Nintendo has shared the first images of the Nintendo Switch 2 in a video posted on YouTube. The successor to the widely popular gaming console will simply be called the Switch 2. As the name suggests, it shares the same design philosophy with a modular form factor.
Right out of the gate, the video shows the main difference with the Switch – the Switch 2 will be a bigger console with a bigger screen. There is still a significant bezel around the screen.
The Joy-Con controllers also get a huge update. Due to the larger screen size, they are also larger and feature a more rounded design. They attach magnetically to the sides of the tablet.
Nintendo is going for a less colorful design with this new console. This time around, the Switch 2 is almost entirely black with some pops of color under the controller sticks and on top of the Joy-Cons.
The console will be able to connect so you can play on your TV as well. In this case, you can detach the controllers and use them as two separate controllers or snap them into a separate controller grip.
And if you’re gaming on the go, the kickstand on the back of the device has been redesigned. It seems much sturdier than the kickstand on the original Switch. There’s also a new USB-C port on the top of the device — this is a better location if you want to charge and play at the same time when using the Switch 2 as a portable device.
Nintendo Switch owners will be happy to hear that Nintendo Switch 2 will support original Switch games. There will be a physical cartridge slot on the top of the device. Digital games originally designed for the Switch will also work on the new console.
The only game shown in the video is a Mario Kart game. It looks like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, but it’s unclear if it’s just the existing Nintendo Switch game or a brand new Mario Kart game.
The most significant difference with the Nintendo Switch will be inside the device. The company will likely upgrade internals so that the console can support more demanding games. But we’ll have to wait to learn more on that front.
Details are still scarce on price and availability as well. The company plans to share more details in a Nintendo Direct livestream video on April 2, 2025. So, it looks like the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 is still months away.
