The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct gave us our first real look at what Nintendo has been cooking up—and it did not disappoint. The Nintendo Switch 2 isn’t just a simple upgrade—it’s a bold step forward for Nintendo, with major hardware improvements, exciting exclusives, and a lineup of must-play games. If you missed the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with all the biggest reveals!
Image Credits: Nintendo
Nintendo Switch 2: A True System Redesign
The Switch 2 isn’t just a minor upgrade—it’s a complete redesign of the hybrid console experience. Here are some of the biggest hardware improvements:
- 7.9-inch 1080p screen with up to 120FPS support (for select titles)
- HDR support
- JoyCon 2 with magnetic attachment, larger sticks, and mouse functionality
- Enhanced speakers and built-in noise-canceling microphone
- 3D audio compatibility
- Larger, faster micro SD express storage (256GB)
- A sturdier stand
- Dual USB-C ports for more connectivity options
- The new dock supports 4K resolution, HDR and even has a built-in fan for stable temperatures
- Backward compatibility (though not all original Switch games will be supported)
This is more than just an upgraded Switch—it’s a full-blown next-gen Nintendo console!
Mario Kart World
Image Credits: Nintendo
Nintendo kicked things off with a look at Mario Kart World, an exclusive Switch 2 launch title and the most ambitious one yet. Here’s what makes it the biggest Mario Kart yet:
- Open-world exploration—race anywhere, even off the track!
- Dynamic time and weather system
- 24 drivers per race, the most in any Mario Kart game
- Photo Mode for capturing your best racing moments
Get ready to drift, boost, and explore in ways you’ve never done before!
New Features: GameChat, Gameshare, & Camera
Nintendo is stepping up its online and social features with GameChat, a new communication tool akin to Discord or Zoom, designed exclusively for the Switch 2.
- Crystal-clear voice pickup, even from a distance
- Game screen sharing for multiplayer sessions
Also, the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera will be available at launch, potentially opening the door for new gaming experiences and AR integration.
Meanwhile, Gameshare allows up to three other Switch 2 systems to play your games simultaneously—perfect for families and friends!
Read: Nintendo’s Virtual Game Card Opens Up Game Sharing on the Switch
A Library of New and Enhanced Games
The Switch 2 will launch with a mix of new exclusives, remastered classics, and third-party flagships.
Image Credits: Nintendo
First-Party Titles:
- Super Mario Party Jamboree
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom (Switch 2 Enhanced Edition)
- Kirby and the Forgotten Land (Enhanced Graphics Edition)
- Metroid Prime 4: Beyond – Supports mouse controls, runs at 4K 60FPS or 1080p 120FPS with HDR
- Pokémon Z-A – Enhanced resolution and framerates
If you already own certain Switch 1 games, you can purchase an upgrade pack to experience their Switch 2 versions!
Biggest Third-Party Games Coming to Switch 2 (on launch day):
- Elden Ring
- Hades 2
- Daemon X Machina
- Hogwarts Legacy
- Cyberpunk 2077
- Borderlands 4
- Hitman World of Assassination
- Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater
- NBA 2K, WWE 2K, Madden, EA Sports FC
- Deltarune, Hollow Knight: Silksong, Enter the Gungeon 2
- And many more!
Switch 2 Exclusive & Upcoming Titles:
- The Duskbloods (New IP) – from FromSoftware
- Kirby AirRiders (Return of a classic!)
- Donkey Kong Bananza
- Project 007 (A James Bond game!)
- Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment (Prequel to The Legend of Zelda!)
Nintendo Switch Online Gets GameCube Love!
Image Credits: Nintendo
Nintendo is expanding its Switch Online library for Switch 2 users, with GameCube classics making a return:
- The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker
- SoulCalibur 2
- F-Zero GX
- More to come!
These games will feature enhanced visuals, making them look and play better than ever before.
Launch, Pre-Orders, & Bundles
The Nintendo Switch 2 officially launches on June 5, 2025. Pre-orders start on April 9th, with pricing as follows:
- Standard SKU: $449
- Mario Kart World Bundle: $499
Expect a variety of bundles and accessories to be available at launch!
Image Credits: Nintendo
Nintendo is making a huge statement with the Switch 2, proving that handheld and hybrid gaming can push boundaries like never before. With new features, exclusives, and a stacked third-party lineup, the next chapter of Nintendo gaming looks incredible.
So, what do you think? Is the Nintendo Switch 2 everything you hoped for?