Nintendo Finally Reveals New Generation of Switch Consoles

Nintendo has officially revealed its next-generation console, the Nintendo Switch 2, via a teaser video showcasing the new console’s design in detail and confirming its launch in 2025.

In the same announcing video, Nintendo released the date of the Nintendo Direct presentation – April 2, 2025.

The teaser confirmed several features previously hinted at in leaks. The Nintendo Switch 2 retains the hybrid nature of its predecessor, with a slightly larger design and magnetically connected Joy-Con controllers. Notably, the new Joy-Con includes an optical sensor, which could enhance motion-based gameplay or introduce new control mechanics.

Backward compatibility is another confirmed feature, allowing players to enjoy both physical and digital Nintendo Switch games alongside titles exclusive to the Switch 2. However, Nintendo cautioned that certain older games may not be fully supported on the new console.

Nintendo also announced on its website the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience, a series of global hands-on events where fans can try out the new console. Scheduled dates and locations include major cities all over the globe:

North America:

• New York: April 4-6, 2025
• Los Angeles: April 11-13, 2025
• Dallas: April 25-27, 2025
• Toronto: April 25-27, 2025
  

Europe:

• Paris: April 4-6, 2025
• London: April 11-13, 2025
• Milan: April 25-27, 2025
• Berlin: April 25-27, 2025
• Madrid: May 9-11, 2025
• Amsterdam: May 9-11, 2025
  

Oceania:

• Melbourne: May 10-11, 2025
  

Asia:

• Tokyo (Makuhari): April 26-27, 2025
• Seoul: May 31-June 1, 2025
• Hong Kong: To be announced
• Taipei: To be announced
  

As of Sept. 30, 2024, the Nintendo Switch has sold over 146 million units worldwide, making it Nintendo’s best-selling home console and the third best-selling game console of all time, behind the PlayStation 2 and Nintendo DS.

Up to the announcement of the second generation on Jan. 16, 2025, the Switch family included several iterations:

• Nintendo Switch 2017, the original model functions as a hybrid console, allowing to play both docked to a TV and in handheld mode.
• 2019th Nintendo Switch Lite – a handheld-only version with integrated controls designed for portable gaming.
• Nintendo Switch OLED released in 2021, a version that features a larger OLED screen, enhanced audio, a wider adjustable stand, and increased internal storage.