After much anticipation, Nintendo finally unveiled the Switch 2 and set the release date for 2025. The announcement follows a long string of leaks that have been posted on social media over the last few months. Let’s examine the actual features of this new gaming system and compare them to the leaks.
The big news
While Nintendo announced that the Switch 2 would be released this year and let us finally get a look at its new larger size, improved graphics, Joy-Cons, and kickstand, they remained tight-lipped about the hard numbers that include the exact release date, screen size, processing speed, and price.
The lack of a price disclosure could be due to Nintendo waiting to see the effects of possible tariffs imposed by President-elect Donald Trump. These tariffs might have a particularly strong impact on electronics, including gaming systems, and could raise the price significantly.
The release date will also likely be later in the year, as Nintendo announced a series of Nintendo Switch 2 Experience Events that will take place at many locations around the world. These events will showcase Switch 2 and allow gamers to try it before it is officially released. Since these events run until at least June 1, the system won’t likely hit the shelves before then.
Comparison of official reveal and early leaks
Display and kickstand
Leaked information
Reports suggested a larger 8-inch screen, an upgraded kickstand, and magnetic Joy-Con attachments.
Official reveal
The Switch 2 features a larger display and a redesigned U-shaped kickstand, confirming the leaks.
Joy-Con controllers
Leaked information
Rumors stated that the new Joy-Con controllers would have magnetic attachments and Hall-effect joysticks to prevent drift issues.
Official reveal
The new Joy-Con controllers attach magnetically and include design enhancements aligning with the leaked details.
Docking and performance
Leaked information
Many leaks speculated about dual USB-C ports and enhanced performance when docked, potentially supporting 4K output.
Official reveal
The official announcement confirms a new dock design, but Nintendo will release the actual performance details at a future date.
Backward compatibility
Leaked information
Leaks suggested that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be backward compatible with gaming titles from the previous system.
Official reveal
Nintendo confirms that the Switch 2 will be compatible with most Nintendo Switch games. However, some games may not be compatible, but we’ll have to wait for the list.
Overall, the leaked information seems to have been largely correct, but there are still plenty of details to come out. Nintendo fans can get more information during the Nintendo Direct event that occurs on April 2, when we are likely to get hard numbers about the processing speed, etc., and we might even get a release date and price.
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