Nintendo has finally unveiled its new console, Nintendo Switch 2. However, the Japanese company will share its release date and other details during special events in the spring.
Following weeks of anticipation fueled by rumors, speculation, and leaks, the Nintendo Switch 2 was announced in a YouTube video posted on January 16.
The new console will be backward-compatible with the original Switch. The company said users will be able to play both physical and digital games released on its predecessor, but noted that “certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible” with the new console.
From the first-look trailer, it is also clear that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be bigger, featuring black Joy-Con controllers attached to the side of the console (instead of sliding) and new ports, as well as the updated kickstand and dock.
However, there is no official information about technical specs. Nintendo will share these details, as well as the specific release date, during the Nintendo Direct on April 2. After that, the company will also host a series of special events in North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania where users will be able to go hands-on with the new console.
The trailer also features what appears to be a glimpse into a new Mario Kart game, although Nintendo has yet to announce any launch titles for the Switch 2.
Launched in March 2017, the original Nintendo Switch has sold over 146 million units globally (as of September 30, 2024). This makes it the company’s second best-selling hardware — behind only the Nintendo DS. Below are the top 5 Nintendo consoles by units sold:
- Nintendo DS — 154.02 million;
- Nintendo Switch — 146.04 million;
- Wii — 101.63 million;
- Game Boy — 118.69 million;
- Game Boy Advance — 81.51 million.
When it comes to the overall console market, Sony still holds the top spot with the PlayStation 2 (160 million).
Over the course of seven years, over 1.3 billion game copies have been sold for the Nintendo Switch. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the best-selling first-party title on the platform, with more than 64 million units sold globally. It is followed by Animal Crossing: New Hroizons (46.45 million), Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (35.14 million), The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (32.29 million), and Super Mario Odyssey (28.5 million).