Nintendo Direct Unveils Next Switch Announcement

Nintendo's Next Direct: Unveiling the Switch 2?

Mark your calendars! Nintendo's next Direct, focusing on the highly anticipated Switch 2, is scheduled for April 2nd, 2025 (April 3rd in some regions). This presentation comes later than the typical February Direct, building anticipation for official Switch 2 details. Here's the global broadcast schedule:

• Australia: 10:00 PM AWST (April 2nd)
• New Zealand: 3:00 AM NZDT (April 3rd)
• United States: 6:00 AM PT / 9:00 AM ET (April 2nd)
• United Kingdom: 3:00 PM BST / 2:00 PM GMT (April 2nd)
• Japan: 11:00 PM JST (April 2nd)
• Singapore: 10:00 PM SGT (April 2nd)
• Philippines: 10:00 PM PST (April 2nd)

Tune in live on Nintendo's official website and YouTube channel. A recording will be available later on YouTube for those who miss the live stream.

While Nintendo has acknowledged the Switch 2's existence, specifics remain under wraps. Despite online speculation and leaks regarding specifications, the Direct promises official confirmation on key features including graphics capabilities, battery life, controller design, and upgrades. Pricing (rumored to be $400) and the release date are also expected to be announced, potentially alongside the opening of pre-orders.

Beyond hardware, the Direct will likely showcase launch titles. A new Mario Kart game is confirmed for a simultaneous release.

What We Know So Far About the Switch 2

For those eager for a sneak peek before April, here's a summary of confirmed information and credible leaks:

Nintendo aims to combat scalping and ensure sufficient console availability, reportedly delaying the launch to 2025. While the exact date is unconfirmed, a June release is speculated.

Potential launch titles beyond the new Mario Kart include a 3D Super Mario title, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Third-party titles like Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth, Assassin's Creed Mirage and Shadows, and Red Dead Redemption 2 are also possibilities.

Backward compatibility with the Nintendo Switch is confirmed, with Nintendo Switch Online support, though some game incompatibility is anticipated.

New features include Joy-Cons with magnets and Hall-effect sticks, possibly with a mouse-like mode. A more robust U-shaped stand is also rumored.

Don't miss the April Direct! Set a reminder and prepare for the official unveiling of Nintendo's next-generation console.