EXCLUSIVE: Nintendo Switch 2’s Launch Timeline, Price Tag, and Mario Kart Rumors

I’m seriously geeking out over all the Nintendo Switch 2 buzz right now! From what I’ve been reading in all these leaks and industry reports, it looks like Nintendo might be getting ready to shake things up in the handheld gaming world again. What’s got me even more stoked is that they’ve apparently lined up some major launch events across North America:

You can catch the first glimpse in New York from April 4-6, 2025, then it’s heading to Los Angeles April 11-13, 2025. For folks in Dallas and Toronto, they’ll both be hosting events from April 25-27, 2025.

I’ve been obsessively following all the rumors and supposed leaks about what this new console might be capable of. Sure, we should take everything with a grain of salt until Nintendo drops official news, but from what I’ve gathered, it seems they’re focusing hard on blending their signature innovation with some seriously user-friendly improvements. As a longtime Nintendo fan, I can’t wait to see if these rumors pan out!”

Remember, since these launch dates would be after my knowledge cutoff, you’ll want to verify them from official Nintendo sources. Would you like me to try another version with a different tone or focus?

Is Nintendo Preparing to Launch a New Mario Kart Title?

Hey, I’ve been keeping an eye on the Nintendo Switch 2 game situation, and there’s some pretty interesting stuff going around! From what I understand, you’ll be able to play your existing Switch games on the new system – both the cartridges and downloaded ones. Just keep in mind that some games might need updates or might not work perfectly on the new hardware.

The really juicy part? There’s been some buzz about a potential new Mario Kart! Nintendo apparently dropped some hints about it on their website. As a huge Mario Kart fan, this definitely caught my attention. Of course, Nintendo’s being their usual mysterious selves, saying they’ll share more details on their website later. Classic Nintendo move, right?

What gets me excited is thinking about how a new Mario Kart might take advantage of the Switch 2’s upgraded hardware. Just imagine what those tracks could look like

Bigger and Better Display

One of the standout features of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its substantially larger 8.4-inch display. This marks a significant leap from the 7-inch OLED panel on the Switch OLED model and the 6.2-inch display of the original Switch. For comparison, the Lenovo Legion Go, a massive handheld with an 8.8-inch display, highlights just how sizable the Switch 2’s screen will be. Despite its larger display, the Switch 2’s dimensions remain relatively compact, making it one of the most portable large-screen handhelds available.

The display upgrade doesn’t end with size. Rumors suggest the Switch 2 will feature a 1080p resolution panel, up from the 720p on the Switch OLED. This increase in resolution will boost pixel density from 209 to 262 pixels per inch, delivering sharper visuals and an enhanced gaming experience. While leaks indicate the initial model might have an LCD screen, an OLED variant is expected to follow at a higher price point.

Nintendo Switch 2 vs Nintendo Switch

Sleeker Design and New Dimensions

The Nintendo Switch 2’s design reflects thoughtful improvements to enhance usability. The console is 3 cm longer, 1.44 cm taller, and 1.74 cm thicker than the Switch OLED. Although the added thickness might raise eyebrows, it likely points to better internal hardware and performance capabilities.

Interestingly, despite its larger display, the Switch 2 is 0.9 cm narrower than popular handhelds like the ROG Ally, showcasing Nintendo’s ability to balance screen size and portability. The new design also accommodates better airflow with larger vents and strategic placement of ports.

Enhanced Connectivity and Port Options

The port configuration on the Nintendo Switch 2 has seen some thoughtful changes. On the top, the console includes:

  • A power button
  • A unified volume rocker
  • A 3.5 mm headphone jack (or possibly a sensor)
  • A microphone
  • USB-C port for charging and accessories

The addition of a USB-C port on the top allows users to charge the console while it’s in tabletop mode, addressing a common complaint from previous models. The bottom of the console features speaker grills and a new, larger interface port. This port is speculated to connect the console to a redesigned dock, which could potentially include hardware enhancements such as a built-in GPU for improved performance in docked mode.

A Smarter Dock with Potential GPU Integration

The new dock for the Nintendo Switch 2 is rumored to be more than just a docking station. Leaked images show a thicker design with built-in vents, suggesting active cooling components. The larger connector between the console and the dock could allow for higher bandwidth data transfer, supporting the theory that the dock might house additional hardware, such as a GPU. This setup could enable 4K output, a significant upgrade from the 1080p output of the current Switch models.

Joy-Con Improvements

The Joy-Cons have also undergone a redesign to enhance comfort and functionality. Key changes include:

  • Increased size: 1.44 cm taller, 0.49 cm wider, and 0.3 cm thicker.
  • New button layout: Buttons now have more travel, providing a tactile and satisfying experience. A new “C” button under the home button may serve as a chat button for Nintendo’s party system.
  • Larger back triggers: ZL and ZR buttons are noticeably bigger, addressing user feedback about the small size of triggers on the current Joy-Cons.
  • Magnetic rail system: Joy-Cons will attach and detach using a magnetic rail, simplifying the process and improving durability.

The color scheme is also fresh, with rails featuring subtle pops of color while keeping the main body sleek and monochromatic. However, the IR Blaster, used in games like Ring Fit Adventure, seems to have been removed. This may limit backward compatibility for certain titles.

Storage and Expandability

Storage on the Nintendo Switch 2 is another area of improvement. The console is rumored to support microSD Express cards, a leap from the slower microSD cards supported by the current models. With read speeds of up to 800 MB/s, these cards will allow users to expand storage and even play games directly from the microSD card without compromising performance.

Potential Release Timeline

Industry insiders suggest that the Nintendo Switch 2 could be unveiled in the near future, with some speculating an announcement in a matter of days. If these rumors hold true, we could see the console hit shelves sooner than expected, bringing an exciting wave of innovation to the gaming world.

Nintendo Switch 2 Experience host cities and schedule. All dates are local.

North America:

  • New York, April 4-6, 2025
  • Los Angeles, April 11-13, 2025
  • Dallas, April 25-27, 2025
  • Toronto, April 25-27, 2025

Europe:

  • Paris, April 4-6, 2025
  • London, April 11-13, 2025
  • Milan, April 25-27, 2025
  • Berlin, April 25-27, 2025
  • Madrid, May 9-11, 2025
  • Amsterdam, May 9-11, 2025

Oceania:

  • Melbourne, May 10-11, 2025

Asia:

  • Tokyo (Makuhari), April 26-27, 2025
  • Seoul, May 31-June 1, 2025
  • Hong Kong, To be announced

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a monumental upgrade over its predecessors. With a larger display, improved performance, enhanced connectivity, and redesigned Joy-Cons, it promises to deliver an unparalleled gaming experience. While some details remain speculative, the leaks paint an exciting picture of what’s to come. Whether you’re a die-hard Nintendo fan or new to handheld gaming, the Switch 2 is set to make a lasting impression.

Stay tuned for more updates as Nintendo officially unveils this game-changing console.


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