After what felt like forever, the Nintendo Switch 2 is almost here. Gamers everywhere have been waiting for this console, and the excitement is certainly building. It is a big moment for Nintendo, and I am here to tell you everything you need to know about getting your hands on this new system. From release times to the games you can play on day one, we have it all covered.
The highly anticipated hybrid console was first available for pre-order last month. It sold out in minutes in the U.S. There have been a few restocks since, but nothing major. Now, as we get closer to the June 5 launch, many retailers are building up their stock. They have already confirmed some will be available on release day. This means that if you did not get a pre-order, you still have a chance.
Over in the U.K., getting a Switch 2 pre-order has been a bit easier. While it initially sold out, there have been many restocks. Some even lasted for days. However, several big retailers chose to sell Switch 2 stock in more expensive bundles. This might be why consoles stayed in stock longer. It is clear that no matter where you are, getting this console has been a bit of a challenge.
When Can You Get Your Hands On The Nintendo Switch 2 And What To ExpectBreaking Down The Official Launch Dates And How To Grab Your New Console
The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch globally on June 5. It will sell for $449 or £395. There is also a bundle with a copy of Mario Kart World for $499 or £429. For those in the U.S., pre-orders began on April 24. The hybrid console officially releases on June 5. My Nintendo Store sent out special invites for Switch 2 pre-orders to certain accounts on May 8. In the U.K., Nintendo also had an extra stock drop at the same time, but you needed an active Nintendo Online account for that one.
Many big stores like Walmart, Target, GameStop, and Best Buy have their product pages live. They started taking pre-orders back on April 24. While these initial waves sold out fast, these stores are preparing for launch day. For example, Target has announced that the Switch 2 and the Switch 2 + Mario Kart World bundle will be available to order digitally on their website and app starting June 6. Customers will be limited to one system each. These offers will only be around while supplies last. Best Buy and GameStop will also have midnight launch events for pre-order pickups and for those who still need a console.
In a surprising move, Staples, the office supplies store, also confirmed it will sell the Switch 2 on June 5. You can pick up yellow legal pads and a new console at the same time! They will have the regular Switch 2 and a bundle. Stock will be "first come, first served" and only in stores. This is certainly a new twist for console launches. If you are still trying to get a Switch 2, you will need to be quick and ready to check various stores. Demand is high, so it is best to be diligent and check websites early and often.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is just around the corner, and we are getting a lot of details about its launch. Here's a look at what to expect, from its display to the games hitting shelves first.
A Look At The Games You Can Play On Nintendo Switch 2 From Day One
From Exciting New Titles To Upgraded Favorites, The Launch Lineup Is Packed
The Nintendo Switch 2 launch is less than a week away, and the game lineup is pretty much set. We will have at least 28 games ready on June 5. This includes Switch 2 exclusives, upgraded versions of existing games, ports of PlayStation and Xbox titles new to Nintendo, and even some GameCube re-releases. Twelve existing Switch games will also get free upgrades. This means if you already have a Switch and are moving to the Switch 2, you might have a reason to dig out some of your old games.
One thing you might notice is that for all the talk about $80 games, there is a good choice of Switch 2 Launch Games that cost much less. This is a relief for many gamers. If the lineup changes with last-minute additions, we will definitely hear about it. Here are some of the interesting titles coming out:
- Mario Kart World: This is the first main Mario Kart game in 11 years. It is expected to be the biggest selling launch title. It has a vast open world for players to explore alone or with friends. The new 24-player Knockout Tour mode sounds like a great addition too.
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Editions: These classics are getting shiny improved versions. They will have higher resolution, HDR support, and much smoother frame rates. They also add support for "Zelda Notes," a new mobile app that helps you find missing Koroks and offers audio logs.
- Cyberpunk 2077: This graphically demanding game is coming to Switch 2. It will likely push the system to its limits. The Ultimate Edition includes the base game and the Phantom Liberty expansion. It shows what the new console can handle.
- Fast Fusion: This anti-gravity racing game is the fourth in the Fast series. It brings the series to 4K with HDR support and features split-screen local multiplayer. It is inspired by games like Wipeout and F-Zero.
- Welcome Tour: This game will cost $9.99 instead of being free. It is designed to explain all the new features of the Switch 2 in an entertaining way. It includes mini-games and a scavenger hunt.
The launch lineup also includes other titles like Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition, Puyo Puyo Tetris 2, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, and Street Fighter 6. There is also a Japanese exclusive called Shine Post: Be Your Idol!, which might be hard to get in the West. It is exciting to see such a wide range of games for the new system. Even some older games like Suikoden I & II HD Remaster and Yakuza 0: Director's Cut are making their way to the console.
The long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here. We are looking at how to get your hands on one, what games to play, and what the future holds for Nintendo's new console.
New Hardware Features And What They Mean For Your Gaming Experience
Exploring The Joy-Con 2, GameChat, And Other Interesting Additions
The Nintendo Switch 2 is coming with some new features that change how you play. The new Joy-Con 2 controllers are getting some upgrades. You can also get a new Switch 2 Pro Controller. It has a headphone jack, a new "C" button, and customizable back buttons. If you need more controllers for multiplayer, or just a spare, you can pre-order an additional set of Joy-Con 2 for $94.
One of the Switch 2's new features is GameChat. To get the most out of it, you will need a Nintendo Switch 2 Camera to video chat with friends online. There is an official Nintendo camera, but also a licensed third-party one from Hori, shaped like a Piranha Planet from Super Mario. It is quite a unique design! The console also supports GameShare, which means you can stream the game locally to someone else with a Switch 2 or even an original Switch to play co-op.
The Switch 2 has increased storage capacity. It can support up to 2TB. However, it is only compatible with microSD Express cards, meaning you might need new storage cards for your console. This is a bit of a bummer if you have a lot of old microSD cards. Also, Nintendo has updated its list of Switch 1 games that will work on the Switch 2. Some might have startup issues, some might have in-game problems, and for games like Ring Fit Adventure, you will need to use your old Joy-Cons.
Something exciting for PC gamers is that the Switch 2 will support additional USB mice. This means you will not just be stuck with the Joy-Con 2 mouse mode, which some early testers found a bit clunky. With the option to use your own mouse, it should be a very useful control option. This opens up new possibilities for certain game types.
After a long wait, the Nintendo Switch 2 is here, promising new features and a powerful experience, but it comes with some interesting design choices and warnings.
What Else Is Coming To Nintendo Switch 2 In The Future And Its Place In Gaming
Looking Forward To New Titles And The Console's Potential Long-Term Impact
The launch of a new console is always an exciting time. It means new hardware and new games. For the Switch 2, Nintendo is changing its approach to new game releases. It will launch with just one first-party exclusive instead of many. However, third-party games will fill out the lineup, and more exclusives will come out later in 2025 and 2026. This means the game library will grow steadily over time.
Some interesting titles are already confirmed for later release. These include Kirby Air Ride sequel, Donkey Kong Bananza, and The Duskbloods, a new souls-like game from FromSoftware. The Duskbloods was originally pitched for the first Switch, but plans changed after Nintendo spoke with the developers about the Switch 2. This suggests Nintendo is actively working with developers to bring powerful games to the new system.
There have been talks about whether the Switch 2 will eventually get an OLED screen. Samsung is reportedly pushing Nintendo to use its OLED panels in a future version of the console. Samsung provided the OLED display panels for the current Nintendo Switch OLED. While this does not guarantee an OLED Switch 2, it is good news for gamers who really want that better screen. This shows that Nintendo is listening to what players want.
Overall, the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be a significant console. Its blend of portable and home gaming, combined with new features and a growing library of games, makes it a console to watch. The early scramble for pre-orders and the strong launch lineup prove that there is a lot of excitement around it. I am looking forward to seeing how this new system performs and what future games it will bring to us all.