The Nintendo Switch 2 has garnered significant attention due to leaks and third-party manufacturers preparing accessories ahead of its release. Most notably, Dbrand showcased a detailed case for the Switch 2, affirming that their design closely resembles the upcoming console. This revelation came shortly after leaks hinted at a more powerful system expected to debut in early 2025.
Latest leaks shape Nintendo Switch 2’s design
The Switch 2 is reportedly larger than its predecessors, measuring 270 x 116 x 14mm, compared to the Nintendo Switch OLED’s 242 x 102 x 13.9mm dimensions. Dbrand’s CEO, Adam Ijaz, confirmed to Insider Gaming that their Killswitch case accurately reflects the actual design of the Switch 2. Following this announcement, several Chinese manufacturers surfaced with similar case designs, further collaboration that indicates a more unified understanding of the console’s appearance.
The logical question is how these third-party companies accessed such revealing information. Recent leaks indicate that insufficient measures by Nintendo have allowed significant details about the device to circulate. Additionally, Nintendo itself inadvertently leaked information about the Switch 2, further fueling speculation. Compounded with the continuous flow of leaks, many are left to consider how much more will surface before the official announcement.
Technical specifications and performance upgrades expected
Regarding performance, leaks suggest that the Switch 2 could boast specs as much as three times more powerful than the original. Rumored upgrades include 12GB of RAM and a new NVIDIA Tegra 239 System on Chip (SoC), potentially supporting enhanced graphics technology like NVIDIA DLSS Super Resolution and Ray Reconstruction. This could significantly improve visual fidelity compared to its predecessors.
However, there are contradictions in recent leaks that suggest some components may not meet high expectations. A spec sheet claimed the console could utilize an eight-core Cortex-A78AE processor, 8GB of RAM, and 64GB of eMMC storage. While this represents an upgrade over the current models, it might still fall short when stacked against contemporary consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Further, some sources speculate that the Switch 2 could retain an LCD display, rather than upgrading to OLED, aimed at keeping production costs low.
Enhanced storage and backward compatibility features
Nintendo appears prepared to address storage concerns that have plagued previous iterations. The Switch 2 is anticipated to offer 512GB of built-in storage, a significant leap from the original 32GB and improved 64GB offered with the OLED model. As gaming file sizes continue to increase, this expansion of storage should mitigate the need for constant management between console and cloud.
Additionally, the company has confirmed that the Switch 2 will maintain backward compatibility with existing Switch titles. This will support a seamless upgrade path for users with established game libraries, as highlighted by Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa’s comments during a recent investor briefing. Furthermore, users can look forward to transferring their Nintendo Accounts across consoles.
Joy-Con redesign and launch titles
The Joy-Cons for the Switch 2 are reportedly undergoing substantial redesigns. Sources suggest the new controllers will be larger and ergonomically improved for prolonged gameplay. The design may also incorporate magnetic components for attachment, deviating from the original rail system, which could render existing Joy-Cons incompatible with the new device.
Amidst these hardware developments, evidence suggests that the Switch 2 will launch alongside much-anticipated titles, including a new installment in the Mario Kart franchise, believed to be dubbed Mario Kart 9. Given the significant tenure of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe since its release on the Wii U, this would mark a noteworthy addition to the launch lineup.
As anticipation builds for the Switch 2’s official unveiling, expected in early 2025, ongoing leaks imply a range of features that should excite long-time Nintendo fans. However, uncertainties remain about the actual hardware specifications and how closely the final product will align with the numerous leaks reported to date.
Featured image credit: Eric Mclean/Unsplash
