- Nintendo Switch 2 officially released on 5 June 2025
- Mario Kart World game details revealed
- What is the “C” button for?
The day that so many Nintendo fans have been waiting for has arrived. The company’s latest Nintendo Direct presentation has taken place. It unveiling some huge announcements, including exciting details around the Nintendo Switch 2.
Read more: Forza Horizon 5 to PS5: Release Date & Features
The gaming giant has set the stage for a new era with its biggest hardware launch in almost a decade, including lots of new features and experiences.
Read more: A Minecraft Movie budget: What did the film cost?
They didn’t hold back when it came to game reveals either, with some major titles announced for the Switch 2 and some classics set to return. Here’s a roundup of the key news from the hour-long livestream.
Nintendo Switch 2
Let’s get straight to it. Nintendo has lifted the lid and confirmed the long-rumored and previously teased Nintendo Switch 2. The new console comes packed with notable upgrades.
It boasts a larger 7.9-inch 1080p HDR LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother gameplay, complemented by redesigned Joy-Con controllers that attach via magnets. A new “C” button for GameChat access has also been introduced. If you’re wondering how the button sounds, look no further:
When docked, the console supports up to 4K resolution at 60fps, delivering a significant graphical boost, while expanded internal storage of 256GB ensures ample space for digital downloads. Additionally, a new intriguing feature is the integrated GameChat and GameShare, which allows players to communicate seamlessly and share games locally even if they don’t own a copy. Game Chat will be free to use until 31 March 2026, after which a Nintendo Switch Online membership will be required to use the feature.
Release date and cost
Nintendo revealed that Nintendo Switch 2 will officially be released on 5 June 2025 and it will cost $449.99. It comes with the following: Nintendo Switch 2 console, Joy-Con 2 controllers (L+R), Joy-Con 2 Grip, Joy-Con 2 Straps, Nintendo Switch 2 Dock, Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable, Nintendo Switch 2 AC Adapter and USB-C Charging Cable. An optional Switch 2 Camera is available too, which gamers can use to show their face in-game and on top of the shared screen as they play.
There will also be a Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle that will cost $499.99. A download code for the game is included.
Pre-orders for the new console will open at retailers in North America on 9 April 2025. If you’re interested in purchasing from My Nintendo Store, simply register for either the Nintendo Switch 2 or the Mario Kart World bundle. Selected registrants will receive an email invitation via their Nintendo Account “prioritized on a first-come, first served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of 2 April 2025.
President Shuntaro Furukawa said that “Nintendo Switch 2 is the next step in at-home gaming that can be taken on the go based on eight years of play and discovery that began with Nintendo Switch.” He added “With its new features that expand the possibilities of gaming experiences, I truly believe that Nintendo Switch 2 is a leap forward in our journey of putting smiles on the faces of everyone that Nintendo touches.”
Nintendo Switch 2 games reveal
Nintendo revealed a brand-new entry in the iconic Mario Kart franchise, Mario Kart World. The game supports up to 24-player online races, features dynamic weather and off-road racing, and introduces two exciting new modes: Knockout Tour and Free Roam
Nintendo also announced a Mario Kart World Direct will take place on 17 April at 6am PT/9am ET.
Other games announced include Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, a prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom set for release in Winter 2025.
Kirby Air Riders, a follow-up to Kirby Air Ride is expected in 2025, promising high-speed action. It is being developed by Super Smash Bros.’ Masahiro Sakurai.
Donkey Kong Bananza, a new 3D platformer starring Donkey Kong, is going to be released on 17 July 2025. The reveal trailer can be watched below:
And a dark fantasy title, The Duskbloods, from FromSoftware is expected in 2026, exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2.
Enhanced versions of some of Nintendo’s biggest hits are also going to be available. Upgraded editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom will feature improved graphics and new gameplay features.
There’s a list of third-party games that Nintendo players will be able to look forward to. Alongside Elden Ring will be available on Nintendo Switch 2, with its Tarnished Edition, as will Hades 2, Street Fighter 6, Hogwarts Legacy, EA Sports FC, Madden, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, Hitman: World of Assassination: Signature Edition, to name but a few.
Older gamers can indulge in nostalgia as classic GameCube titles join the Nintendo Switch Online library, including The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and SOULCALIBUR II. The library is complemented by the launch of a new GameCube controller, which will be required to play the titles.
To watch Nintendo’s full Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation from 2 April 2025, be sure to check out the livestream video below:
