The Nintendo Switch has been nothing short of a phenomenon. Since its debut in 2017, it’s sold over 130 million units, redefining portable gaming in a way that made other handhelds feel like a different era. But now, the question that’s on every fan’s mind isn’t about Mario or Metroid—it’s what comes next.

Enter the Nintendo Switch 2.

The name may not be official, but the leaks are very real. Developers, insiders, and even industry analysts are all circling the same orbit: Nintendo is ready to launch its next-generation console. And while they’ve remained predictably silent, the breadcrumb trail is impossible to ignore.

Here’s what we know (and what we can reasonably assume) about the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025—its specs, pricing, release date, and what it means for gamers everywhere.

The most credible reports point to a 2025 release window. Several developers have confirmed they’ve received development kits for Nintendo’s next-gen hardware. Some of these leaks come from behind closed doors at gaming events like Gamescom, where insiders reportedly saw a behind-the-scenes tech demo running The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild at higher frame rates and resolutions.

Other rumors suggest that third-party developers are being courted early to ensure stronger launch support—something Nintendo historically struggles with. The system is expected to launch with both backward compatibility and new first-party titles.

While Nintendo has always prioritized innovation over raw horsepower, this time around, they’re rumored to be aiming for something closer to PS4 Pro or Xbox Series S-level performance. Here’s what the hardware is expected to deliver:

• Custom NVIDIA Tegra chip (likely based on Ampere architecture)

• DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) support for AI-enhanced upscaling

• 8-inch LCD screen, 1080p resolution (some suggest OLED in a premium model)

• Targeting 4K output in docked mode

• Improved Joy-Con design with magnetic connection (goodbye drift?)

• Expanded internal storage, up to 256GB base

• Backward compatibility with Switch titles

That DLSS integration is a game-changer. It could allow Nintendo to offer high-resolution gaming without the power draw and thermal limits of other consoles—perfect for a hybrid setup.

Leaks suggest Nintendo will price the Switch 2 between $399 and $449, depending on the model. That puts it above the current Switch OLED, but still undercutting the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. A standard version and a digital-only or Lite version could create some breathing room in the pricing structure.

Insiders agree on a 2025 launch window. Some reports have narrowed that down to Q1 or Q2—likely between March and June. That would line up with Nintendo’s previous hardware patterns, which often favor spring releases.

Developers receiving dev kits now suggests software is well into production, giving further credibility to a 2025 launch.

Nintendo hasn’t announced an official launch lineup yet, but strong candidates are emerging:

• A new 3D Mario title, possibly a sequel to Super Mario Odyssey

• A new Pokémon generation or remake

• Ports of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Metroid Prime 4 optimized for next-gen

• Third-party support including titles from Capcom, Square Enix, and Bandai Namco

Backward compatibility will soften the transition, but players can still expect a wave of new titles built specifically to show off the new hardware.

CPU: Custom NVIDIA Ampere chip vs. Original NVIDIA Tegra X1
Display: 8-inch LCD or OLED (Switch 2) vs. 6.2-inch LCD (Switch)
Resolution: 1080p handheld, 4K docked (Switch 2) vs. 720p handheld, 1080p docked
Storage: 256GB base (Switch 2) vs. 32GB base (Switch)
Joy-Con: Redesigned with magnetic locks (Switch 2) vs. Slide-on rail design (Switch)
DLSS: Yes (Switch 2) vs. No (Switch)
Backward Compatibility: Yes (Switch 2) vs. N/A

Nintendo is walking a tightrope. The Switch’s runaway success came from its portability, its game library, and its appeal to both hardcore and casual players. Any successor needs to retain that identity while evolving enough to justify the upgrade.

Performance parity with current-gen consoles isn’t necessary—but improved visuals, faster load times, and better battery life are expected. DLSS could help hit that balance, but software support at launch will be critical. The launch lineup has to deliver.

Also: Joy-Con reliability. If the redesign doesn’t eliminate drift, it’s going to leave a mark.

If you already own a Switch OLED and don’t feel the need for 4K or next-gen performance, you might be able to wait. But if you’re planning a major upgrade or your original Switch is on its last legs, 2025 is shaping up to be the right time to leap.

And for new players entering the Nintendo ecosystem? Waiting is a smart move. You’ll either land the new console—or benefit from deep discounts on the current lineup.

The Nintendo Switch 2 is real. It’s coming. And if the leaks hold up, it’s going to offer the same magic that made the original console a best-seller—only bigger, faster, and sharper.

So keep your wishlist ready. Because the next level of hybrid gaming is right around the corner, and you’ll want to be ready when the screen lights up.