Nintendo Direct Unveils Nintendo Switch 2: Release Date, Features, and Major Game Lineup

Nintendo has officially taken the wraps off the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 during today’s Nintendo Direct, detailing new hardware features, upgraded accessories, and a powerful lineup of upcoming games.

The hour-long Nintendo Direct, livestreamed worldwide at 6 AM PT / 9 AM ET / 3 PM BST, marks one of the most significant moments in recent Nintendo history, offering a comprehensive introduction to the next generation of Nintendo gaming on the Nintendo Switch 2. The Nintendo Switch 2, launching globally on June 5th, 2025, delivers significantly enhanced hardware capabilities.

Notably, it features a 1080p LCD screen capable of up to 120 frames per second with HDR support, two USB-C ports, and a substantial increase in internal storage to 256GB—eight times the original Nintendo Switch.

A revamped dock enables 4K output and includes an internal fan for improved cooling.

Nintendo also confirmed backwards compatibility with both physical and digital Nintendo Switch games, though some titles may require updates for full functionality. An upgraded Joy-Con 2 controller was introduced, which magnetically attaches with a robust locking mechanism and a new release button for ease of use.

The Joy-Con 2 includes larger SL/SR buttons for comfort, enhanced thumbsticks, and now supports mouse functionality for both left and right controllers.

Headphone support now offers 3D audio, a major leap for immersive gameplay.

In addition, a new Pro Controller with a C button and audio jack will be available at launch. Among the key innovations is GameChat, a voice communication feature leveraging the Switch 2's built-in microphone for in-game chat, even across different titles.

Alongside GameChat, Nintendo introduces a screen-sharing capability and a dedicated Switch 2 Camera peripheral for video chat, launching as a separate accessory.

An open trial for GameChat will be offered before it becomes part of the Nintendo Switch Online membership. GameShare makes its debut, allowing users to temporarily share titles for online play with up to three other systems.

Legacy support is strong, as several older games are set to receive GameShare compatibility and performance updates. Nintendo Direct spotlighted an extensive catalog of upcoming games for the Nintendo Switch 2.

Highlights include: - "Mario Kart World" which introduces open exploration, 24-driver races, and customizable vehicles. - "Metroid Prime 4 Beyond" supporting both the original Switch and Switch 2, with enhanced visuals and optional mouse controls. - "Super Mario Party Jamboree" gets a Switch 2 update with new control schemes and camera features. - "Breath of the Wild" and "Tears of the Kingdom" will launch in enhanced editions for the Switch 2, featuring higher resolutions and HDR. - An all-new open world "Donkey Kong Bananza" debuts July 17, 2025, blending 2D platforming with robust exploration elements. Additional titles announced for Switch 2 include major releases such as Elden Ring, Hades 2, Street Fighter 6, Hogwarts Legacy, and projects like Project 007 and Bravely Default HD Remaster.

Nintendo also confirmed the arrival of GameCube games—including The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and F-Zero GX—via Switch Online, along with a new wireless GameCube controller available at launch. To facilitate new content, Nintendo Switch 2 utilizes familiar-shaped red game cards and supports microSD Express for storage expansion.

System Transfer functionality will enable seamless migration of games and saves from the original Switch. Closing the presentation, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa remarked that the Nintendo Switch 2 is designed to "set a new standard for versatility and social connection in gaming," emphasizing the expanded feature set and broad third-party support. With its global launch set for June 5, 2025, Nintendo Switch 2 promises to further cement Nintendo’s legacy as a leader in the gaming hardware space, inviting both new and veteran players to experience its latest innovation.

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