Everything you could possibly want to know about the Nintendo Switch 2 has just been revealed, thanks to the latest Nintendo Direct!
We’ve got you covered if you’re after details on the console’s features, game lineup, launch date, and (most importantly) how much it’ll cost you. Read on for our full breakdown.
First of all… The Nintendo Switch 2!
Nintendo is giving the Switch 2 a massive hardware upgrade, starting with a larger 7.9-inch LCD screen that displays games in 1080p. For those wanting higher resolution, the new dock will support 4K output and gameplay at up to 120fps—a huge step forward for the hybrid console.
Switch 2 also introduces 256 GB of internal storage (expandable via microSD Express cards), spatial 3D sound, and a snazzy new red look for the physical game cartridges.
What’s New with Joy-Con 2?
Thanks to our first look at Joy-Con 2, we already had a solid idea of what to expect from Nintendo’s next-gen controllers. But, as always, the internet quickly uncovered even more details.
Gone are the slide-on rail attachments (which, let’s be honest, we’ve all panicked over putting on the wrong way at least once). Instead, magnetic slap connectors make attaching Joy-Con 2 simpler and faster than ever.
One of the most intriguing new features seemingly takes inspiration from Lenovo’s Legion Go—the ability to use the Joy-Con 2 as a mouse. Just place the top end of the controller on a flat surface, and suddenly, you’ve got a motion-based pointer for navigating menus or playing games in a whole new way.
And finally, that mystery square button on the right Joy-Con? It’s officially the C Button, designed for GameChat, Nintendo’s new online voice chat feature.
GameChat (What Year is it?)
For decades, Nintendo has struggled to nail built-in voice chat—from the Wii Speak to Splatoon 2’s clunky Splat and Chat—but with GameChat, that finally changes. By simply pressing the C Button, you can instantly enter GameChat and communicate with your teammates.
But that’s not all. GameChat also lets you talk with friends even if you’re playing different games. You can share your screen for co-op help, though, based on the choppy framerate of screen sharing, you might want to skip that feature. Additionally, you can use video chat via an external USB-C camera—more on that soon.
As for pricing, GameChat will be free until March 2026, after which it will be rolled into the Nintendo Switch Online subscription. This is very similar to what Nintendo did with online multiplayer back in 2017.
Release Date, Price and Pre-Orders
Nintendo has officially announced that the Nintendo Switch 2 will launch on June 5, 2025, with a price tag of £395.99. For those looking for an extra deal, a Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle will also be available for £429.99.
If you’re eager to secure your Nintendo Switch 2, you can pre-order from the Official Nintendo Store on April 8, 2025. However, this option is only available to customers who meet specific criteria:
- Has been a Nintendo Switch Online member with at least 12 months of paid service
- Racked up a total of 50 gameplay hours recorded as of April 2, 2025
- Opted in to receive promotional emails and messages from Nintendo
Pre-orders will be prioritised on a first-come, first-served basis, so if you qualify, check your inbox for an invite on May 8, 2025.
Accessories for Your Necessities
Just in case the £395.99 – £429.99 price tag feels a bit too steep for you, Nintendo has a ton of add-ons ready to lighten your wallet, and they’re clearly eager to sell them to you.
First up, for the at-home gamer, the Switch Pro Controller 2 is a must-have at £74.99. This big boy controller features a built-in audio jack, the C Button to jump into GameChat, and two extra customizable back buttons— channeling the vibe of Scuf controllers and the Steam Deck.
Now, speaking of GameChat, if you’re planning to make use of the video chat feature, you can technically use any compatible USB-C camera. But why settle for generic when you can have the official Nintendo Switch 2 Camera? It even comes with its own stand, and it will cost you £49.99.
But wait, there’s even more! Other accessories include:
- Joy-Con 2 Controllers (£89.99)
- 2565GB microSD Express card (£79.99)
- Nintendo GameCube (GCN) Controller (£34.99)
- Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip (£34.99)
- Joy-Con 2 Straps (£12.99)
- Joy-Con 2 Wheels (£19.99)
- Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set (£109.99)
- Carry Case and Screen Protector (£34.99)
- All-in-one Carry Case (£79.99)
- AC Adapter (£29.99)
Mario Kart World Races to Launch Day
The Nintendo Switch 2’s game line-up kicked off with a deeper look at the latest instalment in everyone’s favourite cartoonish racer, Mario Kart World—and it’s launching on June 5, 2025, alongside the console.
Mario Kart World combines traditional tracks with a massive, interconnected world, giving players plenty of freedom to explore. The game features an impressive roster of 24 different racers—the largest yet. Beyond the classic karts, players will see characters using motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, and even planes. The action doesn’t stop there—characters will also be able to perform wild stunts, including grinding on rails, riding on walls, and more. In one particularly exciting moment, a giant MooMoo Meadows cow even joined the race, adding to the chaos and fun.
Two exciting new game modes were introduced:
- Knockout Tour – An elimination-style battle royale mode where you must be the last driver standing while racing across this wide-open world.
- Free Roam – This mode allows players to explore the world at their own pace. You can go off the track, explore hidden routes, or even enjoy a leisurely drive through the countryside. And yes, you can bring your friends along for the ride!
If you’re after more information, there will be another Nintendo Direct targeting Mario Kart World on April 17 at 14:00 (BST).
Release Date: June 5, 2025
Join your group for the Nintendo Switch 2: Welcome Tour
Looking like a quirky and interactive way to get to know your brand-new console, Nintendo Switch 2: Welcome Tour takes players inside the system itself for a fun and informative adventure.
This stylised, Nintendo-flavored answer to Astro’s Playroom will be available to purchase on launch day alongside the Nintendo Switch 2—though let’s be honest, this really should be a free pack-in game.
Release Date: June 5, 2025
Deltarune Chapters 3 + 4 to Launch Alongside Nintendo Switch 2
It’s debatable which fanbase is waiting more eagerly—Nintendo fans or Deltarune fans. As it turns out, Deltarune Chapters 3 + 4 will be released on the same day as the Nintendo Switch 2!
While this is huge news for fans of the series, it’s also worth noting that these new chapters will also launch on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Release Date: June 5, 2025
GameCube Titles are Finally Coming to Nintendo Switch Online
Ever since the original Nintendo Switch launched, there have been whispers about GameCube games making a return. When Nintendo started rolling out classic titles on the Nintendo Switch Online service, it seemed like only a matter of time. Now, the wait is finally coming to an end—but only on the Nintendo Switch 2.
At launch, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-Zero GX, and Soulcalibur II (yes, the one with Link) will be joining the Nintendo Switch Online library. To sweeten the deal, Nintendo is also releasing a brand-new wireless GameCube controller.
Release Date: June 5, 2025
Donkey Kong Bananza Smashes into Summer
When we first got a glimpse of the Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World, sharp-eyed fans quickly noticed that Donkey Kong seemed to have undergone a bit of a transformation. It turns out, this was all in preparation for DK’s upcoming adventure, Donkey Kong Bananza.
Taking inspiration from the style of Super Mario Odyssey, Donkey Kong will now be able to smash his way through a vibrant 3D world, tearing through walls, floors, and enemies alike. And, in a surprising but welcome change, he’s finally rocking a new pair of trousers and suspenders to complement his signature tie, giving the big ape a fresh look for his next big adventure.
Release Date: July 17, 2025
Super Mario Party Jamboree gets its own Switch 2 port
Nintendo’s gift (and occasional curse) to the world of party games continues as Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV makes its way to the Nintendo Switch 2 this summer.
This expanded edition packs in new minigames that take full advantage of the mouse controls, built-in microphone, and Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, offering fresh ways to engage with the chaos. The biggest new addition is Bowser Live, a wild 2v2 game-show-style mode that throws players into the spotlight for some entertaining chaos.
Release Date: July 24, 2025
Drag x Drive puts the Joy-Con 2 Mouse Feature to the Test
If you’ve ever watched Paralympic Basketball and thought, “This could use a little Rocket League energy,” then Drag x Drive might be right up your alley.
This fast-paced, online 3-on-3 game is built around the Nintendo Switch 2’s new mouse controls, letting players use their Joy-Con to manoeuvre their wheelchairs, pull off tricks, shoot, dunk, and dominate the court with style.
Release Date: Summer 2025
Kirby and the Forgotten Land Gets its Mouthfull all over the Switch 2
Kirby’s 3D platforming adventure makes the leap to Nintendo’s next-gen console with Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World.
A mysterious meteor crash-lands in the world of Kirby and the Forgotten Land, unveiling a brand-new story for Kirby. Armed with his classic abilities and new Mouthful Modes, he must navigate uncharted territory in this expanded adventure. The upgrade pack will include this new content, playable in both single-player and local co-op, along with enhanced performance for the entire game.
Release Date: August 28, 2025
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is Another Zelda-themed Musou Game
Koei-Tecmo has announced that they have another official Legend of Zelda musou-style title coming out this year, and it serves as a prequel to Tears of the Kingdom.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment takes players back to Hyrule’s past to learn about the Imprisoning War and will let them play as Princess Zelda, King Rauru, and more.
Release Date: Winter 2025
A Gamecube Classic Returns with Kirby Air Riders
Kirby is set to get his first big title on the Nintendo Switch 2 with Kirby Air Riders, directed by Masahiro Sakurai. This follow-up to the 2003 GameCube racer sees the iconic Pink Puffball zipping around on his trusty Warp Star, preparing to go head-to-head with other Kirby Air Riders in high-speed races.
While we don’t have a concrete release date just yet, you can expect Kirby Air Riders to land sometime in 2025.
Release Date: 2025
Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will be a Multi-Generational Release
Last week’s Nintendo Direct gave us our first real look at Metroid 4: Beyond, showcasing Samus tearing through the planet Viewros with her brand-new psychic abilities. As many had speculated, this will be a multi-generational title, launching on both the Switch and Switch 2.
For those who prefer their FPS games with a touch of PC-style precision, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will include mouse controls, taking full advantage of the system’s updated Joy-Con 2 functionality.
Release Date: 2025
Pokémon Legends: Z-A will be the series’ First Switch 2 Title
Before you pack your Poké Balls and head back to Lumiose City, why not do it in style? Pokémon Legends: Z-A is getting its own Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, offering a smoother adventure with enhanced visuals and a higher framerate, making your return to Kalos better than ever.
Release Date: 2025
Elden Ring will come to Nintendo Switch 2 this Year
Thanks to FromSoftWare’s ongoing support of Nintendo, Elden Ring will be available on Nintendo Switch 2 and offers players another way to visit the Lands Between on the go (hopefully, with some bigger font options this time).
Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition includes the base game, the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, new weapons, armor, and Torrent appearance customisation, and more.
Release Date: 2025
Hades II’s Console Debut will be on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2
Supergiant’s roguelike sequel Hades II has been thriving on PC, leaving console players feeling like they’re trapped in time, waiting. Well, Chronos beware—because our day is coming!
Not only will Hades II make its console debut on Nintendo Switch 2, but it will also launch on the original Switch platforms before arriving on other consoles.
Release Date: 2025
The Duskbloods is a Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive by way of FromSoftware
The current frontrunner for the “I Didn’t See That Coming” award goes to FromSoftware, who just dropped the bombshell that they’re developing an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2.
Channelling some serious Bloodborne energy, The Duskbloods is a PvPvE multiplayer action game set in a gritty, gothic London—a far cry from the one we know today. Expect eerie streets, brutal combat, and plenty of FromSoft’s signature difficulty.
If you’re hungry for more details, Director Hidetaka Miyazaki will be kicking off The Duskbloods’ Creator’s Voice developer diary series on April 4.
Release Date: 2026
Borderlands 4, Project 007, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, Hollow Knight: Silksong and More!
The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to have strong third-party support, with a mix of older and upcoming titles joining the platform in 2025 and beyond. This growing list includes games from global developers and publishers, ensuring plenty of variety for players.
Some of the major titles confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2 so far include EA Sports Madden NFL, EA Sports FC, NBA 2K, WWE 2K, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Street Fighter VI, Sid Meier’s Civilization VII, Hogwarts Legacy, Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, Borderlands 4, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut, Fortnite, Enter the Gungeon 2, Hitman World of Assassination – Signature Edition, Project 007, Starseeker: Astroneer Expeditions, Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion, Survival Kids, Star Wars Outlaws, Hollow Knight: Silksong, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, and Reanimal.
With such a wide-ranging lineup, the Switch 2 is set to offer something for every type of player.
Well now… Nintendo promised details on the Switch 2, and they absolutely delivered! From tech specs and pricing to a massive lineup of games and third-party support, there’s a lot to unpack ahead of the Nintendo Switch 2’s launch on June 5, 2025.
So, what do you think? Will you be picking up a Switch 2 on day one? Or are you content with your PC handheld and not seeing what all the hype is about? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
