Nintendo Announces Next-Gen Switch for March 2025, Promises Backward Compatibility

Nintendo has officially unveiled its highly anticipated next-generation console, the successor to the wildly successful Nintendo Switch. In a surprise announcement early this morning, the Japanese gaming giant confirmed that the new system—currently dubbed the “Switch 2” by fans—is set to launch globally in March 2025.

While details remain limited, Nintendo has confirmed one of the most sought-after features: full backward compatibility with existing Switch software. This means players can bring their entire digital and physical libraries over to the new console, offering a seamless transition and continued access to fan-favorite titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

“We are committed to preserving our community’s investments and gaming experiences,” said Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa during the announcement. “With backward compatibility, players can pick up right where they left off while enjoying enhanced performance.”

Though Nintendo has not revealed the official name or hardware specs, insiders suggest the new console will feature a custom NVIDIA chipset offering significant boosts in performance and graphical fidelity. The device will likely retain the hybrid design that allows for both handheld and docked play, a format that has defined the Switch’s success since its 2017 debut.

Developers have reportedly had development kits in hand for several months, and third-party support is expected to be robust at launch. Rumors point to new entries in the Metroid and Donkey Kong franchises as possible first-party launch titles.

Analysts are calling this announcement a smart move by Nintendo. “Launching with backward compatibility and a strong software slate could give Nintendo a substantial edge, especially with continued PS5 and Xbox Series X shortages in some regions,” said Hideki Nakano, senior analyst at Nikkei Tech.

With Switch lifetime sales surpassing 130 million units worldwide, expectations are sky-high. Nintendo has promised more information, including a full reveal event, later this year—potentially during a special September Nintendo Direct.

Fans and critics alike will be watching closely as Nintendo takes its next step into the future of hybrid gaming.