The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch globally on June 5, 2025, with a retail price of $449.99 USD. A bundle including Mario Kart World will be available for $499.99 USD
🔧 Hardware & Features
Display: 7.9-inch LCD screen with 1080p resolution, supporting up to 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10, and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR).
Docked Output: Up to 4K at 60fps via HDMI with HDR10 and VRR.
Storage: 256GB UFS internal storage, expandable via microSD Express cards.
Controllers: New magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers with enhanced motion controls and a new “C” button for GameChat functionality.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, dual USB-C ports, and a headphone jack.
Audio: Linear PCM stereo speakers with 3D audio effects .
🎮 Games & Compatibility
Backward Compatibility: Supports most Nintendo Switch games, with some titles receiving performance enhancements.
Launch Titles: Include Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, and enhanced editions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.
GameChat: A new feature allowing voice and video chat, screen sharing, and webcam integration via the “C” button on Joy-Con 2 .
💰 Pricing & Pre-orders
Game Pricing: Nintendo has introduced variable pricing for Switch 2 games, with titles like Mario Kart World priced at €89.99 and Donkey Kong Bananza at €79.99 .
Pre-orders: Began on April 9, 2025, but faced delays in the U.S. and Canada due to trade tariffs. In the UK, high demand has led to resale prices exceeding £1,000 on platforms like eBay .
🧩 Controversies & Criticisms
Physical Game Cards: Some physical editions, such as Elden Ring Tarnished Edition, require downloading the game content, leading to criticism over the lack of on-cartridge data .
Zelda DLC: The enhanced Breath of the Wild for Switch 2 does not include the Expansion Pass DLC by default. Players must purchase it separately for an additional €10, raising concerns over pricing strategies .LOS40