Nearing Next-gen With Nintendo Switch 2 Rumors (Updated for 2024)
Oct 03, 2024
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The Nintendo Switch has been a worldwide phenomenon since its 2017 debut. However, that feels like a long time ago. A new era seems to be on the horizon, especially for the Japanese video game company. So, is the Nintendo Switch 2 release date in 2024 or 2025? Here’s what you need to know about the rumors.
Will There Be a Nintendo Switch 2?
There has yet to be an official word from Nintendo about the Switch 2. In fact, don’t be so sure that’s the actual name of the console. If it does launch in 2025, anticipate Nintendo news in the next few months. In the meantime, leaks suggest the video game company is ready for its next console. Rumored Switch 2 pictures leaked on Chinese social media and spread like wildfire on Reddit.
Previous rumors fired up after the Nintendo Switch 2 supposedly debuted at Gamescom in the fall of 2023. Rumor has it an improved version of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was available for honored industry players to test on the successor system’s new hardware. The game reportedly ran at 60 FPS with no load times, a ring to a gamer’s ears, especially when Nintendo’s systems have historically compromised hardware capabilities for other functionality. Perhaps Nintendo finally wants to compete with Sony and Microsoft.
Eight years is a little long for a company to release a new gaming system, especially by Nintendo standards. Since 1983, the longest the company has gone between gaming systems is nine years — the gap between the NES and the SNES. In the modern era, six years is a typical timeline for Nintendo. For now, you’ll have to rely on Nintendo nostalgia to fulfill your video game needs.
What Features Could the Nintendo Switch 2 Have?
When a video game company releases a new console, it has to be much better than the previous edition. So, what could be in store for the Nintendo Switch 2? Here are what recent reports have suggested.
1. Screen Changes
The beauty of the Nintendo Switch is its large screen. If you have the original Switch, your console is about 6.2 inches long and easy to hold. The OLED version is 7 inches, though the next console could be 8 inches if the rumors are correct. This shift would be significant because bigger is usually better. Is there such a thing as too large of a screen? Adults may enjoy it when playing the Switch, though children could struggle.
2. Second Screen
If you thought the screen news stopped there, you’re mistaken. The United Daily News — a Taiwan-based outlet — said markets speculate a dual-screen design for the Nintendo Switch 2. With a dual-screen approach, you might expect the next console to be similar to the Wii U. With a USB-C port, the Switch 2 could go to the next level with a second screen. The second screen news is excellent for visibility and overall gameplay.
3. More RAM
A less prominent feature you may appreciate is the increased random-access memory (RAM). The current Switch has 4GB of RAM, but rumors suggest the next console will have 12GB. Video game machines use RAM to run the code and store necessary information. The more you have, the easier it is to run games. The Nintendo Switch processes games smoothly, so tripling the RAM would improve the experience.
4. Battery Life
If you have a portable console, you must have a solid battery. How can you expect your game to last on a road trip if the capacity is low? The United Daily News reports the Switch 2 will have an enhanced battery life to support longer gaming sessions. Nintendo reportedly considered AMD for the accelerated processing unit (APU). However, it looks like the company will partner with NVIDIA again. How could it not, considering its familiarity with the last console?
What Do Fans Want From the Nintendo Switch 2?
Most coverage on the Nintendo Switch 2 is speculative. However, it doesn’t mean Nintendo doesn’t listen to fan feedback in their design process. Perhaps comments and critiques about the Switch over the years catalyzed design choices for its follow-up. It’s impossible to say, but if Nintendo wants to keep fans committed, they might listen to a few of their wishlists.
First, fans want better hardware. We’re talking 1080p display, stylus support and Joy-Cons without drift. Despite the Switch’s popularity, it does not compare to Sony and Microsoft’s most recent generation consoles.
Fans also want nostalgia. The remake and remaster boon has been going on for some time and probably won’t stop. At the end of the Switch’s life, Nintendo is embracing this by rereleasing Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door and opening up the Nintendo 64, Game Boy and Game Boy Advance to virtual console. So, is the 3DS or GameCube next? Will fans get even more niche nostalgic upgrades like a return of portable functionality like StreetPass?
What Games Should Nintendo Launch With the Switch 2?
Debuting a new console means it should have a line of new games on the first day. What launch titles should you expect with the Nintendo Switch 2? While some are predictable, others might give a clue for what’s to come in the future.
1. Mario Kart
Nintendo is synonymous with Mario and Mario Kart. This game is famous for its close battles, challenging tracks and biased opinions on characters. Whether your favorite is Bowser or Donkey Kong, you should expect a new Mario Kart game with the Switch 2. Mario Kart 8 wasn’t originally for the Switch, but Nintendo released it in 2017. We’re long overdue for a new Mario Kart game, so the next title could be the answer.
2. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
There hasn’t been a Metroid Prime game since the third edition in 2007. Why has it been nearly 20 years? Nintendo announced Metroid Prime 4 in 2017, so over seven years have passed. Now, the game has an official 2025 release date. Could the next title coincide with the Nintendo Switch 2 release? If so, the long delay makes much more sense. Regardless, the next Metroid Prime game should be even more fun with better graphics and gameplay.
3. Animal Crossing
Animal Crossing: New Horizons wasn’t a launch title for the first Switch, as it debuted in 2020. However, it took the world by storm because Nintendo released it at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Animal Crossing is famous for its relaxed pace and casual gameplay, letting anybody enjoy the fun. Kids can enjoy the simplicity, whereas adults can play an easy game when they get home from work. What’s the name of your town?
4. Super Smash Bros.
Where do Metroid Prime, Animal Crossing and Mario characters convene? Look no further than Super Smash Bros. Nintendo released the last game in 2018, so it’s been a while since the previous title. While the game has received updates, it might be time for a new title. Considering its prior success, launching a new Smash Bros. with the Switch 2 would be an excellent addition. Ultimate has sold about 34.6 million copies, making it the third-best title ever.
What Are Some Less-Likely Inclusions?
It’s not often Nintendo succumbs to other gaming industry pressures, but it’s essential to acknowledge the industry meta. For example, Nintendo is the only primary developer that does not incorporate achievements into their games. Sony and Microsoft have console-specific trophies and achievements.
Do Nintendo fans care, or are they fine without the annoying pop-ups? Maybe enough fans have vocalized the want that it will be something they incorporate.
Another questionable feature is region-free play. Nintendo has gone back and forth choosing to region-lock their consoles, forcing players to jailbreak systems if they want access to the rest of the catalog. Nintendo fans adore and crave overseas releases, and especially with the proliferation of streaming, it’s easier to see gameplay and immediately get envious. Will Nintendo make the next console region-free? It’s hard to say.
Finally, it will be interesting to see how Nintendo leverages multiplayer functionality in the Nintendo Switch 2. Consoles have had online play in the past, and while their games advertised online play, only a few delivered satisfying experiences. For example, Mario Kart works well online, but Animal Crossing: New Horizons had online and local multiplayer play with few options for interactivity other than touring towns. Will Nintendo’s potential boost in hardware come with a higher focus on multiplayer experiences?
Anticipating the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2024 and Beyond
If you’re a Nintendo loyalist, you probably love the Switch, Wii, GameCube and N64. (We can talk about the Wii U another day.) What’s next in your gaming collection? It could be the Nintendo Switch 2. The Japanese video game company has said almost nothing about the next system, though rumors indicate it’s coming soon. Expect a better console with plenty of launch titles for another fun decade.
Originally published 12/03/2023 — Updated 10/3/2024
