Nintendo Switch 2 Unveiled: Release Date, Price, and More Revealed

The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct provided a wealth of exciting updates and features for the upcoming console. In this article, we've distilled the key points about the Nintendo Switch 2 and its innovative GameChat feature. Let's dive into the details.

The Console

1. Release Date: Mark your calendars! The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch on June 5th, 2025.

2. Pre-Order Dates: Pre-orders begin on April 8th in the UK and Europe, and April 9th in the US.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

22 Images3. Screen Size: The Switch 2 boasts a larger 7.9-inch screen, a significant upgrade from the original's 6.2 inches.

4. Display Quality: The console features a 1080p LCD screen with double the pixels of its predecessor, supporting HDR and 120fps for a smoother gaming experience.

5. 4K Support: When docked and connected to a compatible TV via HDMI, the Switch 2 can deliver 4K resolution. The new dock also includes a built-in fan for better cooling.

6. Storage: With a robust 256GB of internal storage, the Switch 2 offers eight times the space of the original console.

7. Expandable Storage: For additional storage, the Switch 2 uses MicroSD Express cards, incompatible with the original Switch's microSD cards.

8. Game Cards: The new game cards are red, with faster reading speeds than the grey cards of the original Switch.

9. Audio Enhancements: The Switch 2's audio capabilities have been upgraded, featuring better quality speakers and 3D audio when using headphones, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

10. Built-in Microphone: A top-mounted microphone enhances communication, particularly useful for the new GameChat feature.

11. **USB-C Ports**: The console includes two USB-C ports—one on the bottom, similar to the original, and a new one on top for easier charging in tabletop mode and compatibility with the Nintendo Switch Camera 2 accessory.

12. Nintendo Switch Camera 2: Launching alongside the console for $49.99/£49.99, this accessory lets you integrate your face into games like Mario Party Jamboree or overlay it during multiplayer sessions.

13. Joy-Con Enhancements: The Switch 2's Joy-Con controllers connect magnetically via larger, metallic SL and SR buttons and feature bigger analog sticks.

14. Joy-Con as Mouse: The Joy-Con can also function as a mouse, enhancing gameplay in titles like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Civilization 7.

15. New Pro Controller: A new Pro Controller with programmable GL and GR buttons will be available for $79.99/£74.99.

16. Accessories: Other accessories include Mario Kart steering wheels, a Switch 2 carry case, and an "all-in-one" carry case for TV mode, which can store the console, dock, Joy-Con 2 controllers, cables, and up to six game cards.

What Do You Think of the $449.99 Nintendo Switch 2 Price? ---------------------------------------------------------

Too expensiveCheaper than I was expectingAbout rightSomething else (let us know in the comments!)

AnswerSee Results17. Amiibo Compatibility: Amiibo figures are compatible with the Switch 2, with new Street Fighter Amiibo (Luke, Jamie, and Kimberly) launching at the console's debut.

18. Standard Edition: Priced at $449.99/£395.99, the standard edition includes the console, Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R), Joy-Con 2 Grip, Joy-Con 2 Straps, Nintendo Switch 2 Dock, Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable, Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter, and a USB-C Charging Cable.

19. Mario Kart World Bundle: Available at launch for $499.99/£429.99, this bundle includes everything in the standard edition plus a copy of Mario Kart.

GameChat

20. C Button Mystery Solved: The C button activates GameChat, a new party voice channel system that facilitates communication among players.

21. **Microphone Quality**: The top-mounted microphone is designed to capture voices clearly, even amidst background noise.

22. Screen Sharing: GameChat allows screen sharing, similar to PlayStation's feature, enabling players to see and assist each other with gameplay challenges.

23. Nintendo Online Membership: While GameChat will be free for all Switch 2 owners until March 31st, 2026, a Nintendo Online membership will be required thereafter.

These are the essential updates from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct. Are you excited about the upcoming release? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned to IGN for more on the Nintendo Switch 2.