Nintendo has officially announced the long-anticipated Switch 2, its next-generation handheld-console hybrid, set to launch globally on 5 June 2025. The upgraded device, developed in collaboration with Nvidia, boasts significant hardware improvements, a sharper display, and advanced graphics features, including the revolutionary ray tracing technology.
Priced at $449.99 USD (UK pricing to be confirmed), the Switch 2 arrives nearly eight years after the original Switch revolutionised portable gaming. A special edition bundle featuring the new title Mario Kart World will also be available at $499.99 USD.
Major Hardware Upgrades
• Display: 7.9-inch LCD screen with 1080p resolution and an impressive 120Hz refresh rate, promising smoother gameplay.
• Processor: Powered by a custom Nvidia Tegra T239 chip, developed in partnership with Nvidia, the Switch 2 delivers up to 10 times the graphical performance of the original Switch. The device supports ray tracing and DLSS upscaling, providing gamers with more realistic lighting and reflections for an enhanced visual experience.
• Storage: Comes with 256GB internal storage and support for microSD Express cards.
• TV Output: Docked mode supports 4K resolution and HDR for enhanced visuals on compatible TVs.
• Connectivity: Includes two USB-C ports, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and Wi-Fi 6E compatibility.
Nvidia and Ray Tracing Technology
The partnership with Nvidia has played a crucial role in bringing ray tracing to the Switch 2, allowing for more lifelike lighting effects, improved reflections, and realistic shadows that enhance the overall gaming experience. The new Nvidia Tegra T239 chip utilises Nvidia’s DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) technology to provide smoother frame rates and better image quality, even during intense gaming moments.
Innovative Features
The Switch 2 introduces magnetic detachable controllers that double as touch-sensitive input devices, potentially functioning like a mouse. A new dedicated communication button has also been added, enabling instant voice or text chat among players.
Game Compatibility and Lineup
All existing Nintendo Switch titles will remain compatible, ensuring a seamless transition for current users. Nintendo has also announced several exclusive launch titles for Switch 2, including:
• Mario Kart World
• Donkey Kong Bananza
• The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of the Past
Pre-orders and Release
Pre-orders will begin in North America on 9 April 2025, with additional regions opening shortly after. UK pre-order details are expected within the next few days.
Market Competition
Industry analysts anticipate strong demand, with Switch 2 expected to compete directly with handheld rivals like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally. Compared to Steam Deck, the new Switch offers a higher refresh rate, larger display, exclusive first-party games, and the addition of ray tracing, which gives Nintendo a strategic advantage in terms of visual quality.
Conclusion
With its upgraded hardware, Nvidia collaboration, ray tracing capabilities, backward compatibility, and a strong launch title lineup, the Nintendo Switch 2 is poised to be one of the biggest gaming hardware releases of 2025.
