Technology reporter & BBC Newsbeat
Nintendo**Nintendo has officially announced the release date for the highly anticipated Switch 2**, set to hit the shelves on **5 June**. This revelation arrives after a wave of speculation that began earlier this year when Nintendo disclosed basic details about the new console. Fans have eagerly awaited every piece of information, and this announcement was delivered via a widely viewed **Nintendo Direct presentation** watched by over a million fans!
In this exciting reveal, Nintendo not only confirmed the launch of the console but also introduced **Mario Kart World**, a fresh edition of the beloved franchise that has defined gaming for generations. However, that’s not all – the presentation unveiled a lineup of new titles, including **Elden Ring** and **Street Fighter 6**, signaling that Nintendo is prepared to expand its offerings significantly.
The **Switch 2** promises **enhanced graphics and audio capabilities**, along with a novel **chat button** allowing gamers to communicate seamlessly during gameplay. For fans in the UK, the console will be available at a retail price of **£395**, while the bundle with **Mario Kart** will be priced at **£429**.
**Mario Kart, Donkey Kong, and Kirby Return!**
The spotlight is not just on the console itself; fans are also buzzing about the **exciting games** that will be available. At the forefront is **Mario Kart World**, which has undergone a thrilling refresh, showcasing stunning water graphics, redesigned characters, and vast racetracks that feature dynamic weather conditions.
2 Additionally, we can look forward to the **platforming adventure Donkey Kong Bananza** and the much-anticipated **Kirby Air Riders**, a sequel to the 2005 classic—set to launch later this year. Notably, many existing **Switch titles** will also be compatible with the Switch 2, with upgraded editions to enhance gameplay and visuals.
For those interested in pricing, the digital versions of **Mario Kart World** and **Donkey Kong Bananza** are listed at **£66.99** and **£58.99** respectively on the Nintendo Store, with physical copies priced slightly higher.
Nintendo**Notable Third-Party Titles and Exclusives**
An exciting development is the addition of **third-party games** that traditionally haven’t graced Nintendo consoles. Titles like **Elden Ring**, **Cyberpunk 2077**, and **Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade** are making their way to this new platform! Notable mentions include:
- **Cyberpunk 2077**
- **Hitman: World of Assassination**
- **Hades 2**
- **Hollow Knight: Silksong**
Additionally, **Elden Ring**’s developer, FromSoftware, has unveiled a new multiplayer exclusive for Switch 2 titled **The Duskbloods**, set to be released in **2026**. The inclusion of such iconic titles bodes well for the console’s library moving forward.
**Innovative Features for Gamers**
The **Switch 2** is not just about games; it’s about *enhancing the gaming experience*. With a **7.9-inch display** boasting **1080p resolution** compared to its predecessor’s 720p, gamers can expect sharper visuals alongside HDR support and frame rates reaching up to **120fps**. Additional highlights include:
– **Larger control buttons** and sticks for improved handling
– The ability to use both controls as a **mouse** in compatible games, providing a new level of gameplay interaction
– **256GB of internal storage**, a much-needed boost compared to previous models
– **Voice chat capabilities**, featuring **a new control button** that manages on-screen player interaction, akin to popular video conferencing tools
Nintendo**A Tough Act to Follow**
With **over 150 million units sold** since its 2017 debut, the original Nintendo Switch is indeed a tough act to follow. *Only the PS2 and Nintendo’s DS* have outsold it, primarily due to its innovative hybrid design. The anticipation surrounding the **Switch 2** is palpable, but it faces its own set of challenges, including potential hardware shortages— a concern that plagued previous console launches.
Nintendo’s president, **Shuntaro Furukawa**, has indicated that the delay in releasing the console is partly to ensure a robust supply chain for meeting initial demand. As the global trading landscape continues to evolve, particularly following the **tariff policies** introduced during Trump’s administration, the impact on **Switch 2’s** production and future sales remains a crucial aspect to monitor.
