It’s finally here. After months of speculation and rumors, Nintendo has unveiled its latest console: the Nintendo Switch 2. With a name that echoes its predecessor, this new console might seem similar at first glance, but a closer look reveals a host of exciting updates and enhancements. We've identified 30 key details from the reveal trailer, and we're excited to share them all with you.
From a new face button to innovative ways to use the Joy-Con, here's everything you need to know about the Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look
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01 - The Switch 2 maintains a similar form factor to its predecessor but is slightly larger. The main unit and Joy-Con are both taller, making the entire console about 15% bigger than the original Switch.
02 - The vibrant Joy-Con colors of the past are replaced with a sleek, uniform dark grey, giving the console a more refined, Steam Deck-like aesthetic.
03 - Despite the monochrome exterior, the Switch 2 pays homage to its roots with a colorful ring around each analogue stick. This color-coding system extends to the inner edges of the console and Joy-Con, enhancing both style and functionality.
04 - The Joy-Con now slot directly into the console via a protruding connector, potentially using magnets similar to Apple’s Magsafe technology, rather than sliding on rails.
05 - A new trigger system on the rear of each Joy-Con allows for easy detachment from the main unit, using a piston-like mechanism.
06 - The classic control layout on the Joy-Con remains unchanged, with offset analogue sticks and familiar button placements.
07 - A mysterious new button below the Home button on the Joy-Con has yet to be explained by Nintendo.
08 - The L and R shoulder buttons and ZL and ZR triggers are in their expected positions, with the latter appearing deeper and more rounded for improved comfort and usability.
09 - The analogue sticks feature a new design with a smaller inner ring and taller rims for better grip.
10 - The NFC Amiibo interface is not visible on the right Joy-Con, and the IR sensor from the original has been removed, likely due to its limited use in games.
11 - The SL and SR buttons on the internal edges of the Joy-Con are significantly larger, enhancing usability when using each Joy-Con as a standalone controller.
12 - The player indicator LEDs have moved to the forward-facing edge of the connector strip.
13 - The connector port between the SL and SR buttons includes a Sync button for pairing with the console, and a new clear lens above it, possibly a laser sensor for mouse-like functionality.
14 - The wrist-straps for the Joy-Con have been redesigned, matching the internal color scheme of the controllers.
15 - The main console unit features a larger screen, though not as edge-to-edge as the Switch OLED model, and the display technology remains undisclosed.
16 - The top edge of the console includes slightly redesigned power and volume buttons, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a ventilation grill split into three vents.
17 - The Game Card slot remains on the top edge, indicating backwards compatibility with the original Switch's game cartridges.
18 - A new USB-C port on the top edge adds to the existing bottom-mounted port, hinting at potential new peripherals.
19 - New downward-firing speakers replace the original rear-facing ones, promising improved sound quality.
20 - The rear of the console features a full-length kickstand with multiple locking angles, supported by rubber feet for stability.
21 - The Switch 2 can be docked and connected to a TV, with a dock design similar to the original but with rounded corners and a prominent Switch 2 logo.
22 - A new controller peripheral for the Joy-Con is included, though its comfort remains to be tested.
23 - The reveal trailer teases a new Mario Kart game, featuring a larger starting line for 24 racers, compared to the 12 in Mario Kart 8.
24 - A new track, "Mario Kart - Mario Bros. Circuit," suggests a more expansive and varied racing experience.
25 - The trailer confirms a roster of ten characters: Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Peach, Yoshi, Toad, Donkey Kong, Daisy, Rosalina, and Wario.
26 - Backwards compatibility is supported, though some games may not be compatible due to changes in Joy-Con design.
27 - The Switch 2 is set to launch in 2025, with a more specific date to be announced.
28 - More details will be revealed during a Nintendo Direct on April 2nd.
29 - Following the Direct, fans can experience the console at the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience tour, starting in New York and Paris on April 4th, and visiting other major cities. Tickets are available through a free ballot, with registration opening on January 17th.
30 - These are the 30 key details from the Switch 2 announcement trailer. Stay tuned to IGN for more updates on the Nintendo Switch 2 in the coming months.
