Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
In a highly anticipated announcement during the April 2 Direct presentation, Nintendo officially confirmed the Nintendo Switch 2 release date and unveiled a host of exciting details about the upcoming console. Gamers eager for the next generation device received a comprehensive overview of features, including the new Mario Kart World, enhanced Joy-Con controllers, and confirmation of backwards compatibility, setting the stage for the Nintendo Switch 2 launch.
Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date Confirmed
Echoing previous speculation, Nintendo declared that the Nintendo Switch 2 will launch on June 5. Details regarding pre-orders are expected to be shared imminently. Fans were invited to watch the full Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation online.
Mario Kart World Unveiled with Open-World Elements
The presentation commenced with a detailed look at Mario Kart World, the latest iteration in the popular racing franchise, initially teased during the Nintendo Switch 2’s initial reveal in January.
Expansive Free Roam Mode
Mario Kart World introduces innovative open-world gameplay, featuring diverse regions for players to explore. Beyond the traditional Grand Prix mode with structured courses, the game offers a “Free Roam” mode, enabling players to drive between races, discover hidden secrets, and capture photos with friends.
Multiplayer Support and Dedicated Direct
Launching alongside the Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo verified that Mario Kart World will support up to 24 players in multiplayer races. A dedicated Mario Kart World Direct is scheduled for April 17 to reveal further specifics.
Enhanced Joy-Con Controllers and Communication Features
The redesigned Joy-Con controllers were a key highlight, particularly the introduction of a new “C Button” designed to enhance player interaction.
Integrated Chat Functionality
The “C Button” facilitates in-game communication with friends while playing Nintendo Switch 2 titles, functioning in both handheld and docked modes. Players can also share their screens and access a comprehensive chat interface by pressing the “C Button.”
Optional Camera and Nintendo Switch Online Requirement
A separate Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, sold independently, can be utilized to display players on screen during gameplay and chat sessions. Access to the chat function requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. Notably, Nintendo Switch 2 users will receive complimentary Nintendo Switch Online access until March 26, 2026.
Console Specifications and Features
The presentation detailed several key specifications and features of the Nintendo Switch 2 console itself.
Improved Display and Performance
The console boasts a larger 7.9-inch screen with HDR support, delivering gameplay at up to 120 frames per second. Joy-Cons attach magnetically for enhanced stability, and feature enlarged buttons and sticks. Confirming earlier reports, the Joy-Cons can also function as a mouse in compatible games.
Enhanced Resolution and Storage
4K resolution support in docked mode and HDR capabilities were confirmed, alongside an upgraded 256GB of internal storage.
Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour
Drawing inspiration from Sony’s Astro Bot, the Nintendo Switch 2 will launch with a paid title, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, created to showcase the console’s capabilities.
Game Compatibility Details: Switch 2, Backwards Compatibility, and Enhanced Editions
Nintendo clarified the game compatibility landscape for the Nintendo Switch 2, outlining three distinct categories.
Dedicated Switch 2 Games and Backwards Compatibility
The console will support games exclusively designed for Nintendo Switch 2, as well as offering backwards compatibility with original Nintendo Switch titles. In addition, “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition” games will be available—enhanced versions of existing games with improved visuals and bonus content.
Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Examples
Super Mario Party Jamboree Switch 2 Edition, featuring mouse controls and audio recognition, is slated for release on July 24. Existing owners will have the option to purchase an upgrade. Titles such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokemon Legends: Z-A will also receive Switch 2 Editions, incorporating new control schemes and game modes. Enhanced editions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom are also planned.
New IP and Third-Party Support
A new title, Drag X Drive, a multiplayer sports game with mouse control support, was announced. The console will also feature robust third-party support, with anticipated titles including Elden Ring, Hades 2, and Street Fighter 6, the latter launching with new amiibo figures, game modes, and DLC.
Launch Titles and Upcoming Game Releases
Nintendo detailed a range of launch titles and upcoming releases for the Nintendo Switch 2.
Day-One and Launch Window Titles
A sequel to Daemon x Machina will arrive on September 5, while Split Fiction is confirmed as a day-one release on June 5. EA Sports titles like EA FC 25 and the latest Madden will be available, alongside an enhanced edition of Hogwarts Legacy with mouse controls, also launching on June 5. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 is expected this summer, with Hitman World of Assassination and a new 007 game as day-one releases. Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster and Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut were also announced for launch.
Hyrule Warriors and Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack
Rumors of a new Zelda title proved accurate with the announcement of Hyrule Warriors Age of Imprisonment for a winter release. Nintendo Switch Online subscribers will gain access to an exclusive Switch 2 + Expansion Pack library, featuring Gamecube releases like Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, SoulCalibur 2, and F-Zero GX with enhanced visuals and new control options. Further titles, including Luigi’s Mansion, will be added later. The Gamecube library will launch alongside the Switch 2 in June.
Further Third-Party Titles and Surprises
The presentation showcased additional third-party support, confirming plans to release Borderlands 4, Civ 7, NBA 2K25, and WWE 2K25 for the new console.
Extensive Game Library
This is in addition to titles such as Deltarune Ch 1-4, Cyberpunk 2077, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Survival Kids, Enter the Gungeon 2, Fortnite, Wild Hearts, Ridge Racer, Starseeker, and Human Fall Flat 2.
Hollow Knight Silksong and New FromSoftware Title
Hollow Knight Silksong is also planned for Switch 2 with a 2025 release window. In a surprise reveal, a brand-new game from FromSoftware, titled The Duskbloods, was announced as a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, slated for release in 2026.