Nintendo Switch 2 Unveiled: 30 Key Details Revealed

It's finally here. After months of speculation and rumors, Nintendo has unveiled its latest console, aptly named the Nintendo Switch 2. At first glance, it might seem understated, resembling its predecessor closely. However, a closer look reveals a host of intriguing enhancements that show how Nintendo has refined its beloved hybrid console. We're diving into 30 fascinating details showcased in the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal trailer.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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01 - The Switch 2 retains a similar form factor to its predecessor but is slightly larger. The main unit and Joy-Con controllers are now bigger, with the entire console estimated to be around 15% larger than the original Switch.

02 - The vibrant Joy-Con colors of the previous generation are replaced with a sleek, uniform dark grey, giving the console a more refined, Steam Deck-like appearance.

03 - Color isn't entirely absent, though. The console pays homage to the original's red and blue Joy-Con with colorful rings around each analogue stick and on the inner edges of the console and Joy-Con. This not only looks stylish but also serves as a color-coding system for easy assembly.

04 - The Joy-Con attachment method has changed; they now slot directly into the device via a protruding connector on the main unit, which plugs into a port on the Joy-Con. Rumors suggest that magnets, similar to Apple's Magsafe, might be used to secure them in place.

05 - A new trigger system on the rear of each Joy-Con releases the controller from the main unit. A brief demonstration video on Nintendo.com shows that squeezing the trigger activates a piston-like component that pushes the Joy-Con away from the console.

06 - The front of the Joy-Con retains the classic control layout with offset analogue sticks, direction buttons, A, B, X, and Y face buttons, Plus and Minus buttons at the top, and the capture and Home buttons at the bottom.

07 - A mysterious new button sits below the Home button, its function yet to be revealed by Nintendo.

08 - The L and R shoulder buttons and ZL and ZR triggers are in their expected positions. The triggers appear deeper and more rounded, promising improved comfort and ease of use.

09 - The analogue sticks feature a low-profile design with a smaller inner ring radius and taller rims, likely enhancing thumb grip and support.

10 - The NFC Amiibo interface isn't visible on the right Joy-Con, but it might still be present as it was on the original Switch. The IR sensor from the original's right Joy-Con is missing, likely due to its limited use in games.

11 - The SL and SR buttons on the internal edges of the Joy-Con indicate continued support for using each Joy-Con as a standalone controller. These buttons are significantly larger, promising improved usability.

12 - The strip of four green LEDs indicating player assignment has been moved to the forward-facing edge of the connector strip.

13 - The connector port between the SL and SR buttons links the Joy-Con to the console, with a Sync button below it for pairing.

14 - Above the connector, a small clear lens might be a laser sensor, suggesting the Joy-Con could function like a mouse. The trailer hints at this with Joy-Con using wrist-strap accessories resembling scurrying mice.

15 - The wrist-straps are redesigned with red and blue colors matching the Joy-Con's internal color accents.

16 - The main console unit features a larger screen, not as edge-to-edge as the Switch OLED but significantly larger than the original. The display technology remains unclear, potentially using an LED panel in the base model.

17 - The top edge of the device includes slightly redesigned power and volume buttons, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a ventilation grill split into three vents instead of five.

18 - The Game Card slot remains on the top edge, indicating backward compatibility with original Switch cartridges.

19 - A new USB C port next to the headphone jack adds intrigue. Its purpose is unknown, as the Switch 2 also retains the bottom-mounted USB C port for docking and charging. It might support new peripherals or even a link cable for games like Pokémon.

20 - New downward-firing speakers replace the original's rear-facing speakers, promising improved sound quality.

21 - The rear features a new kickstand that runs the entire length of the device. Despite looking slightly flimsy, rubber feet on the console's edges should provide stability. The kickstand locks into multiple angles, including upright and nearly flat positions.

22 - The Switch 2 can be docked to connect to a TV, with the dock resembling the original but with rounded corners and a prominent Switch 2 logo.

23 - A controller peripheral for the Joy-Con is included, mirroring the original Switch's design, though hands-on experience will reveal any comfort improvements.

24 - The reveal trailer teases a new Mario Kart game, featuring a chaotic 24-racer starting line, compared to Mario Kart 8's 12.

25 - A new track, "Mario Kart - Mario Bros. Circuit," appears to be an American-themed course with open spaces and off-road sections.

26 - The roster includes ten confirmed characters: Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Peach, Yoshi, Toad, Donkey Kong, Daisy, Rosalina, and Wario, who appears briefly.

27 - Backward compatibility with old Switch games is supported, though "certain games may not be supported," likely those using peripherals incompatible with the new Joy-Con design.

28 - The Switch 2 is set to launch in 2025, with a more specific date expected soon.

29 - More details, including a potential release date, will be shared during a Nintendo Direct on April 2nd.

30 - Following the Direct, fans can experience the console at the Nintendo Switch 2 Experience, a worldwide tour from April to June. Starting in New York and Paris on April 4th, it will visit cities like London, Berlin, Melbourne, Tokyo, and Seoul. The event is open to Nintendo Account holders who win tickets through a free ballot, with registration opening on January 17th.

These are the 30 key details from the Nintendo Switch 2 announcement trailer. Stay tuned for more updates and insights on this exciting new console.