With 2024 almost over, we’re still in for a few surprises, and this latest one concerns the Nintendo Switch 2. Yes, in case you’re not aware, there was a leak confirming the actual appearance of Nintendo’s successor hybrid console. So if you’re curious about that, we have all the juicy details for you today.
There are other little details regarding the new console that we will cover as well, such as its release window and the rumblings about multiple variants in development. We’ll tell you all there is to know about Nintendo’s next-gen console, which seems on track to gain massive sales.
What Does The Nintendo Switch 2 Look Like?
A popular device customization and accessory maker, Dbrand, made headlines. Since there’s no lawsuit or the threat of one, it’s hilariously plausible that this company is Nintendo’s marketing tool. So, on its official X page, Dbrand’s post was showing the design of a case for the Nintendo Switch 2. The display tells quite a lot about the next console’s actual shape, size, and look. Also, there is a rotational animation featuring the case on Dbrand’s official website. Even the title is quite fascinating: Switch 2 Killswitch. Previously, there was a message following the X leak stating:
“We won’t be answering questions at this time.”
While at the time, that was it, since then, there have been further leak escalations and confirmations. We’ll go through them one by one. The first is the statement by Dbrand CEO, Mr. Adam Ijaz, confirming that the rotating case image shows the Nintendo Switch 2. He says they have ‘exact dimensions’ because the case contains a 3D scan of the Nintendo Switch 2. The size comparisons to the older Nintendo Switch models will show notable differences. The Nintendo Switch 2 will be wider and have more height elevation than the original Switch and its variants.
For context, the original Switch was 242 mm wide, 102 mm tall, and the thickness was about a hair shy of 14 mm, clocking in at 13.9 mm. But the new successor is shaping to be 270 mm wide, 116mm high, and 14 mm thick. The diagonal assessment of the new console’s cover glass shows that the screen size is likely around 8 inches. Onto the more speculative suggestion by Mr. Adam Ijaz, he strongly believes that there are Joy-Cons that are magnetically attachable. The Joy-Cons are also detachable with an eject button at the back of the console.
Are There Other Sources Of Leaks For The Next-Gen Hybrid Nintendo Console?
Before we start on other leaks for Nintendo Switch 2, we’ll wrap up what Dbrand’s CEO was teasing. There is a kickstand at the halfway point, so around 55 mm, which will prove handy for gamers. Advertising the case for the Nintendo Switch 2, Mr. Adam Ijaz states that users can detach the controller’s portion of the case with the console’s detachable controllers from inside the case. The Joy-stick controller’s size seems like it will have a height of 6.27 mm. The button mapping area will have a protrusion of 1.67 mm, and the triggers at the ends will extend out around 9.1 mm.
Next, we move onto the information from another source, Youtuber SwitchUp. In a video showcase of a mockup Nintendo Switch 2, we can see a larger version of the console than even the OLED model of the current Switch. The bump in size is consistent in the Joy-Con size, too. There is a similar kickstand like the one in the OLED version that’s available now. Finally, the video shows that Joy-Cons having the extra mystery ‘C’ button, its purpose still unclear. Aside from that, in the video we can also see that there are buttons just below the triggers that will presumbaly detach the Joy-Cons from the console.
One cool feature is the inclusion of a second USB-C port that possibly could allow for charging the console while you’re using the table-top mode. A third source for the Nintendo Switch 2 leaks is Deck Wizard. They have shared that the next nintendo console’s design for the Joy-Cons will have visible battery indicators. This will allow players to know the charging level and their player status on them, especially when using Joy-Cons separately or using a peripheral device like a wheel or sports accessories.
What Is The Release Window Of Nintendo Switch 2, And Will It Launch With Variants?
A little context’s in order before we get to the release date. Because of the relatively less powerful hardware specs, the original Nintendo Switch couldn’t optimize games to the extent of the PS5, the Xbox Series X, or the Steam Deck. This complain is looking like it will get acknowledgment, and the tech powering Nintendo Switch 2, according to Deck Wizard, makes it capable of playing most modern AAA releases. In that same statement, Deck Wizard is claiming that January is the release month of the new console. There are even whisperings of launch titles for the system.
Keep in mind this isn’t official, and there is another source for the release date of Nintendo Switch 2 that is making the rounds. A speculation by NextHandHeld is that Nintendo will launch it at the end of the fiscal year, which is leading up to the end of March 2025. If you listen to NateDrake’s podcast, they’re alluding to an event for the launch of the new console in May. Which, if you know your Nintendo history, checks out. Besides, there are strong promotional events for Nintendo to capitalize on, like Summer Games Fest and Pax East. They can serve as strong launch windows for Nintendo.
So, in short, there is no definitive release date, but when it does, the gaming industry research firm DFC Intelligence predicts that Nintendo will lead the console market from 2025 through to 2028. NextHandheld on Reddit is claiming that 3 colored variants will be available at the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. A grey console with black buttons, much like the original Nintendo Switch. Then there’s an all-white one, like with the OLED model variant of the Switch. Finally, a special edition one themed after one of Nintendo’s power-house exclusives.
A Rundown Of Everything We Know So Far
Let’s wrap up with everything that’s common knowledge for all things Nintendo Switch 2.
The console is backwards compatible, capable of playing all your Nintendo Switch titles. It’s still unclear if this applies to physical copies of games or digital ones, or both.
The Joy-Con drift problem will not be an issue in the next console because of the improved hardware.
There will be an enhancement to the visuals due to the beefier specs than the original Switch. These include custom-designed Nividia chips, and higher RAM ranging in the 8GB, and an eight-core Cortex-A78AE, and 10 streaming processors (SM’s).
The battery life and internal storage of the new console are higher.
While the new system will have a lrager size, it’s also targeting a lower weight.
Release window is still a speculation, as there is no official word on it. There are strong possibilities of a January launch, or in May at a media event with promotional stages of Summers Games Fest and PAX East.
There are colorful variants of the new console set to launch simultaneously with the default version.
We have a rough idea of the appearance of what the Nintendo Switch 2 looks like.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch 2 is definitely generating a lot of hype among its fan-base, and that’s always best for business. Do you think there’s a leaked rumor that’s been verified we forgot to mention here? Tell us about it in the comments below. What features and games are you hoping to see at the launch of the console? Will you pre-order it or adopt a wait-and-see approach? We can’t wait to read what you all have to say.
If you like our gaming company coverage, then check out our detailed report of Sony’s Kadokawa acquisition deal. It’s a fascinating read with a lot of insider news. Stay tuned for more updates as they happen.
