After a highly successful run with the Nintendo Switch, which sold over 140 million units and more than 1 billion games, Nintendo is gearing up to announce its next console, widely speculated to be the Switch 2. As anticipation builds, here’s a roundup of what we know and what’s being speculated about this upcoming hardware.

When Will the Switch 2 Be Announced?

As of now, the official announcement for the Switch 2 is expected during Nintendo’s current fiscal year, which ends in March 2025. This news was confirmed by Nintendo’s president, Shuntaro Furukawa, during a recent Q&A session. While there was hope for a reveal during the June Nintendo Direct, Nintendo clarified that the event would not feature any news about the Switch 2.

Given that the original Switch launched in March 2017, some analysts speculate that the Switch 2 might follow a similar release window. However, earlier rumors, including a suggested September 2024 release, have been met with skepticism. Recent reports even hinted that Nintendo might delay the console’s launch to 2025, which led to a drop in the company’s stock price.

Switch 2 Potential Specs and Features

The biggest unknown about the Switch 2 revolves around its specs. While former Nintendo employees predict that the new console will maintain the hybrid handheld/TV-dockable form factor, there are still many questions. Reports suggest that the Switch 2 could feature Nvidia’s custom T239 processor, allowing it to run modern games at 1080p with improved performance.

The next Nintendo console could launch in 2024

Speculation also hints at the console using Joy-Con controllers with a magnetic attachment system, which might be backward compatible with current accessories. However, it’s unclear whether the Switch 2 will support 4K resolution or offer other cutting-edge features like those seen in rival consoles.

On the Broken Silicon podcast, it was suggested that the Switch 2 might be “clocked faster than we expect” when docked, offering improved performance, while being “clocked crazy low” in handheld mode to extend battery life. This approach could be key in addressing one of the original Switch’s limitations.

Games and Backward Compatibility

One of the biggest questions surrounding the Switch 2 is whether it will support games from the original Switch. While Nintendo has not confirmed this, their emphasis on the Nintendo Account system carrying over to the next console hints at potential backward compatibility, especially for digital games. There are even rumors that the Switch 2 could support physical Switch cartridges, though new cartridges may not be compatible with the original Switch.

As for launch titles, a new Mario Kart game is widely expected, potentially with a “new twist” that could make it a flagship title for the Switch 2. Reports from 2023 suggest that several developers are already working on games for the new system, though no specific titles have been confirmed.

Pricing and Market Impact

Pricing for the Switch 2 remains speculative, but one analyst has predicted a $400 price point for the console, with top-tier games selling for $70. This would align with recent trends, as seen with Tears of the Kingdom selling at $70. The original Switch launched at $300, and its affordability was a key factor in its success. Whether the Switch 2 will follow this pricing strategy or introduce multiple SKUs at different price points is yet to be seen.

Industry analysts are divided on how successful the Switch 2 will be compared to its predecessor. While the Switch set a high bar with its commercial success, some analysts believe that matching or exceeding that performance could be challenging. However, a strong launch lineup and continued innovation could help Nintendo maintain its momentum in the gaming market.

Nintendo’s Strategy Moving Forward

Nintendo is being cautious with the announcement of the Switch 2, aiming to balance the promotion of new hardware with maintaining strong sales for the current Switch. Furukawa has mentioned that while the successor to the Switch is in development, the company’s goal is to “surprise and delight” fans with the new system, just as they did with the original Switch.

As we await more information, the gaming community remains eager to see what Nintendo has in store with the Switch 2. Whether it’s a direct successor or a new concept entirely, the next Nintendo console is sure to be one of the most anticipated hardware launches in the coming years.

Final Thoughts

The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a highly anticipated follow-up to one of the most successful consoles of all time. While many details remain under wraps, the information we have so far suggests that Nintendo is once again aiming to innovate and capture the imagination of gamers worldwide. Keep an eye on this space as more details emerge about Nintendo’s next big move in the gaming world.

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