The first Switch was released six years ago, and the OLED variant followed two years later. To say Nintendo fans are eager for a new platform is an understatement, and their enthusiasm is fueled by the steady trickle of rumors about the Nintendo Switch 2 or Switch 2, the moniker media outlets have temporarily given to Nintendo’s next-generation device.
The Switch 2 is commonly believed to be an improvement to the current Switch instead of a completely new console design. It has become the first successful hybrid console.
Yet, Nintendo has not said anything regarding the Switch’s substitution, so all of the information we know about this next-generation device comes from credible sources and leaks.
What do we know about the Nintendo Switch 2 right now?
1. Release Date of Switch 2
As with the forthcoming console, we will know when it will be released when the manufacturer announces it officially. However, new rumors indicate a fall 2024 release date, which matches the expected debut of the PS5 Pro. According to a leaker dubbed SoldierDelta and an Altec Lansing press statement, the Nintendo Switch 2 will be released in September 2024. The press release mentions September 2024 as part of a GameShark AI release, while SoldierDelta said on Discord that the Switch 2, codenamed “NG,” may come on September 24, 2024. An alternative release date of November 2024 is also anticipated.
While most rumors and tipsters appear to agree that Switch 2 will be released in the autumn of 2024, there are a few that claim an early 2024 release. According to an article from research company TechInsights, a March or April 2024 release date is probable, while an estimate from Chinese investment portal MoneyDJ predicts higher revenue from the Switch’s next in-line product, which will be delivered in the first quarter of 2024.
2. Specifications of Switch 2
Given the success of the Switch’s OLED display, it can be used in the next-generation Switch 2, with a higher refresh rate. According to gaming tipster NateTheHate, the company may instead use an LCD panel (although a bigger 8-inch display) to save money. Andy Robinson of Video Games Chronicle confirms the rumors about LCDs.
According to Bloomberg, the Nintendo Switch 2 will start with an 8-inch LCD, with no indication of an OLED. Nintendo consoles are often less expensive than Sony and Microsoft consoles; therefore, the next-generation Switch is expected to include an LCD panel. A more costly variant with an OLED display might be accessible for those who are ready to pay the premium. Irrespective of the display, the refresh rate is likely to increase to 120Hz from 60Hz. Rumors say that Nintendo’s next-generation console will have a co-processor chip for increased power and video output, as well as 512GB of internal storage, potentially overtaking the existing 32GB and 64GB versions.
People Also read – Everything you need to know about the best gaming consoles – Nintendo Switch OLED
3. Features of Switch 2
Nintendo’s future Switch 2 system is likely to keep its original design, which includes a bigger 8-inch screen and more comfortable Joy-Con controls. It is projected to have a longer battery life, lasting 4.5 to 9 hours on just one charge, thanks to more powerful internals. The console has Wi-Fi 6 for quicker streaming and Bluetooth 5.1 for improved connectivity. However, backwards compatibility is a worry, with some rumors claiming it would not work with the Switch, while others think it would be a bad option. Nintendo’s president hopes for an easy transition from the Switch to the next-generation console while maintaining backward compatibility for digital titles.
4. Games for Switch 2
- Zippo, a reputed Nintendo leaker, promises a new Mario game for the next-generation platform. The game might employ Unreal Engine 4, which was successful with Super Mario Odyssey on the first Switch.
- Other rumored games include a new 2D Donkey Kong title, a new Monster Hunter game, a potential Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth transfer, a new Super Monkey Ball game, a new Pokémon game, and a seventh Far Cry game.
- Mario Kart 9 and Baldur’s Gate 3 may be published on next-generation consoles. The Bayonetta Trilogy might be the fourth title to properly utilize the Switch 2’s upgraded technology.
5. Price of Switch 2
SoldierDelta also mentioned probable release costs in the same Discord chat where he predicted release dates. They stated that there were two probable variants for this next-generation console: a basic model for $449 and a digital alternative for $400 (or, more likely, $399). If this rumor is accurate, Nintendo’s next-generation system will be the first to be offered only digitally.
This pricing estimate is reasonable given that the regular switch costs $299 and the OLED model costs $349. If the Switch 2 gets an OLED display update as well as upgrades to internal components, a $100 price rise sounds reasonable, but we can only estimate for now.
What are the things brought down from the original Switch?
Nintendo is anticipated to follow the lead of the original Switch and equip the OLED model with an improved version of Nvidia’s rumored T234 chip. According to Eurogamer, the T239 processor, which is built on an octa-core ARM A78C CPU cluster and a bespoke graphics unit, is intended to perform similarly to the Xbox One and PlayStation 4. The chip’s power and clock speed have yet to be validated.
Conclusion
The Switch 2 is planned to be released in 2024, following the success of the original Switch. As with the recent release of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Nintendo is expected to update rather than replace the current hybrid console model. Details about the Switch 2 or Switch NG are likely to be released during the forthcoming Nintendo Direct in February. Until then, customers may play games on the Switch OLED.
