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Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Appear Early at Retailer Argos
After months of anticipation and intense speculation, the Nintendo Switch 2 has been officially announced by the Japanese gaming giant, confirming a retail release slated for June. While the official launch remains a few months away, eager consumers will have the opportunity to pre-order the highly anticipated console starting April 8. However, for those unable to wait, retailer Argos has seemingly jumped the gun.
Argos Lists Nintendo Switch 2 for Pre-Order
The retailer has unexpectedly published a pre-order page on its website, allowing prospective Nintendo Switch 2 owners to add the console to their online shopping carts ahead of Nintendo’s designated release schedule.
Two distinct options are currently listed: the standalone Nintendo Switch 2 Console Black, priced at £395.99, and the Nintendo Switch 2 Console and Mario World Bundle, available for £429.99. As indicated, the bundle includes the new Mario game alongside the console.
The reason for Argos offering pre-orders ahead of the official schedule is currently unknown, as is the retailer’s stock allocation. The pre-order listings can be accessed here.
Nintendo Switch 2: Display and Performance Enhancements
The Nintendo Switch 2 is confirmed to be launching in stores on June 5, featuring a larger 7.9-inch vivid LCD screen designed to deliver sharp visuals while gaming on the go.
This expanded display will support impressive 1080p resolution and offer smoother 120fps refresh rates for enhanced gameplay fluidity. Furthermore, the console is expected to output 4K resolution when docked and connected to a television.
The device will include redesigned Joy-Con 2 controllers, now magnetically attached to the console. These controllers incorporate advanced sensors, introducing innovative methods for interacting with games.
Improved Controllers and Design Features
The enhanced Joy-Con controllers also boast improved button responsiveness and larger analogue sticks. A new “C” button is integrated, providing instant access to in-game chat with friends via a built-in microphone.
Users will also have the option to purchase a separate Switch 2 camera accessory.
A redesigned kickstand on the console’s rear offers improved viewing angles. Despite the larger screen size, Nintendo asserts that the Switch 2 maintains the original model’s thickness, ensuring continued portability.
Internal storage has been significantly increased to 256GB, a substantial upgrade from the original Nintendo Switch‘s 32GB, providing ample space for game storage.
Nintendo Switch 2 Launch Titles Revealed
Concurrent with the full unveiling of the new console, Nintendo has announced the initial lineup of games that will be available at launch.
The headline launch title revealed during the recent Nintendo Direct presentation was Mario Kart World, an all-new racing game featuring the iconic Mario and familiar characters. This iteration allows players to traverse varied global locations in races.
While retaining traditional race tracks, Mario Kart World introduces greater freedom both during and outside races, enabling exploration across diverse terrains using vehicles ranging from cars and motorcycles to boats, snowmobiles, and planes.
Additionally, a Nintendo version of the action game Cyberpunk 2077, previously popular on PS5, is slated to be available at launch.
A new Donkey Kong 3D title, titled Banaza, was also showcased, appearing visually vibrant and engaging.
Expanding Game Library
Other titles confirmed for the Nintendo Switch 2 include popular games such as Elden Ring, Hades 2, Split Fiction, and the fighting game Street Fighter 6.
“Nintendo Switch 2 represents the next evolution in hybrid gaming, building upon eight years of innovation and player experience initiated with the original Nintendo Switch,” stated Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa.