Nintendo finally locked in the Nintendo Switch 2 launch date—June 5—and the full reveal showed why it’s a big deal. The system launches at $449.99 USD / $629.99 CAD and brings new Joy-Con 2 controllers, upgraded visuals, and a host of new features like GameChat, mouse support, and GameShare. A launch bundle with Mario Kart World will also be available for $499.99 USD / $699.99 CAD.
The system arrives alongside a strong lineup of titles, including Mario Kart World, with more games like Donkey Kong Bananza arriving in the launch window. From hardware specs to upgraded versions of familiar games, there’s plenty to be excited about. Here’s a full breakdown of what’s coming with Nintendo Switch 2.
Inside the Nintendo Switch 2 System
Nintendo Switch 2 sticks with the hybrid design but upgrades nearly every aspect of the hardware. The system features a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD screen with HDR support, offering smoother motion and clearer visuals at up to 120 frames per second. Despite the improved display, the system keeps the same thickness as the original.
Audio has also been improved with better clarity, spatial 3D sound, and noise-canceling support for the built-in mic. These updates benefit handheld and tabletop play, especially when using GameChat or video calls.
The Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically and include several new features. Both can be used as a mouse by sliding them across a surface, useful in compatible games. The right Joy-Con has a new C button, which brings up quick features like GameChat. These controllers are also compatible with older Switch games.
Storage has increased to 256 GB of internal memory, and the system now supports high-speed microSD Express cards. Previous microSD card types are not supported. The console also has two USB-C ports—one on the bottom and one on top—giving you more flexibility for charging and accessories like the optional Switch 2 camera.
The upgraded dock includes a built-in fan and supports up to 4K resolution and 120 fps for compatible titles when connected to a TV. This makes it easier to enjoy performance-focused games without sacrificing stability.
Nintendo Switch 2 supports physical and digital games from the original Switch library. However, not all older games are guaranteed to be fully compatible. Nintendo is also offering Switch 2 Edition upgrades for select titles, which include improved graphics, faster load times, and new features.
System transfers for save data and purchases are handled through your Nintendo Account, and virtual game cards give you more flexibility in sharing digital games across family systems.
New Games, Upgrades, and Launch Window Highlights
Nintendo Switch 2 launches with a mix of new titles, upgraded versions of past games, and a packed roadmap for the months ahead. Mario Kart World leads the charge on June 5, introducing a global map, Knockout Tour mode, and full free roam. Up to 24 racers can compete, making it the largest roster in series history.
Also confirmed for the launch lineup are The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Switch 2 Edition and Tears of the Kingdom – Switch 2 Edition. Both include improved visuals, smoother performance, and new features through the Zelda Notes companion app.
Other day-one titles include Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Sid Meier’s Civilization VII – Switch 2 Edition, and HITMAN World of Assassination – Signature Edition, Split Fiction and more! All take advantage of the hardware’s upgraded visuals, faster loading, and optional mouse controls.
Super Mario Party Jamboree – Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV isn’t a launch title but arrives July 24, with new modes, camera-based activities, and Bowser Live—a team-based game-show experience using Joy-Con 2.
Some big games are just around the corner. Donkey Kong Bananza launches on July 17 with full destructible terrain and motion-based movement. Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World follows on August 28, adding a new story and upgraded visuals. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is expected in 2025, with support for 4K, 120 fps, and mouse controls.
With system-exclusive titles and third-party support from studios like FromSoftware, EA, Square Enix, and Bandai Namco, the Switch 2 lineup already looks stacked.
GameChat and GameShare Expand Online Play
Nintendo Switch 2 includes GameChat, a new built-in voice and video chat system that works directly through the console. You can start a session by pressing the new C button on the right Joy-Con 2. Once enabled, GameChat supports up to 12 people in voice chat, with optional screen sharing and video chat for up to four users using the Switch 2 camera.
The system uses noise-canceling technology to filter out background sounds so voices can be heard more easily. The built-in mic also works in handheld mode. You can share your screen, expand someone else’s, or just talk while playing entirely different games.
GameChat will be available without a Nintendo Switch Online membership until March 2026. After that, a you’ll need a Nintendo Switch Online membership. Parental controls also allow restrictions for kids under 16, including approval for chat access.
Another new feature is GameShare. It lets one person with a compatible game temporarily share it with up to three others locally, even if they don’t own the game. Online GameShare is supported between Switch 2 systems and works with GameChat, so you can talk while playing together. This feature will be added to select titles over time, starting with Clubhouse Games 51 Worldwide Classics via a free update.
Backward Compatibility and Upgrade Paths
Nintendo Switch 2 supports most existing Nintendo Switch games, both physical and digital. If you already own titles from the Switch library, many of them will run on Switch 2. However, not all older games are guaranteed to be fully compatible, so some may have limitations.
In addition to standard backward compatibility, Nintendo is offering upgraded “Switch 2 Edition” versions of select games. These versions come with improved visuals, better performance, and new features that take advantage of the new hardware. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, and Kirby and the Forgotten Land all have Switch 2 Editions with notable enhancements.
Upgrades are handled through paid upgrade packs. If you own the original Nintendo Switch version, you can buy an upgrade rather than repurchasing the full game. This applies to both digital and physical versions where supported.
Nintendo is also rolling out virtual game cards, a new feature that lets you manage your digital games more easily. You can access your entire digital library from the virtual card menu and load them on different systems. You can even lend or borrow games locally within a family group using this system—no internet connection needed once a game is loaded.
Save data and digital purchases can be transferred from your Nintendo Switch to the Switch 2 using your Nintendo Account.
GameCube Classics Join Nintendo Switch Online
Nintendo Switch 2 expands Nintendo Switch Online with a new GameCube Classics library. Available through the Expansion Pack tier, this collection includes upgraded GameCube titles that run with clearer visuals and higher resolution.
At launch, the lineup includes:
- The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
- Soulcalibur II
- F-Zero GX
Each game supports local and online multiplayer where applicable. Control layouts can be customized, and screen resolution is improved over the original releases.
A wireless GameCube-style controller will also be available for purchase, featuring the original layout with added functionality. It includes a C button for GameChat and connects wirelessly to Switch 2. This controller is exclusive to paid Nintendo Switch Online members.
Nintendo has confirmed more GameCube titles will be added over time. The GameCube Classics service goes live on June 5, the same day Switch 2 launches.
Accessibility and Parental Controls Get a Boost
Nintendo Switch 2 adds several accessibility options aimed at supporting more ways to play. These include adjustable font sizes, a built-in screen reader, and speech-to-text features within GameChat. These settings can help make the system more usable for gamers with visual or hearing needs.
GameChat includes voice and video communication, but safety features are built in. You can report inappropriate behaviour, mute others, or control who joins their chats.
Parental controls have also been expanded. The updated Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app lets guardians set gameplay limits, approve online features, and restrict GameChat access. Kids under 16 need parent or guardian approval to use GameChat features.
These tools aim to give you more ways to tailor the system to your needs while helping families manage online play in a secure way.
A Promising Start for Switch 2
Nintendo Switch 2 is launching with a clear message: it’s not just a refresh. Between the upgraded hardware, new ways to play, and a launch lineup that mixes system sellers with fan favourites, Nintendo is setting up a strong follow-up to the original Switch.
GameChat and GameShare show Nintendo’s push toward more social and flexible multiplayer features. Support for higher resolution, faster frame rates, and new control options like Joy-Con mouse input could lead to new kinds of experiences.
The base system launches June 5 for $449.99 USD / $629.99 CAD. A Mario Kart World bundle will also be available for $499.99 USD / $699.99 CAD, adding a download code for the new racer.
Launch day has plenty to offer, and the months ahead already look packed. Whether you’re interested in Mario Kart World, third-party hits like Cyberpunk 2077 and Final Fantasy VII Remake, or curious about what’s next for Donkey Kong and Zelda, there’s a lot to look forward to.
Preorders begin April 9, and with more reveals like the Mario Kart World Direct coming April 17, there’s still more to come.
As a Nintendo fan since the NES days, I’ve seen every hardware era come and go. Switch 2 feels like the most focused and forward-thinking system they’ve launched in decades.
What game or feature has you most excited about Nintendo Switch 2? Let us know.
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A easy day 1 for me