Nintendo Direct Switch 2: Key Announcements You Can't Miss 🚨🎯

Nintendo Direct Switch 2: Date and Price Revealed! 🎮🔥

We finally had a real glimpse of the Nintendo Switch 2 during the Nintendo Direct! 🎮

This special presentation focused on the Switch 2 and covered many important aspects of Nintendo's new console. We talked about the launch titles, of the price and, most importantly, we have a release date.

So read on for our recap of all the major announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct.

Switch 2 release date

The Switch 2 will be released on Thursday, June 5th..

Yes, that's the promised day! Mark it on your calendar, don't miss school (I won't tell anyone) or take the day off work (because I can't either...)! This date also marks the release of the Switch 2 launch titles, which you'll find listed below.

Image credit: Nintendo

Switch 2 Price

The Switch 2 will be priced at £395.99 or its equivalent in your local currency.

He Switch 2 and Mario Kart World bundle will cost £429.99 or its equivalent in your local currency.

Please note that these prices only cover the base Nintendo console and the prices mentioned are from the official My Nintendo Store. Obviously, the cost will increase if you purchase games and other add-ons, such as additional controllers. It can also vary between retailers, so be very wary of resellers or scammers.

Here's a quick rundown of the Switch 2 related prices copied verbatim from the My Nintendo Store:

• Switch 2 Console – £395.99
• Switch 2 console and Mario Kart World bundle – £429.99
• Nintendo Switch Pro Controller 2 – £74.99
• Nintendo GameCube Controller (GCN) – Nintendo Classics – £58.99
• Nintendo Switch Camera 2 – £49.99
• microSD Express Card – £49.99
• Mario Kart World Digital – £66.99
• Mario Kart World Physical – £74.99

Switch 2 Pre-sale

Can Pre-order the Switch 2 on Tuesday, April 8.

Pre-orders for Switch 2 digital games, upgrade packs, and Amiibo will begin the Thursday, April 24.

If you plan to pre-order the Switch 2 from the official My Nintendo Store, you'll need to wait for an email from the store. This is because, initially, pre-ordering the Switch 2 from this store will be invitation-only for select Nintendo Switch Online members.

Below are the requirements for receiving this invitation, keeping in mind that eligibility is based on data through March 31, 2025:

Nintendo Switch Online Membership Status

• Be a continuous Nintendo Switch Online member for at least two years by Monday, March 31, 2025.
• This membership must be active when pre-ordering.
• In the case of family memberships, the person who purchased the membership will be eligible.
• Other members of the family membership are not eligible.

Game Time

• Having spent a certain amount of time playing games from Nintendo Switch bought/paid, prioritizing those with more playing time.
• Sharing usage information with Nintendo.
• You have agreed to share usage information with Nintendo to personalize offers and recommendations.

Receive emails from Nintendo

• Have agreed to receive promotional emails and messages from Nintendo.
• Be accepted on the day the invitation email is sent.

The aforementioned criteria could be relaxed over time so more people can pre-order from the My Nintendo store. However, Nintendo will continue to prioritize dedicated Nintendo Switch players and will rely on available stock.

Switch 2 launch games

What would a new console be without launch games? Here are the Nintendo Switch 2 launch titles:

• Mario Kart World
• Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour

Here are the partner games that you will be able to play on the Switch 2 from launch:

• Street Fighter 6
• Split Fiction
• Hogwarts Legacy
• Hitman World of Assassination – Signature Edition
• Yakuza 0 Director's Cut
• Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster
• Deltarune – Chapters 1 to 4
• Civilization VII
• Survival Kids
• Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition
• Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
• Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S
• Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma
• Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition
• Fast Fusion
• Fortnite
• Arcade Archives 2 Ridge Racer

While I'm excited, I'm a little disappointed that there isn't a Doshin the Giant remake… However, my GameCube-loving heart will feel somewhat satisfied to announce that the Doshin the Giant games are coming to Nintendo Switch. Nintendo GameCube will be available exclusively on Switch 2 for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members.

Here are the GameCube games that will be available in the service since launch:

• The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
• Soul Calibur II
• F-Zero GX

Switch 2 Partner Games

Here are all the Switch 2 partner games revealed so far, listed as they appeared in the presentation, along with any details about their release dates. We'll learn more about these partner games as their dates approach, while EA Sports has mentioned that the Switch 2 versions of FC and Madden NFL will have feature parity "as hardware allows."

• Elden Ring – 2025
• Hades II
• Street Fighter 6 – Launch title
• DaemonXMachina: Titanic Scion – September 5
• Split Fiction – Launch title
• EA Sports Madden NFL
• EA Sports FC
• Hogwarts Legacy – Launch title
• Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 – Summer 2025
• Hitman World of Assassination – Signature Edition – Launch title
• Project 007
• Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster – Launch title
• Yakuza 0 Director's Cut – Launch title
• Deltarune – Chapters 1 to 4 – Launch title
• Borderlands 4 – 2025
• Civilization VII – Launch title
• WWE 2K
• NBA 2K
• Survival Kids – Launch title
• Enter the Gungeon 2
• Starseeker: Astronomer Expeditions – 2026
• Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition – Launch title
• Final Fantasy Remake Intergrade
• Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess – Launch title
• Hollow Knight: Silksong – 2025
• Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar – August 27, 2025
• Goodnight Universe – 2025
• Two Point Museum – 2025
• Wild Hearts S – July 25, 2025
• Witchbrook – Winter 2025
• Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S – Launch title
• Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma – Launch title
• Marvel Cosmic Invasion – Winter 2025
• Star Wars Outlaws – 2025
• Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition – Launch title
• Fast Fusion – Launch title
• Shadow Labyrinth – July 18, 2025
• Raidou Remastered: The Mystery of the Soulless Army – June 19, 2025
• No Sleep For Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files – July 25, 2025
• Reanimal – 2025
• Fortnite – Launch title
• Arcade Archives 2 Ridge Racer – Launch title
• Professor Layton and the New World of Steam – 2025
• Tamagotchi Plaza – June 27, 2025
• Human Fall Flat 2

What games can you play on the Switch 2?

There are three main types of games you can enjoy on the Switch 2:

• Nintendo Switch Games 2
• Compatible Nintendo Switch games
• Nintendo Switch Edition Games 2

With that out of the way, let's take a look at all the games highlighted during the Nintendo Direct...

Mario Kart World Announcement

We all knew it was coming, but the Nintendo Direct confirmed that Mario Kart World will be one of the launch games for Switch 2. Once again, you'll be able to race against characters from the Mario franchise, either in a kart or on a motorcycle. Mario Kart World also brings weather conditions and time-of-day changes! Best of all, you'll no longer be bound by track rules and you'll even have to drive between the tracks you race on! 🌦️

There will be a Mario Kart World Direct on Thursday, April 17 at 2 pm (local time).

Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour Announcement

This game is designed to teach you more about your Nintendo Switch 2. Using it, you'll be able to explore different aspects of the Nintendo Switch 2, learning more about its capabilities and the features it offers. There will also be some minigames and tech demos you can play.

Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour will be a digital game and available at launch. (Despite what the name suggests, it won't be free.)

Drag X Drive Ad

Drag X Drive is a multiplayer game where you compete in a basketball match against three other players. The main attraction of this game is its use of the Joy-Con 2 mouse controls.

Drag X Drive will be released in summer 2025.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment Announcement

A new Hyrule Warriors game is coming to the Switch 2 – Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment. Like the previous Hyrule Warriors game, Age of Calamity, this one will examine events from Hyrule's past. In this case, it will focus on the events Zelda experienced during Tears of the Kingdom as she battles Ganondorf during his original invasion of Hyrule (at least in this timeline).

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment will launch on Switch 2 in Winter 2025.

The Duskbloods Announcement

The Duskbloods is a new FromSoftware title exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2. Like most FromSoftware games, it's a bit hard to tell what The Duskbloods is about from the trailer. However, it appears to involve vampires and a cool winged rat. It's also apparently a multiplayer game, with support for up to eight people.

The Duskbloods will be released in 2026 for the Nintendo Switch 2.

Kirby Air Riders Ad

The Switch 2 Direct kicked off with Mario Kart World, and as it wrapped up, we got a glimpse of Kirby Air Riders. The sequel to the original Kirby Air Riders (released over twenty years ago) is set to release in late 2025.

Donkey Kong Bananza Ad

The final reveal from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct was the announcement of Donkey Kong Bananza. In this 3D action platformer, you'll once again play Donkey Kong as he interacts with a sentient purple crystal. Okay? 🐒

Donkey Kong Bananza will be released on Thursday, July 17, 2025.

Switch Edition Games 2

Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Games are Nintendo Switch games that will receive an enhanced version for the Switch 2. These enhancements will include improved graphics, new ways to play thanks to features like GameChat, and possibly even new content. Nintendo Switch 2 Editions will also be available in physical and digital formats.

If you already own one of the games receiving a Switch Edition 2 version, you'll be able to purchase an upgrade pack instead of having to buy the same game again.

Here's a list of all the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games revealed so far:

• Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV
• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Kirby and the Forgotten Land
• Metroid Prime 4: Beyond
• Pokémon Legends: ZA

Super Mario Party Jamboree Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV Announcement

This update to Super Mario Party Jamboree expands the base game by adding mouse controls, audio recognition, improved vibration feedback, and gameplay involving the Nintendo Switch Camera 2.

Super Mario Party Jamboree Switch Edition 2 + Jamboree TV will launch on Thursday, July 24.

Announcing Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild Editions of The Legend of Zelda

Keep in mind that these are separate games, and if you want both, you'll have to purchase the upgrade packs or Switch 2 Editions of these games separately. (I found it a bit silly to repeat essentially the same information twice.)

The Switch 2 editions of these Zelda titles will feature improved resolution and frame rates. They will also support HDR.

Additionally, you'll have access to Zelda Notes, a new feature in the Nintendo Switch app. (This is the current Nintendo Switch Online app, which will be rebranded as the Nintendo Switch App at the end of May.) This service will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of these games and will offer voice guidance for finding shrines and Korok Seeds. You'll also be able to share QR codes of your creations in Tears of the Kingdom, so other players can autobuild them.

Zelda Notes will not require a Nintendo Switch Online membership.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land Switch 2 Edition Announcement

The Switch Edition 2 of Kirby and the Forgotten Land will feature improved graphics and frame rates. You'll also be able to enjoy a bonus story exclusive to the Switch Edition 2.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Switch 2 Edition Announcement

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond will be released for both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. The Switch 2 Edition will support mouse controls, have 4K support at 60 fps, and 120 fps support in full HD.

Pokémon Legends: ZA Switch 2 Edition Announced

Pokémon Legends: ZA will be released for both the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. The Switch 2 Edition will feature improved resolution and frame rates.

GameCube games for Nintendo Switch Online membership + Expansion Pack

Exclusive to Switch 2, Nintendo GameCube games will be added to the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership. Select games will feature improved image quality and higher resolution than the original versions. You'll also be able to customize controls and, in multiplayer, play with up to three friends both online and locally.

A Nintendo GameCube controller will also be released for this service at launch. It will be able to connect wirelessly to your Switch 2 and will have a C button for Game Chat. Just keep in mind that this controller will be exclusive to Nintendo Switch Online members.

Here are the GameCube games available on the service since launch:

• The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
• Soul Calibur II
• F-Zero GX

More GameCube titles will be added to the service in the future, and from the trailer, we can see:

• Super Mario Sunshine
• Fire Emblem Path of Radiance
• Pokémon XD Gale of Darkness
• Mario Smash Football
• Chibi-Robo!
• Luigi's Mansion
• Pokémon Colosseum

Switch 2 system details explained

Here's everything we know so far about the Switch 2 system – from his hardware, controls and internal softwareWe wouldn't be surprised if Nintendo is still keeping some secrets, so we recommend keeping an eye on our 'Everything We Know About the Switch 2' guide, as we'll be updating it whenever new information is announced.

Switch 2 console details

Here's a quick rundown of the important information about the Switch 2 console itself. (Don't worry, the display has its own section.)

• Play compatible Nintendo Switch games
• 256 GB of internal storage
• Faster data reading and writing
• Two USB-C ports: one on the bottom of the console and one on the top
• Better sound from built-in speakers in laptop and tabletop modes
• 3D Audio for Select Games
• Built-in microphone for Game Chat (voice and video chat)
• Uses noise-cancelling technology to filter out sounds and eliminate background noise
• New stand that allows you to freely adjust the viewing angle and doesn't look like it's going to break at any moment
• The Switch 2 is 13.9cm wide (same as the Nintendo Switch!)

Switch 2 Screen Details

Here's a quick rundown of what the Nintendo Direct revealed about the Switch 2's display:

• 7.9 inches
• 1080p
• Supports up to 120 fps
• LCD screen
• Supports HDR for select titles

Switch 2 Dock Details

We also learned more about the Switch 2 dock:

• 4K support for compatible games
• HDR is supported in TV mode
• Built-in fan ventilation in the base

Switch 2 Game Card Details

We've talked quite a bit about the games coming to the Switch 2, so let's look at the game cards themselves:

• Higher data reading speed.
• The same shape as the Switch game cards.
• The game cards will be red.
• While it's not certain, it's possible that Switch 2 game cards might have the same unpleasant taste as the Switch's.

Switch 2 Additional Storage

Even though the Switch 2 has much more storage compared to its predecessor, you'll need more space sooner or later. So, let's take a look at what we know about the Switch 2's additional storage:

• It will only use micro SD Express cards.
• These cards have high speed data transfers.
• Regular Nintendo Switch microSD cards No will be compatible.

Transfer data to Switch 2

At the time of writing, we don't know all the details about how to transfer data to the Switch 2. What we do know is that you can transfer data between the Switch and Switch 2. To do so, you'll need to log in to your Nintendo Account and use the system transfer feature. This will allow you to transfer save data, digital games, and more.

New Switch 2 Pro Controller

A dedicated Pro Controller for the Switch 2 will be available at launch. It will feature a C button for GameChat and an audio jack. It will also feature new GL and GR buttons on the back; controls used with other controllers can be mapped to these new buttons.

The Switch 2 Pro Controller will be priced at £74.99.

Joy-Con 2 Details

Here's a quick rundown of all the important details revealed about the Joy-Con 2:

• They adhere magnetically
• They come off by pressing the release button on the back
• Larger SL and SR buttons
• Larger control levers
• Mouse controls
• Button C for Game Chat (voice and video chat)

Now let's learn more about the C button and mouse controls!

Game Chat and Joy-Con 2 C Button

The C button has been a mystery since it was spotted during the Switch 2 reveal in January, but now its purpose has been revealed.

Pressing the C button will open Game Chat while playing a game on the Switch 2. It should be able to pick up your voice from a distance and can also be used in handheld mode. You'll also be able to share your game screen, which is adjustable. You can even use it while playing different games.

The C button on the right Joy-Con allows you to open a chat menu where you'll find options like mute.

While a Nintendo Online membership is required to use Game Chat, there will be a welcome period where the feature will be available for free until March 31, 2026. (You'll have to pay after this date.) Game Chat will also feature Nintendo's parental controls, including a Game Chat history.

Joy-Con 2 mouse controls

The Joy-Con 2 controllers will come with mouse controls, which can be accessed by detaching the controllers from the Switch 2 and placing them flat on a surface. Doing so will allow them to be used like a computer mouse. Although, since this is Nintendo, there will also be motion controls.

During the Nintendo Direct, we got a look at Drag x Drive, a game coming in Summer 2025 that will fully utilize these mouse controllers. Drag x Drive is a three-on-three basketball game.

Switch 2 Camera

The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is a new accessory coming to Nintendo's next-gen console. Using it during Game Chat, you can video chat with other players while playing together, whether or not you're playing the same game.

This camera will be available from launch and will be priced at £49.99.

GameShare available for select Nintendo Switch titles 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 will support GameShare. Revealed during the March Nintendo Direct, GameShare, as expected, lets you share games with your friends and family using a local wireless connection. One player hosts the game, while up to three more players join using their Nintendo console. It can also be used online via GameChat, and you can even lend games to others for a limited period.

GameShare will be a free upgrade for the Nintendo Switch, but it'll only be available for select games, with 51 titles supported at launch. (Don't worry, we'll have a guide listing all the titles.) It will also be available for select Switch 2 titles once the console launches.

Accessibility features of the Switch 2

While we don't know the full list of Switch 2 accessibility features at this time, here's everything that's been revealed so far:

• Adjustable font size
• Enable screen reader
• Voice-to-text features within GameChat

The Switch 2 will also support the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app, which includes support for GameChat.

What's included in the Nintendo Switch 2 box?

For our final section, here's a quick rundown of what your Switch 2 box will include:

• Nintendo Switch 2 Console
• Joy-Con 2 controls (left and right)
• Grip for Joy-Con 2
• Straps for Joy-Con 2
• Nintendo Switch Dock 2
• Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable
• Nintendo Switch 2 Power Adapter
• USB-C charging cable

Hopefully the days will pass quickly until its release, but slowly after the Switch 2 is in our hands! ⏳✨