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Nintendo’s Switch 2 Direct on April 2, 2025, offered a closer look at the console and its features, alongside announcements for new games. Switch 2 launched on June 5, 2025. The presentation’s main takeaways were its larger 1080p screen, new Joy-Con 2 controls, GameChat, compatibility with supported Switch games, and a slate led by Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza.
What did Nintendo announce at the Switch 2 Direct?
The dedicated presentation focused on the system’s hardware and social features as well as games. Nintendo highlighted Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza and The Duskbloods, among other releases and Switch 2 Editions of existing games. Nintendo’s April 2 Direct page lists the titles shown.
| # | 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 |
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Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle with Bonus HDMI Cable & Screen Cleaning Cloth | $619.00 | Buy on Amazon |
Games highlighted for Switch 2
- Mario Kart World was presented as a launch-period game, with 24-player races, a connected world and the Knockout Tour mode described in Nintendo’s U.S. launch announcement.
- Donkey Kong Bananza was announced as a new 3D platforming adventure.
- The Duskbloods, Hades II, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition and Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade were among the third-party titles Nintendo named.
- Other announced titles included Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, Kirby Air Riders, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment and Drag x Drive.
Those were announcement-time plans, not a guarantee that every title is currently available or has an unchanged release schedule. Consult the game publisher or Nintendo’s current listing for the latest status.
What changed in the Switch 2 hardware?
Nintendo’s launch materials describe a system with a 7.9-inch LCD screen at 1080p and 256 GB of internal storage. The Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically and can function like a mouse on a surface in compatible games.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
- Screen: 7.9-inch built-in LCD with 1080p resolution.
- Storage: 256 GB internal storage. Expansion uses microSD Express cards; Nintendo did not identify conventional microSD cards as the expansion format.
- Docked output: Up to 4K resolution and 120 frames per second, when supported by the game and television.
- Controllers: Joy-Con 2 attach magnetically and offer mouse-style control in compatible games.
How does GameChat work, and does it require a membership?
GameChat brings voice chat, screen sharing and optional camera-based video chat to Switch 2. Press the C Button on the right Joy-Con 2 to access it. Nintendo described voice chat for up to 12 people and screen sharing with up to four friends. Video chat requires a compatible USB-C camera, such as the separately sold Nintendo Switch 2 camera.
Nintendo’s launch announcement said GameChat could be used without a Nintendo Switch Online membership through the end of March 2026. That temporary access period has ended. Nintendo said a membership would be required afterward; check Nintendo’s current service terms for the rules that apply now.
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.***
Can Switch 2 play original Nintendo Switch games?
It can play compatible physical and digital Nintendo Switch games, but Nintendo cautioned that some titles may not be supported or may not be fully compatible. This is not a promise that every original Switch game works without issue. Nintendo also said original Switch Joy-Con controllers and accessories such as the Switch Pro Controller can connect wirelessly.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When did Switch 2 launch, and what did it cost?
Switch 2 launched on June 5, 2025. These are Nintendo’s official launch-announcement prices, not current retail quotes; availability and prices may vary by seller and date.
Recommended Free Tools
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.
| Region and configuration | Launch-announcement price |
|---|---|
| United States, console | $449.99 suggested retail price |
| United States, Mario Kart World bundle | $499.99 suggested retail price |
| Japan, Japanese-language system | ¥49,980 including tax |
The Japanese price applied to the Japan-only Japanese-language system, so it is not directly interchangeable with the U.S. prices. Nintendo’s U.S. launch announcement provides the U.S. pricing; its Japan announcement gives the Japanese price.
How quickly did Switch 2 sell at launch?
Nintendo Co., Ltd. reported that Switch 2 sold more than 3.5 million units worldwide in its first four days after launch, which Nintendo said was the highest global first-four-day sales total for any Nintendo hardware. The count included the Mario Kart World set and Japan-only system variants. Nintendo’s June 10, 2025 announcement gives the figure and its scope.
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.
