The excitement surrounding Nintendo’s next console, tentatively dubbed the Nintendo Switch 2, has reignited with rumors suggesting a January 2025 announcement and a March 2025 release date. The successor to the immensely popular Nintendo Switch is reportedly in production, with fans eagerly awaiting official confirmation. Here’s what we know so far about the potential timeline, features, and games for the highly anticipated console.
The Rumored Release Timeline
According to recent reports from Famiboards, a well-known forum for Nintendo leaks, and Weibo, a Chinese social media platform, Nintendo is gearing up for a significant reveal of the Switch 2 in early 2025. Both sources suggest a January announcement followed by a March launch, aligning with Nintendo’s fiscal year deadline of March 31, 2025.
This timing puts the release near the end of Nintendo’s stated timeframe, raising questions about whether the company is strategically delaying the launch to maximize hype or to refine its product. While disappointing for fans hoping for a 2024 reveal, the proposed timeline ensures that Nintendo capitalizes on the spring release window, which has historically worked well for major gaming hardware.
Production and Shipment Details
Reports indicate that Nintendo is ramping up production of the Switch 2, with plans to ship 650,000 units in the first month. This figure is noticeably lower than the original Nintendo Switch’s initial shipment of 2.74 million units in March 2017.
The reduced production could indicate a cautious approach, possibly due to supply chain concerns or an expectation of gradual adoption. However, given the immense popularity of the original Switch, the demand for the new console may far outstrip initial supply, potentially leading to shortages at launch.
Codename “Ounce” and Compatibility Features
The Famiboards leak refers to the Switch 2 under the codename “Ounce,” a moniker previously mentioned in a data breach from Pokémon developer Game Freak. While Nintendo has yet to confirm official details, this leak aligns with other credible sources.
Notably, the Switch 2 is expected to be backwards compatible with Switch games, allowing players to continue enjoying their existing library on the new hardware. Additionally, it will support Nintendo Switch Online, ensuring continuity for digital subscriptions and online gameplay.
The device is rumored to feature an NVIDIA T239 chip, providing a significant performance boost over the original Switch, potentially enabling better graphics, faster load times, and smoother gameplay.
Upcoming Games and Cross-Compatibility
Several upcoming titles are rumored to be cross-compatible with both the Nintendo Switch and its successor. These include:
- Pokémon Legends Z-A: A new installment in the Pokémon franchise.
- My Time at Evershine: The follow-up to the cozy RPG My Time at Sandrock.
- Yooka-Replaylee: A remastered version of the beloved platformer.
- Pokémon HOME Update: A revamped version of Pokémon HOME is expected, allowing players to manage Pokémon collections seamlessly across both consoles.
The rumors also hint at additional Pokémon games, including one codenamed “Gaia,” showcasing Nintendo’s focus on leveraging its flagship franchises to drive early adoption of the new console.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Switch 2 is its backwards compatibility, which ensures that existing Switch owners won’t need to abandon their game libraries. This feature, combined with cross-compatibility for new releases, creates a smooth transition for players upgrading to the new system.
Nintendo’s decision to maintain compatibility demonstrates a customer-focused approach, addressing concerns that often arise when switching to new hardware.
Nintendo is reportedly increasing production of essential components, including the NVIDIA chip expected to power the Switch 2. While this suggests the console is on track for its rumored release, challenges such as supply chain disruptions or unexpected delays could still impact the timeline.
Additionally, the relatively low initial shipment numbers may lead to frustration among fans eager to get their hands on the new console. Pre-orders are likely to sell out quickly, creating high demand in secondary markets.
Nintendo has remained tight-lipped about the Switch 2, offering no official confirmation of the rumored January reveal or March release. However, recent hints, such as an email referencing “Nintendo Switch(es)” and details from developers about cross-platform game releases, suggest the new console is imminent.
With Sony and Microsoft continuing to expand their gaming ecosystems, Nintendo’s next move will be critical in maintaining its position as a dominant force in the gaming industry.
The rumored launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 has reignited excitement in the gaming community, even as fans brace for a potentially long wait. With features like backwards compatibility, cross-platform game releases, and improved hardware capabilities, the Switch 2 is shaping up to be a worthy successor to one of the best-selling consoles of all time.
As Nintendo ramps up production and prepares for its next big reveal, the gaming world watches closely, eager to see how the company will innovate and redefine the landscape once again. Whether the rumors hold true or not, one thing is certain: the future of Nintendo looks bright.
