Nintendo's Next Direct: All About the Switch 2 Reveal
Get ready for the next Nintendo Direct, focused on the highly anticipated Switch 2! This article provides all the essential details on when and where to watch this pivotal event.
Mark your calendars! The Nintendo Direct showcasing the Switch 2 will premiere on April 2nd, 2025. Depending on your time zone, this translates to April 3rd in some regions. While Nintendo typically holds Directs in February, this one's been pushed back two months to deliver the latest official news on the Switch 2. Here's the global broadcast schedule:
- Australia: 10:00 PM AWST (April 2)
- New Zealand: 3:00 AM NZDT (April 3)
- United States: 6:00 AM PT | 9:00 AM ET (April 2)
- United Kingdom: 3:00 PM BST | 2:00 PM GMT (April 2)
- Japan: 11:00 PM JST (April 2)
- Singapore: 10:00 PM SGT (April 2)
- Philippines: 10:00 PM PST (April 2)
Tune in live via Nintendo's official website and YouTube channel. For those who miss the live stream, the recording will be available later on YouTube.
While Nintendo has briefly acknowledged the Switch 2's existence, concrete details remain scarce. Numerous online leaks speculate on specs, but it's best to await the official announcement. Expect the Direct to cover key aspects like graphics, battery life, controller improvements, and, crucially, pricing and release date (rumored to be around $400). Pre-orders might even open following the presentation.
Beyond hardware, the Direct will likely highlight launch titles. A new Mario Kart game is confirmed, slated for simultaneous release with the Switch 2.
What We Know So Far About the Switch 2
If you can't wait until April, here's a summary of credible leaks and official information:
- Anti-Scalping Measures: Nintendo has pledged to combat scalpers to ensure sufficient console availability. This reportedly contributed to the 2025 release date. While the exact launch date is unconfirmed, a June release is speculated.
- Launch Titles: Besides the new Mario Kart, potential launch titles include a 3D Super Mario game, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth, Assassin’s Creed Mirage and Shadows, and Red Dead Redemption 2.
- Backward Compatibility: Nintendo confirmed backward compatibility with the Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch Online will be supported. However, some games may not be compatible.
- New Features: Improved Joy-Cons with magnets and Hall-effect sticks are expected, possibly with a mouse-like mode. A larger console body and a sturdy U-shaped stand are also rumored.
Don't miss the Nintendo Direct on April 2nd/3rd! Set a reminder to stay updated on the Switch 2.
