The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct just aired and there was a lot of information to go through. It will be launching on June 5, 2025, so players won’t have long to wait. With a price point of $449.99 for the base and $499.99 for the bundle, things are looking good! Here’s a quick guide of some of the highlights!
The Switch 2 is Almost Here!
Nintendo has finally unveiled the next evolution of their beloved hybrid console, the Switch 2, and it’s packed with exciting new features, hardware improvements, and a stacked lineup of games. From upgraded system specs to innovative peripherals and online enhancements, there’s a lot to dive into. Let’s break down the biggest highlights from today’s reveal!
Switch 2 Hardware & Specs
The Switch 2 is sporting a larger 7.9-inch LCD screen with a 1080p resolution and support for up to 120 frames per second in handheld mode. Docked mode gets an even bigger boost, allowing games to run at up to 4K resolution with HDR support for more vibrant visuals. Enhanced speakers provide clearer audio, and a built-in microphone with noise cancellation makes chatting with friends seamless, even in noisy environments.
Nintendo has also refined the kickstand, giving it a wider range of motion for more flexible tabletop gaming. The console now features two USB-C ports—one on the top and one on the bottom—offering greater versatility for charging and accessories.
Storage-wise, the Switch 2 starts with 256GB of internal storage, but expansion options are available. However, there’s a catch—only MicroSD Express Cards are compatible, meaning older MicroSD cards won’t work with the system.
With a bigger screen and clearer display, the Switch 2 should look beautiful.
New Features and Accessories
Joy-Con 2 & The Mystery C Button
The Joy-Con 2 controllers bring a host of upgrades, including a magnetic attachment system for easier docking and improved HD rumble sensitivity for more immersive gameplay. However, the biggest mystery from early leaks—the C Button—has finally been revealed!
Introducing GameChat & Switch 2 Camera
The C Button opens up GameChat, a brand-new feature that allows up to four players to join a live, Zoom-like video chat while playing. The game takes center stage at the top of the screen, with video feeds of friends appearing below. And here’s the kicker—you don’t even have to be playing the same game!
To enhance this experience, Nintendo is also launching the Switch 2 Camera, a separate accessory that lets players broadcast themselves during multiplayer sessions. This camera won’t just be for chatting—it will also have integrated gameplay features for certain titles.
GameChat will require a Nintendo Switch Online membership, but Nintendo is offering a free open access period until March 2026 for players to test it out.
GameChat seems reminiscent of a Zoom Call. We’ll see how it pans out.
Another exciting feature making a comeback is GameShare. Similar to the beloved DS Download Play, this function allows friends to play select games together even if only one person owns the title. GameShare will support both local and online play, and Nintendo has confirmed that Clubhouse Games 51 will be the first title to receive a GameShare-compatible update.
Online and Upgrades and the GameCube Library
Nintendo Switch Online is expanding in a major way for the Switch 2, with the addition of a much-requested GameCube game library.
At launch, the GameCube classics available will include:
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The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
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Soul Calibur 2 (yes, the one with Link!)
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F-Zero GX
Multiplayer-supported titles will feature both local and online play, with up to four players supported.
Yes, of course they’re selling a GameCube controller, too!
Switch 2 Enhanced Editions & Upgrade Packs
Nintendo Switch Online is getting some exclusives for Switch 2, including the much wished for GameCube library. Opening titles will include Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Soul Calibur 2 (the one with Link!), and F-Zero GX. Titles that support multiplayer will have it both local and online, up to four players. Expect this on launch day!
Nintendo also confirmed that several existing Switch titles will be receiving Switch 2 Enhanced Editions. Players who already own these games on the original Switch can purchase Upgrade Packs to transfer them over to the new console, unlocking better graphics, improved sound, and new gameplay enhancements.
The first confirmed Enhanced Edition is Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV – launching July 24, 2025, featuring new game modes and Joy-Con 2 mouse support.
Other games to get the Upgrade pass include Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, Kirby and the Forgotten Land, Pokémon Legends ZA, and Metroid Prime 4 Beyond.
The Switch 2 Updates look like they could offer fun upgrades.
Game Launches and Dates
They dropped a ton of games on us, but here is a brief listing of what’s coming and when! Keep your eyes peeled for a deeper list later.
- Mario Kart World – Launch Day
- Elden Ring Tarnished Edition – 2025
- Street Fighter 6 – Launch Day
- Hades II – 2025
- Split Fiction – Launch Day
- DeltaRune Chapters 1+2+3+4 – Launch Day
- Final Fantasy Remake Intergrade – TBA
- Kirby Air Riders – 2025
- Cyberpunk 2077 Ultimate Edition – Launch Day
- Donkey Kong Bananza – 7/17/2025
- And yes… Silksong – 2025
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- Fighter fans should be pumped for Street Fighter 6.
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- Mario Party Jamboree is getting some exciting updates for Switch 2!
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- Yes… it’s coming.
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- Yes, Elden Ring fans. It’s here, too.
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- Johnny Silverhand is coming to Switch 2 with Cyberpunk 2077.
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- Looks like they’re taking influence from the Mario Bros. Movie for DK’s look.
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- New chapters for Deltarune! Let’s go!
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- Mario Kart World looks to have lots of tricks up its sleeve.
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- Intergrade was too intense to play on the PS4, so I’m curious how the Switch 2 will handle it.
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- It’s been a long time for fans, but Air Riders rides again!
More information can be found at the official Nintendo Switch 2 website.
