Nintendo Switch OLED: New Features, Prices, and Release Date Revealed
After announcing the Switch 2 on January 16, Nintendo has finally released details of the console. During a one-hour online presentation streamed on YouTube, the Japanese gaming giant showed what fans can expect from the new flagship gadget, and how much it will cost.
Three developers who worked on the Switch 2 – Kouichi Kawamoto, Takuhiro Dohta and Tetsuya Sasaki – each presented an exciting addition to the console. Here, we look at the major announcements and details revealed during the presentation.
Same, but better
The short announcement in January made it clear that the Switch 2 would be a very similar playing experience to its predecessor, with improvements. Details of these improvements led the way at yesterday’s presentation.
Firstly, the Switch 2’s 7.9-inch LCD screen is 1.6 times larger than the Switch However, the thickness of the console remains unchanged. The updated screen now supports enhanced picture quality at 1080p resolution.
The pair of removable control units located beside the display, known as JoyCons, has seen enhancements as well. Instead of using the sliding method from the original Switch, they now secure to the screen via magnets. Additionally, these individual components can serve as mice when placed on a smooth surface for certain game modes requiring such functionality.
Adding a fresh feature for any Nintendo system is the capability to connect with other players through audio and video chats during gameplay sessions. With the upcoming Switch 2, you'll be able to share live videos and sounds within your friend groups over the internet, enhancing interaction among participants.
An essential enhancement for the dock used during stationary gameplay and charging of the Switch 2 is the addition of a cooling fan. Players have reported concerns about the device getting hot when certain games are played.
New Mario Kart
Mario Kart Fans can anticipate a new game launching on the first day of its release, named Mario Kart World This features an expansive open-world mode that enables players to cruise around and explore the entire map.
Fresh updates to the gameplay have been unveiled, including races traversing various worlds. Gamers will also be able to join an ultimate race spanning the entire map, where slower racers get eliminated at each checkpoint.
Mario Kart World It will be the inaugural title developed solely for the Switch 2. Additionally, it might likely serve as the introductory experience for numerous new owners of the console.
Other games
As stated in January, the Switch 2 will have access to the majority of theSwitch’s game catalog. Additionally, it has been revealed that certain key titles from the original Switch lineupwill get enhanced versions for the new console with better visuals.
It was disclosed as well that Nintendo GameCube Games will be accessible for play on the Switch 2 via an online subscription service. Users who have been fans of the original console, launched in 2002, will get the opportunity to enjoy some of its most popular games, with more being added over time.
Popular titles such as Split Fiction and WWE 2K will also be available for play on the Switch 2.
Release date and price
The release of the Nintendo Switch 2 is set for June 5th globally. Pricing varies across regions. In the U.S., the basic version will retail at $449.99, with the higher-tier edition priced at $499.99. Mario Kart World bundle.
In the UK it will retail at £395 ($517.83), or £429 ($562.40) with Mario Kart . In Japan, there are two version of the base model. The first is a Japanese language-only version which will cost 49,980 yen ($339.36) and a normal base model that costs 69,980 yen ($475.19). The Mario Kart The package will be priced at 53,980 yen ($366.51).
