Dates, prices, games, console, accessories revealed: everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo Switch 2 Banner Ecran Partage

VANCOUVER, BC., April 2, 2025 – All together, anywhere, anytime. Featuring new ways to play and connect with others, the Nintendo Switch 2 system will arrive on June 5, 2025 for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $629.99 in Canada. Check out the redesigned Joy-Con 2 controllers, which can be used as mice in compatible games and attach to the console with magnetic connectors. The console’s improved processing speed allows images to be displayed on a larger screen, with more intense colors and more clarity. Discover surprising new ways to connect with loved ones and play Nintendo Switch 2 games and compatible games already available on the Nintendo Switch system together.

Nintendo Switch 2 is the next step in home gaming that can be taken on the go, based on eight years of gaming and discovery that began with Nintendo Switch,” said Shuntaro Furukawa, president of Nintendo. “ With new features that expand the possibilities of gaming experiences, I firmly believe that Nintendo Switch 2 represents a leap forward in our journey to bring smiles to the faces of those who interact with Nintendo.”

The Nintendo Switch 2 includes:

  • Nintendo Switch 2 System
  • Two Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R)
  • Joy-Con 2 support
  • Joy-Con 2 Wrist Straps
  • Nintendo Switch 2 Docking Station
  • Ultra-High Speed HDMI Cable
  • Nintendo Switch 2 Power Adapter
  • USB-C charging cable

Race on Nintendo Switch 2 with the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle* for a suggested retail price of $699.99 in Canada, which includes the console and a download code for the Mario Kart World game, available on June 5 at launch of Nintendo Switch 2.

Today’s Nintendo Direct presentation offered many details about the system, its features, and the games coming to Nintendo Switch 2, published and developed by both Nintendo and its partners. To view the full Nintendo Direct presentation, please visit below (subtitles are available).

GameChat offers new ways to play together in a user-friendly way

With the new GameChat** online feature, you can play and talk to each other as if everyone were in the same room, no matter how far apart you are. Whether it’s sharing a win or just greeting each other, GameChat makes it seem like online friends from all corners of the world are side by side on the same couch. With GameChat, it is possible to start a voice chat with friends at any time by pressing the C button on the right Joy-Con 2. The console’s built-in microphone can be used to engage in discussions with up to 12 people online while gaming. Up to four people can share their screen, and if they plug in a compatible USB-C camera such as the Nintendo Switch 2 camera (sold separately), and can also video chat so they can see each other on screen while everyone cheers each other, shouts and laughs while playing. Other people can join the conversation, but only in audio. GameChat is available without requiring a Nintendo Switch Online membership until the end of March 2026. After this date, a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required.

When starting a GameChat session, the user invites people from their friends list. Safety features are in place to help players enjoy a safe and secure chat experience, such as the ability to report someone during a chat session. Additionally, Nintendo recognizes the important role that parents and guardians play in their children’s online experiences. So, before they can use GameChat, children under the age of 16 must receive permission from a parent or guardian through the next version of the Nintendo Switch Family Controls app.

A multitude of new features and experiences

A large display with intense colors that allows for smooth expression of movements

The Nintendo Switch 2 has a 7.9-inch LCD screen displaying images in Full HD at 1080p while maintaining the same thickness as the Nintendo Switch. Even on the go, Nintendo Switch 2 offers vivid and detailed gaming experiences, as well as smooth graphics that highlight character movements and rich facial expressions.

Joy-Con 2 controllers attach to the console with magnetic connectors

The Joy-Con 2, the new controllers designed for the Nintendo Switch 2, attach to the console with magnetic connectors. In addition, each Joy-Con 2 can be used as a mouse by sliding it across a surface such as a table or pants. Mouse mode can be used in a variety of ways, such as in games that require aiming.

A new freely adjustable stand and a new USB-C port

The stand on the back of the console can be adjusted freely so that you can find the perfect viewing angle. In addition to the USB-C port that was already present on the Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2 offers a second port at the top, which can be used to connect the included power adapter so that you can charge the console while playing in tabletop mode. It is also possible to connect a compatible USB-C camera, such as the Nintendo Switch 2 camera, for video chats via GameChat.

Improved processing speed and graphics performance

The Nintendo Switch 2 has a significantly better CPU and GPU than the Nintendo Switch, which translates into faster processing speed and allows for new visually advanced gameplay. It also allows you to enjoy more detailed graphics and reduced loading times.

Crisp audio quality and 3D spatial sound

On Nintendo Switch 2, the sound quality is more natural and clearer with an even more balanced sound range. In handheld or tabletop mode, players will be able to enjoy their games with even more immersive three-dimensional sound.

256 GB internal memory

The Nintendo Switch 2’s internal memory, where digital games and save data are stored, is 256 GB, which is 8 times the storage capacity of the Nintendo Switch. To expand its storage, the Nintendo Switch 2 only uses microSD Express cards that have a higher data read speed than previous microSD models.

Nintendo Switch games are also compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2

In addition to Nintendo Switch 2 games, Nintendo Switch 2 allows you to play both physical and digital versions of compatible games released on Nintendo Switch. Some Nintendo Switch titles may be incompatible or not fully compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers and other peripherals, such as the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, can be used on Nintendo Switch 2 by pairing them remotely with the console. For more information on compatibility of Nintendo Switch games and accessories, visit the official Nintendo website.

The new Nintendo Switch 2 docking station

By connecting the Nintendo Switch 2 Dock to a TV, it is possible to achieve up to 4K resolution and up to 120 frames per second with compatible games and TVs.

Play with others with a single copy of a game with GameShare

With GameShare, a new feature of the Nintendo Switch 2, it is possible to share a game and play with others even if the other people do not have a copy of the game. If someone has a Nintendo Switch 2 and a GameShare-enabled game, they can temporarily invite others to play with them in local wireless mode with their Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch console. Between multiple Nintendo Switch 2s, GameShare can also be used with GameChat to play online, so everyone can chat online while playing the same game together.

Virtual Game Cards Add Benefits to Digital Games

With virtual game cards, players can easily manage purchased digital games, play games on two different consoles, or lend and borrow games. The Virtual Game Card Management screen displays all digital games purchased with the user’s Nintendo Account to make it easier to access and load these titles on the console. Once a virtual game card is loaded onto a console, it can be played even if the console is not connected to the internet, and all user accounts on that console can also access that game. In addition, virtual game cards can be loaned and borrowed within the same family group of Nintendo Accounts via local wireless mode.

Nintendo Switch Online

Nintendo Switch Online** will also be available on Nintendo Switch 2. On Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch Online members can use GameChat and take advantage of existing online features. For a limited time, all Nintendo Switch 2 owners will be able to use GameChat during the GameChat free access period until March 31, 2026. After this date, a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required to use GameChat. In addition, Nintendo Switch 2 owners will also be able to access the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics Collection at launch. Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members with a Nintendo Switch 2 will be able to access a growing collection of Nintendo GameCube classics with improved image quality and resolution compared to the original versions. The titles offered at the launch of the catalog are: F-ZERO GX, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and SOULCALIBUR II. In addition to these games, a wireless controller based on the original Nintendo GameCube controller will be available for purchase*** for Nintendo Switch Online members.

Various accessibility features

To support a wide range of play styles, Nintendo Switch 2 offers new accessibility options in addition to existing Nintendo Switch features, such as the ability to adjust text size, convert text to speech, and convert speech to text in GameChat.

A safe and fun gaming experience on Nintendo Switch 2

With the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls smart device app, parents can easily accompany their children’s gaming experience from a smart device, from checking what types of games their children are playing to setting daily system usage time limits. When it comes to GameChat, children under the age of 16 must obtain permission from a parent or guardian through the Nintendo Switch Family Controls app before they can start a chat, allowing parents and guardians to manage their children’s chat experience safely.

The Nintendo Switch 2 console will be available for pre-order in North America at participating retailers starting April 9, 2025.

New games for a new console

Nintendo Switch 2 will arrive with games that will highlight its new capabilities while allowing all profiles to find what they are looking for. From new and console-exclusive titles such as Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza, to exhilarating experiences like EA SPORTS Madden NFL and Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, to enhanced Nintendo Switch games such as Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV and Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, there is no shortage of opportunities to play and share good times together.

Put your foot down in Mario Kart World, an all-new experience set in a vast, interconnected world. Race non-stop through interconnected tracks that offer an experience never before seen in the series. Races can bring together up to 24 drivers. Take part in the all-new Survival mode, where you traverse the world in one go, with waypoints that mark the course. If you don’t place high enough in the standings when you cross them, it’s direct elimination. In Ride mode, you can leave the road to ride wherever you want to explore the areas that intrigue you and take photos with friends at scenic spots. Mario Kart World will arrive on June 5 on Nintendo Switch 2. More details about this title will be revealed during a Mario Kart World Direct presentation on April 17 at 6 a.m. PT.

Get ready for Donkey Kong Bananza, an all-new 3D action adventure game coming exclusively to Nintendo Switch 2. Play as DK and pulverize almost everything around you, climb along almost every wall and rip off pieces of land to throw them to make “exploration” and “demolition” rhyme in a world where the more you destroy the scenery with your fists, the more new areas open up to you. Get ready for a smashing adventure full of surprises and bananas in Donkey Kong Bananza, coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on July 17.

The new capabilities of Nintendo Switch 2 allow both physical and digital versions of compatible games released on Nintendo Switch to receive paid upgrades to Nintendo Switch 2 Edition versions that feature improved graphics, new content, and new gameplay experiences.

Be the star of the show in Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV, which includes new modes and mini-games that use the Joy-Con 2 mouse mode, the console’s built-in microphone, and the Nintendo Switch 2 camera (sold separately). Invite your loved ones**** to join you in the Bowser Show, a mode where you participate in in-person 2-on-2 competitions and physical challenges! But beware: the losing team could be accountable to Bowser! Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV will arrive on July 24th.

Experience or rediscover Hyrule in a whole new light in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, which bring improved frame rates, reduced load times and better graphics, as well as additional boosts for players. A service called ZELDA NOTES, exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition versions of both games, will soon be available through the Nintendo Switch App***** (previously known as Nintendo Switch Online). This game-related service will help players search for various items, such as shrines and Korogus that have not yet been discovered, as well as listen to untold stories told by Princess Zelda. The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition versions of both games will be available when Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5.

Kirby’s 3D adventures also get a further boost on Nintendo Switch 2 with Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World. A mysterious meteor crashes into Kirby’s world and the Forgotten World, revealing a new story for Kirby. Our hero must use his powerful powers and new transmorphism options in order to make his way into uncharted territory. The upgrade will include this new content that can be played solo or in local co-op, as well as improved performance for the entire game. Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World will arrive on August 28.

The galaxy’s greatest bounty hunter returns in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. The game will be coming to Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. The Nintendo Switch 2 version will offer, in addition to the standard controls, mouse mode to handle Samus’ cannon with greater precision, as well as improved graphics and performance. It will also allow you to choose between Quality mode and Performance mode, both of which are HDR-compatible, depending on your preferences and gaming style. Explore an immersive world in 4K at 60 frames per second, or enjoy Full HD action at 120 frames per second when the game arrives in 2025.

In Pokémon Legends: Z–A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, you will be able to experience an adventure in Illumis on Nintendo Switch 2 in better resolution and frame rate at the end of 2025.

Kirby Air Riders, an all-new title inspired by the Nintendo GameCube action racing game Kirby Air Ride and directed by Masahiro Sakurai, the director of the Super Smash Bros. series, will arrive this year. The trailer revealed a spectacular introduction of Kirby on his Warp Star machine as well as other Kirbys on all sorts of unique machines as they race together. Kirby Air Riders will arrive in 2025 on Nintendo Switch 2.

Use the Joy-Con 2 mouse mode and discover a whole new experience in Drag x Drive. Drag x Drive (pronounced “Drag and Drive”) is a new 3v3 online gaming experience that is played with both Joy-Con 2 controllers in mouse mode to intuitively move, turn, accelerate, and perform tricks such as smashes. Drag x Drive will arrive this summer on Nintendo Switch 2.

While it’s understandable that players want to jump right into Nintendo Switch 2, they can also explore the many features and details of this new console with the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, a virtual exhibition that allows you to discover what makes Nintendo Switch 2 such a unique gaming experience. Through tech demos, mini-games, and all kinds of interactions, players will be able to get to know their new console inside and out in a way they would never have imagined otherwise. Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour will be available in Nintendo eShop on Nintendo Switch 2 when the console launches on June 5.

Exciting games from developers and publishers around the world

From acclaimed hits like SPLIT FICTION and ELDEN RING , to sports greats like Madden NFL and NBA 2K, to highly anticipated titles like Hades II and Borderlands 4, Nintendo Switch 2 is where players can enjoy a full range of gaming experiences. Here are some of the games published and developed by Nintendo’s partners coming to Nintendo Switch 2.

The Duskbloods: Tears of the moon will flow for one and only in The Duskbloods, an all-new multiplayer title** from FromSoftware, the creators of DARK SOULS and ELDEN RING. The Duskbloods will arrive in 2026 and will only be available on Nintendo Switch 2. A Creator’s Voice article where the game’s director, Hidetaka Miyazaki, will reveal more about this title, will be published in English on April 4. The French version of the article will be published soon.

Hades II: Play as the Princess of the Dead and fight your way through the Underworld to defeat the Titan of Time in this haunting sequel to the original roguelike dungeon crawler. In Hades II, explore a universe of mythology that is larger and more elaborate than ever before thanks to the blessings of the gods of Olympus in a narrative that answers each of your failures and successes. The game will debut as a temporary console exclusive on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, and will take full advantage of the Nintendo Switch 2’s high-definition display with action responsiveness aiming for 60 frames per second. More information about Hades II will be shared this year.

EA SPORTS Madden NFL and EA SPORTS FC: EA SPORTS brings together fans from all over the world** to both the oval and the oval ball. EA SPORTS Madden NFL and EA SPORTS FC will be coming to Nintendo Switch 2.

NBA 2K and WWE 2K: Reign on the court and in the ring, NBA 2K and WWE 2K will be coming to Nintendo Switch 2.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is a new title in the Hyrule Warriors series, developed by Koei Tecmo Games with the support of Nintendo. The game features epic battles against hordes of enemies and tells the untold story of the War of the Seal, which took place in Hyrule’s distant past and led to the events of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Fans of the Legend of Zelda series who have played The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will be able to experience the thrill of battle as well as follow the canonical tale of the events of Princess Zelda, King Rauru and other familiar characters. Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment will arrive this winter on Nintendo Switch 2.

SPLIT FICTION: Navigate between the world of Mio, who writes sci-fi, and Zoe, who writes fantasy, two friends who find themselves trapped in a simulation of their own stories. SPLIT FICTION will keep you on the edge of your seat on your couch with all kinds of unexpected moments in which you will have to cooperate and work as a duo to overcome challenges. You can also invite another person to join the adventure on Nintendo Switch 2 cross-platform for free with the Friend******Pass for free. SPLIT FICTION will be available on June 5 at the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2.

Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition: For the first time on Nintendo console, play as V, a cyber-mercenary who will stop at nothing to become a cyberpunk legend of Night City. The power and graphics performance of the Nintendo Switch 2 deliver a more immersive gaming experience than ever before, whether it’s neon lighting or gunfights. With this edition, enjoy the Cyberpunk 2077 experience in its entirety with the base game as well as Phantom Liberty, the successful espionage suspense-style expansion. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will be available on June 5 at the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2.

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE: Experience a modern reinterpretation of one of the most iconic games of all time on Nintendo Switch 2. This title offers an immersive standalone gameplay experience tailored for RPG fans, with unforgettable characters, a powerful story in Midgar, and a strategic combat system that fuses real-time action and command-based combat. Fight for the future of the planet in FF7R EPISODE INTERmission, an additional story arc that runs alongside the events of the game, when FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE arrives on Nintendo Switch 2.

Street Fighter 6: Experience the next evolution of the Street Fighter series in Street Fighter 6, which includes three distinct modes, new gameplay features, and improved graphics. Fight your way to the top in new modes exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2, such as Local Wireless Versus Battles**** and Avatar Matches. Have fun in new multiplayer modes that take advantage of the Joy-Con 2 controllers, such as Gyro Battle or Calorie Contest. Three new amiibo and 22 amiibo cards will also be available at launch. On Nintendo Switch 2, choose between Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Fighter Edition or the standard Street Fighter 6 digital edition when the game arrives at launch.

Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition: Set the course of history in Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. Enjoy a more intuitive gameplay experience with the new mouse mode and make decisions that will shape the cultural lineage of your empire. Build cities and architectural wonders, advance your civilization through technological innovations, and conquer or cooperate with rival civilizations while exploring the world. Whether you choose to faithfully follow the course of history or forge your own path, build a legacy that will resonate through the ages in Sid Meier’s Civilization® VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, which will be available at launch on Nintendo Switch 2.

Hogwarts Legacy: Immerse yourself in a wizarding world like never before in Hogwarts Legacy with the addition of mouse mode, improved graphics and audio, an uninterrupted gameplay experience as you move between zones, and controls tuned for Nintendo Switch 2. Find yourself at the center of your own adventure in this open-world role-playing game, discover magical creatures, customize your appearance, and learn to master magic to become the witch or wizard you dream of being. Experience renewed magic in Hogwarts Legacy, available at launch on Nintendo Switch 2.

BRAVELY DEFAULT FLYING FAIRY HD Remaster : Follow four Warriors of Light on their quest to awaken the Elemental Crystals in the HD remastered version of the Nintendo 3DS RPG masterpiece: BRAVELY DEFAULT. Experience an RPG that brings new depth to classic turn-based combat with the arrival of Brave and Default controls, and discover an array of options to customize your characters with over 20 unique classes. The game includes comfort improvements as well as two mini-games that take advantage of the ability to play with two mice on Nintendo Switch 2. BRAVELY DEFAULT FLYING FAIRY HD Remaster will be available on Nintendo Switch 2 at launch.

Borderlands 4: Shoot, loot, and take on insane enemies on Kairos, a new planet full of danger in Borderlands 4. Amass an arsenal of deadly firepower to wreak havoc and fight your way through Kairos. Cheat death no matter where it comes from by gliding, dodging, propelling yourself with a grappling hook and more. Borderlands 4 will arrive in 2025 on Nintendo Switch 2.

More adventures await you in new and updated titles, including…

  • Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4: Two iconic games from Activision are back with new skaters, even crazier techniques, supercharged music, and for the first time in more than a decade, new parks! Skate with others online*6 in the cross-platform mode** of this classic of the genre. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 will be coming to Nintendo Switch 2 this summer.
  • ELDEN RING Tarnished Edition: With over 28 million copies sold worldwide, ELDEN RING is an award-winning action RPG set in an authentic dark fantasy world. Explore unreliable dungeons and triumph over epic boss battles. ELDEN RING Tarnished Edition will arrive on Nintendo Switch 2 this year and includes the base game, SHADOW OF THE ERDTREE, as well as new weapons, armor, skins for Torrent, and more.
  • Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut: Immerse yourself in the dangers and decadence of 1988 Japan in Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut. The Ultimate Edition of the Acclaimed Origin Story Arrives in Preview, Nintendo Switch 2. Play as Kiryu Kazuma and Majima Goro, and take the fight to the nightlife districts of Tokyo and Osaka in this epic crime drama. In the Director’s Cut version, discover incidents and elements of the characters’ past through never-before-seen cutscenes, as well as Red Light Raid, an all-new online multiplayer mode. Yakuza 0 Director’s Cut will be available on Nintendo Switch 2 at launch.
  • Fortnite: Whether it’s being the last one standing in Battle Royale, Zero Build, Ranked Reload or Fortnite OG, or having LEGO Fortnite experiences, racing in Rocket Racing or attending concerts in Fortnite Festival, it’s all possible to do it all in Fortnite, which will be available on Nintendo Switch 2 at launch.
  • Enter the Gungeon 2: Enter the Gungeon 2 is the sequel to the iconic dungeon crawler, rearmed with a new 3D art style and features new weapons and gameplay mechanics that will be available next year on Nintendo Switch 2.
  • HITMAN World of Assassination – Signature Edition: Slip into the shoes of the ultimate assassin in HITMAN World of Assassination – Signature Edition. Explore elaborate environments, dress up, and use stealth to complete your missions. Enjoy the best of HITMAN, HITMAN 2 and HITMAN 3 on Nintendo Switch 2, including Campaign, Contract, Escalation, and more. HITMAN World of Assassination – Signature Edition will be available at launch on Nintendo Switch 2.
  • Project 007: Put on the James Bond costume and get your Double Zero Agent license for the very first time. Experience the original and entirely untold story of James Bond when Project 007 arrives on Nintendo Switch 2.

And that’s not all, Nintendo Switch 2 will also welcome STARSEEKER: Astroneer Expeditions, Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion, DELTARUNE, Survival Kids, Star Wars Outlaws, Hollow Knight: Silksong and many more!

For more information on Nintendo Switch 2, visit Nintendo’s official website: nintendo.com. In addition, more content on Nintendo Switch 2 will be shared via the free Nintendo Today! mobile app for iOS and Android.

Official Nintendo press release provided by Nintendo of Canada

About Marc Shakour

Former video game programmer, columnist, teacher, competitor ... Marc has always been very familiar with the world and industry of video games. He decided to help neophytes about it, to discover new universes, worlds and fantastic creatures.

View all posts by Marc Shakour

Leave a Reply