It finally happened. After months of speculation and rumors, the Nintendo Switch 2 is finally revealed. The new first-look trailer also teases Mario Kart 9, a potential launch title for the highly anticipated console.
When does Nintendo Switch 2 launch?
The trailer begins with a view of the original Nintendo Switch, complete with the red and blue joy-con controllers. It then sweeps across the tablet, erasing what was once there and replacing it with the new design of the Nintendo Switch 2. Some notable changes are larger Joy-Con controllers, a seemingly larger screen, and a redesigned stand.
Not many specific details were revealed in the Nintendo Switch 2 first-look trailer. However, backward compatibility with the original Nintendo Switch was confirmed. They do note it will play both physical and digital Switch games, but some may not be fully compatible. More details on that will be shared on Nintendo’s website at a later date.
Nintendo also confirmed in the new trailer that the Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Direct will take place on April 2, 2025.
Nintendo will also have Nintendo Switch 2 hands-on events happening around the world between April and June. Anyone interested will need a Nintendo Account to participate. Registration for U.S. tickets begins tomorrow, January 17, 2025, at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT. Here are all the cities hosting the event, as well as the scheduled dates:
- North America
- New York, April 4-6, 2025
- Los Angeles, April 11-13, 2025
- Dallas, April 25-27, 2025
- Toronto, April 25-27, 2025
- Europe
- Paris, April 4-6, 2025
- London, April 25-27, 2025
- Milan, April 25-27, 2025
- Berlin, April 25-27, 2025
- Madrid, May 9-11, 2025
- Amsterdam, May 9-11, 2025
- Oceania
- Melbourne, May 10-11, 2025
- Asia
- Tokyo (Makuhari), April 26-27, 2025
- Seoul, May 31-June 1, 2025
- Hong Kong, TBA
- Taipei, TBA
Arguably the most interesting tidbit from this reveal is the game it teases. Yes, it looks like Mario Kart 9 will be a Nintendo Switch 2 game. Whether it’ll be exclusive to the platform or cross-generation is still unknown. We’ll most certainly know more during the previously mentioned Nintendo Direct.
