Ava Brooks 
Apr 02, 2024
The buzz around a potential Nintendo Switch 2 (or perhaps a Switch Pro) has been simmering for quite some time. Ever since The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom gave us a glimpse of what could be, coupled with the arrival of the Switch OLED model, the gaming community has been ripe with speculation. Here we are, six years since the original Switch's debut, and it feels like we're on the brink of something new.
Don't get me wrong, the Nintendo Switch has been nothing short of a triumph. Its game library is both unique and captivating, with more titles on the horizon. Nintendo Switch Online is constantly upping its game, and let's be honest, it's still the top dog in portable gaming. But, even the best have their shortcomings, and the Switch is no exception.
Nintendo Switch 2 release date
There's ample room for an upgrade, maybe even an entirely new console. However, Nintendo's latest announcements suggest we might not see this upgrade until at least late 2024.
Some sources are hinting at a possible launch in early 2025, delayed to ensure a strong lineup of games and dodge any hardware supply issues. This delay could be a blessing in disguise, allowing Nintendo to really refine what could be a monumental step in their console journey.
Read more: Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order — All you need to know
Nintendo Switch 2 features (rumoured)
Now, if we're talking about what the Nintendo Switch 2 needs to bring to the table, it's got to be more than just a few tweaks. We're talking about a substantial upgrade that stands tall against other gaming platforms.
Despite Nintendo's silence on the matter, rumours are swirling about the new system's capabilities. One report, a bit of a letdown, suggests the Switch 2 might feature an 8-inch LCD screen rather than OLED. Power-wise, comparisons to the PS4 and Xbox One are being made, with Nvidia's T238 chipset potentially at the helm. However, whether it will support DLSS 2 for 4K upscaling remains unclear.
Thankfully, backward compatibility seems to be on the cards. During a financial call, Nintendo hinted at continued support for the Switch, suggesting the new console will uphold the legacy of its predecessor. This means not only playing existing games but also possibly upgrading them to harness the new hardware's capabilities.
So, what are we really hoping for in a Switch 2? For starters, a leap to 4K resolution and a beefier processing power would be fantastic. The current Switch feels underpowered at times, especially with multi-platform titles. Imagine how the upcoming Zelda game would look and run on a more robust console or even a PC.
And let’s talk screens. When Nintendo rolled out the OLED model, it was a game-changer. Reverting to LCD would be a step back. OLED screens offer richer, more vibrant visuals, which are essential for Nintendo's colourful and lively game aesthetics.
Storage is another big issue. The current Switch models' storage capacities are laughable for today's gaming standards. An internal solid-state drive in the Switch 2 would not only provide more space but also boost game load times dramatically.
Now, about those Joy-Cons. They're neat but plagued with drift issues and a feel that doesn't match their price tag. It's high time Nintendo addressed this and gave us controllers that are both durable and comfortable for extended play sessions.
And finally, colour customisation. Sure, Nintendo has released some stunning special edition models, but why stop there? Imagine being able to customize your Switch 2 — from the console and dock to the Joy-Cons. Adding a personal touch could make the Switch 2 a must-have, not just another upgrade.
In sum, Nintendo has a chance to really shake things up with the Switch 2. The potential is there, it just needs to be harnessed in the right way. Here's hoping Nintendo listens to its fans and delivers something truly special with the Nintendo Switch 2.
