Nintendo Reveals Switch 2: It’s Bigger and Features Backward Compatibility

After numerous rumors and leaks, Nintendo finally revealed its successor to the Switch console, the Switch 2, which features a larger screen and upgraded controllers. 

A video posted Thursday morning starts by showing the original Switch, which suddenly inflates in size as its various buttons and ports, including a headphone jack, come into view. 

The kickstand, meanwhile, is larger and can support the Switch console across a greater degree of angles. The video then shows the Switch 2’s controllers increasing in size. The improvements also suggest Nintendo has addressed the Joy-Con drift problem that plagued the Switch 1.

(Credit: Nintendo)

(Credit: Nintendo)

Switch 2 will also feature backward compatibility with Switch 1 games—digitally and physically through the game cards. That said, Nintendo notes, “Certain Nintendo Switch games may not be supported on or fully compatible with Nintendo Switch 2.”

Like its predecessor, the Switch 2 can also connect to an included dock, enabling you to game on a TV at a higher resolution. Unfortunately, Nintendo didn’t reveal any other specs. The video is just a teaser with no pricing or launch date mentioned. Instead, the company plans on revealing more during a Nintendo Direct event scheduled for Wednesday, April 2. 

(Credit: Nintendo)

In the meantime, Nintendo created a website dedicated to the Switch 2, which says the company will host in-person demos starting in April in New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas.

Gamers will need to register to attend the events. Registration will be open “from Jan. 17 at 12 p.m. PT / 2 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. ET until Jan. 26 at 11:59 p.m. local time for each Event location.”

“Tickets will be made available through a free-to-enter, randomly selected drawing. Register during the registration period for a chance to attend,” Nintendo says.

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About Michael Kan

Senior Reporter

I’ve been working as a journalist for over 15 years—I got my start as a schools and cities reporter in Kansas City and joined PCMag in 2017.

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