Tag: Switch 2

  • Nintendo’s March 27 Switch Direct Won’t Feature Switch 2 Games

    Nintendo’s March 27 Switch Direct Won’t Feature Switch 2 Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo will host a Direct livestream on March 27th at 7:00 a.m. PST/10:00 a.m. EST, focusing on Switch games.
    2. There is a subsequent Direct on April 2nd for the Switch 2, causing concerns about overshadowing the March event.
    3. Sales for the existing Switch have slowed, prompting the need for new game announcements during the March Direct.
    4. Game journalist Jeff Grubb confirms ongoing development of Switch games, with the Switch 2 expected to arrive in several months.
    5. Fans are speculating about the appearance of titles like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A during the March 27th event.


    Ending the guesswork, Nintendo has announced a Direct stream for March 27th. This livestream, lasting around 30 minutes, will kick off at 7:00 a.m. PST/10:00 a.m. EST on Nintendo’s official YouTube channel. The company emphasized that this Direct will center on games for the Switch and not on the expected Switch 2 console.

    Timing Concerns

    Many players were unsure about the timing of this event, especially with another Direct scheduled for April 2nd regarding the Switch 2. There had been whispers about a February event, which ultimately didn’t happen. Sharing hardware details or launch titles for the new console could overshadow the subsequent show. Nevertheless, the Nintendo Direct on March 27th will focus on a backlog of unannounced titles for the current generation. Sales for the existing Switch have slowed down due to the lack of new, exciting titles.

    Game Updates

    In response to some leaks from earlier this week, gaming journalist Jeff Grubb stated that there are still plenty of Switch games being developed. Even if the exact release date for the Switch 2 is not known, it seems gamers will have to wait several more months for its arrival. The new console is designed to keep players engaged with the Switch ecosystem, and it will also support backward compatibility. Most games released before the Switch 2 comes out should function, possibly with some upgrades.

    Fan Speculation

    Naturally, fans are already guessing which games will be shown during the Nintendo Direct on March 27th. Two highly awaited titles include Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Nintendo has mentioned both games for the Switch, but they haven’t been confirmed as titles for the Switch 2 yet. Interestingly, the leaker extas1s recently suggested that Metroid Prime 4: Beyond won’t be showcased in the April 2nd event. Given the game’s history since 2017, players are hoping to see it on March 27th instead of facing another delay.

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  • Mario Kart 9 Not Appealing as Switch 2 Launch Title, Ex-Nintendo PR

    Mario Kart 9 Not Appealing as Switch 2 Launch Title, Ex-Nintendo PR

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Direct on April 2nd will confirm titles for the Switch 2, with speculation around Mario Kart 9 being a key launch title.
    2. Former Nintendo PR Manager Krysta Yang doubts that Mario Kart 9 can fully utilize the Switch 2’s potential, suggesting The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild as a better example.
    3. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe remains extremely popular, selling over 70 million copies, which raises questions about the demand for a new installment.
    4. Many gamers believe it’s time for a new racing game, especially after Mario Kart 8’s long presence in the market.
    5. Rumors indicate that Mario Kart 9 may feature 24 starting positions and new character models, promising potential innovations for the new game.


    Gamers might have to hold on till the Nintendo Direct on April 2nd to find out the confirmed titles for the Switch 2 launch. However, during the January showcase of the new console, Mario Kart was one of the few games highlighted. This has led many to speculate that Mario Kart 9, or its actual name, will play a key role in the initial marketing for the Switch 2. Although Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has been a hit, a former PR Manager from Nintendo believes that a new kart racing game won’t necessarily entice buyers to get the system.

    Surprising Insights from Krysta Yang

    In a recent episode of the Kit & Krysta podcast, Krysta Yang shared some unexpected views. The ex-Nintendo staffer seems to doubt that Mario Kart 9 could fully utilize the potential of the Switch 2. Instead, she highlights The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, a 3D open-world game that debuted with the first Switch. Players could explore Hyrule in ways that weren’t possible in earlier titles.

    The Popularity of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

    The podcast also discussed how dedicated gamers are to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. This racer is an enhanced version of the 2014 Mario Kart 8, filled with a plethora of characters and tracks. With sales surpassing 70 million copies, players would likely need a strong reason to buy a new installment.

    Yang doesn’t see any major innovations that could be added to Mario Kart. Nevertheless, comments on the related YouTube video show a favorable view towards Mario Kart 9 being a launch title for the Switch 2. One viewer commented: “The only challenge Nintendo is gonna face with this game is meeting the demand for it.”

    Time for a New Racing Game

    Mario Kart 8 has been around for more than a decade, and many gamers feel it’s time for a new version. One rumored leak about the Switch 2 hinted that the console might feature a 120Hz refresh rate with VRR. This kind of display can greatly enhance racing games, providing fast-paced action with smooth performance and low lag.

    The Switch 2 presentation revealed that Mario Kart 9 could have 24 starting positions, which is double what the current game offers. New character models, including a refreshed Donkey Kong, were also observed. Given Nintendo’s knack for surprises, players are eager to see what other innovations the new game might bring.

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  • New Switch 2 Leak: 120Hz LCD, HDR, VRR – Gamers Doubt It

    New Switch 2 Leak: 120Hz LCD, HDR, VRR – Gamers Doubt It

    Key Takeaways

    1. Early rumors suggested the Switch 2 would have an LCD screen, disappointing some gamers; however, recent leaks indicate it may support a 120Hz display with VRR and HDR compatibility.
    2. The leak originates from a Famiboards user, SecretBoy, who previously made accurate predictions about the console’s GPU capabilities, adding credibility to the new information.
    3. SecretBoy speculates that a high-refresh-rate OLED display could push the Switch 2’s price beyond the expected $400 mark.
    4. Despite potential limitations of an LCD screen, the Switch 2 could still compete with leading handheld PCs like the Steam Deck due to its specifications.
    5. If accurate, the Switch 2’s 120Hz display could enhance gameplay for demanding AAA titles by allowing smoother performance even at lower frame rates.


    Early rumors about the Switch 2 indicated that it would feature an LCD screen instead of the OLED display found in the upgraded current-gen system. This news left some gamers feeling let down, thinking Nintendo was skimping on quality once again. However, a recent leak about the Switch 2 hints that its display will actually support 120hz gameplay. Additionally, it appears to have VRR and HDR compatibility, which would enhance the smoothness and vibrancy of the visuals.

    Source of the Leak

    The latest information about the Switch 2 comes from a Famiboards forum user known as SecretBoy. This individual gained some recognition back in January when they made accurate predictions about the console’s GPU capabilities. Reports that followed indicated the Switch 2 might deliver 3.1 TFLOPS when docked and 1.72 TFLOPS in handheld mode. The close alignment of these figures with SecretBoy’s earlier claims lends some credibility to this source.

    Increased Confidence in Specs

    Previously, SecretBoy mentioned that the new console would feature a high-refresh-rate LCD screen. Now, they seem more certain about the specs for the Switch 2. SecretBoy also speculates that a 120Hz OLED display with VRR and HDR would likely push the console’s cost beyond the anticipated $400 price tag.

    According to Nintendo’s extensive patent applications, many of the theories surrounding the console are starting to appear accurate. Still, the idea of a 120Hz display is more difficult for some gamers to accept than other features, such as a larger display or magnetic joy-cons. Even without the deep blacks typical of OLEDs, the Switch 2’s screen could stand up against leading handheld PCs like the Steam Deck or Asus ROG Ally. That said, Nintendo’s recent consoles haven’t exactly been at the forefront regarding supported resolutions or refresh rates.

    Potential for AAA Titles

    If SecretBoy’s leak about the Switch 2 is accurate, the system could cater better to demanding AAA games. In situations where 60fps isn’t feasible, the 120Hz display would facilitate smoother 40fps gameplay without screen tearing.

    While gamers shouldn’t anticipate a full confirmation of all the Switch 2 specs during the upcoming April Nintendo Direct, analysts should be able to clarify any questions about the console’s display once they gain access to it.

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  • New Switch 2 Leak: GameCube Controller Excites Super Smash Bros. Fans

    New Switch 2 Leak: GameCube Controller Excites Super Smash Bros. Fans

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rumors suggest the Switch 2 may feature magnetic joy-cons with mouse capabilities, but some players prefer traditional options.
    2. An FCC filing indicates a wireless GameCube controller, potentially linked to the upcoming Switch 2, aligning with previous discussions about retro controllers.
    3. The new controller might not be specifically for the Switch 2, but it bears similarities to original GameCube controllers and may use Bluetooth or RF technology.
    4. The controller lacks modern features like an NFC reader for amiibo, appealing mainly to retro gaming fans and competitive players of Super Smash Bros. Melee.
    5. There is ongoing interest in classic GameCube games on Nintendo Switch Online, with fans hoping for remasters that could increase demand for the GameCube controller.


    Many rumors about the Switch 2 are highlighting magnetic joy-cons that might come with mouse capabilities. Nevertheless, some players might lean towards a more traditional choice. A recent filing with the FCC shows a wireless GameCube controller, which, while not looking like the Switch Pro, has specifications aligning with the original GameCube controller discussed on Famiboards.

    FCC Filing and Controller Speculations

    Back in October 2024, there were whispers about Nintendo gathering parts that were used in older GameCube controllers. This new FCC filing could support the speculation that the Switch 2 might roll out a similar kind of controller.

    Even though it may seem improbable, this new controller might not be aimed at the Switch 2 specifically. A label found on the back of the device contains the product code for the Switch 2, which is BEE. This label is positioned just like the one on the GameCube controller. Given that FCC filings usually pertain to wireless gadgets, it’s likely that this controller would use Bluetooth or RF technology. The original GameCube controllers were wired, but Nintendo released the wireless RF WaveBird back in 2002.

    Missing Features for Modern Gamers

    The most recent leak about the Switch 2 reveals a controller that lacks several contemporary features. Notably, it does not come with an NFC reader for amiibo, a feature that was found in another recent FCC filing. Regardless, this controller appears to be more than sufficient for fans of retro gaming. Even with newer titles out, Super Smash Bros. Melee for the GameCube continues to be a favorite in the esports scene. Hence, competitive players have a strong desire for the original controller from the console.

    Gamers have always wished that Nintendo Switch Online would feature classic GameCube games. Up until now, Nintendo has chosen to release remasters or remakes, like Metroid Prime or Resident Evil. However, Super Smash Bros. Melee has not been given the same kind of treatment. If Nintendo were to offer the game through NSO or as a remastered release, it would likely spur more interest in acquiring a GameCube controller.

    Conclusion

    Overall, as these rumors circulate, players remain eager for any official word from Nintendo regarding the Switch 2 and its potential accessories. The buzz surrounding the GameCube controller suggests a blend of nostalgia and modern gaming that could appeal to a wide audience.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Rumored Price: $400 or More at Launch

    Nintendo Switch 2 Rumored Price: $400 or More at Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2 two months ago, with more details expected at the April 2 Nintendo Direct event.
    2. Analysts believe the Switch 2 could be Nintendo’s biggest launch, with the company stockpiling up to eight million units.
    3. Initial sales figures for the Switch and PlayStation 5 were 2.7 million and 4.5 million, respectively, which may have been affected by stock shortages.
    4. Price predictions for the Switch 2 vary, with estimates ranging from $399 to $499, influenced by Nvidia’s pricing for components.
    5. Overall expectations for the Switch 2’s launch are high, with significant stockpiling and uncertainty around pricing.


    Nintendo unveiled the Switch 2 around two months ago, but there was little information shared about the new console. Since then, the company has remained silent regarding any updates. They are anticipated to reveal more details during their upcoming Nintendo Direct event, which is set for April 2.

    Anticipations for the Launch

    As reported by Takashi Mochizuki from Bloomberg, many analysts are optimistic that the Switch 2 will be Nintendo’s most significant launch to date. To prepare for this, the company is reportedly stockpiling up to eight million units, which would exceed the initial sales of both the Switch and PlayStation 5 (currently priced at $499 on Amazon). For context, the sales figures for these consoles were 2.7 million and 4.5 million, respectively, but those numbers might have been impacted by early stock shortages.

    Uncertainty Around Pricing

    However, there seems to be less consensus among analysts regarding the launch price of the Switch 2. Some speculate that Nintendo might price the new console at $399, aligning with earlier rumors. On the other hand, Mochizuki notes that others predict a price closer to $449 or even as much as $499, primarily because Nvidia is charging Nintendo between $130 and $150 for each Tegra SoC. Consequently, the Bloomberg editor suggests that the Switch 2 might “cost $400 or more,” indicating that it could surpass that $400 mark.

    Conclusion

    In summary, while details about the Switch 2 remain sparse, expectations are high for its launch. With significant stockpiling and varying price predictions, it will be interesting to see how Nintendo approaches this new console in the coming weeks.

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  • New Switch OLED Bundle Launches Ahead of Switch 2 Direct

    New Switch OLED Bundle Launches Ahead of Switch 2 Direct

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo is releasing a new bundle for the Switch OLED featuring a Neon Red/Blue console, a Super Mario Bros. Wonder voucher, and a 3-month Switch Online subscription for $349.99, available by February 27th.
    2. Sales of the current Switch have slowed as gamers await the announcement of the Switch 2, prompting Nintendo to boost current sales with this new bundle.
    3. The new bundle has received mixed feedback, as it does not seem like a great deal compared to existing offers like the Mario Kart Deluxe Bundle, which is often priced lower.
    4. Future interest in the Switch OLED bundle may depend on the pricing of the Switch 2, which analysts estimate could be around $399, making it harder to attract buyers for the original Switch.
    5. Buyers of the new Switch OLED bundle can expect compatibility with games from the current generation when the Switch 2 launches.


    Nintendo seems to still be in the game of introducing new versions of the classic Switch console. To keep gamers entertained until the April 2nd Nintendo Direct event regarding Switch 2, a new bundle for the Switch OLED has emerged. A well-known leaker, billbil-kun, shared details about a package that features a Neon Red/Blue Switch OLED, a voucher for Super Mario Bros. Wonder, and a 3-month subscription to Switch Online. If his post on X is correct, the Switch OLED bundle will retail for $349.99 and is expected in stores by February 27th.

    Sales Strategy

    Sales for the current handheld have slowed down as players eagerly await the Switch 2 announcement. With not much releasing soon, Nintendo might be trying to give sales a little boost while they prepare for their next console. However, new buyers of the Switch might be less inclined to make an upgrade once the sequel is launched.

    Community Reaction

    The new Switch OLED bundle hasn’t received the best feedback. Even though the standard price for the Switch OLED without any extras is $349.99, this new offer doesn’t really feel like a bargain. Super Mario Bros. Wonder is another popular Mario game that brings fresh ideas to the 2D platformer genre. Nevertheless, the Nintendo Switch OLED Mario Kart Deluxe Bundle continues to be a favorite among shoppers. That particular bundle has frequently been priced down to $275 at various stores.

    Future Considerations

    If a price for Switch 2 is announced during the upcoming Direct, it might influence whether people are interested in this current bundle. There has been a lot of talk about how much the new handheld will cost, and $399 is a common estimate among industry analysts. If that price turns out to be true, it could become harder to persuade buyers to stick with the original Switch. The Switch 2 is expected to have some exciting upgrades, including a bigger screen and magnetic joy-cons that could potentially function as mice.

    Of course, portable consoles can often face issues, leading to the need for replacements. For those who buy the new Switch OLED bundle, at least they can feel assured that games from the current generation will still be compatible with the Switch 2.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Price Could Be 33% Higher Than Original

    Nintendo Switch 2 Price Could Be 33% Higher Than Original

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo is set to launch the Switch 2, replacing the original Switch from 2017, with a trailer already released.
    2. More details about the Switch 2 will be revealed during the Nintendo Direct event on April 2nd.
    3. Analyst predictions suggest the Switch 2 will be priced around $399, a $100 increase from the original Switch.
    4. The new console is rumored to have significant hardware upgrades, including an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor and 12GB of RAM.
    5. The Switch 2 may feature Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology for enhanced performance, though no official specifications have been confirmed yet.


    Nintendo is gearing up to launch its next handheld gaming device, the Switch 2, which will take the place of the original Switch that debuted in 2017. Currently, the company has only shared a trailer showcasing the new design of the Switch 2. More details about the device are expected to be unveiled during the Nintendo Direct event set for April 2nd.

    Leaks and Speculations

    In the meantime, various leaks and rumors are popping up online, hinting at possible features of the upcoming handheld console. A recent report from Wccftech mentions the expected pricing of the Switch 2.

    Analyst Joost van Dreunen predicts that the price for the Nintendo Switch 2 will be around $399. This indicates a potential increase of $100 compared to the original Switch, which was launched at $299. However, another leak has suggested that the price might be approximately 499 CAD, which roughly translates to about 350 USD.

    Hardware Enhancements

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is rumored to come with significant hardware upgrades compared to its 8-year-old predecessor. It’s believed that it will feature the Nvidia Tegra T239 processor with 8 cores, built on an 8nm architecture. The new console may also include 12GB of RAM, a notable increase from the 4GB found in the original Switch. Additionally, the Switch 2 is likely to incorporate Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology, which should provide further improvements in performance.

    While Nintendo has yet to confirm any specifications or pricing for the Switch 2, it’s best to take this information with a grain of salt.

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  • Switch 2 Patent Reveals 180-Degree Rotating Joy-Con Design

    Switch 2 Patent Reveals 180-Degree Rotating Joy-Con Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo’s patent hints at new features for the Joy-Con of the Switch 2, including enhanced grip and stability with magnets.
    2. The Joy-Con may have a mouse-like function similar to the Lenovo Legion Go’s right controller.
    3. The controllers could support a mechanism for a 180-degree flip, allowing for flexible orientation.
    4. The design allows controllers to be attached upside down, with the console able to recognize the switch and adjust the display accordingly.
    5. The 180-degree flipping feature could position the headphone jack flexibly, depending on user preference and console use.


    On February 6, Nintendo released a patent that hints at some thrilling new features for the Joy-Con of the Switch 2. It’s already been confirmed that these new controllers will incorporate magnets to enhance grip and stability. There are also whispers that they may include a mouse-like function, akin to the right controller found on the Lenovo Legion Go, and might even support a mechanism that allows for a 180-degree flip.

    New Controller Features

    The patent WO/2025/027801 shows an illustration of the Switch 2’s Joy-Con appearing to be attached upside down. This indicates that the left controller could fit on the right side and the right controller could fit on the left. However, this function would only be beneficial if the console can automatically recognize the switch and modify the display accordingly, thus providing users with more versatility when utilizing the ports.

    Flexibility in Design

    The potential 180-degree flipping feature for the Joy-Con could allow users to choose whether the headphone jack is positioned at the top or the bottom of the console. Given that the Switch 2 will indeed have two USB ports, the ability to change sides could come in handy, depending on the intended use of the second port.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Leaked to Accessory Maker for $40,000

    Nintendo Switch 2 Leaked to Accessory Maker for $40,000

    Key Takeaways

    1. The reveal of the Switch 2 was anticipated due to prior leaks, including images of a CAD model.
    2. A leaker on Xiaohongshu claims to have a Switch 2 and is offering access to an accessory manufacturer for nearly $40,000.
    3. Third-party accessory makers are eager to profit from the Switch 2’s launch, despite potential legal issues from Nintendo.
    4. Speculations suggest the Switch 2 might be priced around $499 CAD, roughly $350 USD, based on a placeholder card from Costco.
    5. Buyers are advised to wait for official pricing announcements during Nintendo Direct on April 2nd.


    Despite Nintendo’s attempts to keep its new console under wraps, the reveal of the Switch 2 on January 16th wasn’t entirely unexpected. A Chinese individual had previously leaked images of a CAD model months ago. Nintendo’s video confirmed several design elements seen in those images, such as the magnetic joy-con. Now, this same leaker claims to possess a Switch 2 and is providing access to an accessory manufacturer for a staggering price.

    Leaker’s Activity on Xiaohongshu

    The person who allegedly leaked the Switch 2 is active on the Xiaohongshu forums in China. After stating that he received a Switch 2 days before, he shared a chat with a manufacturer eager to test the console. The potential buyer was informed that they could try out the Switch 2 dock, joy-con, and tablet for a price that translates to nearly $40,000. The user from the Xiaohongshu forum also mentioned that Pro controllers might be available next week, which could be Nintendo’s next version of the official Switch Pro accessory.

    High Prices and Market Competition

    While $40,000 seems like an absurd amount to spend, especially with a Switch 2 launch anticipated later this year, third-party accessory makers are looking at big profits by being first to market. At CES 2025, Genki stirred up excitement by displaying Switch 2 accessories based on leaked designs of the console. Although Nintendo’s lawyers paid a visit to the booth, other vendors have persisted in trying to get ahead of their rivals.

    Pricing Speculations in the Market

    Gamers who aren’t inclined to pay more than the manufacturer’s suggested retail price are holding out for official announcements regarding the Switch 2’s cost. Recently, a Costco employee from Canada posted a picture showing a placeholder card with a price of $499. This roughly equals $350 in USD, giving some indication that the Switch 2 might be affordably priced. Nevertheless, it’s best for buyers to wait until the Nintendo Direct on April 2nd, when there could be clear information about the console’s pricing.

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  • February Nintendo Direct Unlikely as Switch 2 Showcase Nears

    February Nintendo Direct Unlikely as Switch 2 Showcase Nears

    A February Nintendo Direct has become a bit of a ritual, but whether it will happen this year is still unclear. Nintendo has already announced a Switch 2 presentation set for April 2nd. However, the current lineup of games for the existing console is quite sparse, leaving players eager for updates on Switch titles. Sadly, analyst Nate the Hate, known for his accurate predictions in the past, is now questioning if the next Nintendo Direct will take place this month.

    Expectations and Doubts

    Last month, both Nate the Hate and various sources were optimistic about a February Nintendo Direct. Nate has successfully predicted events like the launch of the Nintendo Music streaming service. In addition, another well-known leaker, PH Brazil, seemed confident that the company would host one last Switch showcase to help boost their declining sales. Yet, Nate the Hate recently shared on X that he has not received any information confirming the event.

    What to Look Forward To

    Nintendo usually takes these chances to announce new games or hardware. Although a Switch 2 is scheduled for release in 2025, gamers were hoping for some insights into titles such as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond. While the game could benefit from the enhanced specs of the Nintendo Switch 2, it was anticipated to remain compatible with the current generation.

    Upcoming Events

    But gamers shouldn’t be too disappointed since there are still other Nintendo events coming up. Another Pokemon Day is scheduled for February 27th. Fans are eagerly awaiting a potential update for Pokemon Legends: Z-A. The one-year anniversary of the game’s announcement is near, and there have been few details shared since then.

    It is still possible for a Nintendo Direct to occur in February. However, as the days go by, Nintendo is really pushing the confirmation of the event to the very last minute this time around.

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