[Nintendo Switch. Photo Credit to Pixabay]

Nintendo, the renowned Japanese video game company, officially announced its Nintendo Switch 2 on January 16th, 2025. 

Scheduled for release on June 5th, 2025, the new console arrives 8 years after the release of the original Switch in 2017. 

The new console brings many upgrades from its predecessor, ranging from hardware to software, with additional accessories to enhance the gaming experience. 

Since its launch in 2017, the original Nintendo Switch is still loved to this day, having sold over 150 million units. 

Praised for its portability, the original Switch quickly became popular, especially during the pandemic, providing players with the flexibility to game on the go. 

The Nintendo Switch 2 introduces a variety of changes, presenting higher graphical and functional capabilities, three-dimensional sound, and an increase in storage from 32GB to 256GB. 

It provides resolution quality of up to 4K and 120 fps (frame-per-second) on compatible televisions and games, creating a visual appeal for consumers. 

Furthermore, the increased storage reduces loading times, making the gaming experience faster and becoming a selling point for many gamers.

The hybrid nature of the original Switch—supporting both handheld and docked mode of gaming styles—passes itself down onto the Switch 2’s Joy-Con 2, which features magnetic connection, magnetic lock, and a new gameplay method that allows players to use the Joy-Con 2 as a mouse rather than a traditional controller.

Nintendo also hinted at new online communication features such as chatting, voice calls, and screen sharing. 

A separate accessory for a compatible camera is required; however, this reduces the hassle of having to make phone calls for a gaming session.

Alongside the new feature announcements, Nintendo also teased several game releases coming with Switch 2’s launch. 

These titles include many fan-favourite games such as Mario Kart, Donkey Kong, The Legend of Zelda, Kirby, and Metroid, among others, stirring excitement within lifelong fans. 

The developer emphasized how Switch 2’s new features will contribute to a higher-quality gaming experience, demonstrating the high-quality graphics captured by the new Switch 2.

While many Nintendo fans await the Switch 2’s release date, some consumers express hesitance about purchasing due to the pricing, making them reconsider its worth. 

The Nintendo Switch 2’s price starts at $629.99 CAD, an increase of $230 from its predecessor. 

Moreover, with digital copies of games starting around $80, physical copies at $90, and most of the fan-favourite games starting at $100 or higher, some fans question the high pricing. 

One user commented on X that the prices of certain games are outright “so wrong” when compared to global standards, noting the games in the United States cost $70.00 USD in 2022. 

On the other hand, some argue that due to inflation, new tariffs, and technological advancements, the pricing is justifiable. 

The focus has shifted from the console’s value to its affordability, especially for younger or budget-conscious consumers. 

With the official release date approaching, anticipation continues to grow alongside concerns about pricing. 

As preorders roll out, all eyes of the gaming community are on Switch 2, setting focus on the next step Nintendo will take.