Some lucky gamers seem to have obtained the Nintendo Switch 2 ahead of schedule, bypassing Nintendo's security measures. However, early adopters face disappointment - the console remains unusable without its day-one patch, and the unboxing video was promptly hit with a copyright claim.
The leaked footage, originally an 8-second YouTube clip from user Ali Almarzooqi (since removed), showed convincing packaging being unwrapped to reveal the new Switch 2 still sealed in plastic. Though brief - just displaying the hardware - the video's authenticity gains credibility from Web Capio's rapid copyright enforcement, a firm specializing in anti-piracy protection.
The leaker claims functionality limitations until Nintendo's June 5 update:
"Nintendo locked the Switch 2 - it requires a system update to function properly. Waiting until June 5 for activation." https://t.co/vNT0AHHX3F pic.twitter.com/gNwJL8JhPT
— Wario64 (@Wario64) May 27, 2025
Deals tracker Wario64 later reported a second individual claiming Switch 2 possession, who encountered an update prompt when attempting to play Switch 1 titles: "Connect to the internet and update your system."
While sophisticated fakes remain possible, forthcoming unboxings or system messages could validate these claims. Until then, such leaks offer our only preview of Nintendo's next-generation console.
As we await the June 5 launch, Nintendo continues gradually revealing Switch 2 details. Our hands-on with Mario Kart World confirmed impressive performance, while recent announcements include backward compatibility enhancements, VRR support specifications, and GameChat's phone verification requirements. Despite pre-order sellouts, Nintendo America's president assures sufficient holiday inventory.
