Nintendo has officially lifted the curtain on the Nintendo Switch 2, revealing a host of upgrades and new features designed to push the hybrid console experience forward. From performance boosts to a fresh take on controllers, here’s everything Nintendo showcased in its latest Direct presentation. This article now includes post-Direct updates covering features like DLSS and new technical specifications.
Hardware Enhancements
Upgraded Display and Performance
The Nintendo Switch 2 features a 7.9-inch HDR-enabled LCD screen, offering 1080p resolution in handheld mode with support for up to 120 FPS. When docked, the console can output at 4K resolution, delivering a sharper, more fluid experience for home gaming. The screen also features G-SYNC.
Nvidia has also published an article highlighting the Switch 2’s significant graphical leap—up to 10 times the performance of the original Switch—thanks to per-game DLSS upscaling and enhanced GPU acceleration.
MicroSD Express Storage
Nintendo has moved away from traditional onboard storage, instead opting for MicroSD Express as the exclusive storage format. While the Switch 2 includes 256GB of built-in storage, it is significantly faster than the original Switch’s memory. Players will need to invest in high-speed MicroSD Express cards to expand their storage capacity, ensuring fast load times and smooth performance.
Unlike standard MicroSD cards, MicroSD Express utilizes PCIe-based technology, allowing for dramatically faster read and write speeds—up to 10 times faster than traditional MicroSD. This means significantly reduced load times, smoother performance in open-world games, and better handling of high-resolution textures and assets.
Magnetic Joy-Con Controllers
One of the most notable design changes is the introduction of magnetic Joy-Con controllers, replacing the original rail system. These new Joy-Cons offer enhanced ergonomics and attach more seamlessly. Nintendo has also improved audio capabilities by integrating microphones into the controllers, enabling new communication features.
GameChat and Switch 2 Camera
Nintendo is introducing GameChat, a built-in voice communication system with noise reduction technology, allowing for clearer voice interactions during online matches. The Switch 2 Camera will further expand communication features, enabling video chat functionality for supported applications.
GameShare for Local Multiplayer
With GameShare, players can enjoy local multiplayer even if only one person owns the game. This feature is expected to make couch co-op and local wireless play even more accessible, and is a return of the Nintendo DS Download Play feature.
Backward Compatibility
Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will support backward compatibility for a large selection of original Switch titles. However, some games may not be fully compatible, with Nintendo expected to release additional details regarding specific titles.
Additional information has been released detailing games with in-game issues and titles that will not start up. Both lists can be viewed below:
Switch 2 Editions & Upgrades
Select titles will have upgrade packs that range from $10 (minor upgrades) to $20 (larger upgrades). These can be purchased in the eShop or directly from the HOME menu. The upgrade packs take advantage of the Switch 2’s improved hardware, delivering significant improvements like higher frame rates, resolution, faster loading times, and even new content—such as a brand-new story mode in Kirby.
Some games will receive free upgrades, including The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, and others.
GameCube Joins Nintendo Switch Online – But Only on Switch 2
One of the biggest surprises in the Direct was the announcement of GameCube titles coming to Nintendo Switch Online (NSO), but with a catch—they will be exclusive to the Switch 2. While Nintendo has not yet detailed the full lineup, Luigi’s Mansion, Metroid Prime, and F-Zero GX were among the first titles confirmed.
This move marks the first time GameCube games have been officially emulated on modern Nintendo hardware, making the Switch 2 an even more attractive option for retro gaming fans.
Pricing and Release Date
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch on June 5, 2025, with two purchase options:
- Standard Edition – $449.99
- Mario Kart World Bundle – $499.99
Nintendo has also confirmed a new pricing structure for first-party games. While most titles will be priced at $69.99, Mario Kart World will debut at $79.99, raising concerns about potential future pricing trends. This marks the first time Nintendo has released a base game at this price point, a trend previously set by Sony with the PlayStation 5’s launch lineup. While Nintendo has not stated whether this will become the standard for all major releases, it introduces uncertainty for consumers moving forward.
Final Thoughts
The Nintendo Switch 2 marks a true leap forward. DLSS upscaling, 4K docked output, G-SYNC support, and a major GPU boost push it far beyond its predecessor. Faster storage and new controllers round out a system built for both power and flexibility.
GameCube titles exclusive to NSO on Switch 2 add retro appeal, while backward compatibility and upgrade options ease the transition. With a June 2025 launch set and U.S. pre-orders still pending, Nintendo’s next move will likely define how it handles pricing and digital ownership going forward.
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