Much-hyped Switch 2 Reddit leak proves disappointing as evidence photos get slammed for AI generation

Earlier in December, a new leaker popped up on Reddit claiming to have a working final production unit of the Nintendo Switch 2, which they supposedly would post proof of on December 25. While the Switch 2 leaker provided insights into what to expect from the next-generation Nintendo game console, many were sceptical of its authenticity. 

Now, it seems as though u/NextHandheld either released the photos, or they were leaked by someone the leaker trusted. At any rate, the source of the leaked leak ignored, the r/NintendoSwitch2 subreddit is up in arms, with some claiming the images are AI generated. While this seemingly calls into question the authenticity of the leak, if the leak is accurate, the images confirm both limitations and design improvements coming to the Switch 2. 

For starters, it looks like the Switch 2 will have larger buttons and analogue sticks, the JoyCon release buttons on the back are significantly larger, and the dock is basically the same size as the Switch OLED dock. More interestingly, the leaker confirmed that the joy stick are Hall-effect, which will alleviate many of the concerns over stick drift from the original Switch.

Unfortunately, the leak also tipped that the Switch 2 will come with an LCD, and not an OLED display, as was previously suspected. It also seems like the Switch 2 will ditch the bold red-and-blue aesthetic of the original Switch, opting instead for a dark grey or all-white colour. However, there will be special edition variants, with a Mario Kart 9 hint dropping alongside the hardware considerations. 

The new Switch 2 is suspected to launch around the beginning of February, with this specific leak tipping a February 4, 2025. 

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