It has been six years since the initial launch of the Nintendo Switch back in 2017. With a remarkable and enduring success story, many are now curious about Nintendo’s next hardware innovation. While we’ve witnessed incremental updates in the form of the OLED and Lite models for the existing Switch, the details regarding Nintendo’s forthcoming next-generation offering remain shrouded in secrecy.
Having recently secured its place as the third best-selling console in history, it’s understandable that Nintendo may be playing its cards close to the chest. Nonetheless, despite the veil of secrecy surrounding the potential new Nintendo Switch, we have diligently gathered all available information about this enigmatic successor. This compilation aims to provide insight into what lies ahead before the official announcement and eventual release.
Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date
Despite the absence of an official announcement from Nintendo regarding a successor to their immensely popular Nintendo Switch console, there has been a growing buzz surrounding the potential revelation of a new product.
Recent court documents related to the Activision Blizzard acquisition have unveiled that Nintendo shared information about the “Switch 2” with Activision towards the end of 2022. While parts of the email exchange remain confidential, the mention of “NG Switch” has piqued curiosity. Notably, Activision’s Brad Smith has confirmed a 10-year deal to bring Call of Duty to the Switch, promising simultaneous releases with Xbox and feature parity.
Nintendo’s President, Shuntaro Furukawa, affirmed in an interview with Nikkei, as translated by VGC, that Nintendo plans to support the current-gen Switch until at least March 2025. This commitment aligns with Furukawa’s earlier statements in a 2022 financial briefing Q&A, where he emphasized building long-term relationships with consumers through Nintendo Accounts, releasing new Switch software, and extending IP experiences beyond gaming.
During Gamescom 2023, Eurogamer reported that a demonstration of the Nintendo Switch 2 took place, showcasing an enhanced version of one of the Switch’s most beloved titles, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. While a demo device doesn’t guarantee an imminent consumer product release, it suggests that Nintendo is looking ahead and likely encouraging game developers to prepare for the future.
Despite the tantalizing speculations, it’s prudent not to set overly high expectations for Nintendo’s next console until an official announcement is made. Fingers crossed that the much-anticipated confirmation arrives soon from this renowned Japanese tech giant.
Nintendo Switch 2 Price
As you embark on your Nintendo Switch shopping journey, you’ll find a variety of models available, each with its own price point that can fluctuate significantly depending on the features you seek. When anticipating the potential release of the Switch 2, several factors, including inflation and internal specifications, are expected to influence the launch price of the new console.
While the pricing for this enigmatic device remains uncertain, here is a reference list of the recommended retail prices (RRP) for the current range of Nintendo Switch models:
- Nintendo Switch Lite: $199.99
- Nintendo Switch: $299.99
- Nintendo Switch OLED: $349.99
Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change due to market dynamics and additional features that may be introduced with the Switch 2. As you weigh your options, it’s wise to stay informed and consider your budget and gaming preferences when the next-generation Nintendo Switch is officially unveiled.
Nintendo Switch 2 Models
As you consider the available Nintendo Switch consoles on the market today, you might be wondering how many options will be available when the next iteration is released.
The most recent addition to Nintendo’s lineup, the Nintendo Switch OLED model, boasts an impressive screen and hints at the future of the console. However, a report from VGC suggests that the next-generation Nintendo Switch may opt for an LCD screen instead.
Given the diverse range of Nintendo Switch models released over the console’s multi-year lifespan, it’s reasonable to anticipate the possibility of multiple versions of a potential follow-up to the Nintendo Switch. This approach has been a characteristic feature of Nintendo’s strategy in the past, providing gamers with various options to suit their preferences and needs. As such, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a similar approach taken with the next-generation Nintendo Switch.
Nintendo Switch Design – What Will the Nintendo Switch 2 Look Like?
While information about the appearance of Nintendo’s next-generation console remains scarce, there is a considerable wish list of features from the current-generation Nintendo Switch that gamers would love to see carried over to a potential successor.
According to a report by VGC, development kits for the potential new console have already reached partner studios, and sources suggest the retention of certain features. The report indicates that the new Nintendo Switch could preserve the portability that made its predecessor popular and include a cartridge slot for physical game media.
In May 2023, a patent was filed with the United States Patent Office and later published in September, hinting at a potential redesign of the Joy-Con controllers. This redesign aims to address the well-known Joy-Con drift issue associated with the Nintendo Switch. The patent outlines the use of a magnetic field for controls rather than the plastic circuit boards found in the current generation console.
However, it’s essential to note that patents do not guarantee the direct translation of concepts into future products. Therefore, there is no assurance that the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature updated Joy-Cons, and official word from Nintendo is awaited to confirm any developments in this regard.
Join Pedro Souza on a journey through gaming’s vast realms at howtoplay.blog. A seasoned gamer and insightful author and redactor, Pedro crafts each post as an intimate odyssey into the game’s core, not just teaching how to play, but revealing the artistry and narratives that define our beloved games.
