By Benjamin Levy, a passionate video game blogger
Summary
Table of contents☰
It wasn’t really a secret anymore… Just as Sony is working on the next console to succeed the PlayStation 5 and Microsoft is working on the one that will take over from the Xbox Series Nintendo was actively preparing the Switch 2. But it was during CES 2025, on the stand of Genki – famous accessories manufacturer – that a supposed model of the Switch 2 leaked, igniting the gaming community around the world. Taken by surprise or simple coincidence of calendar, Nintendo finally lifted the veil today by officially announcing the Nintendo Switch 2even relegating the release of Donkey Kong Country Returns to the background.
Getting started with home consoles
Since its first steps in the world of video games, Nintendo has made history with iconic home consoles. In 1983, the NES revolutionized video games with its legendary titles. Then, the Super Nintendo (SNES) in 1990 strengthened the brand’s leadership position thanks to cult games like Super Mario World. The following years saw the arrival of innovative consoles: the Nintendo 64 and its joystick controller, the GameCube and its mini-discs, or even the Wii which popularized motion gaming in 2006. The Nintendo Switch, launched in 2017, in turn redefined video games by introducing the hybrid concept: a console that combines the functionality of both a home console and a portable console.
The Nintendo Switch 2: A hybrid 2.0 console
The Nintendo Switch 2, scheduled for an official release in 2025, promises to succeed the revolution introduced by the Nintendo Switch. Nintendo revealed a first look at the console in an official video titled The Nintendo Switch 2 – First Look. This new hybrid generation retains the essence of the Switch while bringing hardware and software innovations that aim to offer an even more immersive gaming experience.
Compatibility and exclusives
As the video game industry evolves towards everything dematerialized, Nintendo continues to adopt a hybrid approach by offering both digital and physical versions of its games. The Nintendo Switch 2 is no exception and remains faithful to physical cartridges, a choice that meets the needs of collectors and players who prefer to own their games in tangible format.
The Nintendo Switch 2 will offer exclusive titles (Mario Kart 9), but will also allow you to play a wide selection of physical and digital games already available on the Nintendo Switch. However, some older titles may not be compatible or fully functional on this new console. Nintendo will provide details on compatible games in the coming months via its official website.
Events and official presentation
To learn more about the Nintendo Switch 2, you will need to follow the Nintendo Direct : Nintendo Switch 2scheduled for Wednesday April 2, 2025. At the same time, Nintendo will organize a series of events called Nintendo Switch 2 Experiencewhich will allow players to experience the console in person in several cities around the world.
Schedule of events:
- Europe :
- – Paris: April 4 to 6
- – London: April 11 to 13
- – Milan and Berlin: April 25 to 27
- – Madrid and Amsterdam: May 9 to 11
- North America :
- – New York : 4 au 6 avril
- – Los Angeles: April 11 to 13
- – Dallas and Toronto: April 25 to 27
- Oceania :
- – Melbourne : 10 teams 11 out
- Asia :
- – Tokyo: April 26 to 27
- – Seoul: May 31 to June 1
- – Hong Kong and Taipei: dates to come
A Nintendo Account will be required to participate in these events. Registrations for the event organized in Paris will be open from January 17 at 3:00 p.m. to January 26 at 11:59 p.m.
What to remember
The Nintendo Switch 2 will bring several notable improvements, starting with a bigger screen which promises to make the gaming experience even more immersive. THE new magnetic Joy-Con will offer improved and more practical handling, while the new dock will optimize the connection and performance of the console. Players will also be able to enjoy the backwards compatibility with Nintendo Switch games, allowing them to keep their favorite titles. Switch 2 games will be available in physical format (cartridge), a choice that will delight collectors.
