Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date and Price Revealed in Leaks

Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date and Price Revealed in Leaks

Updated on: October 12, 2024 1:00 am GMT

The gaming landscape is buzzing with excitement as rumors surrounding the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 continue to grow. Speculation suggests a launch announcement might be just weeks away, igniting the curiosity of fans eager for details about Nintendo’s next console. A recent leak has hinted that the new system could officially debut early next month, potentially priced at $400.

Details from a Notable Leak

A user on Discord, known as moistycharlie, recently made waves in the gaming community by claiming the new console will be revealed soon. This leak caught attention, particularly because this same individual accurately anticipated the announcement and pricing of the recently unveiled PS5 Pro.

In addition, they suggest that the Nintendo Switch 2 may have two different models (SKUs):

  • Digital only
  • Physical cartridge slot

Both of these configurations are increasingly common as gaming trends shift toward digital downloads. The $400 price tag aligns with expectations, particularly as the original Switch debuted at $299, followed by the OLED version at $349. Given the anticipated improved specifications of the Switch 2, a price increase could be justified.

What We Can Expect from Nintendo’s New Console

As the Nintendo Switch has enjoyed significant success over the past seven years, any successor is likely to retain much of what made it popular. Speculation indicates that the Switch 2 might keep the hybrid functionality that blends home console and portable gaming.

However, specifics about the console’s final design and feature set remain unclear. Here are some elements garnering interest among industry analysts and fans alike:

  1. Launch Timing: While no official release date has been set, predictions suggest a possible announcement this September, coinciding with the Tokyo Game Show.
  2. Backwards Compatibility: Reports indicate that the new console will support backwards compatibility, allowing users to play their existing Switch library.
  3. Hardware Specs: Preliminary rumors suggest the console will feature an 8-core Cortex-A78AE processor, 8GB of RAM, and 64GB of internal storage. Additionally, it’s expected to include NVIDIA’s DLSS technology, which improves graphics performance.
  4. Display Technology: Discussion around screen options has varied, with some sources claiming an 8-inch Mini-LED display or a smaller 7-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate.

Historical Context: Comparing Price Points and Features

The pricing strategy of the Nintendo Switch 2 may reflect broader trends and consumer expectations within the gaming industry. Here’s a brief overview of previous Nintendo consoles’ pricing to provide context:

Console Launch Price Release Date
Nintendo Switch $299 March 2017
Nintendo Switch OLED Model $349 October 2021
Nintendo Wii U $299 November 2012

Evidence suggests that the anticipated $400 price point for the Switch 2 would still position it competitively, especially given the context of recent gaming hardware releases.

Market Implications and Future Trends

Nintendo has often opted out of direct competition regarding hardware specifications, instead focusing on the unique experiences its games offer. However, following the launch of powerful systems like the PS5 Pro, the demand for higher-quality graphics is likely to influence Nintendo’s design choices for the Switch 2.

Though much of the information remains speculative, one thing appears clear: Nintendo is looking to capitalize on its existing user base while attracting new players. By also offering future proofing through backwards compatibility with a library that spans various genres and styles, Nintendo may effectively mitigate the typical dip in sales that often accompanies the transition to a new generation of consoles.

Despite the many unanswered questions surrounding the Switch 2, the console promises to continue Nintendo’s tradition of innovation and engaging gameplay experiences. With the potential announcement date fast approaching, gamers and industry watchers alike are poised for what could be a significant milestone in gaming history.

The gaming community is excited and waiting for Nintendo to officially announce its next big game release.

I'm a technology editor and reporter with experience across the U.S., Asia-Pacific, and Europe. Currently leading the technology beat at Campaign US from Austin, TX, I focus on the ethics of the tech industry, covering data privacy, brand safety, misinformation, DE&I, and sustainability. Whether examining Silicon Valley giants or disruptive startups, I’m passionate about investigating code, analyzing data, and exploring regulatory documents.

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