Nintendo Unveils Switch 2: A More Powerful Sequel to the Record-Breaking Console

KYOTO, Japan — Nintendo has officially unveiled the Nintendo Switch 2, the highly anticipated successor to its record-breaking console, with a release date set for 2025. The announcement, made through a first-look trailer and a dedicated website, confirms that the new console will build on the success of its predecessor with enhanced power and backward compatibility.

The Nintendo Switch 2 retains the hybrid design of the original, allowing players to switch between handheld and TV modes. While the form factor remains largely unchanged, the new console promises significant hardware upgrades, addressing one of the most common criticisms of the original Switch: its lack of power compared to competitors like the PlayStation and Xbox.

“This is a better, more powerful Switch,” said a Nintendo spokesperson. “If you own a Switch and it’s almost everything you’ve ever wanted from a console, you’re going to love the Switch 2.” The company emphasized that the new console will support most existing Nintendo Switch games, though some titles may not be fully compatible.

The original Nintendo Switch, released in 2017, became a cultural phenomenon, selling over 132 million units and becoming the second-best-selling console of all time, trailing only the Nintendo DS. Its success was driven by a combination of innovative design, a strong lineup of first-party games like “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” and “Super Mario Odyssey,” and its unique hybrid functionality.

However, as the gaming industry advanced, the Switch’s hardware limitations became more apparent. While competitors like Sony and Microsoft released mid-cycle upgrades like the PS4 Pro and Xbox Series X, Nintendo focused on incremental improvements, such as the Switch Lite and the Switch OLED model. The Switch 2 represents the company’s first major hardware leap in nearly a decade.

The new console is expected to close the performance gap with current-generation systems like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, though it will not match their raw power. Instead, Nintendo aims to offer a more refined experience for its existing fan base while attracting new players with improved graphics and performance. For example, the Switch 2 could potentially run current-gen games like “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth,” which would significantly boost its appeal.

Nintendo also announced plans to host Nintendo Switch 2 Experience events in cities worldwide, allowing consumers to try the new console ahead of its release. Ticket registrations for these events will open soon, and a Nintendo Account will be required to participate.

While some fans have expressed disappointment at the lack of a groundbreaking new feature, many see the Switch 2’s focus on power and compatibility as a smart move. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” said Matt Kim, IGN’s Senior Features Editor. “Nintendo is playing it safe, and that might be exactly what the Switch 2 needs to succeed.”

Nintendo will share more details about the Switch 2 during a special Nintendo Direct presentation on April 2, 2025. Until then, fans can watch the first-look trailer and visit the official website for updates.