Here is the First Official Look at Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo has finally broken its silence and revealed the Switch 2. In a short two-minute long video, the company has shown off the Switch 2 hardware and new Joy-Cons.

Published across Nintendo’s YouTube channel and social media, a video aptly titled ‘An update from Nintendo’ is now available to view. The video largely confirms that many of the prior leaks on Nintendo Switch 2 were indeed correct. However, the video is still an incredibly exciting and neat look at Nitnendo’s next console.

As shown in the video, Nintendo Switch 2 largely retains a similar look to the original console. With a layout of a large display and two connecting Joy-Con controllers, if you’re familiar with the original Nintendo Switch, you’ll know what you’re getting into here. There are some notable differences though.

The screen size looks to be a bump up from even the Switch (OLED Model). The video confirms that the Switch 2 features USB-C and a 3.5mm headphone jack. There’s also a newly designed kickstand that pops out from the body of the main unit. Unlike the original Switch, the Nintendo Switch 2’s kickstand allows the device to lean into a 35-degree axis.

When looking at the Nintendo Switch 2’s Joy-Cons, we’re seeing some very noticeable differences. Unlike the current slide-lock mechanism, the new controllers seem to have powerful magnets that allow the Joy-Cons to simply attach to the side of the main unit. This is a welcomed change as the current Joy-Cons are known for their wear and tear after use. Nintendo also confirms that the new Joy-Cons offer some mouse-like use as the controllers are shown to be sliding on their side, likely using an optical sensor of sorts.

In the video, Nintendo also reconfirms that Switch 2 will be backwards compatible with original Switch games. There’s also a brief look at what appears to be a new Mario Kart game. In the brief look, it’s easy to discern that the footage isn’t taken from Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. 

Nintendo will also be hosting the Switch 2 Experience tour, a chance for fans to go hands-on with the device before launch. Amongst the worldwide locations, one Canadian stop is scheduled for Toronto. Between April 25 and April 27th, Canadian fans can try out the new console. Registration begins on January 17th at 3 PM ET/12 PM PT to enter for a chance to attend.

Nintendo has yet to confirm when Switch 2 will launch. There’s also no word on Canadian pricing as of this year. However, a Nintendo Direct is announced to take place on April 2. This event will showcase the Switch 2 prior to its launch. So, with this in mind, we’ll likely be looking at a late spring/early summer launch for Nintendo’s latest console.