April 23, 2025 | 10:42 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Nintendo has set a new date for the start of pre-orders for the Switch 2 gaming console in the United States, which is this Thursday, April 24, 2025.
In the announcement, Nintendo stated that the price of the Switch 2 remains at USD 449.99, although there were concerns earlier that the new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration could trigger a price increase for the console. However, Nintendo also confirmed that the prices of accessories for the Switch 2 will increase. The latest Joy-Con, Pro Controller, and Switch 2 camera are now priced higher.
As quoted from The Verge, April 18, 2025, the Switch 2 console itself comes as a major update from the previous version, with a larger 7.9-inch LCD screen, larger Joy-Cons, and several other new features. In addition to introducing Mario Kart World, Nintendo also introduced Donkey Kong Bananza, the latest 3D game from the Donkey Kong series scheduled for release on July 17.
Nintendo has released the debut of the Nintendo Switch 2 through a video uploaded on YouTube. This console is the successor to the highly popular Switch and, like its predecessor, continues to carry a modular design concept.
Larger Screen
Previously, as quoted from Tech Crunch, January 16, 2025, from the beginning of the video, the main difference between the Switch and the Switch 2 is clearly visible, namely, the larger size and wider screen. However, the bezel around the screen is still quite prominent.
New Joy-Cons
The Switch 2 Joy-Cons also underwent a major update. Due to the larger size of the console, the controller is also larger and has a more rounded shape. This time, the Joy-Cons attach to the side of the tablet magnetically.
Unlike the previous generation which was more colorful, the Switch 2 appears simpler with a black color dominance, leaving only a few color accents under the analog sticks and on the top of the Joy-Cons.
Like the first Switch, this console can also be connected to a dock to play on a television screen. The Joy-Cons can be removed and used separately or combined in a special grip as a single controller.
For portable use, Nintendo has updated the support design on the back of the device to be sturdier than the previous version. In addition, the USB-C port is now located at the top, making it easier for users to charge while playing in handheld mode.
Compatible with Old Switch Games
The Switch 2 remains compatible with games from the previous generation Switch. There is still a physical cartridge slot at the top, and digital games from the Switch can also be run on this device.
In the video, only one game is shown, which is Mario Kart. Although it looks similar to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, it is not yet known whether this is a new version or just a teaser of the existing game.
The biggest change from the previous generation Switch is expected to be on the internal side, where Nintendo is likely to improve the device's performance to be able to run heavier games. However, further details about its technical specifications are still awaited.
Developing Virtual Game Cards
Nintendo also announced that they are developing a new feature called Virtual Game Cards, designed to make it easier for users to carry digital games to various devices. This feature comes along with the enthusiasm for the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, and it is expected to make the process of transferring digital games from the old Switch console to the new one more practical.
Until now, users could buy Switch games in two formats: physical cartridges like traditional game cartridges, or as digital downloads. If using a physical cartridge, games can be easily transferred by simply inserting the cartridge into another console. However, digital games are not as easily transferable between devices. Virtual Game Cards are a solution to address this limitation.
Available at the end of April, Virtual Game Cards are designed so that digital games can be used just like physical games. Players can easily move games between two devices, as long as the two devices are locally connected when the initial transfer is made.
Editor's Choice: Nintendo Delays U.S. Preorders for Switch 2 Over Tariff Concerns
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