The long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5 for $450 — here's everything you need to know

Following a short reveal trailer in January, Nintendo has finally announced more information about its latest video game console, the Switch 2. Like its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch, the Switch 2 can be used as a portable handheld system or at home connected to a TV.

The Nintendo Switch 2 will be released on June 5 for $450. A bundle with a brand-new Mario Kart game will also be available that day for $500. Preorders will launch on April 9. Throughout April, a series of hands-on events will also be held in New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas, where fans can try the system for the first time.

The console looks a lot like the original model but has a few new design flourishes and several key hardware upgrades, including a larger, higher-resolution screen, 4K support when docked, and the ability to use the Joy-Con controllers like a computer mouse.

Here's everything we know about the Nintendo Switch 2 so far, including specifications, features, and major games set for release.

The Nintendo Switch 2 has a larger screen, upgraded controllers, and support for 4K

Like the original Nintendo Switch, the Switch 2 features a display sandwiched between two removable Joy-Con controllers. The display can also be slotted into a dock that plugs into your TV. The dock now has a built-in fan to keep the system cool when in use.

The new Joy-Cons have a similar button layout as their predecessors, but rather than slide into place on the side of the display, they snap into the console with magnets. The right Joy-Con has an added C button that initiates new GameChat functions that let you communicate with friends online. Both Joy-Cons can also be used like a computer mouse, enabling new styles of play with select games.

The Switch 2 has a 7.9-inch LCD screen with a 1080p resolution, support for up to 120 frames-per-second (FPS), and high-dynamic-range (HDR) capabilities. The original Switch had a smaller 6.2-inch screen that was limited to 720p, 60FPS, and standard dynamic range (SDR), so this new display should offer a big step up in visual quality. When used in docked mode and connected to a TV, the Switch 2 can even support up to 4K resolution with HDR, which puts it more in line with the video output capabilities of competing PlayStation and Xbox consoles.

Nintendo also mentioned support for 3D audio when using headphones, but it did not specify a sound format, so it's unclear if the system will support Dolby Atmos. However, the console's built-in speakers have been improved, and the system now has an integrated microphone with noise cancellation for voice chat.

The console has two USB-C ports, one on the top and one on the bottom. The additional port can be used to attach peripherals, like a new Nintendo Switch Camera accessory. Internal storage has been upgraded to 256GB compared to the 32GB used on the original Switch. Users can also expand storage with a microSD Express card. However, regular microSD cards used on the original Switch are not compatible with the new console.

New Mario Kart, Donkey Kong, and third-party games are on the way

Nintendo revealed a ton of new Switch 2 games set for release in 2025 and beyond. They also announced that the system will support backward compatibility with select Switch games. Some original Switch games are also getting new "Switch 2 Editions" that will unlock enhanced visuals and additional features. Upgrading to a Switch 2 Edition of a game you already own will require purchasing an upgrade pack, but Nintendo has not revealed pricing yet.

Exclusive Switch 2 games announced so far from Nintendo's own development teams include:

• Mario Kart World
• Donkey Kong Bananza
• Kirby Air Riders
• Drag X Drive
• Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour

Upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of standard Switch titles with enhanced graphics and features include:

• Super Mario Party Jamboree
• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
• Kirby and the Forgotten Land
• Pokémon Legends: Z-A

In addition, Nintendo highlighted dozens of upcoming third-party games from various developers like From Software, EA, Capcom, Square Enix, and CD Projekt RED. Here's a roundup of some key titles announced so far:

• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
• The Duskbloods
• Madden NFL
• EA Sports FC
• NBA 2K
• WWE 2K
• Split Fiction
• Hades II
• Cyberpunk 2077
• Civilization VII
• Street Fighter 6
• Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
• Borderlands 4
• Elden Ring
• Project 007

You can preorder the Switch 2 starting April 9

The Nintendo Switch 2 will be available to preorder in North America starting April 9 from various retailers. The console will cost $450. You can also buy a bundle with Mario Kart World for $500. The system will officially be released on June 5.

Shoppers with a Nintendo account can also register to receive an invitation to buy a Switch 2. Invitations will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority going to members who bought a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months paid and a minimum of 50 gameplay hours logged as of April 2. Invitations will start going out on May 8. Check theNintendo website for more details.

In addition to the console, Nintendo has announced pricing for several Switch 2 accessories. Here's a rundown of some key items announced so far:

• Nintendo Switch 2 Pro controller - $80
• Joy-Con 2 controllers: $90
• Joy-Con 2 charging grip: $35
• Nintendo Switch 2 camera: $50

Stay tuned for preorder links and purchase options once they're live.

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