It’s finally here! After months of whispers and speculation, Nintendo has unveiled its newest console: the Nintendo Switch 2. While the name is understated, a closer look reveals a console brimming with fascinating updates to Nintendo's beloved hybrid system. We've uncovered 30 key details from the reveal trailer, showcasing Nintendo's evolution of its iconic handheld.
From redesigned Joy-Con with innovative features to a larger screen and intriguing new buttons, let's dive into everything revealed:
Nintendo Switch 2 - A First Look
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01 - The Switch 2 retains a similar form factor to its predecessor, but with a noticeable increase in size. The main console unit and Joy-Con are larger, approximately 15% bigger overall.
02 - The vibrant colors of previous Joy-Con are gone, replaced by a sleek, dark grey finish across the entire console, reminiscent of the Steam Deck's aesthetic.
03 - Color isn't entirely absent; a colored ring around each analog stick and inner edges of the console and Joy-Con pays homage to the original Switch, acting as a color-coded pairing system (red to red, blue to blue).
04 - The Joy-Con's attachment mechanism has changed. Instead of sliding rails, they now directly slot in, with a connector on the console unit plugging into a port on the Joy-Con. Rumors suggest magnetic attachment, similar to Apple's MagSafe.
05 - A new trigger system on the rear of each Joy-Con releases them from the console. A piston-like mechanism pushes the controller away when the trigger is squeezed.
06 - The classic button layout remains: offset analog sticks, directional buttons, A, B, X, Y face buttons, Plus and Minus buttons, and the capture and Home buttons.
07 - A new, unlabeled button is present below the Home button; its function remains a mystery.
08 - L and R shoulder buttons, and ZL and ZR triggers are positioned as expected. The triggers appear deeper and more rounded for improved comfort and ease of use.
09 - The analog sticks retain a low-profile design, but with a smaller inner ring radius and thicker rims for enhanced grip.
10 - The NFC Amiibo interface might be present (as it was invisible on the original Switch), but the IR sensor from the original right Joy-Con appears absent.
11 - SL and SR buttons on the inner edges of each Joy-Con allow for individual use, but are significantly larger than the original Switch's.
12 - The four green player indicator LEDs have returned, now positioned on the forward-facing edge of the connector strip.
13 - The Sync button remains below the connector port, alongside the connector itself.
14 - A small, clear lens above the connector may be a laser sensor, suggesting potential mouse functionality for the Joy-Con.
15 - Redesigned wrist straps return, matching the internal color accents of each Joy-Con.
16 - The main console features a larger screen, though not quite edge-to-edge like the Switch OLED. The display technology remains unconfirmed.
17 - The top edge retains the power and volume buttons, headphone jack, and a redesigned ventilation grill.
18 - The Game Card slot remains on the top edge, suggesting backwards compatibility with original Switch cartridges.
19 - A new USB-C port on the top edge is present, alongside the existing bottom-mounted USB-C port; its purpose is currently unknown.
20 - Downward-firing speakers replace the rear-facing speakers of the original Switch.
21 - The rear features a new, full-length kickstand that appears adjustable to multiple angles.
22 - The Switch 2 is dockable for TV connection, with a redesigned dock featuring rounded corners and a prominent Switch 2 logo.
23 - A controller peripheral for attaching the Joy-Con is also included.
24 - The reveal trailer showcases a new Mario Kart game with a starting line for 24 racers.
25 - A new track, "Mario Bros. Circuit," is shown, appearing to be a larger, more open course.
26 - Ten characters are confirmed: Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Peach, Yoshi, Toad, Donkey Kong, Daisy, Rosalina, and Wario.
27 - Backwards compatibility is confirmed, though some games may not be supported due to peripheral incompatibility.
28 - A 2025 release window is given.
29 - Further details will be revealed in an April 2nd Nintendo Direct.
30 - A "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" hands-on tour will take place between April and June, with registration opening January 17th.
This comprehensive overview covers the key details revealed in the Switch 2 announcement trailer. Stay tuned for further updates!
