Nintendo has announced a June 5 launch date and $449.99 price tag for its latest gaming console, the Switch 2, which will introduce interactive chat and screen share functions to connect gamers.
Central to its updated system is a new “C” button on its Joy-Con controller, which will launch a “GameChat” feature that requires a subscription to Nintendo’s Switch online service. It allows players to “communicate with friends and family while playing a game,” and lets them share their game screen with others. A built-in microphone will also allow chatting with other gamers.“When you think about some of the biggest titles on (the Nintendo Switch), it’s like Mario Kart, Super Mario Jamboree, even though that’s quite a new title, has cracked the top 10 of most played games on the console. So, it does make a lot of sense that the sort of headline feature is geared primarily towards that sort of use,” said Hannah Cowton-Barnes, a London-based video game industry expert for Tech Advisor.
Perhaps the most contemporary function yet for the Switch 2 is the ability to use the Joy-Con controllers like a computer mouse. The developer displayed multiple ways to use the new function, such as angling a club in a golf game.The new portable console features a 7.9-inch LCD screen that displays in 1080p. Nintendo also revealed in the live stream that, when docked, the system will be able to support 4K resolution for compatible games.
The presentation started with an extended look at Mario Kart World — the console’s launch bundle game — which adds a bit of flair to the series with a knockout game mode and the ability to grind on rails skateboard-style while racing.
The developer also unveiled a new James Bond game, dubbed Project 007, again revisiting the classic Nintendo 64 console hit revered by many first-person shooter fans.
Nintendo also announced two more Switch 2 exclusives featuring its marquee characters. Donkey Kong Bananza, a 3D adventure with the big ape punching his way through a huge underground world, arrives July 17. Kirby Air Riders, a racing game from the director of the Super Smash Bros. series, is due later in the year.The presentation started with an extended look at Mario Kart World — the console’s launch bundle game — which adds a bit of flair to the series with a knockout game mode and the ability to grind on rails skateboard-style while racing.
The developer also unveiled a new James Bond game, dubbed Project 007, again revisiting the classic Nintendo 64 console hit revered by many first-person shooter fans.
Nintendo also announced two more Switch 2 exclusives featuring its marquee characters. Donkey Kong Bananza, a 3D adventure with the big ape punching his way through a huge underground world, arrives July 17. Kirby Air Riders, a racing game from the director of the Super Smash Bros. series, is due later in the year.
Third-party exclusives likely to create some buzz include Koei-Tecmo’s Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, a hack-and-slash prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, coming this winter. From Software’s The Duskbloods, a baroque multiplayer title from the creators of Elden Ring, is scheduled for 2026.
Miss the GameCube? Nintendo said Switch Online subscribers will be able to access a limited selection of GameCube titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker and F-Zero GX.
The new console will be backwards compatible — able to play physical and digital Switch games — but users will need to purchase a microSD express memory card for the Switch 2. The presentation revealed that normal microSD cards will not be compatible with the system. However, data from the original Switch can be transferred to the new console.
The tariffs, he said, impact games hardware because console devices are manufactured and shipped from China and that region at large.
The early stages of a hardware life cycle are already very low margin, or usually a loss for hardware manufacturers, van Dreunen said. Those manufacturers typically eat the margin in order to get the devices out to stores.
“But with an increased tariff, that means that margin is probably even worse than it historically is. But their hands are kind of tied. They can’t not progress. They can’t not launch a new hardware generation. So for the consumer base, people are just going to pay more.”
Nintendo plans to host “Switch 2 Experience” events in several countries, where gamers can get a hands-on experience with the new system. Those events are planned for cities such as Los Angeles, New York, London and Paris beginning this month.
Nintendo Switch 2: 10 Frequently Asked Questions
Nintendo has officially announced the launch of the highly anticipated Switch 2, set to release on June 5, 2025. With exciting new features and a lineup of exclusive games, gamers worldwide are eager to get their hands on this next-generation console. Below are the top 10 frequently asked questions about the Nintendo Switch 2.
1. When is the Nintendo Switch 2 releasing, and how much does it cost?
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, with a retail price of $449.99.
2. What are the major new features of the Switch 2?
The Switch 2 introduces several exciting features, including:
- A new “C” button on the Joy-Con controller for launching the “GameChat” feature.
- Interactive chat and screenshare functionality.
- Joy-Con controllers that can function like a computer mouse.
- A built-in microphone for voice chat.
- A larger 7.9-inch LCD screen with 1080p resolution and 4K support when docked.
3. What is “GameChat,” and how does it work?
GameChat is a new feature that allows players to communicate with friends and family while playing. It includes voice chat and screenshare options but requires a subscription to Nintendo’s Switch Online service.
4. What are the launch titles for the Nintendo Switch 2?
The main launch game bundled with the console is Mario Kart World, which introduces a new knockout mode and rail-grinding mechanics. Other confirmed games include:
- Donkey Kong Bananza (July 17, 2025)
- Kirby Air Riders (Late 2025)
- Project 007 (New James Bond title)
- Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment (Winter 2025)
- The Duskbloods (2026)
5. Will the Nintendo Switch 2 be backward compatible?
Yes, the Switch 2 will support both physical and digital Nintendo Switch games. However, a microSD Express memory card will be required, as regular microSD cards will not be compatible.
6. Will GameCube games be available on the Switch 2?
Yes! Nintendo has announced that Switch Online subscribers will gain access to a selection of GameCube titles, including The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker and F-Zero GX.
7. What are the hardware improvements in the Switch 2?
The Switch 2 boasts several hardware upgrades, including:
- A 7.9-inch LCD screen (1080p resolution)
- 4K resolution support when docked
- Enhanced Joy-Con controllers with new functionalities
- A built-in microphone for voice chat
- Increased storage and processing power
8. Are there any third-party exclusives coming to the Switch 2?
Yes, notable third-party exclusives include:
- Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment by Koei-Tecmo
- The Duskbloods by From Software, a multiplayer title from the creators of Elden Ring
9. How will tariffs affect the pricing of the Switch 2?
Due to manufacturing and shipping costs, along with potential tariffs on gaming hardware, the price of the Switch 2 is slightly higher than its predecessor. However, Nintendo has confirmed they are moving forward with the launch despite these challenges.
10. Will there be demo events for the Switch 2 before launch?
Yes! Nintendo will be hosting “Switch 2 Experience” events in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, London, and Paris, giving gamers a chance to try out the new system before its official release.
The Nintendo Switch 2 promises to be a game-changer in the industry, with cutting-edge features, an impressive game lineup, and backward compatibility. Are you excited for the launch? Let us know in the comments below!
