Nintendo Unveils New Console Code-Named ‘Switch 2,’ Promises 2025 Launch Window

In a surprise announcement early this morning, Nintendo officially confirmed the existence of its long-rumored next-generation console, currently code-named “Switch 2.” Set for a launch window in the first half of 2025, the announcement ends years of speculation and offers a glimpse into what could be the next major evolution in hybrid gaming.

The reveal came via a brief press statement from Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa, who stated, “Our goal is to deliver a gaming experience that continues to surprise and delight players around the world. The next Nintendo console will stay true to the hybrid DNA of the original Switch while introducing advances in performance and gameplay innovation.”

While exact hardware specs remain under wraps, sources with knowledge of the system’s development indicate that the Switch 2 will feature a larger OLED display, improved Joy-Con stability, and a more powerful custom processor built in collaboration with NVIDIA. Backward compatibility with original Switch titles is reportedly a key priority for the platform, which would be a first for a Nintendo handheld-console hybrid.

Industry insiders believe Nintendo will officially unveil the new system in a dedicated Direct presentation later this fall, followed by live demos at select industry expos in early 2025. The timing strategically positions the console to take advantage of the post-holiday consumer wave, while giving developers ample time to port existing titles or develop new experiences exclusive to the system.

Nintendo’s last major hardware release, the original Switch, launched in 2017 and has sold over 129 million units worldwide, making it one of the best-selling consoles of all time. Analysts expect the Switch 2 to inherit a strong portion of its predecessor’s success, especially if the company continues its tradition of first-party blockbuster launches—think “Zelda,” “Mario,” and “Smash Bros.”

As the gaming landscape grows increasingly competitive with Microsoft and Sony pushing hardware innovations of their own, Nintendo’s next move will be crucial. For now, gamers can rest easy knowing that the next generation of Nintendo gaming is just over the horizon.