Nintendo’s long-awaited Switch 2 has officially arrived, launching globally on June 5, 2025. Eight years after the original Switch redefined hybrid gaming, the Switch 2 builds on its predecessor’s strengths while introducing major hardware and software upgrades. Here’s a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know on launch day from specs and pricing to launch games, new features, and what sets this console apart.
Design and Hardware Upgrades
The Nintendo Switch 2 retains the beloved hybrid concept: it works as a portable handheld, a tabletop device, or a home console when docked to a TV. The new model features a sleeker design with a larger 7.9-inch LCD touchscreen, now boasting a full 1080p resolution (double that of the original Switch) and a 120Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth gameplay in handheld or tabletop mode. When docked, the Switch 2 can output up to 4K resolution at 60Hz, making it Nintendo’s sharpest console yet.
nside, the Switch 2 is powered by a custom Nvidia processor and GPU, enabling advanced graphics features such as ray tracing and upscaling for more lifelike visuals. Storage has been significantly increased to 256GB (expandable via microSD Express cards up to 1TB), and the system now supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth for faster, more stable connections. The battery is rated for 2 to 6.5 hours of play, depending on usage, and recharges in about three hours.
Joy-Con 2 and Controllers
The detachable Joy-Con controllers return with notable improvements. The new Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically and feature enhanced ergonomics, improved motion controls, and a dedicated “C” button for instant chat access. An optical sensor allows the controller to function like a computer mouse on flat surfaces, a boon for games requiring precision aiming such as Fortnite and Metroid.
A built-in microphone enables voice chat, and Nintendo is offering an optional $69.95au camera accessory for video streaming and sharing gameplay with friends. The Joy-Con 2 controllers are available separately at $139.95 per pair, with a Pro Controller priced at $119.95.
Backward Compatibility and Enhanced Games
One of the Switch 2’s biggest selling points is its full backward compatibility with original Switch games. Many existing titles will receive free or paid updates to take advantage of the new hardware, offering enhanced graphics, faster load times, and improved performance. This ensures that your existing Switch library remains relevant and even better on the new console.
Nintendo Switch Online and GameCube Classics
Nintendo Switch Online remains essential for multiplayer gaming and access to a growing library of classic titles. The Switch 2 introduces exclusive support for Nintendo GameCube games via the Expansion Pack tier, with launch titles including The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soul Calibur II. The Nintendo 64 Classics app also receives upgrades, such as a new CRT filter and button remapping.
Launch Day Games and Software
The Switch 2 launches with a robust lineup of first- and third-party titles. Headlining the release is Mario Kart World, an ambitious new entry with a vast interconnected world, new modes like Knockout Tour, and free-roam exploration. Other launch games include enhanced editions of popular Switch titles and a variety of new releases, with more games arriving throughout June and beyond.
Notably, the improved hardware allows for ports of previously demanding games such as Cyberpunk 2077, widening the console’s appeal to both Nintendo loyalists and fans of multi-platform titles.
Social Features and GameChat
Nintendo has overhauled its social features with the new GameChat function, accessible via the “C” button or a dedicated app. GameChat allows for voice and video chat, screen sharing, and even webcam integration, making it easier than ever to connect with friends while gaming. The Nintendo Today! app for iOS and Android acts as a news and calendar hub, delivering updates on games, events, and Switch 2 services.
Pricing and Availability
The Switch 2 is RRP at $699au about 50% higher than the original Switch at launch. Games are also more expensive, with some titles up to 33% pricier than their predecessors. Despite the higher cost, demand has been intense, preorders sold out quickly. Nintendo has taken steps to limit scalping and ensure wider availability, but supply may still be tight in the opening weeks. There’s a lot of talk about how expensive the games are, Mario Kart for example has an RRP of $119. While yes it is more than you would normally pay for a game but everything is more expensive at them moment, have you seen to price of tomatoes? To be fair if I was going to pay that much for any title it would be a Mario Kart game, the hours per dollar ratio would be well worth it.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 represents a significant evolution of Nintendo’s hybrid console vision, blending familiar versatility with modern hardware and social features. With a good but not mind blowing launch day selection of games its good to know there are more being rolled out over the next few months. But with the backward compatibility, and a focus on community, the Switch 2 is presenting enough of a case for an upgrade from your old system. If you’re hoping to roll in and pick one up today without a pre-order, good luck, the images surfaced yesterday of Nintendo delivering the “Sold Out / Preorder the next round” posters before the consoles even hit stores.
