Nintendo reveals the key Switch 2 hardware specifications and other launch details

Nintendo revealed all in their hour-long Nintendo Direct today, jam packed with everything between games, software details, and other special surprises such as GameShare and GameChat. In addition, Nintendo also reconfirmed that nearly all Switch games will be backwards compatible for the Switch 2. In addition, accessories like the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera and the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller will be available as a peripheral in addition to the new purchased separately. 

The Switch 2 boasts a 7.9-inch screen compared to its predecessor sitting at 6.2 inches, while still maintaining a comfortable 13.9 mm grip. Also in comparison it plays at 1080p handheld and 120 FPS compared to its predecessors 720p screen and its 60 FPS (which it could sometimes barely hold at some heavier to maintain games such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom). Note: Nintendo has stated 120 FPS will be available in supported titles only. Additionally, the new LCD screen supports a more vivid screen and HDR allowing for even more vivid imagery than was possible on its predecessor. It also includes a sturdier kickstand, allowing for a much greater level of flexibility than either the OLED or the original LCD launch Switch.

The new Joy-Con 2 controllers attach magnetically to the Switch 2, allowing for easy release via a button in the back, and with slightly bigger sizing, includes bigger SL/SR buttons for a more comfortable grip during single Joy-Con 2 play. They also boast bigger control sticks, and a brand-new mouse mode, allowing you to use the SL/SR side of the controller to glide across a surface and use it just like a mouse. Several games and updates are coming to the console on launch and in the future to support this feature.

The main console boasts new and improved hardware features, from a new built-in microphone as well as improved sound quality from the built-in speakers. There's also an additional USB-C located at the top of the console, allowing for peripherals to be in usage while in docking mode, or to easily charge the console while it's in Tabletop Mode. The Switch 2 will come with an internal storage of 256 GB, which is eight times that of the original Switch's 32 GB of storage. Unfortunately, this more powerful console does come with a drawback, the Micro SD cards used with this new console have to be Express, which can be read in more detail here.

On the software side, launch titles announcements came in swathes during the Switch 2 Direct, and also included a long awaited console arriving on Nintendo Switch Online exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 (Read the details here.) Several Switch titles are getting a Switch 2 Edition, many of which will include DLC in the upgraded package. Unfortunately, users must pay for the additional contents and enhancements with visual and audio, which they are calling an Upgrade Pack. Additionally, there will also be an additional new feature called GameShare. It allows users to play certain games updated to allow both Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 users to play a game online or in local wireless even if only one user owns it. Similarly to how the 3DS Download Play worked, (remember that?) but even more dynamic.

Additionally, the Switch 2 dock comes with built-in 4K support on games that support it as well as a built-in fan inside to keep the Switch extremely cool for longer hours in addition to keeping performance stable.

Readers can also watch the full Direct below, as well as check out our extensive coverage of the Switch 2 Direct. The Nintendo Switch 2 will be priced at $449 on preorders, as well as $499 for their advertised Mario Kart World bundle.