On April 2, 2025, Nintendo held a dedicated Direct about Nintendo Switch 2, revealing the system’s features, launch plans and games. The console did not go on sale that day: Nintendo Switch 2 launched on June 5, 2025, beginning a new hardware cycle while retaining compatibility with compatible games from existing Nintendo Switch libraries.
What Nintendo announced on April 2
Nintendo’s Direct focused on Switch 2 and introduced games including Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza and The Duskbloods. Nintendo also announced the system’s June 5 release date and U.S. launch prices. The announcement was a detailed presentation of a new console, not evidence that Nintendo was replacing its account system, ending hardware generations or changing how all future games would be developed.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System | $499.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 System with Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 Bundle | $568.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle with Bonus HDMI Cable & Screen Cleaning Cloth | $619.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa described the console as “the next step in at-home gaming that can be taken on the go based on eight years of play and discovery that began with Nintendo Switch.” That is Nintendo’s description of its goals, not an independent performance assessment.
Switch 2 at a glance
| Feature | What Nintendo announced |
|---|---|
| Screen | 7.9-inch LCD with full-HD 1080p resolution, according to Nintendo’s launch notice. |
| Internal storage | 256 GB, with some space reserved for system use. |
| Controllers | Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically and can function as mouse controllers in compatible games. |
| Game library | Nintendo said compatible games from existing Nintendo Switch libraries can be played. Check Nintendo’s compatibility information for specific titles. |
| GameChat | A social feature for playing and talking online; video chat requires a compatible USB-C camera sold separately. |
These features and specifications are from Nintendo’s April 2 announcement and June 5 launch notice. The cited announcement said GameChat would be available without a Nintendo Switch Online membership during an open-access period ending in March 2026; check Nintendo’s current terms rather than assuming that access arrangement still applies.
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- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
When did Nintendo Switch 2 come out?
Nintendo Switch 2 launched on June 5, 2025. Nintendo described it as its first brand-new gaming platform in eight years, and Mario Kart World launched alongside the system. April 2 was the announcement and presentation date, not the retail launch date.
How much did Switch 2 cost at launch?
Nintendo of America announced a U.S. launch MSRP of $449.99 for the console and $499.99 for a bundle with Mario Kart World. Those are historical U.S. launch prices from April 2025, not current universal prices. Nintendo’s U.S. product page, accessed October 7, 2026, lists a system-plus-Mario Kart World bundle at a $549.99 MSRP; check the current product page and retailers for up-to-date price and availability.
What the announcement meant—and what it didn’t
Switch 2 marked a new Nintendo hardware generation, but the announcement did not mean the original Switch immediately stopped mattering. Nintendo said players could play compatible games from their existing Switch libraries, while noting that compatibility is game-specific.
Rank #2
- The next evolution of the Nintendo Switch system
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Supports up to 4K resolution** when using a compatible game and TV connected via the included Nintendo Switch 2 dock
- Nintendo Switch 2 plays compatible physical and digital Nintendo Switch games.***
The Direct established the system’s features, launch date and initial software lineup. It does not substantiate broader claims that Nintendo had committed to a permanent platform, guaranteed that saves or every digital purchase would carry forward, or promised a new development model for all its games. Treat those claims as speculation unless Nintendo confirms them.
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FAQ
What did Nintendo announce on April 2, 2025?
Nintendo presented Switch 2, detailed features and announced games, including Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza and The Duskbloods. It also announced the June 5 launch date and U.S. launch prices.
When did Nintendo Switch 2 come out?
Nintendo Switch 2 launched on June 5, 2025. April 2 was the date of the Nintendo Direct and announcement.
Rank #3
- 【Ultimate Nintendo Switch 2 Bundle – Ready to Play】Includes the complete Nintendo Switch 2 console and a full-game download of Mario Kart World, so you can start racing right out of the box. Perfect for gamers of all ages and playstyles.
- 【Next-Gen Hybrid Gaming with Stunning Visuals】Experience a vivid 7.9‑inch 1080p LCD touchscreen with HDR support, and enjoy 4K TV output at up to 60 fps when docked — for immersive gameplay at home or on the go.
- 【Versatile 3 Play Modes】Seamlessly switch between Handheld, Tabletop, and TV modes — all featuring intuitive controls and smooth performance, wherever you choose to play.
- 【Enhanced Social Gaming with GameChat & Multiplayer】Connect with friends locally, enjoy online multiplayer with up to 24 players, and use voice chat via GameChat (internet connection and Nintendo Switch Online membership required after trial period).
- 【Powerful Storage & Joy‑Con 2 Controllers】Includes 256 GB internal storage (expandable with microSD), magnetic Joy‑Con 2 controllers, docking station, HDMI cable, AC adapter, grip, and straps — everything you need for the ultimate gaming setup.
Can I play my old Switch games on Switch 2?
Nintendo says Switch 2 can play compatible games from existing Nintendo Switch libraries. Check Nintendo’s compatibility information for the status of a particular game.
How much did Switch 2 cost at launch?
Nintendo of America announced a U.S. launch MSRP of $449.99 for the console and $499.99 for the Mario Kart World bundle. These are historical launch prices; current prices and availability may differ.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
