bowser hint at a similar concept.

As a devoted gaming enthusiast, I recently shared with Bloomberg my perspective about the upcoming Nintendo console: I don’t believe it will replicate the phenomenal success we’ve witnessed with the Nintendo Switch.

In simpler terms, Zhai stated that he doubts the upcoming console will match the success of the Switch. He also mentioned that Macquarie has changed their assessment on Nintendo’s stocks from positive to neutral, suggesting they might sell some shares after the announcement.

Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs analyst Minami Munakata expressed that it’s unlikely the next Nintendo hardware will expand the market size for Nintendo. Yet, they’ve left room for flexibility in their prediction, stating that their forecast might alter if the system is found to be a revolutionary type of hardware rather than just an upgraded version similar to the Nintendo Switch.

A less popular console than the previous one, such as the Nintendo Switch, doesn’t always signal a complete misfortune for Nintendo. The Switch has indeed been a phenomenal success in terms of hardware and software sales, especially when compared to the underperforming Wii U.

By September 2024, Circana analyst Mat Piscatella predicted that the upcoming Nintendo console could potentially revolutionize or significantly impact the video game sector.

He mentioned to GI.biz that two key factors could shape the future: the upcoming Nintendo hardware, projected for release next year, which might drastically change the market landscape. Since specifics about this device are scarce beyond rumors, it’s hard to say for certain. However, if a new Nintendo device proves successful, it could potentially lead to price decreases in other devices. We’ll just have to be patient and find out.

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2025-01-09 00:10