Nintendo Switch 2 vs Switch: What's New? 2025 Preorder Breakdown

A Complete Guide to Nintendo Consoles and Switch 2 Pre-Order Information

Since launching its first console, the Family Computer, in 1983, Nintendo has been loved by gamers worldwide for decades. Now in 2025, the upcoming release of the next-generation console, Nintendo Switch 2, is once again drawing global attention. In this article, we take a look back at Nintendo’s console history, while also providing practical information on the Switch 2’s release date, specifications, and pre-order details.

 

• 1983: Family Computer (Famicom) – Known as the NES in North America, this model marked the beginning of classics like Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda.

 

• 1990: Super Famicom (SNES) – With 16-bit graphics and deep RPGs, it elevated the quality of console gaming.

 

 

 

 

• 1996: Nintendo 64 – Ushered in the era of 3D gaming with titles like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.

 

 

• 2001: GameCube – Featured mini-discs and strong multiplayer support, winning over dedicated fans.

 

 

 

• 2006: Wii – Revolutionized gaming with motion sensor controllers. Wii Sports made it a household favorite for families.

 

 

 

 

 

• 2012: Wii U – Introduced dual screens, but its commercial performance was underwhelming.

 

 

 

 

 

• 2017: Nintendo Switch – A hybrid console success, with massive hits like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Animal Crossing.

 

닌텐도 스위치 2 출시일 및 주요 특징

 

 

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Nintendo Switch 2 Release Date and Key Features

At last, the next-gen Nintendo console — Nintendo Switch 2 — will be released on June 5, 2025. This new device brings major upgrades in both specs and features, with the most noticeable being the introduction of Joy-Con 2.

• Display: 7.9-inch 1080p LCD
• Storage: 256GB
• Frame Rate: Up to 120fps
• Controllers: Magnetically-attached Joy-Con 2 with added ‘C button’ for voice chat support
• Launch Titles: Mario Kart World, a new Zelda game, and other exclusives
• Expected Price: Around $399–449 USD.

 

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Complete Guide to Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Methods

Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 9, 2025. Here are the main pre-order options available:

Nintendo Official Website

• Pre-registration required by April 2
• Eligibility: At least 12 months of Nintendo Online Membership and over 50 hours of playtime
• Invitations will be sent starting May 8

Best Buy

• Pre-orders available via app and website starting April 9
• In-store pickup available from June 5 at 12:01 AM

GameStop

• Trade-in promotion: Up to $175 credit when trading in an existing Switch console
• Additional 10% bonus credit for GameStop Pro members

Other Retailers

• Pre-orders will also be available at Amazon, Walmart, Target, and more
• (Detailed information to be announced later)

⚠️ Initial stock of the Switch 2 may be limited, so it’s recommended to pre-order as soon as it becomes available.

 

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Nintendo Switch vs. Nintendo Switch 2: Key Specs Comparison

FeatureNintendo Switch (2017)Nintendo Switch 2 (2025)

Release Date	March 2017	June 5, 2025 (planned)
Resolution	720p LCD (6.2-inch)	1080p LCD (7.9-inch)
Storage	32GB	256GB
Controller	Joy-Con	Joy-Con 2 (magnetic, voice chat)
Max FPS	60fps	120fps
Main Titles	Zelda BOTW, Mario, Animal Crossing	Mario Kart World, new Zelda title

 

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Q&A: Most Frequently Asked Questions About Switch 2

Q1. Is Switch 2 compatible with existing Switch games?
A. Yes, most Nintendo Switch titles will support backward compatibility. Major popular titles are expected to play without issues, though some may require patches or have limitations.

 

Q2. Can I use my old Joy-Con controllers?
A. Compatibility is limited. Since Switch 2 uses a new magnetic Joy-Con 2, physical compatibility with the original Joy-Con may not be possible.

 

Q3. How much will the Nintendo Switch 2 cost?
A. No official announcement yet, but it's expected to be priced between $399–449 USD.

 

Q4. Will the Nintendo Online Service still work?
A. Most likely, yes. The current Nintendo Online Membership should continue, though new Switch 2-specific features or subscription plans may be added.

 

Q5. What is the display resolution of Switch 2?
A. It features a 7.9-inch 1080p LCD display with up to 120fps support. While 4K output via dock is not officially confirmed, rumors suggest partial 4K support for certain content.

 

Q6. Can I access my existing eShop games on Switch 2?
A. Most digital purchases should be accessible via your Nintendo Account, but some titles may be affected by DRM policies and restrictions.

 

Q7. What’s the expected battery life?
A. While exact details are not yet available, it's expected to be similar or slightly improved over the Switch OLED model (4.5 to 9 hours), with performance optimizations for the enhanced hardware.

 

Q8. What is the function of the 'C button' on Joy-Con 2?
A. The ‘C Button’ enables voice chat and in-game communication, designed especially for multiplayer experiences.

 

Q9. Will there be improvements to streaming and multimedia apps?
A. While not officially confirmed, apps like YouTube and Netflix are expected to be supported, with overall improvements to media playback capabilities.

 

Q10. What launch titles will be available?
A. Confirmed titles include Mario Kart World and a new, unrevealed Zelda game. Additional entries from major franchises like Monster Hunter, Splatoon, and Pokémon are also expected.

 

Q11. Are there pre-order bonuses or limited editions?
A. Nintendo frequently releases limited-edition consoles and bundles, so it’s likely that pre-order bonuses or special editions will be announced closer to or during the pre-order period starting April 9.

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In this article, we revisited Nintendo's console timeline and compiled everything you need to know about the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Whether you're a long-time Switch user or new to the world of Nintendo, we hope this serves as a helpful guide.

From Switch vs. Switch 2, to Joy-Con 2, backward compatibility, and the upcoming Mario Kart World—there’s plenty to be excited about.

Mark your calendars: Pre-orders start April 9, 2025!