Speculation about a next-generation Nintendo console, often referred to as the Nintendo Switch 2 or Switch Pro, has been circulating for years. The possibility of a new console gained traction when The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom was teased in 2019, and interest has only grown with the recent launch of the Switch OLED in 2021 after the standard Switch has been on the market for six years.
While the current Nintendo Switch is an impressive console with a unique game library and a growing list of features on Nintendo Switch Online, there are definitely areas that could be improved. With Nintendo confirming that there won’t be a Switch upgrade in the next fiscal year, the earliest we might see a new Nintendo console is in late 2024.
Considering the lifespan of the Switch and the current gaming landscape, it’s worth exploring what the Nintendo Switch 2 would need to bring to the table to be a compelling upgrade and compete effectively with other platforms.
Release Date Speculation
After years of speculation, Nintendo has finally confirmed the existence of its successor to the Switch and plans to reveal more information before the end of the company’s fiscal year in March 2025.
This is Furukawa, President of Nintendo. We will make an announcement about the successor to Nintendo Switch within this fiscal year. It will have been over nine years since we announced the existence of Nintendo Switch back in March 2015. We will be holding a Nintendo Direct…
— 任天堂株式会社（企業広報・IR） (@NintendoCoLtd) May 7, 2024
Further leaks suggest that developers have been informed that the new system will not be released within the current fiscal year, indicating a potential release after April 2025.
Switch 2 Rumors and News
While there are various rumors surrounding the release date, several other rumors about the new system have surfaced. It’s important to take these rumors with a grain of salt since Nintendo has not officially confirmed the development of a new console.
Internal Specs
According to Centro Leaks, a reliable source for Pokemon-related rumors, the next-gen Switch is rumored to have 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.
Screen Quality
Reports suggest that the Switch 2 may feature an 8-inch LCD screen instead of OLED, disappointing some fans. Additionally, there are discussions about the power of the system, with comparisons to PS4 or Xbox One levels of performance.
Backwards Compatibility
Backwards compatibility is expected to be included in the Switch 2, allowing players to enjoy their existing physical and digital titles on the new system.
Joy-Con Improvements
Rumors suggest that Joy-Cons for the Switch 2 will connect magnetically, addressing some of the issues with the current Joy-Con design.
Wireless Dock
Speculation indicates that the Switch 2 may feature a wireless dock as a key feature, enhancing the overall user experience.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows + Ports
Leakers have hinted at upcoming ports of Assassin’s Creed games and a new title for the Switch 2, providing more gaming options for players.
Features We Want in a Switch 2
4K Resolution and Faster Processing
Improving the resolution and processing power of the Switch 2 is crucial to compete with other gaming consoles and deliver a better overall gaming experience.
Make the OLED Screen Standard
Standardizing OLED screens in the Switch 2 would enhance visual quality and elevate the gaming experience for users.
More Built-In Storage
Increasing internal storage capacity with an SSD for the Switch 2 would address current limitations and enhance game loading times and performance.
Improved Joy-Cons
Enhancing the design and quality of Joy-Cons for the Switch 2 is essential to prevent issues like Joy-Con drift and improve overall gameplay experience.
Color Customization Options
Offering more color customization options for the Switch 2, including console, dock, and Joy-Cons, would add a personal touch and enhance the overall gaming experience.
