Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World Launch: Next-Generation Gaming Arrives

Nintendo has ushered in a new era of gaming with the official launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, accompanied by the eagerly anticipated Mario Kart World and an impressive slate of more than 20 new titles.

As the company’s first all-new hardware platform in eight years, the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers significant upgrades in performance, connectivity, and gameplay innovation on the heels of the highly successful original Nintendo Switch system. The unveiling of Nintendo Switch 2 and Mario Kart World marks a milestone for the gaming giant, expanding the ever-evolving landscape of play with enhanced social features and a robust launch lineup.

The Mario Kart franchise makes its return to home consoles for the first time in over a decade with Mario Kart World, offering players an expansive, interconnected playground where the globe itself becomes the racetrack. To celebrate, Nintendo hosted its first simultaneous coast-to-coast live launch events at the newly opened Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO and Nintendo NEW YORK locations, culminating in a midnight release.

Fans experienced firsthand the innovative hardware and tried out featured games from both Nintendo and global publishing partners.

These events highlighted the excitement surrounding the new system and included opportunities for attendees to be among the first to purchase Nintendo Switch 2 consoles and games. The Nintendo Switch 2 hardware boasts a host of standout upgrades: - A 7.9-inch full HD (1080p) LCD display for vivid handheld play - A more powerful CPU and GPU for enhanced visuals - Joy-Con 2 controllers, magnetically attached and now supporting mouse-like controls on compatible surfaces - Expanded 256 GB internal storage - Enhanced GameChat functionality with integrated microphone, enabling up to 12 players to talk while playing online and support for video chat via USB-C camera (sold separately) - Adjustable stand, USB-C ports on both top and bottom, improved audio with spatial 3D sound - A new dock capable of 4K video output and support for up to 120 frames per second in compatible titles - Variable refresh rate (VRR) for smoother, flicker-free gaming experiences - Comprehensive accessibility features and parental controls Beyond hardware, Nintendo has committed to ongoing software support.

Select existing Nintendo Switch games will receive free updates to leverage Switch 2’s new features, including improved performance and the innovative GameShare function, which allows shared, remote gaming sessions even if friends do not own the same title. Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers with a Switch 2 can also access the Nintendo GameCube – Nintendo Classics library starting today, which debuts with enhanced editions of titles like F-Zero GX, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and SOULCALIBUR II.

A retro-inspired wireless GameCube controller is also available for purchase by members. Offered at a suggested retail price of $449.99 USD, the Nintendo Switch 2 is now available across major retailers and online.

A special bundle that includes Mario Kart World is offered at $499.99 USD.

Mario Kart World, priced at $79.99 USD, revolutionizes the series with modes supporting up to 24 drivers, a new Knockout Tour, Free Roam exploration, and both local and global multiplayer.

Through the GameChat and CameraPlay features, players can interact and connect like never before. Several third-party titles round out the launch window, with highlights such as Split Fiction, Street Fighter 6, Sid Meier’s Civilization VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Fortnite, and many more.

Upcoming game releases include highly anticipated titles like Donkey Kong Bananza, Kirby Air Riders, Pokémon Legends: Z-A – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. Nintendo is engaging fans with nationwide demo events for Mario Kart World and the Nintendo Switch 2 at select Best Buy locations starting June 7.

Additionally, promotional sweepstakes and ongoing support through the Nintendo Today! mobile app reinforce Nintendo’s commitment to accessible, community-driven gaming for all. For more details on the Nintendo Switch 2, Mario Kart World, new accessories, and the growing library of titles, visit the official Nintendo website or Nintendo eShop.

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