With powerful new hardware, reimagined online capabilities and a broad range of games, Nintendo’s next-generation console arrives 5th June 2025.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is almost here, bringing with it some significant upgrades that I’ve been eagerly anticipating. Set to launch on 5th June 2025 for AU$699.95, this next-generation console introduces several innovations while building upon what made the original Switch so popular.
Having spent years with my original Switch (check my review here), I’m particularly excited about the reimagined Joy-Con 2 controllers, which now feature magnetic connectors for easier attachment and can actually function as a mouse in compatible games. This could be a game-changer for certain genres that traditionally work better with mouse controls. The larger 7.9-inch screen (while maintaining the same thickness as the original) should also provide a more immersive handheld experience with its full HD 1080p display.
New Social Features Connect Players Like Never Before
Perhaps the most significant addition is GameChat, which aims to bridge the gap between online and local multiplayer experiences. This feature allows up to 12 players to voice chat while gaming together, making it feel like everyone is in the same room regardless of physical distance. The console’s built-in microphone handles voice chat, and players can even share their screens with up to four friends.
For those wanting the full social experience, connecting a compatible USB-C camera (like the separately sold Nintendo Switch 2 camera) enables video chat, letting you see your friends’ reactions in real-time as you play together. This feels like Nintendo’s answer to the party chat systems that have been standard on other platforms for years, but with typical Nintendo flair.
GameChat will be free to use without a Nintendo Switch Online membership until March 2026, after which a subscription will be required. Safety features include reporting capabilities, and parental controls require guardian approval for children under 16.
It looks to be a solid design and well-thought of, both for younger kids and adults alike.
Technical Upgrades That Matter
The technical improvements in the Switch 2 are substantial:
- Significantly improved CPU and GPU performance over the original Switch
- 256GB internal storage (8x the original Switch)
- Support for microSD Express cards for faster data reading
- Enhanced audio quality with spatial 3D sound
- TV output at up to 4K resolution and 120fps (via compatible games and TVs)
- A freely adjustable kickstand and additional USB-C port on top of the console
While Nintendo hasn’t disclosed the exact specs of the processor, the improvements promise faster loading times and more detailed graphics. Anyone who’s experienced long loading screens or frame rate drops on the original Switch will appreciate these upgrades.
Backwards Compatibility and New Game Sharing Features
In welcome news for existing Switch owners, the new console will play “compatible physical and digital games released on Nintendo Switch,” though Nintendo notes some titles may not be fully supported. Original Joy-Con controllers and peripherals like the Pro Controller will also work with the Switch 2 via wireless connection.
Two innovative new features stand out: GameShare and virtual game cards. GameShare allows multiple people to play the same game together even if only one person owns it, working via local play between Switch 2 and original Switch consoles. Between Switch 2 consoles, GameShare can even be used alongside GameChat for online play.
Virtual game cards make digital game management more intuitive, showing all purchased digital games with your Nintendo Account in an easy-to-access menu. Games can be played offline once loaded onto a console, and even lent or borrowed among family members sharing the same Nintendo Account.
Launch Games and Enhanced Titles
The Switch 2 will launch with games that showcase its new capabilities, including:
- Mario Kart World – A brand-new experience with 24-driver races and a vast interconnected environment (who doesn’t love Mario Kart 8 Deluxe? Check my review here as well)
- Donkey Kong Bananza – A 3D platforming action adventure exclusive to Switch 2 (arriving 17th July)
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild/Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Editions – Featuring performance upgrades and the new ZELDA NOTES app integration
Existing Switch games are getting paid “Nintendo Switch 2 Edition” upgrade packs with enhanced graphics and new content, including:
- Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV (24th July)
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World (28th August)
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Coming to both Switch and Switch 2, with enhanced visuals and optional Joy-Con 2 mouse controls
Third-party support looks strong, with titles like The Duskbloods (a FromSoftware exclusive), EA SPORTS Madden NFL, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE, Street Fighter 6, and Borderlands 4 all confirmed for the platform. So looks like the processing and graphical powers for Nintendo Switch 2 are indeed quite powerful to be able to play these games.
My Thoughts
Having followed Nintendo’s console releases for decades, the Switch 2 seems to address many of the limitations of the original while expanding on what made it special. The improved processing power should help the console compete more effectively with mobile devices that have steadily outpaced the original Switch’s capabilities.
Nintendo Switch 2 feels like a serious console for serious console gamers (like Xbox and PS players). However, it looks like it’s still a family-friendly console with family-friendly games (with extra serious games on top) so only time will tell where the direction is going.
The social features are particularly interesting, as Nintendo has traditionally lagged behind competitors in online functionality. GameChat could potentially transform how Nintendo games are played online, bringing the company’s multiplayer experiences closer to what players expect on other platforms. More fun, why not?
For existing Switch owners contemplating an upgrade, the backwards compatibility and ability to enhance certain titles with paid upgrades should make the transition smoother than previous console generations.
Pricing and Availability
For those looking to jump right in, the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle will be available at launch for AU$769.95. The standard package includes the console, Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R), Joy-Con 2 Grip, Joy-Con 2 Straps, Nintendo Switch 2 Dock, HDMI cable, AC adapter, and USB-C charging cable. Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on 5th June 2025 for AU$699.95.
Check out Nintendo’s live presentation on Nintendo Switch 2 here.
