The Nintendo Switch 2 was revealed only a few days ago, and while it was nice to see that this thing exists in the flesh, we have plenty of questions. The introductory trailer only highlighted a few things about its design like the new stand, larger screen and updated Joy-Cons.
While a mix of rumours and additional information from Nintendo has highlighted a few features and facts about the upcoming console, we’re going to shoot our shot here, and based on additional research and outstanding rumours, answer our biggest, burning questions about the Nintendo Switch 2.
Is it backwards compatible?
Yes, and no. This was included at the end of their reveal trailer, stating that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be compatible with the majority of original Nintendo Switch games.
They have stated that some will not be supported, but this may come down to a difference in the new Joy-Cons, not allowing some of the older games to work with them. The list is unclear as of yet, but I’m sure Nintendo will clarify down the track.
What’s that weird new button on the right Joy-Con?
We certainly got a good look at the mystery button on the right-hand Joy-Con, but have no idea as to its purpose. Rumours had suggested that it’s a C-button, as featured on the Gamecube controllers. That’s pretty solid answer, although the button doesn’t look to have any sort of label, number or letter to suggest its function.
While that original C-button on the Gamecube controller generally controlled the camera, like resetting it in a central position for example, it’s unclear if that’s what it’s going to do here. Make no mistake, that Home button returns and sits right above it, while the Capture button is still present on the left Joy-Con.
Can one or both Joy-Cons be used as a mouse?
Once again, multiple rumours had speculated on the Joy-Cons being used as a traditional computer mouse when on their side. The official reveal trailer seemingly confirmed this rumour, as some sort of IR sensor can be seen on the side of each Joy-Con.
That IR sensor can be used for a few things, but it makes sense from a gameplay perspective when it comes to certain games like Pikmin or even Sid Meier’s Civilization VI.
Will the original Nintendo Switch accessories work with the Nintendo Switch 2?
The Nintendo Switch 2’s Joy-Cons might be larger, but they’re also utilising a magnetic, snap-on attachment as opposed to the slide-on rails of the original Nintendo Switch. As the reveal trailer made no effort to include any rails on the side of the console, we’re going to make an educated guess and say the original Joy-Cons won’t work on the Nintendo Switch 2. Given those Joy-Cons are also missing that new mystery button, I’m going to say they weren’t planning on utilising them for Nintendo Switch 2 games moving forward.
That being said, the original Joy-Cons didn’t have to be connected to the Switch to work. They could be connected to the plastic controller grip and used like a standard wireless controller, so it’s entirely possible they’ll be supported in that way, but more so to play original Nintendo Switch games. I believe this will apply to other accessories like the Pro Controller for example, as they’re also missing that new mystery button.
What are the specs of the Nintendo Switch 2?
We’ve included this question here as it qualifies as one of our ‘burning’ questions, but we have to admit, sadly have no concrete answer. Even the rumours are pulling conversations apart with conflicting statements. Some rumours suggest the OLED screen will return as standard, while others suggest the LED screen will return. Some rumours suggest a 1080p display in handheld mode, while some suggest it will be in 4K.
All we know, once again based on rumours and prior knowledge, is that the Nintendo Switch 2 won’t be competing with newer consoles and platforms in terms of outright grunt. That has never really been the case; after all, the original Nintendo Switch was already behind the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One when it launched within that generation.
Rumours do suggest it will feature hardware that compares to something like the PlayStation 4 Pro, which isn’t such a bad comparison considering that the console could technically deliver a 4K resolution and 60 FPS gameplay.
What games will launch with the Nintendo Switch 2?
Once again, it’s one of our ‘burning’ questions, but we again have no official answer. We’re going to go out on a limb here and say that the Mario Kart shown off in the reveal trailer is indeed a new Mario Kart, and will launch with the Nintendo Switch 2.
Rumours have run rampant here as well, stating that Nintendo will focus on actually showcasing the hardware of the console with games like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, as opposed to focusing solely on Nintendo titles.
Other rumours have suggested Metroid Prime 4 is ready to launch with the Switch 2, which I’m sure will hit hard with fans. Either way, I feel as though Nintendo has made every effort to develop this with a bunch of launch titles in mind, given it’s taken this long to get to this point in the first place.
When is it coming out?
While the reveal trailer has mentioned 2025, we don’t have an exact date as of yet. We do, however, have a few more bits and pieces to help us narrow it down slightly.
At the end of the reveal trailer, Nintendo had locked in a dedicated Nintendo Direct showcase for the Nintendo Switch 2 on the 2nd of April, 2025. I imagine we won’t get a release date until then. While that seems like a while away, I can imagine they will not only show off some specs there but also nail down an official, global release date.
Nintendo will be holding a Nintendo Switch Experience to try out the Switch 2 early in certain counties and states, including Australia. Registration is now open, but you can head to Nintendo’s official website for more information. Melbourne’s event will take place from the 10th to the 11th of May for example, so there’s a chance it could be ready to go shortly after this event.
Be sure to stay tuned for the latest Nintendo Switch 2 news as it develops.
