The Nintendo Switch 2 has finally arrived! After months of anticipation, Nintendo's newest console is here, and while the name is understated, the design boasts several exciting upgrades. This detailed breakdown explores 30 key features revealed in the announcement trailer.
Nintendo Switch 2: A Closer Look
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1. The Switch 2 retains a similar form factor to its predecessor, but with a noticeable size increase. The console and Joy-Cons are approximately 15% larger.
2. The vibrant Joy-Con colors are gone, replaced by a sleek, dark grey design reminiscent of the Steam Deck.
3. A subtle pop of color remains: colored rings around the analog sticks and inner edges of the console and Joy-Cons provide color-coding for easy pairing.
4. The Joy-Con attachment mechanism has changed. Instead of sliding rails, they now directly slot in, with a connector on the console unit plugging into a port on the Joy-Con. Rumors suggest magnetic attachment.
5. A new trigger mechanism on the rear of each Joy-Con releases it from the console.
6. The classic button layout is preserved, with the addition of a new, unlabeled button below the Home button.
7. The L/R and ZL/ZR buttons are present, with the ZL/ZR triggers appearing deeper and more ergonomic.
8. The analog sticks feature a smaller inner ring and taller rims for improved grip.
9. The NFC Amiibo reader's location remains unclear, while the IR sensor appears absent.
10. The SL and SR buttons are significantly larger than on the original Switch.
11. The player indicator LEDs are now on the front edge of the connector.
12. The Sync button remains, alongside a potential laser sensor above the connector port on the Joy-Con.
13. Redesigned wrist straps match the Joy-Con's inner color scheme.
14. The main console features a larger screen, though the display technology is unconfirmed.
15. The top edge retains the power/volume buttons, headphone jack, and a redesigned ventilation grill.
16. The Game Card slot remains on the top edge, suggesting backwards compatibility.
17. A new USB-C port is located on the top edge, alongside the headphone jack.
18. Downward-firing speakers replace the rear-facing speakers of the original Switch.
19. A redesigned, full-length kickstand with multiple locking angles is included.
20. Docking functionality remains, with a redesigned dock featuring rounded corners and a prominent Switch 2 logo.
21. A Joy-Con attachment peripheral is also included.
22. A new Mario Kart game is teased, featuring a 24-racer capacity and a new track.
23. Ten playable characters are confirmed for the new Mario Kart game.
24. Backwards compatibility is confirmed, but some games may not be supported.
25. A 2025 release window is announced.
26. A Nintendo Direct on April 2nd will reveal more details.
27. A "Nintendo Switch 2 Experience" hands-on tour will take place from April to June. Registration opens January 17th.
These 30 details paint a picture of a powerful evolution of the Nintendo Switch, promising enhanced gameplay and a refined user experience. Stay tuned for further updates.
